2025 Subaru Outback vs. 2025 Subaru Forester
Subaru Outback
| Engine power | 182 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 - 3,500 lbs. |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 32.6 cu. ft. |
Subaru Forester
| Engine power | 180 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 1,000 - 1,500 lbs. |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 74.4 cu. ft. |
Size and Shape
With its longer body shape and wheelbase, the Outback is designed for smooth, controlled handling.
The Forester is about two inches taller than the Outback, which gives the driver better outward visibility.
SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity
Both the Outback and Forester are powered by the reliable SUBARU BOXER® engines. The Outback also offers a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine option, giving it the ability to tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Forester can tow 1,500 to 3,000 pounds
Fuel Economy
Both the Outback and Forester achieve excellent all-wheel drive fuel economy. The Forester has slightly better gas mileage on the highway.
Outback
26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy
Forester
26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy
Seating and Cargo Space
Passenger Seating
Both models comfortably seat five however the rear seats in the Outback offer a bit more legroom.
Cargo
The Outback has space for longer items and slightly more room behind the rear seats.
- 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- 75.6 cubic feet of max cargo space
The Forester is better suited for taller cargo and has a slightly wider rear gate opening.
- 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- 74.4 cubic feet of max cargo space
Both models have about the same total cargo space.
The Outback has retractable roof rail crossbars standard. The newest Forester models also have standard roof rails.
Interior Features
Interior Material
Depending on the trim you choose, the Outback and the Forester have options for durable cloth, perforated leather, or water-repellant StarTex upholstery. The Outback also offers a more luxurious Napa Leather.
Seating Features
Both models offer heated seats, and the Outback offers front-seat ventilation. The Outback offers a 12-way power driver's seat with adjustable thigh support to help make long drives feel much quicker.
Moonroof
The Outback has a traditionally sized moonroof that opens and tilts. The Forester offers a larger panoramic moonroof.
Technology
Rearview Mirror
The Outback offers a smart rearview mirror, which helps provide a better view of what's behind the vehicle.
Outback Touring and Touring XT trim levels only.
Touchscreens
New Outback and Foresters start the base trim with dual 7.0-inch screens, but most trim levels have a larger, updated 11.6-inch touchscreen.
SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Both the Outback and Forester include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Outback offers available wireless connectivity.
Audio
Both models offer Harman Kardon® premium audio systems, and the Outback has one more speaker on the top-tier version.
Safety
EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard for Outback and Forester. On the Outback, you can opt to have EyeSight® equipped with a third camera for a wider field of vision to enhance pedestrian and cyclist recognition.
