Subaru is known for making off-road lifestyle vehicles, and they offer two crossover SUVs at a similar price point — the Outback and the Forester. So, if you're shopping for a new Subaru SUV, you might be a bit confused as to what are the differences between the Outback and the Forester and which should you get. Both cars have a sub-$30,000 base price, while their top trims land between $39,995 and $42,795.
The $2,800 difference for the highest variants might be a bit steep if you're paying for it in cash, but this is a tiny difference if you will finance or lease the car. Furthermore, the priciest Subaru Outback has a different engine. If you pick the top Outback variant that has the same engine as the Forester (which only has one engine option), the most expensive Outback trim would be $40,345, which is only a $350 difference from the most expensive Forester.
With that in mind, let's look at both models and check out their differences. From there, we will answer a couple of questions which will hopefully help you make up your mind. That way, you can get the Subaru crossover SUV that will fit your lifestyle best.
The Outback was originally built on the platform of the mid-size Subaru Legacy , which, unfortunately, is being discontinued in the U.S. in 2025.
Nevertheless, the Subaru Outback continues to be a popular wagon-style vehicle in America, with a new model expected to arrive in 2025. One of the reasons that the Subaru Outback remains so popular is that it's a great a.