I'm on my 5th Subaru and have owned both Forester and now the outback. Road handling goes hands down to the outback. On curves it sits down and hugs like a sports car. Forester has a higher center of gravity and does not take curves well at all. Also, if there is a little wind on the road, the Forester is blown from side to side and held back, due to it's higher and less aerodynamics than the outback. And finally, the forester is a stiff and bumpy ride compared to the outback, which is built on the same frame as the Legacy, which is smooth and comfortable. Finally, you really should have compared the 4 cyl to the 4 cyl. I hope that helps a little more.
I hate when people complain about how these reviews are done. No one review is going to cover everything. And also people have their own opinions. Personally I liked this review a lot. I have watched many and get something different from every one. This one was very nicely done. Thank you.
I've done a lot of looking at both of these cars in the past couple of years. As for this comparison, I don't think it's really fair to compare the six cylinder Outback to the four cylinder Forester. Those initial price difference point they gave to the Forester would have gone away if they had, not to mention the fuel economy comparison would have been much closer and the Outback would have blown the Forester away on the cruising range comparison. The one thing they talked about that prompted me to respond here was on the interior cargo space. I was very surprised to see that the Forester is actually rated to have more interior cargo space than the Outback. When you look at both cars from the outside, you'd never get that impression. At least I never did, but I've looked at them both very closely at the local car shows and here's what I've found. The Forester is the taller of the two on the inside while the Outback is longer from the back of the front seats to the tailgate. Bottom line is, the Outback has a lot larger floor space than the Forester does and, for me at least, that makes the space it has much more usable. If you routinely carry a lot of tall bulky stuff, the Forester may well be the better option for you. I'm currently driving a Toyota Rav4. It's very similar to the Forester in how it's laid out in the back although it's slightly smaller than the Forester in interior volume. The main limitation I run into with my Rav4 is the space from the front seats to the tailgate. I'd have the same issue with the Forester but the Outback would be much more flexible because of the increased length of the cargo area with or without the rear seats folded down. I, and I think most of us, rarely use much of the interior space from the bottom of the windows to the roof of the car, but we certainly use the space below the window line. In that regard, the Outback has the Forester outclassed big time! That's why I'm strongly considering trading the Rav4 for an Outback.
I have to agree with your point, the OB with the 3.6 = 256 HP to the Forester XT = 250 HP. The OB with the 3.6 is quieter, and more refined and has the little bit more upper scale feel. My friend dropped around with his 2014 Mercedes E 350, he even said the (fake) wood trim looked better than his real wood...lol
Jay Bao - Certainly respect your opinion on the subject. It's a matter of personal taste. Speaking only for myself, I don't think the Forester is better than the Outback and I don't think the Outback is better than the Forester. As far as the underlying running gear is concerned, they're so close to being the same vehicle, assuming they're equipped with the same engine, that the difference isn't significant enough to worry about. Looking at the overall vehicle, I prefer the Outback, but there's certainly nothing wrong with the Forester too. :-)
We have both--my wife the Forester and me the Outback. You are spot on with your comment about the better usability of the Outback's cargo space. They are both great vehicles though. I give the Forester the edge for off-road competence since it has a stiffer suspension and greater approach and departure angles. However, the ride is more supple on the Outback, which is a very important consideration for me since I have spine issues. The base or Premium Outback with the 17" wheels and 65-profile tires is the best-riding Subaru.
I bought a Forester Touring back in June 2017. I considered buying the Outback but chose the Forester because the Forester had more of an off-road type look while the Outback appeared to look more like a family wagon type. I considered that the Forester had better fuel economy (2.5i) 87 octane while the larger turbo engines require the higher expensive octane fuel. After my Forester purchase, I began to look a little more closely at the Outlook and can see why some people would prefer it. The Outlook, in my opinion, has a little more options and is more passenger friendly and looks great with more of a luxurious look. The Forester is quite comparable as far features but with a larger moonroof and being able to use 87 octane fuel providing you don't get the XT larger engine model. EIther way, its a matter of choice and mine was based on price height and outward visibility, cargo and looks. In either case, I think I would be happy with either vehicle. It's been 8 months since I purchased the Forester and I still enjoy driving the vehicle,and I have no regrets.
I was going to purchase the Forester but after a test drive, drove an Outback on the same route and picked it for the better ride, lower noise, more comfort and minimal price difference. That being said what this comparison is missing is a test drive.
I'd pick the Outback any day over the Forester. The Outback provides you with sedan quality comfort and features while retaining the ruggedness of an SUV.
I chose the Forester for a very simple reason: The length and width are both smaller than the Outback, which makes it fit more easily into my garage. Those of us who live in snowy places need to fit our cars and all of our toys into our garages.
We just traded a 2017 forester for a 2018 outback. We thought the forester was our dream family car but it road rough, has a terrible infotainment system, had limited passenger knee space due to the more upright seating position(knee knock on corners/bumps), more body roll in corners, and just wasn't as smooth and comfortable. I feel like the forester we had looked more sporty and got more compliments but that's the only positives above the outback. The fact that foresters, wrx, and STi don't have apple car play/android and that they still try to upcharge for nav in 2018 is criminal
I had a hard time deciding but I wanted the towing capacity for a utility trailer. I also use a cargo box and don't want to bother removing and storing aftermarket crossbars. The Outback Limited was the winner. Otherwise it was a tough decision.
I had a legacy which is the same as a outback. And recently got a forester. With saying that I only have 3 things to complain about... #1 is the legacy had a needle for gas where the forester has electronic screen. And 2 is the center console cup holder placement. And 3rd where the window switch is located. I work at SIA where the outback is made. But I honestly just liked the look of the forester better
It's all a matter of personal taste. Just bought a 2018 Forester Limited. Has most options available minus keyless entry. My cost was about the same as the average Outback, but I have a preference for the smaller size. Too early for determining fuel mileage, but it's already up in the low 30"s considering I only have 200 miles on it. Time will tell.
Any oil consumption problems on yours yet? I'm weary of buying the limited because of oil consumption issues in the 17's and prior. I was so set on buying the limited tomorrow too.
I have a 2010 Forester, and my wife has a 2011 Outback. The seat in the Outback is wonderful I can drive all day and not have my back and tailbone feel sore. The Forester seat feels like memory foam stapled to a sheet of plywood by comparison.
I love my 2017 Forester, but I am having serious buyer's remorse after sitting in a 2018 Outback for a 6 hour road trip! ApplePlay (and the rest of the updated infotainment system) is worth the extra cash... plus the rear seats fold completely flat in the Outback, which you won't find with the Forester. This review is more informative than any I've yet to see on the internet... thanks for your work :)
Great comparison...I bought a 2017 Outback last year but I looked very seriously at the Forester before making up my mind. The Outback has a nicer finish inside. Also, the ride is smooth and has a quieter engine (granted, I got the 3.6). Having said that, both vehicles are excellent value and of course they share the boxer engine, legendary AWD and very highly rated safety features (ie drop away engine in event of front end collsion, eyesight etc.).
If you want comfort, you will go for the Outback. If you want to take your car on harder trails, you will take the Forester. The *Forester* is designed for rougher terrain. Shorter wheel base and lightweight body. Both make the Forester a really good go-just-about-anywhere vehicle. For those who say the CVT is not capable... Turn off Xmode VDC and Eyesight, put the transmission in Low and see for yourself. The Outback is too heavy for steep inclines, while the Forester will just climb. On the road, the Outback will definitely feel more comfy. However i choose the Forester. I go offroading almost every weekend.
C.C. I respect your comparisons and detailing of facts here most than all the other reviewers I have witnessed here. Those other reviewers drip their opinions all over their reviews concerning styling and some of the engineering options,
I do think the Outback is the better looking of the two, and it certainly is the more popular one in my area. That said I did purchase the 2018 Forester. First thing everybody says is how good the visibility is. I don’t tow anything, and I’m the only driver of this car. Probably if I had a family, I would have chosen the Outback.
Both cars are classed as crossover SUVs, they offered similar passenger space and boot space and driver ergonomics. The Forester is more affordable competing in a lower segment, increased driving range and a tighter turning circle for easier manoeuvres. The Outback combines a wagon shape in its SUV design, it uses the latest software for the Subaru Starlink touchscreen and has a few luxury features such as powered passenger seat.
all I know is that I traded my '10 Rav4 in on a 2017 Forester and while I agree the OB is more streamlined looking I really am pleased with the Forester-great handling, visibility and quieter ride. Mostly it is just me and I am happy. One important thing I had noted in traveling through WVa mtns was seeing a lot of Subaru vehicles and in conversations with owners there they often referred to their Subaru as "snow angels". Think I'll just stay with what I got. Video was informative.
So I’ve spent a lot of time driving both cars. Here are the reasons I prefer a Forester to the Outback: I am almost 6’ 4” and the Outback’s roof is too low! Even on my dad’s which has no moonroof my head hits the ceiling all the time. That never happens in my same year (2018) Forester 2.5i WITH a moonroof. If you’re tall like me, get a Forester. This is weird, but: I don’t like cars that feel lower to the ground and drive like cars. I like cars that feel higher up, get pushed in the wind, and feel trucky because I grew up in a Chevrolet Van. If you feel sentimental for what older Body-on-Frame SUVs and Trucks felt like, get a Forester. Lastly, the visibility out of an Outback is HORRIBLE compared to the Forester. Forester’s windows are taller. And the windshield is taller so tall guys can see the traffic light without craning the hell out of their necks. Lastly lastly its cheaper and has the same engine if you’re comparing base models. And because the Forester has a lighter curb weight than the Outback it does a little better on gas with the 2.5i than the 2.5i Outback does.
I get 510 mile range on my 2.5i ltd OB. So the point goes to the OB, that's a 2 point swing.. The Forester is narrower, taller and shorter which means it has a higher potential for a rollover. Comparably equipped cars, the price difference is 3 grand. I can't think of one reason why someone would choose a Forester unless they wanted the turbo 4. I guess another reason would be the 3 grand. But the OB comes with quite a few upgrades (infoT), USB ports, heated rear seats . The OB is 4 inches wider/8 inches longer/and 2 inches lower which makes it way more comfortable for 4 (and safer). Not sure if the back seats in the Forester recline but they do in the OB. The Forester's main competition is the Rav4 and the Cr-V, not the OB. The Forester feels more SUVish while the OB feels more car-ish. I can see someone going on the lot to buy a Forester and switching to an OB but not the other way around. PS: The CVT on the 6 cyl is heavy duty vs the CVT on the 4.
I said the Forester was taller and it is, being 68.2" tall. The OB is 66.1" tall. I never mentioned ground clearance nor did I mention the OB was lower. Just that there was a height difference. Nevertheless while the ground clearance is the same, the Forester is still taller. Obviously something is different in the frame since they have the same ground clearance.
Reason chose Forester over Outback - higher seating position and higher cargo space for very tall dawg. Also, like the shorter car and better turning radius.
You did say the Outback was 2 inches lower. But you meant less tall, not ground clearance. That's one reason I choose the Outback. Easier to access the roof rack without loosing ground clearance.
I definitely chose the 2018 Forester over the Outback. The Forester sits much higher and the seat can be raised much higher which I find preferable. Also, there is more height in the back for my very tall dog. In the Outback I felt like I was sitting low - and I am only five foot 1 inch, so I very much appreciated the height. Also, not a real fan of station wagons, although I do find the Outback to be a very attractive one.
Good review, I have a 2015 Outback Limited 3.6 which when purchased in Canada comes with pretty much everything (unlike the US) I currently have just a touch over 30,000 km (that's about 20,000 miles ) over the past 30 months without any issues. This vehicle is rock solid and totally worth recommending. I was able to convince a good friend of mine to purchase a 2017 Forester, and she's still a good friend! She's totally pleased with her Forester and would do it again. You really can't go wrong with any Subaru product.
Outback is a beauty but coming from Volvo XC 70 really love my 2018 Forester for height of sitting position, shorter length and height in cargo area for tall dog.
I can totally relate! My 2009 Outback (last generation that really looked like a wagon, in my opinion) was hit (parked) by a pickup truck last week. I don't want to get a new car. I just want my old Subie back! :-(
I just purchased the Outback Touring 3.6R. Already have 4k miles on it. It is a very comfortable car. Quiet, very good ride, and plenty of amenities. Haven't had it out in the snow or mud yet, but soon...
Dusty Rains, I purchased my 2018 OB 3.6. touring 12/29/17 ... loving it overall, some minor complaints. I currently have 1,200 miles. Would love to know if you've checked your oil. I did an oil & filter change at 1,184 and added 7 qts of synthetic oil. I pulled the dipstick before the change and it showed just above the low line. I pulled the stick after and it showed the same. No leaks at oil pan bolt or filter. Subaru dealer has no explanation for this. It's unworkable not to be able to rely on the accuracy of the oil dipstick. I'd be interested to know if you've encountered this issue or any other. Congrats on the new car!
great job guys! Dont listen to these people who are doing exactly what you said they would! complain complain complain. I thought it was a fair and thorough comparison. keep up the great work
That was an excellent review! The Outback has always been the more advanced of the two, getting more features a generation before the Forester. It’s also more relaxed, sitting in the car whereas in the forester you’re sitting on top, albeit much higher. The Forester is the more typical boxy SUV that sits up higher whereas the Outback is the more comfy Crossover/Wagon....thing. My family has both, and I like the pep of the Turbo a little better than the 3.6R, but it’s quicker in different ways.
I've been comparing mid-size sedans and one area I had never thought of was rear seat width. Leg room is something everyone talks about, but consider trying to get three passengers in the back seat when two children are still in boosters or worse full on car seats (Check out the Car Seat Lady for more insight on that). For example, the Honda CR-V comes very highly recommended, but completely fails when it comes to rear seat width and car seat management. By this measure, the Outback and Legacy shine compared to most and it should be noted.
I live along the winding California coast ... I purchased the 2018 Outback Touring with the 3.6 engine in Dec. 2017. After 4 months/4K driving, I'm averaging 25 mpg. I love my car. The only things I would change is that I would prefer cloth interior and a matte cover on the navigation cover. BTW, my Outback has a heated steering wheel - add one more point for the Outback ; ) Only thing I missed seeing in this video is the comparison of the safety package. My Outback has two front cameras and one rear with the Eyesight package. Not sure if the Forrester you featured here has the Eyesight package which is one of the main reasons we purchased a Subaru.
We have a 2020 ob XT Onyx...great car...turned 40K...no problems...we continue to be very annoyed with the info display, tho. Somebody really dropped the ball there. Thanks.
I think the Outback is the "nicer" of the two vehicles. However, I chose the 2018 Forester without even test driving the Outback, because of the seating. I like sitting higher up rather than the sedan feel of sitting down lower. Also, I have a very tall dog. He is kind of squished when he tries to sit up in the back of my Volvo XC70. In the Forester, he has plenty of head room. Not as much head room in the Outback. Also, I like that the car is not as long. I love the turning radius of the Forester, and feel like I am driving a much shorter car. Maybe because I have driven my Volvo for so long, the change is welcome. I am sure you can't go wrong with either car. But we just love our Forester, so far! Oh - also test drove the Honda CRV and Toyota Rav 4. Although not quite as nice interior, much preferred the Forester. It is not much to look at, but prefer the "anti-style" rather than the aspirations to style of the CRV and Rav 4.
The most important difference between the Forester and the Outback is: Forester = made in Japan. Outback = USA. I have both, although 2008 OB and 2007 Forester (same mileage, around 160k km (100k mi)). They are very different, but very similar at the same time. OB has nicer interior, but Forester seems to be better put together. Maybe a "made in Japan" thing. Who knows... It is shorter and therefore more agile in the corners as well. If they were to be used off road, Fozzy would take the cake.
Thanks for the tour.. nice to have it laid out.. one thing missing that would be important info, at least to me, is the weight Factor how much does each one weigh?
In practical use, the 3.6L engine fairs a little better than its rating, and it's certainly more efficient once you step up to the turbo on the Forester to get similar power levels. Turbos unfortunately are notoriously bad for fuel efficiency due to the low compression and need for a rich fuel mixture under power. They can be torque monsters if the displacement is there, but the biggest fault of most modern turbo cars is manufacturers push hard towards small size to out weigh the disadvantages of the design for fuel efficiency. Most of the time, the bigger naturally aspirated engine fairs better and is often nicer to use. I say this as a person who owns a turbo Subaru and likes boosted cars. Personally I hate the push towards small engines. It's a bad approach because it absolutely forces tiny, high strung, anemic engine designs just to generate some sort of functional advantage. You can get 30mpg with big V8s. That's not a problem. Big displacement V8s can be light too. The push away is silly but cheaper. The short of all of this is the 3.6L is vastly underappreciated and under used in Subaru's product line. It's an engine I happily take over anything short of the EJ257 STI engine and only because that one is rock solid for modding (once you put forged internals in...). Displacement is good and fuel efficiency is mostly a byproduct of the chassis. If Subaru modernized the H6 engine, it would likely out pace the H4 engines in fuel economy.
They are supposedly modifying it for the 2020 year. But they went from a 4 to a 5 speed t a CVT, overnight. From gas guzzlers to economy in one year. They also took some HP out of the Impreza. The older ones are way faster but gas guzzlers. The 4 is a just miss in the power department for the OB (great gas mileage) and the 6 is slow as far as 6 cyl's go (with their CVT). They need to either find a happy medium or make the 6 faster, to make even out the loss of MPG. I absolutely beat on the OB and even use the paddle shifters from time to time and I still get unreal gas mileage.
Great review and video! I am impressed by your review and presentation. I purchased my 2017 2.5i Touring with black leather and silver paint last December and I love it. The ride is great as is the ride heigth and cargo capacity. I use it as a daily driver and weekend warrior. My only gripes are the black plastic in the dash is impossible to keep clean from finger prints and dust. So I think I'd prefer the wood in the outback. Also, I wish the rear seats had vents and plugs like the outback. They're both great cars and I love mine. Thanks for the great review!!
That trim level forester doesn't have the 74.7cuft of total cargo space, only the base 2.5i trim does. With the moonroof, premium, limited, and touring have 68.5cuft max cargo space.
The Forester has a more off-road friendly approach angle. You can see how the nose is slightly snubbed when compared to the Outback. Point for the Forester in my book.
You did a good job but there is zero comparison with these to models. One is a 6 cylinder the other is a 4 cylinder.. Had you compared a side by side with the 4 cylinder Forrester with a 4 cylinder Outback the Forrester takes this comparison by storm in pricing and fuel economy. While this 6 cylinder Outback hammers the Forrester in horsepower, acceleration and if you are in a snow belt area the weight of the Outback with the AWD is unmatched! But all in all like your Vid!
High quality keyfobs? I dropped one from a 2017 loaner (they're no different for 2018) onto the floor in a Walgreens and it separated into like, 4 pieces or so. I was lucky I got it all back and was able to get it back together. After that incident, they seem cheap to me. :p
DMETS519 I always want to know about visibility, too. And is one better for short or tall people than the other? I've heard in other model years there was a difference. I hope future comparisons cover those things.
These kind of comparisons always annoy me and it's not just you, I see it with the big boys also. I'm guessing you did it because of what you could get your hands on but it would be so much better to compare a xt touring to a 3.6 touring or a 2.5 limited to a 2.5 limited. Having said that with this type of comparison the Outback would have probably still scored some more points. I think the Forester might have scored more with some actual off road testing compared to the Outback.
Why didn't the Outback get additional points because for AppleCarPlay, rear seat vents, self-locking door on motion and one-touch control of all four windows and regular unleaded fuel.
Hi, I don't know if you missed it or not but we award points for categories like "Infotainment" and Apple CarPlay is included in that section (which the Outback did get a point for). Same for the rear vents. Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Car Confections sure did. Please highlight the ugliness of Starlink apps... especially Magellan, or the fantastic “bird watch” app I got in my 2017 WRX. It’s beyond pathetic that they didn’t allow Car Play on WRX or STI.
Thanks for the comparison. Of all the car review/comparison channels I have come across, yours are the most polished. Great content and great video work. However, I do have an observation/question. Do most people who purchase vehicles spend an additional 50% over the MSRP on options? I wouldn't think to do that. In my case, if I had $35-39K to spend I am not sure I would be looking at either of these cars. But maybe I am doing it wrong. Is it better to buy an inexpensive car and load it with options or buy a more expensive car that already comes with what you want so you don't have to buy more options? In my case, I sought out a review/comparison of these models because the MSRP of both is in my price range. But with the amount of options as tested, I can't purchase either of those.
+John McGregor Thanks! Glad you liked it! For most cars people spring for the mid-level trims most often, however when we film we usually try to grab loaded models because they have all the features for us to show/demo.
I would agree with that. In the cars I am shopping for (sub $30K AWD or 4WD) I find that the trim level right above the base model gets me what want out of options in most cases. After that the law of diminished returns kicks in.
Owned both Outback is the superior vehicle as for looks although the Forester drives a lot better off road than most if not all small to mid size SUV's it also looks like them, an Outback is just an Outback nothing else looks or drives like it.
IMHO...this is only a partial comparison of the two vehicles. As Paul Harvey use to say "And now for the Rest of the Story" - Outback weight = 3847lbs. Forester weight = 3479 lbs. IIHS car safety ratings are based on comparisons of testing vehicles of similar weight. "Bigger Heavier Vehicles Protect their Occupants Better! Reference - www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/vehicle-size-and-weight/qanda (+5 Points Outback - Nothing more important that your life!) . Also. Wheel Base Length - Outback -108.1 inches Forester - 103.9 inches. Longer Wheelbase = Better Ride (+ 2 Points Outback) Also - Vehicle Height - Outback - 66.1 inches Forester - 68.2 inches. (Translation - Higher Vehicles are less stable during cornering....while also being more prone to wind stability issues) NOTE: We just purchased our 2018 Outback 3.6R Limited and are VERY pleased with the vehicle so far. (currently have 1200 miles). I also own a 2012 Honda CRV and have test driven the Subaru Forester. IMHO - The 2018 Outback provides for the most solid "feel" when driving. It is unbelievably quiet in the cabin interior even at highway speeds. BTW - We are getting 28-29 mpg highway driving with our 3.6R Outback limited. Not bad for a car that weighs 3847 lbs. Also....the extra power we have and feel with our 3.6R when getting on highways and when needing to pass trucks or other vehicles in critical situations is very much worth the cost of slightly reduced gas mileage compared to the 4 cyl Forester. And for you physics minded individuals.......remember, if you load down a 4 cyl vehicle with passengers and/or cargo, your fuel mileage will drop much more than advertised compared to a 6 cyl vehicle with adequate power regardless additional weight. And just one more thought for some of you....... the longevity of a 6 cylinder will be greater than an overworked 4 cyl if you plan on taking your vehicle into the 100K or 200K + range like we do. Edit: Almost forgot to mention that the 6 cyl Outback comes with a "heavy duty" CVT that is very different than the CVT found in 4 cylinders...
Only the Forester is available w/ a 6 sp. manual transmission, while the Outback gives you no choice but a CVT. That was reason enough for me to go w/ the Forester.
Actually the Forester 4 cylinder has has a chain since 2011 with the updated engine. The outback got that engine in 2013. Easy way to tell is the oil filter is up top on the newer timing chain equipped engines.
If you're an idiot like me and you lose both. I got the key duped before I lost the 2nd one. I had to file a piece of the Valet key off to make it work and that is my back-up. As far as locking the car: You have to open the driver's door and push down the lock all doors button. Then you have to manually unlock the driver's door. You then close the driver's door and you hear a beep. You then open the driver's door and manually lock and close. If you just push the lock all and close the door, when you open the car, the horn/alarm will go off until you put the key in the ignition.I would venture to guess I am disabling the alarm but the red light still flashes. I keep meaning to get a new FOB, just not a pressing issue as I've been doing it this way for over a year.
I'd be curious too as I had a 2006 Subaru Baja that developed a leaky head gasket after many years of use. Still bought a 2017 Forester; a great car for upstate Ny ( snowbelt).
I agree! People call the Forester ugly but in ten years it will still look just fine, but the Rav 4's and Honda CRV's will look outdated due to their trendy styling which just doesn't quite make it. Forester is more masculine looking, honest and straight forward in design.
Thanks for that review. Opened my eyes to the outback and what it has to offer. Cheers
Glad you liked it and found it helpful!!!
I'm on my 5th Subaru and have owned both Forester and now the outback. Road handling goes hands down to the outback. On curves it sits down and hugs like a sports car. Forester has a higher center of gravity and does not take curves well at all. Also, if there is a little wind on the road, the Forester is blown from side to side and held back, due to it's higher and less aerodynamics than the outback. And finally, the forester is a stiff and bumpy ride compared to the outback, which is built on the same frame as the Legacy, which is smooth and comfortable. Finally, you really should have compared the 4 cyl to the 4 cyl. I hope that helps a little more.
I hate when people complain about how these reviews are done. No one review is going to cover everything. And also people have their own opinions. Personally I liked this review a lot. I have watched many and get something different from every one. This one was very nicely done. Thank you.
+Fresca D. We appreciate that! :)
I've done a lot of looking at both of these cars in the past couple of years. As for this comparison, I don't think it's really fair to compare the six cylinder Outback to the four cylinder Forester. Those initial price difference point they gave to the Forester would have gone away if they had, not to mention the fuel economy comparison would have been much closer and the Outback would have blown the Forester away on the cruising range comparison.
The one thing they talked about that prompted me to respond here was on the interior cargo space. I was very surprised to see that the Forester is actually rated to have more interior cargo space than the Outback. When you look at both cars from the outside, you'd never get that impression. At least I never did, but I've looked at them both very closely at the local car shows and here's what I've found. The Forester is the taller of the two on the inside while the Outback is longer from the back of the front seats to the tailgate. Bottom line is, the Outback has a lot larger floor space than the Forester does and, for me at least, that makes the space it has much more usable. If you routinely carry a lot of tall bulky stuff, the Forester may well be the better option for you. I'm currently driving a Toyota Rav4. It's very similar to the Forester in how it's laid out in the back although it's slightly smaller than the Forester in interior volume. The main limitation I run into with my Rav4 is the space from the front seats to the tailgate. I'd have the same issue with the Forester but the Outback would be much more flexible because of the increased length of the cargo area with or without the rear seats folded down. I, and I think most of us, rarely use much of the interior space from the bottom of the windows to the roof of the car, but we certainly use the space below the window line. In that regard, the Outback has the Forester outclassed big time! That's why I'm strongly considering trading the Rav4 for an Outback.
I have to agree with your point, the OB with the 3.6 = 256 HP to the Forester XT = 250 HP. The OB with the 3.6 is quieter, and more refined and has the little bit more upper scale feel. My friend dropped around with his 2014 Mercedes E 350, he even said the (fake) wood trim looked better than his real wood...lol
The forester is the best
Jay Bao - Certainly respect your opinion on the subject. It's a matter of personal taste. Speaking only for myself, I don't think the Forester is better than the Outback and I don't think the Outback is better than the Forester. As far as the underlying running gear is concerned, they're so close to being the same vehicle, assuming they're equipped with the same engine, that the difference isn't significant enough to worry about. Looking at the overall vehicle, I prefer the Outback, but there's certainly nothing wrong with the Forester too. :-)
We have both--my wife the Forester and me the Outback. You are spot on with your comment about the better usability of the Outback's cargo space. They are both great vehicles though. I give the Forester the edge for off-road competence since it has a stiffer suspension and greater approach and departure angles. However, the ride is more supple on the Outback, which is a very important consideration for me since I have spine issues. The base or Premium Outback with the 17" wheels and 65-profile tires is the best-riding Subaru.
I bought a Forester Touring back in June 2017. I considered buying the Outback but chose the Forester because the Forester had more of an off-road type look while the Outback appeared to look more like a family wagon type. I considered that the Forester had better fuel economy (2.5i) 87 octane while the larger turbo engines require the higher expensive octane fuel. After my Forester purchase, I began to look a little more closely at the Outlook and can see why some people would prefer it. The Outlook, in my opinion, has a little more options and is more passenger friendly and looks great with more of a luxurious look. The Forester is quite comparable as far features but with a larger moonroof and being able to use 87 octane fuel providing you don't get the XT larger engine model.
EIther way, its a matter of choice and mine was based on price height and outward visibility, cargo and looks. In either case, I think I would be happy with either vehicle. It's been 8 months since I purchased the Forester and I still enjoy driving the vehicle,and I have no regrets.
Wow… I really needed this. I was on the fence between these two. Now it’s 100% no question about getting the outback now. Much better family vehicle!
I was going to purchase the Forester but after a test drive, drove an Outback on the same route and picked it for the better ride, lower noise, more comfort and minimal price difference. That being said what this comparison is missing is a test drive.
I'd pick the Outback any day over the Forester. The Outback provides you with sedan quality comfort and features while retaining the ruggedness of an SUV.
I chose the Forester for a very simple reason: The length and width are both smaller than the Outback, which makes it fit more easily into my garage. Those of us who live in snowy places need to fit our cars and all of our toys into our garages.
We just traded a 2017 forester for a 2018 outback. We thought the forester was our dream family car but it road rough, has a terrible infotainment system, had limited passenger knee space due to the more upright seating position(knee knock on corners/bumps), more body roll in corners, and just wasn't as smooth and comfortable. I feel like the forester we had looked more sporty and got more compliments but that's the only positives above the outback. The fact that foresters, wrx, and STi don't have apple car play/android and that they still try to upcharge for nav in 2018 is criminal
I had a hard time deciding but I wanted the towing capacity for a utility trailer. I also use a cargo box and don't want to bother removing and storing aftermarket crossbars. The Outback Limited was the winner. Otherwise it was a tough decision.
I had a legacy which is the same as a outback. And recently got a forester. With saying that I only have 3 things to complain about... #1 is the legacy had a needle for gas where the forester has electronic screen. And 2 is the center console cup holder placement. And 3rd where the window switch is located. I work at SIA where the outback is made. But I honestly just liked the look of the forester better
Seriously.. 1 major unlooked aspect, seat comfort ! Outback needs 10 points over the forester just for that
It's all a matter of personal taste. Just bought a 2018 Forester Limited. Has most options available minus keyless entry. My cost was about the same as the average Outback, but I have a preference for the smaller size. Too early for determining fuel mileage, but it's already up in the low 30"s considering I only have 200 miles on it. Time will tell.
Any oil consumption problems on yours yet? I'm weary of buying the limited because of oil consumption issues in the 17's and prior. I was so set on buying the limited tomorrow too.
I have a 2010 Forester, and my wife has a 2011 Outback. The seat in the Outback is wonderful I can drive all day and not have my back and tailbone feel sore. The Forester seat feels like memory foam stapled to a sheet of plywood by comparison.
I love my 2017 Forester, but I am having serious buyer's remorse after sitting in a 2018 Outback for a 6 hour road trip! ApplePlay (and the rest of the updated infotainment system) is worth the extra cash... plus the rear seats fold completely flat in the Outback, which you won't find with the Forester.
This review is more informative than any I've yet to see on the internet... thanks for your work :)
So glad you found it helpful and informative!
The most important thing not mentioned here... you can still get the Forester with a 6 speed manual in lower end models. The Outback is CVT only.
Great comparison...I bought a 2017 Outback last year but I looked very seriously at the Forester before making up my mind. The Outback has a nicer finish inside. Also, the ride is smooth and has a quieter engine (granted, I got the 3.6). Having said that, both vehicles are excellent value and of course they share the boxer engine, legendary AWD and very highly rated safety features (ie drop away engine in event of front end collsion, eyesight etc.).
I think the Outback is far more attractive than the Forester, especially from behind.
yeah the Outback looks quite a bit nicer.
If you want comfort, you will go for the Outback. If you want to take your car on harder trails, you will take the Forester.
The *Forester* is designed for rougher terrain. Shorter wheel base and lightweight body. Both make the Forester a really good go-just-about-anywhere vehicle. For those who say the CVT is not capable... Turn off Xmode VDC and Eyesight, put the transmission in Low and see for yourself. The Outback is too heavy for steep inclines, while the Forester will just climb.
On the road, the Outback will definitely feel more comfy. However i choose the Forester. I go offroading almost every weekend.
C.C. I respect your comparisons and detailing of facts here most than all the other reviewers I have witnessed here. Those other reviewers drip their opinions all over their reviews concerning styling and some of the engineering options,
A rare and good comparison. Would have been great if the ride quality and comfort was compared as well.
I do think the Outback is the better looking of the two, and it certainly is the more popular one in my area. That said I did purchase the 2018 Forester. First thing everybody says is how good the visibility is. I don’t tow anything, and I’m the only driver of this car. Probably if I had a family, I would have chosen the Outback.
Both cars are classed as crossover SUVs, they offered similar passenger space and boot space and driver ergonomics.
The Forester is more affordable competing in a lower segment, increased driving range and a tighter turning circle for easier manoeuvres.
The Outback combines a wagon shape in its SUV design, it uses the latest software for the Subaru Starlink touchscreen and has a few luxury features such as powered passenger seat.
all I know is that I traded my '10 Rav4 in on a 2017 Forester and while I agree the OB is more streamlined looking I really am pleased with the Forester-great handling, visibility and quieter ride. Mostly it is just me and I am happy. One important thing I had noted in traveling through WVa mtns was seeing a lot of Subaru vehicles and in conversations with owners there they often referred to their Subaru as "snow angels". Think I'll just stay with what I got. Video was informative.
Glad we could help!
So I’ve spent a lot of time driving both cars. Here are the reasons I prefer a Forester to the Outback:
I am almost 6’ 4” and the Outback’s roof is too low! Even on my dad’s which has no moonroof my head hits the ceiling all the time. That never happens in my same year (2018) Forester 2.5i WITH a moonroof. If you’re tall like me, get a Forester.
This is weird, but: I don’t like cars that feel lower to the ground and drive like cars. I like cars that feel higher up, get pushed in the wind, and feel trucky because I grew up in a Chevrolet Van. If you feel sentimental for what older Body-on-Frame SUVs and Trucks felt like, get a Forester.
Lastly, the visibility out of an Outback is HORRIBLE compared to the Forester. Forester’s windows are taller. And the windshield is taller so tall guys can see the traffic light without craning the hell out of their necks.
Lastly lastly its cheaper and has the same engine if you’re comparing base models. And because the Forester has a lighter curb weight than the Outback it does a little better on gas with the 2.5i than the 2.5i Outback does.
I get 510 mile range on my 2.5i ltd OB. So the point goes to the OB, that's a 2 point swing.. The Forester is narrower, taller and shorter which means it has a higher potential for a rollover. Comparably equipped cars, the price difference is 3 grand. I can't think of one reason why someone would choose a Forester unless they wanted the turbo 4. I guess another reason would be the 3 grand. But the OB comes with quite a few upgrades (infoT), USB ports, heated rear seats . The OB is 4 inches wider/8 inches longer/and 2 inches lower which makes it way more comfortable for 4 (and safer). Not sure if the back seats in the Forester recline but they do in the OB. The Forester's main competition is the Rav4 and the Cr-V, not the OB. The Forester feels more SUVish while the OB feels more car-ish. I can see someone going on the lot to buy a Forester and switching to an OB but not the other way around. PS: The CVT on the 6 cyl is heavy duty vs the CVT on the 4.
I said the Forester was taller and it is, being 68.2" tall. The OB is 66.1" tall. I never mentioned ground clearance nor did I mention the OB was lower. Just that there was a height difference. Nevertheless while the ground clearance is the same, the Forester is still taller. Obviously something is different in the frame since they have the same ground clearance.
Reason chose Forester over Outback - higher seating position and higher cargo space for very tall dawg. Also, like the shorter car and better turning radius.
You did say the Outback was 2 inches lower. But you meant less tall, not ground clearance. That's one reason I choose the Outback. Easier to access the roof rack without loosing ground clearance.
I definitely chose the 2018 Forester over the Outback. The Forester sits much higher and the seat can be raised much higher which I find preferable. Also, there is more height in the back for my very tall dog. In the Outback I felt like I was sitting low - and I am only five foot 1 inch, so I very much appreciated the height. Also, not a real fan of station wagons, although I do find the Outback to be a very attractive one.
I understand that both vehicles have the same amount of ground clearance.
Good review, I have a 2015 Outback Limited 3.6 which when purchased in Canada comes with pretty much everything (unlike the US) I currently have just a touch over 30,000 km (that's about 20,000 miles ) over the past 30 months without any issues. This vehicle is rock solid and totally worth recommending. I was able to convince a good friend of mine to purchase a 2017 Forester, and she's still a good friend! She's totally pleased with her Forester and would do it again. You really can't go wrong with any Subaru product.
Outback is a beauty but coming from Volvo XC 70 really love my 2018 Forester for height of sitting position, shorter length and height in cargo area for tall dog.
This is one of the best side by side comparions I've seen. I would also be partial to the Outback 6 cyl. Great review.
I agree, plus the Outback does have a heated steering wheel. Of course depending on which package. Great video though.
Ricky Jones the 2017/8 forester touring has a heated stearing wheel
Right and so does the Outback.
Get remote auto start, don't need heated steering wheel. Ridiculous option.
The remote auto start wastes fuel. The heated steering wheel does not. Spewing unnecessary greenhouse gases is ridiculous.
We love our 2014 Outback still. Nice to see the new ones but ours is still feeling new to us.
I can totally relate! My 2009 Outback (last generation that really looked like a wagon, in my opinion) was hit (parked) by a pickup truck last week. I don't want to get a new car. I just want my old Subie back! :-(
These comparisons are great. Personally I'm partial to the Outback Touring 3.6R.
Thanks Lin!
I just purchased the Outback Touring 3.6R. Already have 4k miles on it. It is a very comfortable car. Quiet, very good ride, and plenty of amenities. Haven't had it out in the snow or mud yet, but soon...
Lin Hunnicutt RUclips a beautiful love
Dus
Dusty Rains, I purchased my 2018 OB 3.6. touring 12/29/17 ... loving it overall, some minor complaints. I currently have 1,200 miles. Would love to know if you've checked your oil. I did an oil & filter change at 1,184 and added 7 qts of synthetic oil. I pulled the dipstick before the change and it showed just above the low line. I pulled the stick after and it showed the same. No leaks at oil pan bolt or filter. Subaru dealer has no explanation for this. It's unworkable not to be able to rely on the accuracy of the oil dipstick. I'd be interested to know if you've encountered this issue or any other. Congrats on the new car!
great job guys! Dont listen to these people who are doing exactly what you said they would! complain complain complain. I thought it was a fair and thorough comparison. keep up the great work
They’re both lovely vehicles and when I’m finished with my BMW 320 tourer I’ll definitely be checking out the Subaru’s
That was an excellent review! The Outback has always been the more advanced of the two, getting more features a generation before the Forester. It’s also more relaxed, sitting in the car whereas in the forester you’re sitting on top, albeit much higher. The Forester is the more typical boxy SUV that sits up higher whereas the Outback is the more comfy Crossover/Wagon....thing. My family has both, and I like the pep of the Turbo a little better than the 3.6R, but it’s quicker in different ways.
Thank you so much! Glad you liked it!
I've been comparing mid-size sedans and one area I had never thought of was rear seat width. Leg room is something everyone talks about, but consider trying to get three passengers in the back seat when two children are still in boosters or worse full on car seats (Check out the Car Seat Lady for more insight on that). For example, the Honda CR-V comes very highly recommended, but completely fails when it comes to rear seat width and car seat management. By this measure, the Outback and Legacy shine compared to most and it should be noted.
I live along the winding California coast ... I purchased the 2018 Outback Touring with the 3.6 engine in Dec. 2017. After 4 months/4K driving, I'm averaging 25 mpg. I love my car. The only things I would change is that I would prefer cloth interior and a matte cover on the navigation cover. BTW, my Outback has a heated steering wheel - add one more point for the Outback ; ) Only thing I missed seeing in this video is the comparison of the safety package. My Outback has two front cameras and one rear with the Eyesight package. Not sure if the Forrester you featured here has the Eyesight package which is one of the main reasons we purchased a Subaru.
Darris B. Nelson why would you prefer cloth?
That was a great comparison video, thanks for making it!
Welcome :)
We have a 2020 ob XT Onyx...great car...turned 40K...no problems...we continue to be very annoyed with the info display, tho. Somebody really dropped the ball there. Thanks.
Thanks! I am surprised with the forester. I didn’t realize the fuel consumption difference and the volume similarities between the models
Glad you found it interesting! Thanks for watching!
Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Volvo etc etc, their all wheel drives are junk compared to any Subaru....
I've been watching alot of auto reviews and the 2 companies that I have heard mentioned as having extremely good AWD systems are Sub's and Mitsubishi.
Audi & Volkswagen does too, but reliability is terrible though :(
I think the Outback is the "nicer" of the two vehicles. However, I chose the 2018 Forester without even test driving the Outback, because of the seating. I like sitting higher up rather than the sedan feel of sitting down lower. Also, I have a very tall dog. He is kind of squished when he tries to sit up in the back of my Volvo XC70. In the Forester, he has plenty of head room. Not as much head room in the Outback. Also, I like that the car is not as long. I love the turning radius of the Forester, and feel like I am driving a much shorter car. Maybe because I have driven my Volvo for so long, the change is welcome. I am sure you can't go wrong with either car. But we just love our Forester, so far! Oh - also test drove the Honda CRV and Toyota Rav 4. Although not quite as nice interior, much preferred the Forester. It is not much to look at, but prefer the "anti-style" rather than the aspirations to style of the CRV and Rav 4.
Which forester did you go with? I'm eyeing the limited, but worried about oil consumption issues as there were a few with the 17's
The most important difference between the Forester and the Outback is: Forester = made in Japan. Outback = USA.
I have both, although 2008 OB and 2007 Forester (same mileage, around 160k km (100k mi)). They are very different, but very similar at the same time. OB has nicer interior, but Forester seems to be better put together. Maybe a "made in Japan" thing. Who knows...
It is shorter and therefore more agile in the corners as well.
If they were to be used off road, Fozzy would take the cake.
I think this cars should be compared using the XT model of the forester.
Thanks for the tour.. nice to have it laid out.. one thing missing that would be important info, at least to me, is the weight Factor how much does each one weigh?
In practical use, the 3.6L engine fairs a little better than its rating, and it's certainly more efficient once you step up to the turbo on the Forester to get similar power levels. Turbos unfortunately are notoriously bad for fuel efficiency due to the low compression and need for a rich fuel mixture under power. They can be torque monsters if the displacement is there, but the biggest fault of most modern turbo cars is manufacturers push hard towards small size to out weigh the disadvantages of the design for fuel efficiency. Most of the time, the bigger naturally aspirated engine fairs better and is often nicer to use. I say this as a person who owns a turbo Subaru and likes boosted cars. Personally I hate the push towards small engines. It's a bad approach because it absolutely forces tiny, high strung, anemic engine designs just to generate some sort of functional advantage. You can get 30mpg with big V8s. That's not a problem. Big displacement V8s can be light too. The push away is silly but cheaper.
The short of all of this is the 3.6L is vastly underappreciated and under used in Subaru's product line. It's an engine I happily take over anything short of the EJ257 STI engine and only because that one is rock solid for modding (once you put forged internals in...). Displacement is good and fuel efficiency is mostly a byproduct of the chassis. If Subaru modernized the H6 engine, it would likely out pace the H4 engines in fuel economy.
They are supposedly modifying it for the 2020 year. But they went from a 4 to a 5 speed t a CVT, overnight. From gas guzzlers to economy in one year. They also took some HP out of the Impreza. The older ones are way faster but gas guzzlers. The 4 is a just miss in the power department for the OB (great gas mileage) and the 6 is slow as far as 6 cyl's go (with their CVT). They need to either find a happy medium or make the 6 faster, to make even out the loss of MPG. I absolutely beat on the OB and even use the paddle shifters from time to time and I still get unreal gas mileage.
Great review and video! I am impressed by your review and presentation. I purchased my 2017 2.5i Touring with black leather and silver paint last December and I love it. The ride is great as is the ride heigth and cargo capacity. I use it as a daily driver and weekend warrior. My only gripes are the black plastic in the dash is impossible to keep clean from finger prints and dust. So I think I'd prefer the wood in the outback. Also, I wish the rear seats had vents and plugs like the outback. They're both great cars and I love mine. Thanks for the great review!!
John Wayne Thanks so much! And congrats!
That trim level forester doesn't have the 74.7cuft of total cargo space, only the base 2.5i trim does. With the moonroof, premium, limited, and touring have 68.5cuft max cargo space.
+Michael Parker You are correct. Thanks for catching that, I must've only seen the one number!
Excellent comparison and review. IThank You!
So glad it was helpful for you! Thank YOU for tuning in!
The Forester has a more off-road friendly approach angle. You can see how the nose is slightly snubbed when compared to the Outback. Point for the Forester in my book.
The 3.6R is amazing and I say that knowing my daughter has a Forester....
Thanks so much that helped a lot for my decision but I picked outback
Glad we could help! Thanks for tuning in!
Now instead of a Forester XT, I think I want a 3.6R lol Fantastic review!!!!
Loved the review, comparing both ... Great job
Thanks!!
Outback was more expensive than Forester in Texas. This makes it a no comparison contest for me!
Awesome review. Very usefull.
Thx so much
Glad you liked it! 🙂
Because of the 3.6 the Outback started in the hole 3 points. The 2.5 would have been a blowout for the Outback.
The outback should have the Forested rims
Outback has a heated steering wheel as well so deduct a point from the Forrester.
Currently, you can lease the base Outback for four dollars more than the base Forester. I chose the Outback.
Very good video, keep it up
Outback for me all day every day😎
Thanks!
You did a good job but there is zero comparison with these to models. One is a 6 cylinder the other is a 4 cylinder.. Had you compared a side by side with the 4 cylinder Forrester with a 4 cylinder Outback the Forrester takes this comparison by storm in pricing and fuel economy. While this 6 cylinder Outback hammers the Forrester in horsepower, acceleration and if you are in a snow belt area the weight of the Outback with the AWD is unmatched! But all in all like your Vid!
Should reviewed the XT. Nicer facelift of the Forester
Bonus point to the Forester for a hydraulic handbrake!
I have a '16 OB. The firewall insulation at 2:50 is kind of unsightly for what it costs in the Forester.
Only thing that lets down the review is the adverts butting in !
That's the only way we make enough money to keep making videos
@@CarConfections Understand that, but very annoying !
High quality keyfobs? I dropped one from a 2017 loaner (they're no different for 2018) onto the floor in a Walgreens and it separated into like, 4 pieces or so. I was lucky I got it all back and was able to get it back together. After that incident, they seem cheap to me. :p
I'll make it easy: Driving position and outward visibility. Great high view out driving the forester. I can't see shit driving the outback.
Yep! Exactly.
Yep.
DMETS519 I always want to know about visibility, too. And is one better for short or tall people than the other? I've heard in other model years there was a difference. I hope future comparisons cover those things.
These kind of comparisons always annoy me and it's not just you, I see it with the big boys also. I'm guessing you did it because of what you could get your hands on but it would be so much better to compare a xt touring to a 3.6 touring or a 2.5 limited to a 2.5 limited. Having said that with this type of comparison the Outback would have probably still scored some more points. I think the Forester might have scored more with some actual off road testing compared to the Outback.
Why didn't the Outback get additional points because for AppleCarPlay, rear seat vents, self-locking door on motion and one-touch control of all four windows and regular unleaded fuel.
Hi, I don't know if you missed it or not but we award points for categories like "Infotainment" and Apple CarPlay is included in that section (which the Outback did get a point for). Same for the rear vents. Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Great video. Pleasant and to the point. I own a WRX 18 but I’m deciding between those two for my wife. I’m leaning more outback.
+Paolo Milana Thanks! Glad you found it helpful!
Car Confections sure did. Please highlight the ugliness of Starlink apps... especially Magellan, or the fantastic “bird watch” app I got in my 2017 WRX. It’s beyond pathetic that they didn’t allow Car Play on WRX or STI.
I wish the comfort factsors were compared. I have a bad back, and seat domfort over the long haul would be helpful to know.
Thanks for the comparison. Of all the car review/comparison channels I have come across, yours are the most polished. Great content and great video work. However, I do have an observation/question. Do most people who purchase vehicles spend an additional 50% over the MSRP on options? I wouldn't think to do that. In my case, if I had $35-39K to spend I am not sure I would be looking at either of these cars. But maybe I am doing it wrong. Is it better to buy an inexpensive car and load it with options or buy a more expensive car that already comes with what you want so you don't have to buy more options? In my case, I sought out a review/comparison of these models because the MSRP of both is in my price range. But with the amount of options as tested, I can't purchase either of those.
+John McGregor Thanks! Glad you liked it! For most cars people spring for the mid-level trims most often, however when we film we usually try to grab loaded models because they have all the features for us to show/demo.
I would agree with that. In the cars I am shopping for (sub $30K AWD or 4WD) I find that the trim level right above the base model gets me what want out of options in most cases. After that the law of diminished returns kicks in.
I would prefer the look of the outback,as well as the more powerful motor.
Good job bro, keep doing , love comparation but i thought i will pick Outback for roomy, better looking and smoother driving, thanks video
+niem duong Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Very complicated to change the time. I travel between time zones frequently. Big pain to change.
I would take the outback because who wants a car that had the same styling since 2012
Owned both Outback is the superior vehicle as for looks although the Forester drives a lot better off road than most if not all small to mid size SUV's it also looks like them, an Outback is just an Outback nothing else looks or drives like it.
IMHO...this is only a partial comparison of the two vehicles. As Paul Harvey use to say "And now for the Rest of the Story" - Outback weight = 3847lbs. Forester weight = 3479 lbs. IIHS car safety ratings are based on comparisons of testing vehicles of similar weight. "Bigger Heavier Vehicles Protect their Occupants Better! Reference - www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/vehicle-size-and-weight/qanda (+5 Points Outback - Nothing more important that your life!) . Also. Wheel Base Length - Outback -108.1 inches Forester - 103.9 inches. Longer Wheelbase = Better Ride (+ 2 Points Outback) Also - Vehicle Height - Outback - 66.1 inches Forester - 68.2 inches. (Translation - Higher Vehicles are less stable during cornering....while also being more prone to wind stability issues) NOTE: We just purchased our 2018 Outback 3.6R Limited and are VERY pleased with the vehicle so far. (currently have 1200 miles). I also own a 2012 Honda CRV and have test driven the Subaru Forester. IMHO - The 2018 Outback provides for the most solid "feel" when driving. It is unbelievably quiet in the cabin interior even at highway speeds. BTW - We are getting 28-29 mpg highway driving with our 3.6R Outback limited. Not bad for a car that weighs 3847 lbs. Also....the extra power we have and feel with our 3.6R when getting on highways and when needing to pass trucks or other vehicles in critical situations is very much worth the cost of slightly reduced gas mileage compared to the 4 cyl Forester. And for you physics minded individuals.......remember, if you load down a 4 cyl vehicle with passengers and/or cargo, your fuel mileage will drop much more than advertised compared to a 6 cyl vehicle with adequate power regardless additional weight. And just one more thought for some of you....... the longevity of a 6 cylinder will be greater than an overworked 4 cyl if you plan on taking your vehicle into the 100K or 200K + range like we do. Edit: Almost forgot to mention that the 6 cyl Outback comes with a "heavy duty" CVT that is very different than the CVT found in 4 cylinders...
Thanks for pointing out additional considerations !
Nice looking cars, me personally I never had good luck with subarus
The Boxer 6 is the ONLY engine to go with. My 2019 OB Limited 3.6R runs much, much better than the 4 banger.
Land Rover Defender 110 models, Toyota Land cruiser then Outback - All Good
I am really looking forward to seeing 2019 forester. Is that gonna be complete new face isnt it?
Yes it should be all-new for 2019 model year. We should find out what it will look like soon!
How do you compare a 6 cylinder engine to a 4 cylinder engine
I have a forester Subaru 2.0xt limited eyesight and at the back seat has two switch activate two heating modes
Only the Forester is available w/ a 6 sp. manual transmission, while the Outback gives you no choice but a CVT. That was reason enough for me to go w/ the Forester.
Great great review! Thx
Great review!
Chris Sham Thanks!
Shoulda used the turbo 2.0 forester for comparison with the 3.6
Being tall AF I like sitting high in my cars. Forester wins for this reason
6 cal outback has a metal timing belt which never needs service. The 4 cal models of Outback and Forester need replacement.
Actually the Forester 4 cylinder has has a chain since 2011 with the updated engine. The outback got that engine in 2013. Easy way to tell is the oil filter is up top on the newer timing chain equipped engines.
Forester is my pick
Will Quantrell Subaru work with you for a decent price?
+David James I'm sure they would!
I was confused the whole time as to which one is which...
What is the point of a key fob when the outback still has the key slot on the door handle?
If you're an idiot like me and you lose both. I got the key duped before I lost the 2nd one. I had to file a piece of the Valet key off to make it work and that is my back-up. As far as locking the car: You have to open the driver's door and push down the lock all doors button. Then you have to manually unlock the driver's door. You then close the driver's door and you hear a beep. You then open the driver's door and manually lock and close. If you just push the lock all and close the door, when you open the car, the horn/alarm will go off until you put the key in the ignition.I would venture to guess I am disabling the alarm but the red light still flashes. I keep meaning to get a new FOB, just not a pressing issue as I've been doing it this way for over a year.
Tom Thomas 😁👍
Doesn’t the 2018 forester come with apple CarPlay in the touring trim?
+Sensashin No. The older system doesn't support them, though Subaru could put out an update later on.
I will take both of them.
I just had to make this choice I went with the outback my wife went with the forester
good format
Good job dude
Those fobs look huge in your hands. Do you have tiny hands?
+Bendc1970A1 The fobs are actually pretty big, but it's nothing unmanageable. Thanks for watching!
Does anyone know if Subie is having the engine oil issues yet, or have they fixed that issue, I believe the engines were using a lot of oil
I'd be curious too as I had a 2006 Subaru Baja that developed a leaky head gasket after many years of use. Still bought a 2017 Forester; a great car for upstate Ny ( snowbelt).
My understanding is it was fixed a few years back.
Had a 2011 Forester and it used 3 litres of oil between Nova Scotia and Florida. My 2014 Forester hardly used any.
Forester looks more handsome imo
I agree! People call the Forester ugly but in ten years it will still look just fine, but the Rav 4's and Honda CRV's will look outdated due to their trendy styling which just doesn't quite make it. Forester is more masculine looking, honest and straight forward in design.
No points for Forester's X-Mode?
OB also has X-Mode... no need
The Outback is still king!