2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more generic yet refined appearance. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with higher trims offering larger wheels and additional styling elements like bronze accents on the Sport trim. The Forester maintained its large-greenhouse shape but introduced geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window design. Inside, the Forester offered a more intentional cabin design with options ranging from cloth to genuine leather upholstery, depending on the trim level.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback retained its rugged wagon design, appealing to those who appreciate a vehicle capable of off-road adventures. It featured chunky wheel-arch flares and a robust roof rack, emphasizing its adventurous spirit. The Outback's interior was practical, with a focus on comfort and usability. It offered a range of materials, from cloth to Nappa leather, depending on the trim. The Outback's design was both functional and stylish, with a focus on practicality for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

The 2025 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It featured a Lineartronic CVT and standard Symmetrical AWD. The Forester's performance was not particularly peppy, but it excelled in stability and traction, especially with the X-Mode system for off-road conditions. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with slight variations for higher trims.

The 2025 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a CVT and AWD. The turbocharged engine provided better acceleration, making it a recommended choice for those seeking more power. The Outback's ground clearance and X-Mode system enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its smooth ride and responsive handling made it a comfortable choice for various road conditions.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate and increased cargo space, measuring 29.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 74.4 cubic feet with them folded. It offered a roomy second row and practical features like heavy-duty hooks in the cargo area. The Forester's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with power-adjustable seats and available heated and ventilated options.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality with 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 75.6 cubic feet with them folded. Its lower roof height made loading easier, and the flat cargo floor maximized usability. The Outback offered a spacious interior with 109 cubic feet of passenger volume, providing ample headroom and legroom. Buyers could choose from various trims, each offering different features and driving experiences.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all but the base trim. It included dual USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Touring trim added a navigation system and an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services offered additional capabilities for convenience and safety.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond, especially at startup. The Outback offered a Harman Kardon audio system and a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions. It also included a CD player and USB ports for connectivity.

The 2025 Subaru Forester came equipped with Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Touring trim added features like Emergency Stop Assist and a digital rearview mirror. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the 2024 model received high safety ratings, suggesting similar performance for the 2025 model.

The 2025 Subaru Outback also featured Subaru's EyeSight technology, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback's safety features were effective, though the DriverFocus system occasionally issued false notifications. The 2024 model's high safety ratings indicated strong performance for the 2025 version.