What To Know
- Both vehicles offer a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features.
- The Forester, however, offers a more comprehensive list of available features, including a sunroof, heated front and rear seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system.
- The Crosstrek is a more affordable and fuel-efficient option, while the Forester offers more space, features, and off-road capabilities.
The compact SUV market is teeming with formidable contenders, and two giants that stand out are the Subaru Crosstrek and the Subaru Forester. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, but which one truly reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the intricacies of the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Forester to determine which vehicle emerges victorious.
Performance and Powertrain
The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester offer a range of powertrain options to suit diverse driving needs. The Crosstrek is powered by a standard 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more oomph, a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque is available.
The Forester, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It also offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 256 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
Both vehicles come standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction and handling in all conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many car buyers. The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester offer comparable fuel economy ratings. The Crosstrek with the 2.0-liter engine achieves 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Forester with the 2.5-liter engine returns 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Cargo and Passenger Space
When it comes to cargo and passenger space, the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester offer slightly different configurations. The Crosstrek provides 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
The Forester boasts a more spacious interior, offering 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 76.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Additionally, the Forester offers more legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.
Features and Technology
The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester come well-equipped with a range of standard and available features. Both vehicles offer a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features.
The Forester, however, offers a more comprehensive list of available features, including a sunroof, heated front and rear seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester are renowned for their off-road capabilities. The Crosstrek features a standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Forester boasts an impressive 8.9 inches of ground clearance.
Additionally, both vehicles offer the X-Mode system, which optimizes the vehicle’s performance for off-road driving conditions. The Forester, however, has a slight edge in off-road performance due to its larger size and more robust suspension system.
Price and Value
The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester have comparable price points. The Crosstrek starts at an MSRP of $24,495, while the Forester starts at an MSRP of $26,395.
When considering value, the Forester offers more standard features and a more spacious interior for a slightly higher price. However, the Crosstrek is a more affordable option and still provides excellent value for its price point.
The Verdict: Which One to Choose?
The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester are both exceptional compact SUVs with their own unique strengths. The Crosstrek is a more affordable and fuel-efficient option, while the Forester offers more space, features, and off-road capabilities.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient SUV, the Crosstrek is an excellent choice. If you prioritize space, features, and off-road performance, the Forester is the superior option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Forester with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine has the most powerful engine, producing 256 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has the most cargo space?
A: The Subaru Forester offers the most cargo space, with 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek with the 2.0-liter engine is more fuel-efficient, achieving 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has more standard safety features?
A: Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
Q: Which vehicle is better for off-roading?
A: The Subaru Forester has a slight edge in off-road performance due to its larger size and more robust suspension system.