2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Subaru Outback: Comparing Key Specs

The 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Subaru Outback are two of Subaru’s most popular SUVs, offering a blend of versatility, safety, and all-weather capability. While both models share Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, rugged appeal, and practicality, they have key differences that make each one better suited for different types of drivers. The Forester is a compact SUV with a more traditional upright design, while the Outback is a crossover wagon with a lower stance but increased cargo flexibility.

For buyers deciding between the two, understanding differences in engine performance, driving feel, interior space, and features is essential. This comparison will break down what each vehicle has to offer to help you determine which Subaru best fits your lifestyle.

2025 Subaru Forester: Compact and Practical

The 2025 Subaru Forester continues to be a favourite among drivers who need a spacious and efficient compact SUV. Known for its tall, boxy design, the Forester provides excellent visibility and a roomy interior, making it an ideal choice for city driving and outdoor adventures alike.

Under the hood, the Forester is powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder BOXER engine, producing 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth acceleration and maximizes fuel efficiency. The Forester offers a balanced ride, with responsive steering and a slightly higher ground clearance than the Outback, making it well-suited for off-road trails or rough terrain.

Inside, the Forester offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats fold flat, expanding cargo space to up to 2,107 litres with the second row down. While the Forester’s cargo space is slightly smaller than the Outback’s, it provides a taller cargo area, making it easier to load bulkier items.

Technology in the Forester includes Subaru’s latest Starlink infotainment system with a large touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Standard safety features include EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which offers adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims introduce upgraded interior materials, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system, adding a more upscale feel.

2025 Subaru Outback: Rugged and Versatile

The 2025 Subaru Outback takes a different approach, offering a station wagon-inspired design with SUV capability. With its longer body and lower stance, the Outback provides a more car-like driving experience, making it an excellent choice for highway commuting and long road trips.

The Outback features the same 2.5-litre four-cylinder BOXER engine as the Forester, producing 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. However, buyers looking for more power can opt for the available 2.4-litre turbocharged BOXER engine, which boosts output to 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Like the Forester, the Outback uses a CVT for smooth power delivery, but with the added benefit of an eight-speed manual mode for a more engaging driving feel. The Outback’s lower centre of gravity and longer wheelbase contribute to better highway stability and handling, while still maintaining Subaru’s legendary all-wheel-drive performance for off-road capability.

The interior of the Outback is slightly more spacious than the Forester, particularly in cargo capacity. With the rear seats folded, the Outback offers up to 2,141 litres of cargo space, making it one of the most practical choices in its class. The rear seat passenger space is almost identical to the Forester, though the slightly lower roofline may feel less airy than the Forester’s boxier design.

Technology and features in the Outback also lean toward a more premium experience, especially in higher trims. The Outback offers a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and enhanced driver-assist features. The available Wilderness trim further enhances the Outback’s off-road abilities with all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and rugged exterior styling.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Forester and Outback share many similarities, from their standard all-wheel-drive systems and safety features to their practical and spacious interiors. However, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and driving needs.

The Forester is the better option for drivers who want a compact and practical SUV with excellent visibility, a higher driving position, and a spacious cabin. It’s a great choice for those who frequently navigate city streets or need a more manoeuvrable vehicle that still handles off-road adventures with ease.

The Outback, on the other hand, is ideal for buyers looking for a more refined ride, greater cargo space, and a slightly more powerful optional turbocharged engine. Its lower stance and car-like driving feel make it a better highway cruiser, while still offering enough ground clearance for light off-roading.

Both models are excellent choices for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and daily commuters, but deciding between them ultimately depends on whether you prefer the traditional upright SUV design of the Forester or the rugged wagon versatility of the Outback.

2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Subaru Outback: Key Specs

Ultimately, both the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Subaru Outback deliver Subaru’s signature blend of safety, reliability, and all-weather capability. Whether you choose the Forester for its practicality and upright stance or the Outback for its refined drive and extra cargo space, both models remain excellent choices for a versatile, adventure-ready vehicle.