Subaru Forester vs Outback Comparison

Subaru Forester Vs. Outback: Which Subaru SUV Is Right for You?

When it comes to capable, versatile, and reliable SUVs, two models that often come to mind are the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback. McCurley Subaru of Yakima has both of these popular Subaru vehicles at our dealership, both of which offer the brand's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features. So how do you decide between the Forester and Outback? Here's a closer look at what sets these two Subaru SUVs apart.

The Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that's big on capability. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a tough, trail-ready build, the Forester is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts around Union Gap who want to venture off the beaten path. The Forester's size also makes it easy to maneuver on city streets and a breeze to park, whether you're running errands in downtown Yakima or meeting friends for dinner in Ellensburg.

The Forester comes equipped with a 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for smooth and efficient performance. With this powertrain, the Forester achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 33 mpg on the highway, making it a great choice for long road trips or daily commutes.

Inside the Forester, you'll find a spacious and versatile cabin with seating for five, and with up to 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold the rear seats down. High-quality, soft-touch materials give the interior a refined feel, while the available panoramic moonroof lets in plenty of natural light on sunny days in Sunnyside. The Forester also offers a range of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Keep Assist.

The Subaru Outback

If you're looking for a bit more space and power, the Subaru Outback might be the right choice for you. This midsize SUV offers a cavernous interior with up to 76 cubic feet of cargo room, making it ideal for family road trips or hauling gear for your latest adventure near Moses Lake. The Outback also offers a choice of capable Subaru Boxer engines, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and a powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged option that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Like the Forester, the Outback comes equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE with Hill Descent Control for confident traction in all kinds of conditions.

The Outback's interior is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Available features include a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, heated front and rear seats, and a premium audio system with 12 Harman Kardon speakers. The Outback also offers an impressive array of safety and driver-assist technologies, such as Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, which can alert you if it senses you're becoming distracted or drowsy.

Which to Choose?

How the Forester Compares to the Outback

• More compact size makes the Forester easier to maneuver and park in tight spaces
• Higher ground clearance and shorter overhangs provide better off-road capability
• Starts at a more affordable price point than the larger Outback

How the Outback Compares to the Forester

• Larger interior with more passenger and cargo space
• Choice of more powerful engine options, including a turbocharged engine
• Available in more luxurious trim levels like the Touring XT

Find Your Perfect Subaru SUV at McCurley Subaru of Yakima

Whether you decide on the compact and capable Forester or the spacious and adventurous Outback, you can find the perfect Subaru SUV for your lifestyle at McCurley Subaru of Yakima. Our friendly sales staff is here to help you compare models, explore features, and find the best Subaru for your needs and budget. Visit us today.