Which Subaru is bigger, Outback or Forester?
The Subaru Outback and Forester are both popular crossover SUV models, but they differ in size. The Outback is the larger of the two, offering more interior space and cargo capacity compared to the Forester.
Exterior Dimensions
The Subaru Outback has a longer overall length of 191.3 inches, compared to the Forester's 182.1 inches. The Outback is also slightly wider, with a width of 73.0 inches versus the Forester's 71.5 inches.
Interior Space
The Outback provides more passenger volume, with 109.0 cubic feet of space compared to the Forester's 111.9 cubic feet. However, the Forester has a slight edge in cargo volume behind the rear seats, offering 31.1 cubic feet versus the Outback's 32.5 cubic feet.
Ground Clearance
Both the Outback and Forester are designed for light off-road use, but the Outback has a higher ground clearance of 8.7 inches compared to the Forester's 8.4 inches. This gives the Outback a slight advantage in tackling rougher terrain.
Towing Capacity
The Subaru Outback has a higher towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, while the Forester is limited to 1,500 pounds. This makes the Outback the better choice for those who need to tow larger items, such as a small trailer or boat.
Conclusion
In summary, the Subaru Outback is the larger of the two models, offering more interior space, cargo capacity, and towing capability. The Forester, on the other hand, is slightly more compact and may be better suited for those who prioritize maneuverability and off-road capability. Ultimately, the choice between the Outback and Forester will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the buyer.
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.
Which Subaru is the roomiest?
The Subaru Ascent is the roomiest Subaru, offering three rows of seating for up to eight passengers and the most passenger and cargo volume in the lineup. It has up to 153.2153.2153.2 cubic feet of passenger volume and 86.586.586.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
You can watch this video for a detailed walkthrough of the Subaru Ascent's interior and features: 52sSubaruCanadaYouTube · Feb 26, 2025
- Passenger capacity: Seats up to eight passengers across three rows.
- Passenger volume: Offers 153.2153.2153.2 cubic feet of passenger volume.
- Cargo space: Provides 86.586.586.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with all rear seats folded down, 47.547.547.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 17.817.817.8 cubic feet behind the third row.
- Legroom: The Ascent features 42.242.242.2 inches of legroom in the front, 38.638.638.6 inches in the middle row, and 31.731.731.7 inches in the rear row.
What are the main differences between the Subaru Outback and Forester?
Both the Subaru Outback. And Forester are built for adventure. But each vehicle brings its own unique twist to the journey. Let's look at what sets these models apart.
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.)
