Subaru Crosstrek vs Forester Comparison

Performance

Powered by a standard 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, the Subaru Crosstrek Base provides up to 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Subaru Crosstrek Premium and higher models come with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces up to 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. In comparison, all Subaru Forester models feature a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces up to 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, helping you accelerate with ease around Union Gap.

Efficiency

Subaru Crosstrek models offer up to an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined with either engine option, while the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness offers up to an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. Subaru Forester models also offer up to an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined, so you can enjoy road trips beyond Moses Lake, with Forester Sport and Touring models offering up to an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined.

Capability

When properly equipped, the Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek both provide up to 1,500 pounds of towing capacity. However, the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness features an upgraded transmission cooler to help you tow up to 3,500 pounds. In addition, the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester both feature 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road adventures around Sunnyside, with the Crosstrek Wilderness delivering up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance thanks to a raised suspension system and all-terrain tires.

Design

Around the outside, the Subaru Forester and Subaru Crosstrek offer sleek styling, available roof rails, and compact platforms that make it easy to squeeze into parallel parking spaces near Ellensburg. Inside the cabin, both models provide seating for up to five people, available leather-trimmed upholstery, and an available 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. However, the Subaru Forester provides up to 74.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, while the Subaru Crosstrek only provides up to 54.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.

Technology

When it comes to connectivity on the go, the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester both feature a SUBARU STARLINK® Dual 7.0-inch Multimedia infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ support. In addition, select trims come with a stunning SUBARU STARLINK® 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus or Multimedia Navigation infotainment system, providing additional functionality for your excursions across the state. For jamming out to your favorite tunes, Subaru Crosstrek Limited and Wilderness models are available with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system, while the Subaru Forester offers up to an 11-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system in Sport, Limited, and Touring trims.

Safety

Safety is a staple in the Subaru family of vehicles, which is why the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester both come with a standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology suite. Standard features for both models include Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Automatic Emergency Steering. Available features include Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Reverse Automatic Braking, with the 2025 Subaru Forester also offering a 360-degree Surround View Monitor.

Trims

Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester offer a wide range of trims to match your lifestyle. If you have any questions about included features, available packages, and current pricing, don't hesitate to contact our sales team.

Subaru Crosstrek

• Base
• Premium
• Sport
• Limited
• Wilderness

Subaru Forester

• Base
• Premium
• Sport
• Wilderness
• Limited
• Touring