Subaru Outback
| MSRP Range | $29,995 - $44,730 |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 - 3,500 pounds |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 32 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 75.6 cubic feet |
Subaru Forester
| MSRP Range | $29,995 - $41,595 |
|---|---|
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 - 3,000 pounds |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy |
| Seating | 5 |
| Max Cargo Space | 74.4 cubic feet |
Size and Shape
With its longer body shape and wheelbase, the Outback is designed for smooth, controlled handling.
The Forester is about two inches taller than the Outback, which gives the driver better outward visibility.
SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity
Both the Outback and Forester are powered by the reliable SUBARU BOXER® engines. The Outback also offers a 260-hp turbocharged engine option, giving it the ability to tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Forester can tow 1,500-3,000 pounds
Engine availability varies by trim level. Tow capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. Some safety features, including X-MODE, Blind-Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, may not function properly when towing. See your Subaru retailer for details.
Fuel Economy
Both the Outback and Forester achieve excellent all-wheel drive fuel economy. The Forester has slightly better gas mileage on the highway.
Outback
26 mpg city | 32 mpg hwy
Forester
26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy
2025 EPA fuel economy estimates for 2.5-liter non-Wilderness trim levels. Actual mileage may vary.
Seating and Cargo Space
Passenger Seating
Both models comfortably seat five however the rear seats in the Outback offer a bit more legroom.
Cargo
The Outback has space for longer items and slightly more room behind the rear seats.
- 32.6 cubic-feet behind the rear seats
- 75.6 cubic-feet max cargo space
The Forester is better suited for taller cargo and has a slightly wider rear gate opening.
- 27.5 cubic-feet behind the rear seats
- 74.2 cubic-feet max cargo space
Both models have about the same total cargo space.
The Outback has retractable roof rail crossbars standard. On the Forester, removable crossbars are an accessory but not standard.
Retractable roof rail crossbars are not available on Outback Wilderness trim.
Interior Features
Interior Material
Depending on the trim you chose, both the Outback and the Forester have options for durable cloth, perforated leather, or water-repellant StarTex upholstery. The Outback also offers a more luxurious Napa Leather.
Seating Features
Both models offer heated seats, and the Outback also offers front seat ventilation. The Outback offers a 12-way power driver's seat with adjustable thigh support to help make long drives feel that much quicker.
Moonroof
The Outback has a traditionally sized moonroof that opens and tilts. The Forester offers a larger panoramic moonroof.
Availability varies by trim.
Technology
Rearview Mirror
The Outback offers a smart rearview mirror, which helps provide a better view of what's behind the vehicle.
Outback Touring and Touring XT trim levels only.
Touchscreens
The Outback and Forester offer the same touchscreen sizes. A dual 7.0-inch touchscreen for infotainment and a lower one for climate controls is standard on the base models. A large 11.6-inch touchscreen is standard on all other trim levels.
SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Both the Outback and Forester include wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Forester also includes a wireless charging pad, but it is an optional upgrade in the Outback.
Audio
Both models offer Harman Kardon® premium audio systems, and the Outback has a few more speakers.
Availability varies by trim.
Safety
EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard on both the Outback and Forester. On the Outback, you can opt to have EyeSight® equipped with a third camera for a wider field of vision to enhance pedestrian and cyclist recognition*.
*Outback Touring and Touring XT trim levels only.
Subaru Outback
We love the 2025 Subaru Outback for its safety, longevity, performance, and so much more. But it's not just us. Here are a few others who agree with us:
- The Subaru Outback has been an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 16 years running. This is the highest possible rating.
- The Subaru Outback received the highest possible rating for front crash prevention from IIHS.
- The Subaru Outback received the highest possible rating in the new side impact test from IIHS.
- According to Experian, 97percent of Subaru Outback vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today.
- The Subaru Outback has the Best Resale Value in its class for four years running, according to Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.
