VS
At a Glance
Power
180hp @ 5800
260hp @ 5600
Torque
178lb-ft @ 3700
277lb-ft @ 2000
Towing
1500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.4 L/146cc
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 260hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $41,595 for the Forester and $44,365 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
260hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
178lb-ft @ 3700
277lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.4 L/146cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
25mpg
21mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
32mpg
29mpg
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)
3664lbs
3968lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
3500lbs
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
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Forester
Practicality
Outback
Pros & Cons
Subaru Forester
Lower starting price ($41,595)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Outback
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Higher starting price
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 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Forester and Outback?
The Forester starts from $41,595 and the Outback from $44,365. The Forester is cheaper by $2,770 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 3500lbs. 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.