Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Subaru, specifically the Forester and the Outback. These two SUVs are super popular, and for good reason: they're reliable, safe, and built to handle various adventures. But, a big question often pops up: What about size? Which one is bigger? Which one is better suited for your needs? Let's break down the Subaru Forester vs Outback size comparison, covering dimensions, cargo space, passenger space, and more, to help you figure out which one is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Ready? Let's get started!

Forester vs. Outback: Dimensions and Measurements

When we talk about size, we're not just looking at the overall length; we're also considering width, height, and wheelbase. These dimensions directly impact how much space you have inside for passengers and cargo and how the car handles on the road. Understanding these measurements is the first step in deciding which Subaru suits you best. Let's start with the basics.

The Subaru Forester is generally considered the more compact of the two. It's designed to be nimble and easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for city driving and tight parking spots. Here’s a quick glance at its key dimensions:

• Length: Approximately 182.7 inches.
• Width: Approximately 72.1 inches.
• Height: Approximately 68.1 inches (varies slightly depending on the trim).
• Wheelbase: Approximately 105.1 inches.

On the other hand, the Subaru Outback is a bit larger, offering a more spacious feel and a slightly more rugged appearance. It’s a versatile vehicle that blurs the lines between a wagon and an SUV, perfect for those who want extra cargo capacity and a more comfortable ride. Here are its primary dimensions:

• Length: Approximately 191.3 inches.
• Width: Approximately 73.0 inches.
• Height: Approximately 66.1 inches (varies slightly depending on the trim).
• Wheelbase: Approximately 108.1 inches.

As you can see, the Outback is longer, wider, and has a slightly longer wheelbase than the Forester. This difference translates into more interior space, especially for rear-seat passengers and cargo. The Forester, however, is slightly taller, which can provide more headroom. The choice here depends on what you prioritize: maneuverability and ease of parking (Forester) versus overall spaciousness (Outback). For instance, the Outback's added length can make a big difference when packing luggage or transporting larger items. Consider your typical usage: are you often navigating narrow city streets, or do you need the extra room for family trips and outdoor gear? These are key questions to ask yourself.

Interior Space: Passenger Comfort and Practicality

Size isn't just about the exterior; it's also about what's inside. Passenger space is crucial for comfortable road trips and daily commutes. Let’s compare how the Forester and Outback stack up in terms of interior space. This includes headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for both front and rear passengers.

The Subaru Forester is known for its surprisingly spacious interior, given its more compact exterior. It offers a great balance of comfort and practicality, making it a favorite for families and individuals alike.

• Front Headroom: Approximately 41.2 inches (with sunroof).
• Rear Headroom: Approximately 39.6 inches (with sunroof).
• Front Legroom: Approximately 43.3 inches.
• Rear Legroom: Approximately 39.4 inches.
• Front Shoulder Room: Approximately 58.2 inches.
• Rear Shoulder Room: Approximately 57.2 inches.

The Forester feels airy, thanks to its large windows and well-designed cabin. Passengers in both the front and rear seats have plenty of room to stretch out, and the upright design contributes to good visibility and a feeling of spaciousness. The high roofline enhances headroom, making it easy for taller passengers to get comfortable. The Forester often feels roomier than its dimensions might suggest.

The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, provides even more generous interior space, offering a more premium experience for passengers. This is particularly noticeable in the rear seats and cargo area. The Outback is ideal if you often carry passengers or need extra room for weekend getaways.

• Front Headroom: Approximately 40.1 inches (with sunroof).
• Rear Headroom: Approximately 39.1 inches (with sunroof).
• Front Legroom: Approximately 42.8 inches.
• Rear Legroom: Approximately 39.5 inches.
• Front Shoulder Room: Approximately 58.1 inches.
• Rear Shoulder Room: Approximately 57.4 inches.

While the Outback doesn't offer significantly more headroom than the Forester (and may even have slightly less in some trims due to its sloping roofline), it excels in legroom and shoulder room, particularly in the rear. This extra space makes long drives more comfortable for everyone, especially adults. The Outback is a clear winner if you prioritize passenger comfort and often travel with a full load.

Cargo Capacity: Hauling Your Gear

Let’s talk about cargo space. Whether you're hauling groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear, the cargo capacity of your SUV is a critical factor. How do the Forester and Outback compare in terms of cargo volume?

The Subaru Forester provides a generous amount of cargo space, which is one of the reasons it's so popular. The cargo area is well-designed, with a wide opening and a flat floor, making it easy to load and unload items.

• Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats): Approximately 26.9 cubic feet.
• Cargo Volume (With Rear Seats Folded): Approximately 69.1 cubic feet.

The Forester offers excellent versatility for its size. The rear seats fold down easily to create a large, flat cargo area, perfect for transporting larger items like furniture or camping equipment. The high roofline also contributes to the usability of the cargo space, allowing you to stack items more efficiently.

The Subaru Outback takes cargo capacity to the next level. Thanks to its larger size and design, it provides even more room for your belongings.

• Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats): Approximately 32.6 cubic feet.
• Cargo Volume (With Rear Seats Folded): Approximately 75.6 cubic feet.

The Outback clearly wins when it comes to cargo capacity. The extra cubic feet make a significant difference, especially when you need to transport bulky items or lots of luggage. The larger cargo area of the Outback can comfortably accommodate everything from family vacation gear to equipment for outdoor adventures. If cargo space is a top priority, the Outback is the superior choice.

Driving Experience: Handling and Maneuverability

Okay, let's talk about the driving experience! The size of a vehicle affects how it handles on the road, including maneuverability, visibility, and overall driving dynamics. How do the Forester and Outback compare in terms of driving experience?

The Subaru Forester is known for its agility and ease of handling. Its more compact size makes it incredibly maneuverable, especially in city environments and tight parking spots. You'll find it easy to navigate crowded streets and park in limited spaces. The Forester offers a confident driving experience, with good visibility thanks to its upright design and large windows. The smaller turning radius adds to its agility, making it a breeze to navigate sharp corners and U-turns. The Forester's smaller size can make it feel more connected to the road, providing a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. The ride quality is generally smooth, with the suspension absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. For those who prioritize a nimble and easy-to-handle SUV, the Forester is a great choice.

The Subaru Outback, while larger, still offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. Its longer wheelbase provides a more stable ride, which is particularly noticeable at highway speeds. The Outback's ride quality is generally very smooth, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. While the Outback might not feel quite as agile as the Forester in tight spaces, it still handles well, providing a confident and composed driving experience. The Outback's larger size can also translate into a more planted feel on the road, especially in windy conditions. The slightly elevated driving position gives you a good view of the road, enhancing safety and confidence. The Outback's steering is well-weighted, providing good feedback and control. The Outback is a great choice for those who value ride comfort and stability, particularly on long drives or in varied driving conditions.

Subaru Forester vs. Outback: Which One Should You Choose?

So, which Subaru is right for you? It really depends on your needs and priorities. Let’s break it down:

Choose the Subaru Forester if:

• You prioritize maneuverability and ease of parking.
• You often drive in the city or need to navigate tight spaces.
• You need a versatile SUV that’s easy to handle.
• Cargo space is important, but not your top priority.

Choose the Subaru Outback if:

• You need more passenger and cargo space.
• You frequently carry passengers or large items.
• You value a comfortable ride and stability, especially on long drives.
• You want a more rugged and versatile vehicle.

Both the Forester and Outback are excellent choices. They are reliable, safe, and offer excellent value for their price. The best way to decide is to consider your lifestyle, driving habits, and what you prioritize in an SUV. Consider what kind of driving you do most often and who you're typically carrying. Think about your cargo needs and whether you need to transport large items regularly. Test drive both vehicles to get a feel for their handling and interior space. Ultimately, the right choice depends on you!

I hope this comparison has been helpful! Happy car shopping, folks!