VS
At a Glance
Power
180hp @ 5800
180hp @ 5800
Torque
178lb-ft @ 3700
178lb-ft @ 4400
Towing
1500lbs
2700lbs
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Outback is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru Forester delivers 180hp @ 5800 while the Subaru Outback produces 180hp @ 5800. Pricing starts at $36,105 for the Forester and $34,995 for the Outback. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
180hp @ 5800
180hp @ 5800
Torque (lb-ft)
178lb-ft @ 3700
178lb-ft @ 4400
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
CVT w/OD
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
25mpg
25mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
32mpg
31mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
16.6gal
18gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
183.3in
191.7in
Width (in)
72in
74in
Height (in)
68.1in
67.5in
Wheelbase (in)
105.1in
108.1in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3611lbs
3741lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
2700lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Subaru Outback
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Outback
Practicality
Outback
Pros & Cons
Subaru Forester
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Subaru Outback
Lower starting price ($34,995)
Higher towing capacity (2700lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Forester or Outback?
The Forester produces 180hp @ 5800 and 178lb-ft @ 3700 of torque while the Outback delivers 180hp @ 5800 and 178lb-ft @ 4400 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Forester and Outback?
The Forester starts from $36,105 and the Outback from $34,995. The Outback is cheaper by $1,110 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Forester or Outback?
The Forester has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Outback can tow 2700lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Forester or the Outback?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.