Which Subaru has the best headroom?
The Subaru Forester generally offers the most headroom in Subaru’s current lineup, especially in the front seats. This article surveys headroom across popular Subaru models, explains how headroom is measured in practice, and helps taller passengers choose a fit.
What headroom means and why it matters
Headroom is the vertical space between the top of the seat and the ceiling or roofline. It varies by model, seating position, trim, and whether you’re using features like a panoramic sunroof. In practice, taller drivers and passengers should look for higher front-row headroom and, if you need a family SUV, substantial second- or third-row clearance as well.
Headroom by Subaru model
Here is a quick snapshot of how the most popular current Subaru models compare in terms of perceived headroom. Figures vary by year and trim, but the order gives a practical sense of which models feel roomier for taller occupants.
- Subaru Forester — Known for a tall roof and generous front headroom; second-row space is also notably ample for a compact SUV.
- Subaru Ascent — A three-row SUV with strong headroom in the first two rows; the third row is usable but more constrained for adults.
- Subaru Outback — A wagon/SUV blend with comfortable front and second-row headroom; lacks a third row, which keeps the cabin simpler and more open.
- Subaru Crosstrek — Among the smaller Subarus, it offers solid front headroom and respectable space overall, with rear headroom being more limited than the Forester.
- Subaru Impreza / Legacy (sedan options) — Sedans generally offer good front headroom and decent rear space; rooflines are lower than the Forester but still comfortable for many adults.
Note: Exact inches vary by model year, trim level, and seating configuration (such as sunroofs or optional panoramic glass). Always test-fit with your typical driving position for the best result.
Headroom by seating position
Front row
In daily driving, front-row headroom is the most immediately noticeable. The Forester typically offers the highest front headroom in Subaru’s lineup, with Ascent close behind. Outback, Crosstrek, and the sedan options provide solid but slightly lower front-space levels.
- Forester: typically the leader for front-row headroom among Subarus.
- Ascent: excellent front headroom, with ample space in two-row seating before the third row is engaged.
- Outback: strong front headroom, often rivaling mid-pack in the broader segment.
- Crosstrek: good front headroom for its class, but generally not as tall as the Forester.
- Impreza / Legacy: comfortable front space; roofline is lower than the Forester but still accommodates tall drivers well.
Practical takeaway: if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel and height is a concern, the Forester is typically the safest bet for maximum front headroom.
Second row
Second-row headroom matters for passengers who aren’t driving. The Ascent’s second row is particularly roomy thanks to its three-row footprint, followed closely by the Forester. Outback and Crosstrek offer solid second-row space, though they’re not quite as cavernous as the two front-runners.
- Ascent: generous second-row headroom, suitable for adults on longer trips.
- Forester: ample second-row headroom, one of the model’s strong points.
- Outback: solid second-row headroom, comfortable for most adults.
- Crosstrek: respectable second-row headroom for its size, though less than larger Subarus.
- Legacy / Impreza: comfortable second-row space, with a sedan roofline that limits peak height slightly compared with SUVs.
Bottom line: if you regularly carry adult passengers in the back, the Forester or Ascent typically offer the most comfortable second-row headroom in Subaru’s current lineup.
Third row (where applicable)
Only the Ascent provides a true third row in Subaru’s current three-row option, and headroom there is usable but not as generous as the first two rows. This makes the Ascent a practical choice for occasional adult passengers in the back, while still prioritizing front-row comfort.
- Ascent: third-row headroom is usable for children and some shorter adults, but may feel tight for taller passengers on long trips.
- Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Legacy, Impreza: no third row; third-row headroom is not a consideration.
In practice, if maximum third-row headroom is a priority, the Ascent is the only current Subaru that delivers a true third row with a reasonable amount of vertical space.
Practical tips for evaluating headroom
If you’re shopping for a Subaru and headroom is a priority, these considerations can help you compare models beyond published numbers.
- Test the seat height and cushion position in your typical driving posture to gauge how tall you feel in each model.
- Consider whether you want a panoramic sunroof; some configurations reduce headroom slightly despite a larger roofline.
- Check rear-seat configurations (two-row vs three-row) and how a folded or upright third row affects headroom in practice.
- Factor in accessories like roof racks or wearables that can affect perceived space during daily use.
In real-world terms, the Forester remains the go-to choice for the broadest headroom audience, with the Ascent offering the strongest option when you need a three-row layout and still want comfortable upper-body clearance.
Summary
Among Subaru’s current lineup, the Forester typically provides the best overall headroom, especially in the front seats, making it the top pick for taller drivers and passengers. The Ascent offers strong headroom in both the first and second rows and adds a usable third row for occasional passengers. The Outback, Crosstrek, and sedan options balance headroom with other design priorities. If headroom is a top criterion, prioritize a Forester for maximum space, or opt for the Ascent if you need a three-row configuration without sacrificing too much headroom in the front and second rows. Always verify with a test sit in your preferred trim and year to confirm fit.
