What is more expensive, Outback or Forester?
When deciding between the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester, cost is often a significant factor for potential buyers. Both vehicles are popular choices in the Subaru lineup, offering reliability, safety, and versatility. However, their pricing can vary depending on the model year, trim level, and additional features. In this article, we’ll break down the cost differences between these two vehicles to help you make an informed decision.
Base Price Comparison
The starting price of a vehicle is often the first consideration for buyers. Here’s how the base prices of the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester typically compare:
- Subaru Outback: The Outback generally starts at a higher price point compared to the Forester. For example, the 2025 Subaru Outback base model starts at approximately $28,895.
- Subaru Forester: The Forester is more affordable, with a starting price of around $26,495 for the 2025 base model.
As you can see, the Outback is slightly more expensive than the Forester at the entry-level, making the Forester a better choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Trim Levels and Features
Both the Outback and Forester offer a variety of trim levels, which can significantly impact the overall cost. Higher trims come with advanced features such as leather upholstery, larger infotainment screens, and enhanced safety systems.
- Outback: The Outback’s higher trims, such as the Touring XT or Wilderness, can push the price well above $40,000, especially when equipped with optional packages.
- Forester: The Forester’s top trims, like the Touring or Wilderness, are generally more affordable than the Outback’s equivalent trims, with prices typically staying under $38,000.
If you’re looking for a fully loaded vehicle, the Outback will likely cost more than the Forester due to its additional features and larger size.
Long-Term Costs
Beyond the initial purchase price, it’s essential to consider long-term costs such as fuel efficiency, maintenance, and insurance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Both vehicles are fuel-efficient, but the Forester often edges out the Outback slightly due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
- Maintenance: Maintenance costs for both vehicles are comparable, as they share many of the same components and Subaru’s reputation for reliability.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums may be slightly higher for the Outback due to its higher base price and larger size.
Overall, the Forester may offer slightly lower long-term costs, making it a more economical choice for some buyers.
Conclusion
In summary, the Subaru Outback is generally more expensive than the Subaru Forester, both in terms of base price and higher trim levels. However, the Outback offers more space, a more luxurious feel, and additional features that may justify the higher cost for some buyers. On the other hand, the Forester is a more budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance and versatility. Your choice will ultimately depend on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you maintain your Subaru, whether you choose the Outback or the Forester. Contact us today for expert advice and reliable auto service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Subaru is more expensive?
Subaru Ascent
The 2022 Subaru Outback base trim starts at $26,945* MSRP, and its most expensive trim, the Touring XT costs $39,945* MSRP. The 2022 Subaru Ascent base trim is priced at $32,295* MSRP, and its top trim, the Touring, costs $45,445* MSRP. The Subaru Ascent is considerably more expensive, but this is understandable.
Is a Forester as safe as an outback?
Both the Forester and Outback have the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award and similar crash-test scores. But, they have some differences. The Outback is slightly bigger, which means more cargo space - 75.7 cubic feet versus the Forester's 70.9 cubic feet.
Which has a smoother ride, Outback or Forester?
Due to its longer wheelbase, lower height, and more substantial weight, driving the Outback could feel smoother over rough roads and trails compared to the Forester.
What is the most purchased Subaru?
In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, Subaru Corporation's most popular car model was the Subaru Impreza, reaching a global sales volume of approximately 301.9 thousand units. Approximately 205 thousand Impreza were sold in the U.S. alone, Subaru's largest market.
What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
- Unintended Acceleration.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
Which is more expensive, Forester or Outback?
Priced from $28,440, the base 2024 Subaru Forester is $1,800 less expensive than the base 2024 Outback, which starts at $30,240. A bigger variation exists when you look at the most expensive models. The Forester Touring tops the range at $38,740, while the 2024 Outback Touring XT reaches $44,140.
Is the Subaru Outback an old person car?
And with top IIHS recognitions for Vehicle-to-Pedestrian Front Crash Prevention, Updated Side Impact crash performance, and as a TOP SAFETY PICK+, the Subaru Outback is an ideal midsize crossover SUV for seniors who love adventure and value safety.
What is the cheapest Subaru SUV?
Meet the Subaru Family
- 2025 Crosstrek. Outstanding value at $25,810*
- 2025 Forester. Outstanding value at $29,995*
- 2025 Outback. Outstanding value at $29,010*
- 2025 Ascent. Outstanding value at $38,910*
- 2025 Solterra. Outstanding value at $38,495*
- Explore Solterra Special Offers.
- 2025 Forester Hybrid.
- 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.
Why are Subaru Foresters not selling?
The popular Forester's five-month drop in sales performance has a lot to do with the economy. Many seniors look at the Forester and compare the price with the Crosstrek and can get an excellent all-wheel-drive vehicle for about $5,000 less—and even more so on the upper Touring trim level.
Is Subaru discontinuing the Forester?
Subaru Corporation will continue to produce the Forester in Japan for its domestic customers and customers in Europe, Asia, and Australia. That means all Forester made in the U.S. will stay here. Forester production is going up. Subaru Corporation's production of the all-new 2025 Forester has increased.
