Which is larger, the Outback or the Forester?
The Outback is larger overall. For the current model lineup (roughly 2023–2025), it sits longer on the road and has about the same or slightly more luggage space behind the rear seats than the Forester, though both remain roomy within their respective classes.
Exterior size and dimensions
To understand which model is larger, it's useful to compare overall footprint: exterior length, wheelbase, and width. The Outback sits longer on the road, with a longer wheelbase, giving it a more stretched silhouette while maintaining similar width and height to the Forester.
- Length: Outback is about 191 inches, while the Forester is roughly 182 inches. The difference is around 9 inches, making the Outback noticeably longer.
- Wheelbase: Outback's wheelbase is around 108 inches, versus the Forester's approximately 105 inches — roughly a 3-inch edge for the Outback.
- Overall footprint: In width and ground clearance, both are close, with minor variations by year and trim; the Outback's extended length gives it a longer visual footprint while remaining a rugged, wagon-like SUV.
In practical terms, the Outback’s longer body contributes to a more ample cargo floor and a more expansive rear hatch opening, though the Forester remains a strong, spacious compact SUV with a tall roof and versatile interior.
Cargo and interior space
When shoppers consider cargo space, both models offer competitive figures for their segments. The differences are subtle and depend on whether the rear seats are up or folded.
- Cargo behind the rear seats: Both models provide roughly 32 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear row, with the Outback typically sitting at a touch higher or similar depending on year and trim.
- Maximum cargo with seats folded: When the second row is folded, both exceed 70 cubic feet, with totals typically in the mid-70s cubic feet range; the Forester and Outback are very close, with minor variations by model year.
The result is that, for pure cargo capacity, the two are neck-and-neck, but the Outback’s longer body translates into a longer loading floor and a different cargo configuration that some buyers may prefer for long items or road-tripping setups.
Bottom line
Overall, the Outback is larger in exterior dimensions, notably in length and wheelbase, while both vehicles offer comparable cargo capacity. If you prioritize a bigger footprint and a longer cargo floor, the Outback is the larger choice; if you prioritize compact-SUV maneuverability with roomy interior, the Forester remains a strong, slightly more compact option.
Summary
In short, the Outback is larger overall in exterior size; cargo capacity is similar, with the differences being subtle and year-to-year. Both models provide ample space for everyday use and adventures, so choosing depends on whether you want a longer wagon-like SUV or a compact, taller SUV with easy access and versatile packaging.
