What is the difference between a Forester Limited and a Forester Touring?
Forester Touring is the higher-end trim in Subaru’s Forester lineup, delivering more luxury features, tech, and convenience compared with Forester Limited. The exact equipment can vary by model year and market.
In this article, we compare the two trims to explain where Touring gains on Limited, focusing on interior comforts, technology, exterior styling, and price considerations. Specific features and availability can shift with each model year, so always check the current Subaru brochure or dealer build sheet for the exact specs in your region.
Key differences between Limited and Touring
The following list outlines the main areas where Touring typically adds to the Limited, noting that exact features can vary by year and market.
- Exterior and wheels: Touring commonly rides on larger alloy wheels (often 18 inches) and includes distinctive exterior detailing that sets it apart from Limited.
- Interior comfort and materials: Touring tends to offer enhanced interior materials and seating comfort, with a more premium feel and additional comfort touches compared with Limited.
- Infotainment and navigation: Touring often includes a larger touchscreen, built-in navigation, and an upgraded audio option versus the standard setup on Limited.
- Convenience features: Touring is more likely to include items such as a power liftgate and memory driver's seat as standard or optional, while Limited may require added packages to reach those amenities.
- Safety and driver aids: Touring may offer extra driver-assistance features or packages that are not always standard on Limited, depending on the year and region.
In practice, the Touring trim generally elevates luxury and technology over the Limited, with a corresponding price premium.
Other considerations when comparing trims
Because trim content shifts by model year and market, it’s wise to verify the exact equipment for the year you’re considering. This second look helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re choosing the best value for your needs.
- Model-year variability: Equipment lists can change from year to year, and certain features may be added or removed as Subaru updates the lineup.
- Regional differences: North American, European, and other markets may have different standard and optional features for Limited and Touring.
- Pricing and value: Touring carries a higher starting price than Limited, with the difference depending on year, packages, and regional pricing.
For buyers, the key is to weigh how much you value the added luxury, tech, and convenience against the price increase, and to review the current build sheet for your specific year and region.
Summary
In short, Forester Touring is the upmarket alternative to Forester Limited, offering more premium interior details, bigger wheels, enhanced infotainment, and additional convenience or safety features. The exact feature set varies by model year and region, so checking the latest Subaru specifications or consulting a dealer is essential to confirm what’s included for the trim you want.
