2024 Subaru Outback vs. 2024 Subaru Forester Compare
Subaru Outback
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|---|---|
| MSRP Range | $28,895 - $42,795 |
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 - 3,500 lbs. |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 32 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 75.6 cu.ft. |
Subaru Forester
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|---|---|
| MSRP Range | $27,095 - $37,395 |
| Towing Capacity | 1,000 - 3,000 lbs. |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 74.2 cu. ft. |
Size and Shape
When you compare the Subaru Outback with the Forester, you'll notice the Outback's longer body and wider wheelbase. The Outback is technically a station wagon, although it shares the same rugged style cues as the Forester that makes it appear like a crossover SUV. The Forester is taller and offers a higher ride height. The roof of the Forester comes up two inches above the Outback's roofline for a more traditional SUV feel.
SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity
Under the hood of every 2024 Subaru Forester is a 2.5-liter 182-horsepower BOXER® engine paired with a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Outback comes with the same standard engine but also offers an optional 260-horsepower turbocharged engine upgrade. The stronger engine and wheelbase on the Outback allow it to tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the Forester tops out at 3,000 pounds of towing capacity.
Fuel Economy
With all-wheel drive and SUV dimensions, the Outback and Forester deliver exceptional fuel efficiency for their class. The nearly identical fuel efficiency ratings make either one an excellent choice, but if you want to nitpick, the Forester gets one more mpg on the highway.
Outback
26 mpg city | 32 mpg hwy
Forester
26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy
Seating and Cargo Space
Passenger Seating
The Subaru Outback and Forester have seating for up to five passengers, but the longer body style also makes it more roomy in the rear seats for long-legged passengers in the Outback.
Cargo
The longer body style also allows for longer items to fit easily inside the Subaru Outback.
- 32.6 cu.ft. behind the rear seats
- 75.6 cu. ft. max cargo space
The Forester can accommodate taller items in the cargo hold and has a wider rear gate opening.
- 28.9 cu.ft. behind the rear seats
- 74.2 cu. ft. max cargo space
Both models have about the same total cargo space and there is optional roof top storage with the standard retractable roof rail crossbars on the Outback. The Forester can come equipped with removable crossbars for an added cost.
Interior Features
Interior Materials
Several upholstery options are available for the 2024 Subaru Outback and Forester, from soft cloth to perforated leather trim or the water-repellant StarTex® recycled polyurethane material. The Outback also offers a premium Nappa Leather trim as the fanciest option.
Seating Features
You can get heated seats on both vehicles and the Outback offers front seat ventilation for a cooling effect. The Outback offers a 12-way power driver's seat with adjustable thigh support for maximum comfort on long drives.
Moonroof
Bring more light and a feeling of space into the Forester and Outback with the available moonroof. The Forester comes with a beautiful panoramic moonroof that covers the front and rear seating areas and provides a stunning overhead view.
Technology
Digital Rearview Mirror
Digital Rearview Mirror is a premium upgrade that turns the rearview mirror into a rear camera monitor. With a flip of the mirror, you can reduce blind spots and get a wider view of traffic and other obstructions while on the road. You'll find digital rearview mirrors in 2024 Outback models. Unfortunately, the Digital Rearview Mirror is not available on the Subaru Forester.
Touchscreens
Two touchscreen sizes are available for the Subaru Outback and Forester. Only the Outback will come with the largest screen size on 2024 Subaru models, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, which is the standard setup on all but the base Outback trim level. The 2024 Subaru Forester will have a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen or an available 8-inch touchscreen.
SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
You'll find the same desirable connected features on the 2024 Outback and Forester. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard features. The Outback will have a few more options available, like a wireless charging pad.
Audio
Audiophiles will love the Harman Kardon® premium audio system available for both models, with a 12-speaker setup for the Outback and nine for the Forester.
Safety
When it comes to safety, there is no compromising with a Subaru. The Outback and Forester will come with a full suite of safety and driver assistance features as part of the EyeSight® system. However, a few more advanced options are available for the Outback with a third camera view and features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for enhanced awareness.
