While not a deep philosophical question, it’s always troubling when you get down to the question of which is the better car to buy. You may have narrowed the choice down to two Subaru models that seemingly sit side-by-side next to each other. The Subaru Outback and Forester are two of the best sellers the company offers and are one reason the company has been so successful in the Rocky Mountain area. Both are similar in size, technology and even the engine they are powered by. A flat four 182-HP 2.5-liter engine powers both the base Outback and the Forester, while a more powerful 260-HP 2.4-liter version is available in the higher trim levels of the Outback. All models use the Lineartronic CVT and symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrains that have proven so popular in climates with four seasons. The 2.5 engine in the Outback has been EPA rated at 26 city, 32 highway and 28 combined, while the 2025 Forester has not released any mileage figures. Either line offers more than acceptable safety and performance in both town and country.

The Small Differences in the Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester in Albuquerque NM

But it’s in the smaller details that the answer may be, so let’s start with the styling and size differences. The Outback has a lower and more car-like shape than the Forester, together with a slightly longer and wider carrying capacity. Depending on whether you’re carrying sheets of plywood, valuable oil paintings or just lots of camping gear, you might find the Outback to be the best choice. But the Forester is about an inch taller, so if either the driver or passengers have trouble actually fitting in an SUV, the Forester may offer a significant advantage. The Outback reminds me more of a classic station wagon shape, although the styling is much more contemporary than what we might remember. And while the Forester still retains two box styling with a more upright seating position, its shape may actually offer a more comfortable seating position. Be sure to try it out.

Test driving the two Subarus also points out some other differences. The mid-sized Outback–with about nine inches more body length–offers a more controlled and relaxed ride. The higher trim level Outbacks (with a more powerful 2.4-liter turbo motor with 260 HP) can only enhance this feel at higher speeds. The Forester is a compact SUV and as such may feel more nimble in city driving, and the higher seating position may allow a better view for things like parallel parking. Both models will come equipped with Subaru’s latest Eyesight Driver Assist technology, which uses cameras to alert the driver of hazards, and offer a 360 degree view around each model. These safety systems come standard with both the Forester and the Outback, and include updated software, a wider field of vision and an electric brake booster to help prevent collisions with cars, bikes and even pedestrians that move into the path of the vehicle.