Hey guys! So, you're stuck trying to figure out whether the 2022 Subaru Forester or the 2022 Subaru Outback is the right choice for you? You're not alone! These two SUVs are incredibly popular, and for good reason. They both offer that legendary Subaru reliability, standard all-wheel drive, and a whole host of features that make them perfect for everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures. But, of course, they also have their differences. This article will break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your needs and lifestyle. We'll dive into performance, space, features, and everything in between. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Handling: On-Road and Off

When comparing the 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback in terms of performance and handling, it's important to consider what kind of driving you'll be doing the most. Both vehicles come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which is a massive advantage in all kinds of weather conditions. This system provides excellent traction and stability, whether you're dealing with snow, rain, or just some gravel roads. However, there are some key differences in their engines and overall driving dynamics.

The Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup provides adequate power for most daily driving situations. The Forester is known for its nimble handling and responsive steering, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and around town. It's also surprisingly capable off-road, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and X-Mode system, which optimizes the vehicle's systems for maximum traction in slippery conditions. The Forester is a great choice if you prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of driving.

On the other hand, the Subaru Outback offers a bit more variety in its powertrain options. The base engine is also a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, but it's tuned slightly differently to produce 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, just like the Forester. However, the Outback also offers an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides significantly more punch and makes the Outback feel much more confident when accelerating or towing. The Outback also has a slightly longer wheelbase and a more refined suspension, which gives it a smoother and more comfortable ride on the highway. While it's still very capable off-road, the Outback is generally geared more towards on-road comfort and performance. The Outback will be a better fit if you want more power and a more comfortable ride for long trips.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone and Everything

Interior space and comfort are critical factors when choosing an SUV, especially if you plan to haul passengers or cargo regularly. The 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback both offer plenty of room, but there are some differences in how that space is distributed.

The Subaru Forester excels in providing a spacious and airy cabin. It offers excellent headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for even taller passengers. The Forester also has a generous cargo area, with up to 76.1 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down. The Forester's boxy shape contributes to its spaciousness and makes it easy to load and unload cargo. The higher roofline also provides excellent visibility, which is a plus for drivers. Overall, the Forester is a great choice if you prioritize passenger comfort and cargo space.

The Subaru Outback, while still spacious, has a slightly different focus. It offers plenty of legroom in the front and rear seats, but the headroom is a bit more limited due to its lower roofline. The Outback also has a decent cargo area, with up to 75.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down. While it's slightly less than the Forester, it's still plenty for most people. The Outback's interior design is also a bit more upscale, with nicer materials and a more refined feel. The Outback is a good choice if you want a comfortable and stylish interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Outback might be the better choice if you prefer a more car-like feel.

Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Safe

In today's world, technology and safety features are more important than ever. The 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback both come loaded with a wide range of features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road.

Both the Forester and Outback come standard with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features use cameras and sensors to monitor the road around you and help prevent accidents. Both models also offer available features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking, which can further enhance your safety.

In terms of infotainment, both the Forester and Outback feature Subaru's Starlink multimedia system, which includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The Outback offers a larger touchscreen display on some trims, which can be easier to use. Both models also offer available features like navigation, a premium audio system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. If you're a tech-savvy driver, you'll appreciate the wide range of features available on both the Forester and Outback.

The Outback tends to have a slight edge in terms of available luxury features, such as leather upholstery, heated seats, and a sunroof. These features can make your driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable, especially on long trips. However, the Forester still offers a solid set of features for the price, making it a great value for budget-conscious buyers.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget

When it comes to trim levels and pricing, the 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback offer a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Both models come in several different trims, each with its own unique set of features and equipment.

The Subaru Forester typically starts at a lower price point than the Outback. The base model comes well-equipped with standard all-wheel drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a touchscreen infotainment system. As you move up the trim levels, you can add features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a power liftgate. The Forester is a great choice if you're looking for a capable and well-equipped SUV at an affordable price.

The Subaru Outback also offers a range of trim levels, from the base model to the luxurious Touring XT. The base Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a touchscreen infotainment system. As you move up the trim levels, you can add features like a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and a turbocharged engine. The Outback is a good choice if you're willing to spend a bit more for a more upscale and feature-rich SUV. Ultimately, the best way to decide which trim level is right for you is to visit your local Subaru dealer and test drive a few different models. This will give you a better sense of the features and equipment available on each trim and help you make an informed decision.

Reliability and Safety Ratings: Peace of Mind on the Road

Reliability and safety are two of the most important factors to consider when buying a car. The 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback both have a strong reputation for reliability and safety, making them a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Subaru has a long history of building reliable vehicles, and both the Forester and Outback are known for their durability and longevity. Both models consistently earn high ratings from independent consumer organizations, such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. These ratings are based on factors like owner surveys, repair data, and predicted reliability.

In terms of safety, both the Forester and Outback have earned excellent ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Both models have earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, which is the highest safety rating possible. They have also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. These ratings are based on a variety of crash tests and safety evaluations. The Forester and Outback are designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. With their strong reliability and safety ratings, you can have peace of mind knowing that you're driving a vehicle that is built to last and protect you and your passengers.

Making the Right Choice: Which Subaru is Best for You?

So, after all that, which SUV should you choose? The 2022 Subaru Forester or the 2022 Subaru Outback? Well, it really depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Forester if:

• You prioritize fuel efficiency and nimble handling.
• You need a spacious and airy cabin with plenty of headroom.
• You're looking for a capable and well-equipped SUV at an affordable price.
• You want excellent visibility and easy maneuverability in tight spaces.

Choose the Outback if:

• You want more power and a more comfortable ride for long trips.
• You prefer a more upscale interior with nicer materials.
• You need a versatile vehicle that can handle both on-road and off-road adventures.
• You appreciate advanced technology and luxury features.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which Subaru is right for you is to visit your local dealer and take both models for a test drive. Pay attention to how each vehicle feels on the road, how comfortable the seats are, and how well the features meet your needs. With a little research and a test drive, you'll be able to make the perfect choice for your lifestyle. Happy driving!