Subaru Forester vs. Subaru Outback – See Which One Fits Your Needs the Best

Subaru Forester vs. Subaru Outback: Which New Crossover SUV is Best for You?

If you're shopping for the right new crossover SUV in Sarasota, FL, we're confident that we can help you find it at Sarasota Subaru. Subaru SUVs are known for their tremendous capability and legendary performance, with the Subaru Forester and Outback being among the most popular SUVs available among drivers with families or those with an active lifestyle. The Outback and Forester models offer versatility and state-of-the-art accommodations that let you enjoy the comforts and conveniences of home on the road. To help you determine whether the Outback or Forester is the best crossover SUV for you, we will compare the two models and highlight some of the main things that make each vehicle special.

Subaru Forester vs. Subaru Outback

Performance

The Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback models both come with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing you with the best possible traction, handling, and control whether you're driving in poor weather, on a sandy trail near Vamo, FL, or your everyday commute.

Under the hood, the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester models both come with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, providing you with a commanding and easy performance and impressive fuel economy. The Forester lineup uses the same 2.5-liter engine in every model. The Subaru Outback lineup features a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, providing a stronger and more engaging performance.

If you need a vehicle to tow your boat around Bradenton, FL, the Subaru Outback lets you tow more than the Forester. The Forester is a good option for smaller towing needs, with 1,500 pounds of standard towing capacity and the ability to tow up to 3,000 pounds on the Wilderness models. The Subaru Outback has more standard towing, with 2,700 pounds on the Base trim level. Upgrading to a higher trim level with the turbocharged engine allows you to tow up to 3,500 pounds.

 

 Subaru ForesterSubaru Outback
Engine displacement2.5 l2.5 l
Engine Power180 hp @ 5,800 rpm182 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Engine torque178 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Transmissioncontinuously variable-speed automaticcontinuously variable-speed automatic
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined)26 / 33 / 29 MPG26 / 32 / 28 MPG
Engine configurationflat 4flat 4

*Comparison source: Edmunds (https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/).

Interior Size and Features

Both the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback models have their benefits in terms of size. The Forester allows you and your passengers to stretch out and relax. The Forester and Outback models are similarly sized, with both vehicles offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The Forester has 111.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the Subaru Outback has 109 cubic feet. The Outback lineup has more cargo space, though, with 32.6 cubic feet of space behind the second row, compared to 28.9 cubic feet behind the second row in the Forester.

Technology Features

To help you stay connected as you travel to Venice, FL, or anywhere across the country, all the new Subaru Forester and Outback models come with a cutting-edge Starlink multimedia system. The Starlink system comes on a touchscreen display and lets you seamlessly connect your smartphone device using Bluetooth or a USB cord to control calls, apps, messaging, music, maps, and more on the touchscreen or with voice commands. The Forester and Outback models have standard dual 7-inch touchscreen displays on the Base model only, with all other trim levels earning a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display.

See All Our New Subaru Models in Person Today

We invite you to visit us at Sarasota Subaru to explore all our new Subaru vehicles and experience which model is right for you today. If you already know which vehicle you want, fill out our online finance application or contact our finance center, and our experts will help you buy or lease the vehicle of your dreams in no time.

 

 Subaru ForesterSubaru Crosstrek
Curb weight3,510 lb.3,661 lb.
Height68.1 in.66.1 in.
Seating Capacity55
Interior Colors13
Standard Feature Highlights

Bluetooth
Satellite radio
Cruise control
Adaptive cruise control
Folding rear seats

Bluetooth
Available Feature HighlightsNavigation
Sunroof
Navigation
Sunroof

*Comparison source: Edmunds (https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/).

Trims and Customization

The Crosstrek offers five trims-Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness-allowing buyers to find a model tailored to their needs. For example: 

  • Base: Budget-friendly with essentials like dual-zone climate control and a 7-inch touchscreen. 
  • Premium: Adds keyless entry, a larger touchscreen, and wireless connectivity. 
  • Wilderness: Perfect for off-road enthusiasts with rugged enhancements.

The 2025 Honda CR-V 's trims lean heavily into urban comfort but lack the rugged customization and outdoor focus that the Crosstrek provides.

Schedule a Test Drive Today

At Sarasota Subaru, we offer great service and flexible financing and leasing options to help you get behind the wheel of a Subaru Crosstrek that suits your lifestyle. Visit us today to explore our inventory, and take the Crosstrek for a test drive to see how it outshines the competition. Whether you're navigating Bradenton, FL streets or heading off the beaten path, the Subaru Crosstrek is ready for the journey.







* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.

**The arrival timeline is an estimate. It may vary due to circumstances beyond Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.

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