Outback vs Forester: A Detailed Comparison of Price, Features & Ownership Costs

EllieB

Ever found yourself caught in the Subaru conundrum, torn between choosing an Outback or a Forester? You’re not alone. These two models have been head-to-head rivals for years, each boasting its unique set of features and capabilities that make it stand out.

Understanding Outback and Forester

Diving into the specifics of Subaru’s two famed models, let’s start by understanding what sets them apart.

A Brief about Subaru Outback

Subaru’s flagship model, the Outback offers a perfect blend of rugged off-road capabilities with comfortable city driving. It features standard all-wheel drive (AWD), making it ideal for handling adverse weather conditions or rough terrains. What distinguishes it is its ample cargo space which outshines most wagons in its class. Also, advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking are part of the base trim level offering added peace-of-mind on your drives.

Examples include:

• 2021 model: Offering up to 75.7 cubic feet cargo space when rear seats folded.
• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Distributes power evenly ensuring better stability and efficiency.

A Brief about Subaru Forester

On another side stands Subaru Forester; an SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort nor performance either! Known for having one of the roomiest interiors among compact crossovers while still being easy to maneuver makes this vehicle highly desirable amongst urban dwellers who crave outdoor adventures occasionally too! The high ground clearance gives you confidence over uneven surfaces whilst Eyesight Driver Assist technology ensures safer journeys every time.

• Roomy Interiors: With up to 111.9 cubic feet passenger volume in certain trims!
  -Eyesight Technology : Provides pre-collision breaking & throttle management system adding an extra layer of protection

Performance Comparison: Outback vs Forester

When it comes to comparing the performance of Subaru’s two most popular models, there are significant differences you need to consider. Let’s jump into some specifics under the hood.

Engine Specifications

Subaru equips both the Outback and Forester with a standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine that generates power for your day-to-day driving needs. But, if you’re craving more horsepower under your foot, here lies a stark difference between these siblings; The Outback offers an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out a hearty 260 horses while in contrast, such option isn’t available on any of Forester trims.

Also noteworthy is their transmission system- all variants use Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) providing smooth acceleration without noticeable shifts like conventional automatics or manuals.

Fuel Efficiency

Another pivotal aspect where comparison plays an important role is fuel economy figures which can affect running costs over time significantly – after all who doesn’t want savings at pump? Here again exists divergence – according to EPA estimates from year 2021 data show us:

Model	City MPG	Highway MPG
Outback	26	33

Forester

Interiors: Outback vs Forester

Diving deeper into the Subaru saga, it’s time to step inside these Japanese giants. Let’s take a seat in both vehicles and compare what each has to offer.

Interior Space and Comfort

Space makes all the difference when you’re on long drives or just running errands around town. The Outback is noted for its impressive interior roominess – ample legroom, headroom, and cargo space (32.5 cubic feet with seats up). It expands generously to 75.7 cubic feet once rear seats are folded down.

On other hand, stepping into a Forester offers an equally comfortable ride but comes with slightly more passenger volume than its sibling – spacious enough that five adults can comfortably fit without elbow wars over armrests! Its standard cargo capacity stands at 35.4 cubic feet which increases dramatically upto 76.1 cubic feet after folding backseats.

Technological Features

When it comes to tech features in cars nowadays – they’re not luxuries anymore; rather necessities indeed! Both models come equipped with Starlink infotainment system as standard feature boasting crisp graphics & easy-to-use interface.

Outback doesn’t fall short on technology offerings either; coming standard with dual 7-inch touch screens while optional upgrades include larger screen of size ranging from eight inches upwards along navigation option too!

Forester isn’t lagging behind though — presenting itself proudly featuring single display of large proportion-6.5 inch touchscreen serving same purpose effectively even if bit smaller than base setup found within out-of-doors model mentioned earlier above here yet still manages quite admirably given price range position set forth among competitive automotive market today worldwide overall including advanced safety systems like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology coming by default across entire lineup regardless variant chosen specifically according individual preferences taken under consideration during purchase decision process eventually leading towards final verdict concerning selection between two contenders vying for title best in class within respective category under discussion at present moment here now.

Please note, it’s crucial to check the individual specifications and features of each model year as manufacturers update these annually.

Exteriors: Outback vs Forester

Transitioning from the interior, let’s examine how these two Subaru models – the Outback and Forester – stand out in terms of their exteriors. A vehicle’s exterior design not only influences its aesthetic appeal but also impacts practical aspects such as aerodynamics, visibility, and utility.

Design and Style

On one hand you’ve got the Subaru Outback; it showcases a rugged yet refined style that appeals to adventure enthusiasts. It exhibits an impressive 8.7 inches ground clearance which supports off-road capabilities previously mentioned in this text.
In contrast stands the Forester with its traditional SUV look offering elevated seating position for enhanced visibility on roads or trails alike.

Both vehicles sport distinct character lines along their bodies adding dynamism to overall aesthetics while maintaining functional benefits like improved aerodynamic efficiency.

Exterior Features

Examining features closer reveals more differences between both models. The Outback comes standard with roof rails incorporating retractable crossbars – ideal for outdoor gear transport during those weekend getaways into nature’s playgrounds!

Conversely, every trim level of your beloved Forester includes LED headlights ensuring optimal illumination regardless of weather conditions or time of day! That means increased safety because better vision equals safer driving right?

Safety Features: Comparing Outback and Forester

As you investigate further into the specifics of Subaru’s Outback and Forester, it becomes imperative to address their safety features. This section focuses on shedding light on both standard and optional safety technologies present in these models.

Standard Safety Features

Outback doesn’t hold back when ensuring your protection during travels. Its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, giving drivers peace of mind even in dense traffic conditions. Also incorporated is a Pre-collision Braking feature which significantly reduces frontal crash impacts by applying full braking force if necessary.

On the other hand, Forester also comes equipped with noteworthy standard safety systems like Advanced Automatic Collision Notification that alerts an advisor in case of an emergency who can then send help to your location immediately. The car’s Rear-Vision Camera enhances visibility while reversing or parking—crucial for avoiding unseen obstacles behind you.

Both cars share common ground too; they include Traction Control System (TCS) that prevents wheel spin during acceleration thereby offering stable performance irrespective of road conditions—for example, wet roads after a heavy rainstorm—and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system designed to detect vehicle instability suggesting potential loss-of-control situations as experienced perhaps during sharp turns at high speed.

Optional Safety Technologies

Stepping up from basic features we find additional advanced protective elements available optionally across both models such as Blind-Spot Detection/Rear Cross-Traffic Alert system—an innovative technology especially useful while changing lanes or backing out from tight spots respectively—as seen often amid city rush hour chaos!

Another worthwhile mention would be Reverse Automatic Braking available optionally—it acts almost like having eyes at the back! For instance, consider trying to park between two behemoth SUVs—a challenging job indeed—but this feature helps minimize damage by stopping your car automatically before hitting objects directly behind.

Summarising—the shared dedication towards passenger well-being resonates across both models, with Outback and Forester offering comprehensive standard safety features. Also, optional technologies further enhance security on the road for those seeking an extra layer of protection.

Pricing: Outback vs Forester

Delving deeper into the comparison, it’s crucial to examine pricing. This section will dissect and contrast both base price and cost of ownership for Subaru’s Outback and Forester models.

Base Price Comparison

Starting off with a face-to-face evaluation, the 2022 Subaru Outback carries a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) that begins at $27,845 excluding destination charges. On the other side of this coin is its sibling rival – The 2022 Subaru Forester sports an MSRP starting from $25,195 exclusive of any additional fees or delivery costs.

Here’s how these prices stack up:

Model	Starting Price
Outback	$27,845
Forester	$25,195

Clearly visible in plain numbers is that buying an entry-level version of either model places you within similar financial brackets – though opting for higher trims would later adjust these figures upwards accordingly.

Cost of Ownership

Factoring in elements beyond purchase price provides you with a more comprehensive view on your investment decision. These factors typically include fuel economy ratings along with maintenance expenses among others throughout your vehicle’s lifetime.

On average estimates provided by authoritative sources such as Edmunds’ True Cost To Own® (TCO), over five years period:

• A brand-new out-of-the-showroom-floor Outback might set back owners around $40k-$45k.
• Whereas owning an equally fresh-off-production-line Forester may tally up between $38k-$42k across same timeframe spanned.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Subaru Outback and Forester isn’t an easy decision. Both cars pack a punch with their unique features, striking interiors, exteriors, and high quality safety tech. Yet when you take a closer look at pricing—the Outback starting at $27,845 while the Forester starts slightly lower at $25,195—there’s more to consider than just initial cost outlay. Over five years of ownership taking into account fuel economy and maintenance expenses could see your wallet lighter by around $40k-$45k for an Outback or somewhere between $38k-$42k if it’s a Forester sitting in your driveway. So it comes down to what fits best with both your lifestyle needs as well as budget considerations—it’s all about finding that perfect balance!