Which has the smoother ride Outback or Forester?
On pavement, the Subaru Outback typically delivers a smoother, more refined ride than the Forester, though real-world quietness and comfort can vary with trim level and tire choice.
Ride quality: what makes the difference
In evaluating ride comfort, critics consider suspension tuning, ride height, noise isolation, and how each model soaks up potholes and rough pavement. While both vehicles share Subaru’s all-wheel-drive hardware, the Outback’s wagon-inspired chassis is generally tuned for smoother highway cruising, whereas the Forester emphasizes a tall, versatile footprint and visibility, which can translate to a firmer ride on imperfect surfaces.
What reviewers say
Automotive outlets have long noted that the Outback tends to ride more calmly on long highway stretches, with better impact damping and cabin quietness. The Forester, while comfortable for a compact SUV, often feels a touch firmer or busier over rough pavement, especially with larger wheels or aggressively sized tires.
Key factors that influence ride quality in each model, and how they typically play out in real-world driving:
- Ride refinement on pavement: Outback generally glides over rough roads with less cabin feedback; Forester can transmit more road irregularities, particularly on urban streets.
- Suspension tuning and chassis: Outback’s setup is tilted toward a softer, more compliant ride; Forester’s configuration prioritizes stability and a tall, utility-focused stance, sometimes at the expense of plushness.
- Wheel and tire impact: Trims with larger wheels (common on some Forester models) can reduce ride compliance; Outback trims with smaller wheels or well-damped 18-inch options tend to feel smoother.
- Noise and cabin refinement: The Outback commonly offers a quieter highway experience; Forester may show more wind and road noise in certain trims or with specific tire choices.
In practice, most buyers find the Outback to be the smoother ride overall, especially on long highway drives, while the Forester remains comfortable and capable, with a perception of more road feel in rough pavement scenarios.
Choosing the right ride for your priorities
Ride comfort is just one factor in choosing between these two Subarus. Consider how you plan to use the vehicle, and which characteristics matter most to you on a daily basis.
- Highway and long-distance comfort: If smooth, quiet highway cruising is a top priority, the Outback is typically the stronger choice.
- Urban practicality and visibility: If you value a higher seating position, easier ingress/egress, and more cargo versatility, the Forester remains appealing, though ride can be perceptibly firmer on rough roads with larger wheels.
- Wheel and tire configuration: Opting for trims with smaller wheels and softer tires can enhance ride comfort on both models; check the specific tire setup for the year and trim you’re considering.
- Model year and updates: Subarus periodically refine suspension tuning and noise isolation; read current road tests for the exact trim and year you’re evaluating to see how the ride compares today.
Ultimately, the best approach is a hands-on test drive on a route that mirrors your everyday roads to gauge which model feels smoother to you.
Summary
Across recent model years, the Subaru Outback generally offers the smoother ride on paved surfaces compared with the Forester, thanks to its wagon-oriented tuning and softer highway damping. The Forester prioritizes height, cargo versatility, and visibility, delivering solid comfort but often with a slightly firmer or busier feel on rough pavement, especially with larger wheels. Trim choices and tire selections play a significant role, so prospective buyers should test-drive multiple configurations to determine which ride matches their preferences.
