Alton Brobst Subaru is a well-known brand for producing reliable and durable cars. However, choosing between two of their popular models, the Forester and the Outback, can be tricky. Both models are similar in many ways, but they have some significant differences that may make one a better choice for you.
In this article, we will compare the Subaru Forester and the Outback in terms of their performance, interior space, safety features, and pricing. We will examine their pros and cons to determine which model would be the better choice based on your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- The Subaru Forester is the better choice if you are looking for a more spacious cargo area and better ground clearance.
- The Subaru Outback is the better choice if you are looking for a more comfortable and luxurious interior and more advanced safety features.
- Both models are similarly priced, but the Outback tends to be slightly more expensive due to its higher-end features.
Performance
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth shifts and good fuel economy. The Forester also has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which makes it an excellent choice for off-road adventures.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback also comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It is also paired with a CVT, but it has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches, which is slightly lower than the Forester’s ground clearance.
Overall, both models have similar performance, but the Forester has a better ground clearance, making it the better choice if you plan to take your Subaru off-road.
Interior Space
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester has an impressive 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down, making it one of the most spacious compact SUVs on the market. The Forester also has plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable ride for everyone.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback also has a spacious interior, with 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. It also has plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, but the Outback has a more luxurious interior than the Forester, with higher-quality materials and more comfort features.
Overall, both models have similar interior space, but the Forester has slightly more cargo space, while the Outback has a more comfortable and luxurious interior.
Safety Features
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester comes with a host of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It has also been rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback also comes with advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also has additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. The Outback has also been rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.
Overall, both models have similar safety features, but the Outback has more advanced safety features, making it the better choice if you prioritize safety.
Pricing
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $24,795, making it an affordable option for a compact SUV. However, the price can increase significantly with additional features and packages.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has a starting price of $26,795, making it slightly more expensive than the Forester. However, the Outback has more advanced features and a more luxurious interior, which justifies the higher price.
Overall, both models are similarly priced, but the Outback tends to be slightly more expensive due to its higher-end features.
Conclusion
Both the Subaru Forester and Outback are excellent cars, and the choice ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. If you prioritize a more spacious cargo area, better ground clearance, and a lower price, then the Forester is the better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more comfortable and luxurious interior, more advanced safety features, and don’t mind a slightly higher price, then the Outback is the better choice.
Overall, both models are reliable, durable, and excellent choices for a compact SUV. It is up to you to decide which one fits your lifestyle and budget the best.
FAQ
Which is better, the Forester, or the Outback?
The answer depends on your needs and preferences. The Forester is better if you need more cargo space and better ground clearance, while the Outback is better if you need a more comfortable and luxurious interior and more advanced safety features.
Are the Forester and Outback similarly priced?
Both models are similarly priced, but the Outback tends to be slightly more expensive due to its higher-end features.
What safety features do the Forester and Outback have?
Both models come with advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Outback has additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
