Hey guys! So, you're stuck between the 2022 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Subaru Outback, huh? It's a tough call! Both are fantastic SUVs known for their reliability, safety, and off-road capability. But, like choosing between pizza and tacos (a truly agonizing decision!), there are key differences that'll make one a better fit for you than the other. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice. We'll break down everything from performance and fuel economy to interior space and features, so you can confidently decide which Subaru deserves a spot in your driveway.

Performance and Handling: Finding Your Perfect Drive

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Forester and Outback offer distinct driving experiences. The Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and light off-roading. It's peppy enough for city driving and comfortable on the highway, but it might feel a little strained when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, especially on steep inclines. The Forester's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is smooth and efficient, contributing to its good fuel economy. Its handling is also nimble and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The Forester's smaller size and lighter weight give it a more agile feel compared to the Outback. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of handling, the Forester is a solid choice.

On the other hand, the Outback offers two engine options: the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which is the same as the Forester's, and an available 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The base engine provides similar performance to the Forester, but the turbocharged engine transforms the Outback into a much more powerful and capable machine. The turbocharged Outback delivers brisk acceleration and confident passing power, making it ideal for drivers who frequently encounter highway driving or need to tow trailers. Like the Forester, the Outback also comes standard with a CVT. The Outback's longer wheelbase and wider stance give it a more stable and planted feel on the road. It's also better suited for tackling rough terrain, thanks to its higher ground clearance and more advanced X-Mode system. If you value power and capability, especially for towing or off-roading, the Outback with the turbocharged engine is the way to go.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone and Everything

The Subaru Forester and Outback both offer spacious and comfortable interiors, but their dimensions and configurations cater to different needs. The Forester boasts a boxy design that maximizes headroom and cargo space. It provides ample room for five passengers, with generous legroom in both the front and rear seats. The Forester's cargo area is also impressively large, offering 28.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Forester an excellent choice for families who need to haul groceries, sports equipment, or luggage. The Forester's upright seating position provides excellent visibility, and its large windows create a bright and airy cabin. The interior materials are durable and well-assembled, though they might not be as luxurious as those found in some competitors. Overall, the Forester's interior is practical, functional, and comfortable for everyday use.

The Outback, with its wagon-like design, offers a different take on interior space. While it also comfortably seats five passengers, the Outback's rear legroom is slightly less generous than the Forester's. However, the Outback compensates with a longer cargo area, offering 32.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Outback a better choice for those who frequently carry long items, such as skis or camping gear. The Outback's interior design is more stylish and upscale than the Forester's, with available features like leather upholstery, wood trim, and a larger touchscreen display. The Outback also offers a more refined ride quality, thanks to its longer wheelbase and more sophisticated suspension. If you prioritize a comfortable and stylish interior with a focus on cargo-carrying versatility, the Outback is a great option.

Fuel Economy: Saving Green While Going Green

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the Subaru Forester and Outback both deliver respectable numbers. The Forester, with its 2.5-liter engine and CVT, achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These figures make the Forester one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The Forester's fuel-sipping nature makes it an excellent choice for drivers who want to save money at the pump and reduce their carbon footprint.

The Outback's fuel economy varies depending on the engine. The base 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which is nearly identical to the Forester's numbers. However, the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine delivers slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. While the turbocharged Outback's fuel economy is not as impressive as the Forester's or the base Outback's, it's still reasonable for an SUV with its level of performance. Keep in mind that real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. If fuel economy is a top priority, the Forester or the base Outback are the better choices. However, if you're willing to sacrifice a few miles per gallon for more power, the turbocharged Outback is worth considering.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Journey

Subaru has a well-deserved reputation for safety, and both the Forester and Outback come standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Both models include Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These features help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and more comfortable. Both the Forester and Outback have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying their commitment to safety.

In addition to EyeSight, both models offer available features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. These features provide extra layers of protection and can help to avoid collisions in a variety of situations. The Outback also offers a DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which uses a camera to monitor the driver's attention level and provide alerts if the driver becomes drowsy or distracted. This feature is not available on the Forester. Overall, both the Forester and Outback are exceptionally safe vehicles, offering a wide range of standard and available safety features to protect you and your passengers.

Trim Levels and Features: Finding the Perfect Fit

The Subaru Forester and Outback are available in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different set of features and equipment. The Forester is available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims. The Base trim comes standard with features like Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Premium trim adds features like a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The Sport trim features unique styling elements, such as orange accents and dark gray alloy wheels. The Limited trim offers leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a power liftgate. The Touring trim adds features like a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a DriverFocus distraction mitigation system.

The Outback is available in Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, and Touring XT trims. The Base trim comes standard with features like Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, a 7-inch touchscreen display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Premium trim adds features like an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The Limited trim offers leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and a power liftgate. The Onyx Edition XT features unique styling elements, such as blacked-out trim and StarTex water-repellent upholstery. The Wilderness trim is designed for off-road adventures, with features like a higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and skid plates. The Touring XT trim adds features like a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and Nappa leather upholstery. When choosing a trim level, consider your budget and the features that are most important to you.

Price and Value: Getting the Most for Your Money

Price is always a factor when choosing a new car, and the Subaru Forester and Outback offer different levels of value. The Forester typically has a lower starting price than the Outback, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Outback offers more standard features and a more upscale interior, which may justify its higher price tag for some buyers. When comparing prices, be sure to consider the trim levels and options that you want. It's also a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different dealerships to get the best deal.

Both the Forester and Outback hold their value well over time, which is an important consideration if you plan to trade in or sell your car in the future. Subaru's reputation for reliability and safety contributes to their strong resale value. When evaluating value, also consider the long-term costs of ownership, such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance. The Forester's better fuel economy can save you money at the pump, while the Outback's available turbocharged engine may require premium fuel. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable and practical SUV, the Forester is a great choice. If you're willing to spend more for a more upscale and capable vehicle, the Outback is worth considering.

The Verdict: Which Subaru Reigns Supreme?

So, after all that, which Subaru comes out on top? Well, it really depends on you! If you prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling in a slightly smaller package, the Forester is your winner. It's a fantastic all-around SUV that's perfect for families and individuals who need a reliable and practical vehicle. But, if you crave more power, a more refined interior, and enhanced cargo-carrying versatility, the Outback takes the crown. Especially with the turbocharged engine, it's a capable and comfortable SUV that's ready for anything you throw its way. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive both models and see which one feels right for you. Happy driving!