What To Know
- The Subaru Forester has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds.
- The Outback offers slightly more ground clearance, towing capacity, and cargo space, while the Forester has a slight advantage in approach and departure angles.
- The Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Forester gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to off-road adventures, two Subaru models that often come to mind are the Outback and the Forester. Both vehicles offer impressive capabilities, but which one is the better choice? In this blog post, we will compare the Subaru Outback vs Forester off-road to help you make an informed decision.
Ground Clearance
Ground clearance is a crucial factor for off-roading, as it determines how well a vehicle can navigate rough terrain without getting stuck. The Subaru Outback offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Forester offers 8.7 inches as well. This means that both vehicles have similar capabilities in this regard.
All-Wheel Drive System
Both the Subaru Outback and Forester come standard with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. This system provides excellent traction and control in all conditions, making it ideal for off-road driving. The system continuously monitors the road surface and adjusts power distribution to all four wheels as needed, ensuring optimal grip and stability.
X-Mode
The Subaru Outback and Forester also offer X-Mode, an advanced all-wheel-drive system that enhances off-road performance. X-Mode optimizes the vehicle’s powertrain, suspension, and braking systems for off-road conditions, providing improved traction and control. It also includes a hill descent control feature that helps maintain a safe and controlled descent on steep slopes.
Suspension
The Subaru Outback and Forester both feature independent suspension systems that provide excellent articulation and stability off-road. The Outback’s suspension is slightly softer, providing a more comfortable ride on rough roads, while the Forester’s suspension is slightly stiffer, offering better handling and control on twisty roads.
Approach and Departure Angles
Approach and departure angles are important factors for off-roading, as they determine the vehicle’s ability to climb over obstacles without getting stuck. The Subaru Outback has an approach angle of 18.6 degrees and a departure angle of 21.7 degrees. The Subaru Forester has an approach angle of 20 degrees and a departure angle of 25.4 degrees. This means that the Forester has a slight advantage in this regard.
Towing and Payload Capacity
If you plan on towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads, you’ll need a vehicle with sufficient towing and payload capacity. The Subaru Outback has a towing capacity of 2,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,300 pounds. The Subaru Forester has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds. This means that the Outback has a clear advantage in terms of towing and payload capacity.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Subaru Outback and Forester offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Outback has slightly more cargo space than the Forester, with 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Forester offers 31.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for five passengers, with plenty of legroom and headroom.
Key Points: The Ultimate Off-Road Choice
The Subaru Outback and Forester are both excellent choices for off-road adventures. The Outback offers slightly more ground clearance, towing capacity, and cargo space, while the Forester has a slight advantage in approach and departure angles. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a vehicle with more towing and cargo capacity, the Outback is the better choice. If you prioritize maneuverability and agility on tight trails, the Forester is a great option.
Popular Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Outback or the Forester?
A: The Subaru Outback and Forester have similar fuel efficiency ratings. The Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Forester gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Q: Does the Outback or Forester come with a turbocharged engine?
A: Yes, both the Subaru Outback and Forester offer turbocharged engine options. The Outback’s turbocharged engine produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, while the Forester’s turbocharged engine produces 250 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating, the Outback or the Forester?
A: Both the Subaru Outback and Forester have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Outback received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, while the Forester received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.