What is the main difference between a Subaru Forester and an Outback?

The Forester is a compact SUV with a tall, boxy profile designed for interior space and everyday practicality, while the Outback is a raised wagon with a lower, more car-like stance and wagon-oriented cargo flexibility. This difference in body style largely drives how each model feels to drive and what kind of loading it excels at.

Below, we break down how these two popular Subarus compare in style, space, and performance to help you decide which fits your needs best.

Body style and driving character

Before we list the key contrasts, note that the Forester and Outback aren’t just different names on the same chassis. Their shapes influence visibility, loading, and overall driving feel, even though both use all-wheel drive as a common starting point.

• Forester: tall, upright SUV silhouette with generous headroom and a practical, square cargo area that makes loading bulky items easy.


• Outback: raised wagon design with a longer, sleeker profile and a lower center of gravity, delivering more car‑like handling while still offering strong off‑road capability.


• Powertrain options: Forester typically uses a 2.5-liter flat-four paired with a CVT for efficient daily driving, while the Outback offers both a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated option and a more powerful 2.4-liter turbo on higher trims, providing quicker acceleration.


• Ground clearance and off-road intent: both are capable in inclement weather and light off‑roading, but the Outback’s rugged trims (such as Wilderness) emphasize off‑road readiness, whereas the Forester prioritizes broad everyday usability and visibility.

In short, the Forester emphasizes vertical space and practicality in a compact-SUV package, while the Outback leans toward elongated wagon practicality and more powerful drivetrain options with a smoother, car‑like ride.

Practical differences: space, efficiency, and pricing

These practical factors often tip the balance when choosing between the two models: cargo layout, efficiency, and how much you’ll pay as you move up the trim ladder.

• Interior space and cargo: the Forester’s tall cabin and boxy rear opening maximize cargo versatility and easy loading; the Outback uses its wagon geometry to offer a long cargo floor and a more traditional rear loading area when seats are up, which many buyers appreciate for longer items.


• Fuel economy and performance: the Forester’s base engine provides solid, efficient performance for daily driving, while the Outback’s turbocharged option delivers stronger acceleration at the cost of higher fuel use; both models use a CVT and standard AWD, but power delivery and efficiency can vary by trim.


• Pricing and trims: the Forester typically starts at a lower price point and offers a broad range of trims for various budgets, whereas the Outback generally sits higher in starting price and includes additional options—especially with turbocharged power—across its lineup.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you value a taller, more cargo-flexible SUV (Forester) or a longer, wagon-style package with sportier power options and car-like handling (Outback).

Which should you choose?

If you prize maximum interior height, straightforward loading of bulky items, and a traditional SUV stance, the Forester is a strong fit. If you want wagon-like practicality, a longer cargo floor, and access to a turbocharged engine for added oomph, the Outback is likely the better pick.

Summary: Both models deliver Subaru’s signature all‑wheel drive and comprehensive safety tech, but the Forester leans toward utility and spaciousness in a compact-SUV format, while the Outback emphasizes wagon practicality, a lower, more car‑driven feel, and options for greater power.

Why is an Outback more expensive than a Forester?

Price Comparisons: Comparably equipped, the Outback is about $2500 more than the Forester. The difference buys you a slightly bigger car, with more standard equipment, and even higher quality materials (such as carpeting and interior surface finishes.)

What is the most reliable Subaru model?

The most reliable Subaru models are the Crosstrek and Forester, which consistently receive high reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports. The Outback is also highly reliable, particularly the 2014+ model years, and is a good option if you need more space.
 
Reliable Subaru models

• Crosstrek: Frequently cited as Subaru's most reliable car, the Crosstrek is praised for its long-term dependability and low maintenance costs. It's a great option for those who want a compact SUV with off-roading capability. 
• Forester: Often ranked as one of the most reliable SUVs, the Forester is known for its consistent performance and durability, with many models built to exceed 200,000 miles. 
• Outback: This model is also a top contender for reliability, with strong ratings for longevity and safety, making it a good choice for those needing a larger, more versatile vehicle. 

Other reliable options

• Legacy: A reliable choice for those who prefer a sedan, especially models from 2015 onward. 
• Ascent: A reliable option for families needing a larger, three-row SUV. 

What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?

Common Subaru Forester cons include slow acceleration, a less refined engine, and potential issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Other drawbacks are a bouncy ride over large bumps, lower-than-expected cargo capacity compared to some rivals, and a less innovative infotainment system. Older models also have a history of specific problems like head gasket failure, which buyers should be aware of, notes CoPilot for Car Shopping.
 
Performance and handling

• Lack of power: Acceleration is often described as leisurely due to the engine's modest horsepower and torque output. 
• CVT issues: Some owners report shaking or jerking, particularly when accelerating from a stop, which can be related to the CVT. 
• Ride quality: The ride can be uncomfortable over large bumps, feeling bouncy despite being generally pleasant. 
• Refinement: The engine lacks the refinement of competitors, and the boxy shape contributes to wind noise. 

Design and technology

• Cargo space: The cargo area is significantly smaller than some top competitors in the segment. 
• Infotainment: The infotainment system can have touch sensitivity issues and may be less innovative than some rivals. 
• Driver assist issues: Some owners have reported issues with the alerts from driver assistance features, notes Edmunds. 

Reliability (older models)

• Engine problems: Older generations, particularly from 1998-2002, are known for head gasket failures. Subsequent models (2003, 2006, 2009-2010) have also seen issues with head gaskets and other engine problems.
• Oil consumption: Some model years, particularly between 2011-2013, have been plagued by excessive oil consumption. 

How much bigger is the Subaru Outback than the Forester?

For added awareness both models also come equipped with standard EyeSight driver assist. Technology however only the Forester. And Outback Touring include the latest EyeSight version as a standard