Strictly on paper, the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback are going to strike you as quite similar. In fact, they may strike you as being exactly the same. They aren’t. While these vehicles do share a number of significant similarities, it is also worth keeping in mind the fairly distinct differences, as well.
With both of these vehicles, you have seating for 5, the standard 4-cyclinder engine, and even the prices may strike you as similar. While it is worth keeping these things in mind, it can also be useful to look at differences with exteriors, interiors, and even features.
What Are The Differences Between Forester And Outback
There are some major variations between these Subaru options that are worth keeping in mind. Let’s start with the exterior. Technically speaking, the Outback qualifies as a station wagon, as it comes from the range of Subaru midsize Legacy sedans. Continuing to look at these vehicles in the most technical terms possible, you will look at the Forester as a crossover SUV. Think of vehicles such as the Honda CR-V, or perhaps the Ford Escape, and you will have two examples of vehicles similar to that of the Forester.
The above represents some of the differences you will be able to appreciate with the exteriors of these vehicles. In terms of the interior, the Forester has undergone some changes, since the first ones rolled off the assembly line a few years ago. By comparison, the Outback features the more modernized, mature cabin. The silver center control stack offers a more stylish, perhaps more sophisticated option than the black plastic unit you are going to find with the Forester. The center-mounted touchscreen of the Outback is also a nice exterior difference that is worth keeping in mind.
Ultimately, when it comes to the interior, you will want to try both out for yourself. At the end of the day, the better interior of the two is going to come down to your comfort zone.
In terms of performance, you will find that these vehicles are pretty similar to one another. However, you will notice some differences between the engines. In terms of optional engines, you will find some intriguing differences to consider. While these differences are not essential for everyone, you may want to look into them. This is particularly true if you aren’t thrilled with the standard engines, and you would like to have the chance to look into some alternative possibilities.
