2025 Subaru Forester vs Outback: Which should you buy?

[@shadyteeovo674]

Outback Wilderness 2025, bought it 2 weeks ago and I love it

[@johnw9177]

As someone with knee issues, that higher ride is something I’ve always liked in the forester. But, that crossbar feature is nice on the Outback!!

[@user-xj7kk7rb9p]

You helped the dealer near me with this video. Traded in my 17 Tacoma TRD off road for a new 24 Forester Wilderness. Thanks for your videos Subaru - Looking at the comment section in your videos shows I'm not the only one. Maybe Subaru should be giving you a free car at this rate.

[@ncadvr]

I don't even own a Subaru and I enjoy watching these videos.

[@captira]

Excellent comparison. And we just drove home in our 2025 Outback Premium with package 13. I'm not a sunroof fan, and it looks like the Android Auto map program is better than the factory TomTom map program. The car rides quiet and smooth, and my boy racer days are over, so I didn't need the turbo version. Thanks again for all you do for us Subaru enthusiasts.

[@robertrounay8883]

I have a 2022 Outback & wife has 2020 Forester. Your comments are spot on from my experience of driving them both.

[@oaksmith1292]

Wife and I choose the Outback. Has all the capabilities of a Forester but to us it feels and rides a bit more luxurious We joke that here in Colorado it is the "Colorado State Car." As there are so many of them. Speaks volumes on how well they handle snow/mountain terrain.

[@jdemaninco]

I chose the Forester over rhe outback because of the seating position and roomy feel of the cabin over the Outback. Im both big and tall and the Forester suits me better. Im looking forward to the hybrid.

[@akitadanto2340]

Very good! I drive a 24 model Forester with E-Boxer engine in Germany and its my third and my best Subaru ever. I love your channel

[@alexpmo]

Thanks! How are you liking the e-boxer? We don’t have those here in the us but we’re getting a hybrid variant this time next year

[@BarrySometimes]

Great video, Alex. Thank you! Which one would I choose? The outback. Atypically, I'm perfectly happy with the non-turbo, too.

[@criticalthinker1868]

The choice is obvious for me since I bought the 2024 Outback Onyx Edition XT instead of Forester (or anything else for that matter). That 2.4 Turbo Boxer is a game changer. 0-60 in 5.5-5.8 secs while still being able to make 25 MPG in the city. Plus Outback is simply prettier. Beautiful car with sexy design inside and outside.

[@Scybren]

I traded in my 17 wrx for a 23 forester. I wanted to get away from having to use premium gas.

[@alexpmo]

@@criticalthinker1868 I’m a favor the Outback also! Some days I wish I had the 2.4T though

[@criticalthinker1868]

@@Scybren That's exactly what makes the Outback XT so special - 260 HP on a REGULAR GAS! It's a WRX engine tuned up for 87 Octane that makes this Outback as quick as WRX itself (if not quicker in most occasions). Isn't that cool?

[@lynchcreekmuzzy5759]

The 2025 Outback on the 2.5L engine still has the dreaded TCV valve. The 2025 Forester does not and went back to tried/true 👍

[@deryckmcleod4608]

24 Outback Touring XT in Maroon pearl. Love it

[@minnybiker4505]

Best color ever.

[@grantbenjamin5808]

The rear seats in the Outback can recline a bit, which isn't offered in the Forester.

[@johnfarel3152]

Very interesting observation about seat height!

[@Zanderthelab]

Hey Alex I love your channel! Can you please do an ascent vs Outback video please?

[@erikaholland8141]

Yes!!

[@bobwallace6812]

I just purchased the Outback, based on watching many of your videos. Thank you. You made the decision easier. I absolutely love my Outback. I just finished a trip involving 1000 miles while towing a trailer with 1500 lbs. it was great but because of the trailer I lost 10 MPG, which was expected but still adverged 28 MPG.

[@sfop1]

I’m new to your channel and would love to see some videos on the Ascent.

[@violator561]

I drove an Outback Touring XT for two weeks as a loaner from the dealer. I ended up buying the 2025 Forester Sport. The visibility and driving postion is much more comfortable in the Forester. I loved the power in the XT but I didn't like the actual ride. Visibility on the driver front quarter is quite bad due to the roof pillar and the seating angle. Both are fine vehicles.

[@foresterg8564]

Hey! Took a test drive of both the Forester and Outback, and generally liked them, but there are a couple of things I can’t quite figure out or decide on for myself. As someone with more experience, did you ever feel like the steering is too light and sensitive, almost like you’re losing control at times? And how are the seats on long drives? they felt a bit narrow and firm to me... Do your legs and back get tired after a while? Would love to hear your thoughts on these :)

[@johnfarel3152]

I chose a 25 OB Wilderness but I think the 25 Forester is really nice as well.

[@alexpmo]

Can't go wrong with either!

[@treypelham5515]

Thank you so much for this type of review and comparison.

[@jonascorreia6365]

Great review! Keep up the good work

[@ted1558]

Good comparison !

[@paulpuglia8480]

Right now I have a 22 Forester Sport and I love it what sucks about the 25 is I need a trailer hitch so I wouldn't be able to get the foot sensor so now I'm going to have to look at the Outback that's equivalent in price to the Forester Sport still undecided.

[@foresterg8564]

Hey Alex, thanks for the great review, one of the best I've seen! I’m stuck between these two models, both have things I like but I’m not sure how they actually feel in real life. I love the higher driving position and visibility in the Forester, but does it really feel noticeably narrower than the Outback? And in general, which one do you think handles better or feels more comfortable to drive? Thanks a lot!

[@katkohlerschwartz7386]

I'm looking at the Outback for sure, now that I have seen this vid. I want to car camp and it seems to check all the boxes, plus towing capacity.

[@jhb072]

Hi Alex. Thanks very much for your content. I’m going to be picking up my third Forester limited this month and am looking forward to the new driving dynamics you are speaking of. I was very close to getting an Outback xt limited. Your video helped reinforce my decision by showing how the seats are mounted between the two. This something one would not ordinarily pick up on. Thanks again.

[@minnybiker4505]

I'm 6'2". After driving a 25 Forester for 3 days, I think my 23 Outback has more comfortable seats. I think my bicycle would fit in the Forester better. I like the crossbars on the Outback, but prefer the sunroof of the Forester. I also prefer the overall style of the Outback. Pretty close, honestly... But I still love my Outback.

[@alexandredossin717]

Got a 2024 Outback Wilderness and love it! Thanks for your videos, always very helpful!

[@alexpmo]

Congrats on the Wilderness! 🎉

[@anthonyng3014]

The vast majority of commenters for a car enthusiast or otherwise someone interested in cars video recommends the Outback XT for a good reason. Most people who are into cars recognise the 2.5L H4 engine to be a true slug when used to drive a 4 ton vehicle. In the Impreza, sure, although it's still not as peppy as the older 2000's Subbie engine/transmission combos. I'm happily driving the Outback Limited XT as my daily driver and it uses pretty much the same amount of gas as my old 2007 Impreza naturally aspirated 2.5L. Perfect.

[@hoggattbaycve7515]

The outback with the 2.4 turbo. I have one it's great.

[@conan911]

forester got the upgrade i want looking for.. FYI 2009 2014 2024 forester owner... was thinking to move over to 2025 for the hybrid on Forester/ Outback... now... i'm staying... (wilderness will do the job fine... dont need that extra length on the outback

[@Zeet1]

The seat kinda sold me on forester between the two. I’m leaning towards it but gonna be checking out forester limited vs Outback limited xt

[@mandapierce3012]

I have a 22 Forester Wilderness and I love it, I just wish it had a turbo option, so I’m considering an Outback Wilderness next. Also, I really don’t care for the 2025 exterior redesign on the Foresters.

[@SuperDrew1956]

Outback liked our 23 forester but the deal was to good to pass up getting it monday👍

[@Offutticus]

we've had our 2025 Forester for a few weeks now. Things I love are too long to list (comfort, height, screen, etc) but the things I don't like are just two. First, stupid cupholder location. What the actual duck is Subaru thinking??!! Second is the inability to not have the radio come on as soon as the engine does. There's a few little other things but nothing to the point I grumble each and every time I get into the car.

[@niuhuskieguy]

I still like the fob design even after all these years. It not huge but it has a solid weighty feel.

[@unscriptedwithmarcia4596]

I live in an older i garage house and getting my 2024 outback in is VERY tight. I have resorted to backing in extremely slowly. Im also only 5 ft 3 so the Forester has appeal - gives me 2 more inches and a higher seat😊

[@nikitayang9920]

I really really just want to see the sunroof… the difference between sunroof… ❤

[@pevelyhomeowner327]

Thanks for your videos. Nice comparison but since the 2025 Outback is the current generation vs next generation Forrester it not even close. 🤷‍♂️

[@SuperDrew1956]

Great job

[@slava_trushkin]

One thing not mentioned is cabin space for driver. Height is more than just a sitting position, it also affects surroundings. I'm a bit wider than average, so I notice the difference pretty much immediately - in Outback it feels way too cramped, in Forester I can seat comfortably for hours. Test drove both because at first Forester test drive wasn't available (car was already out and test driver was late to return, so dealer offered to drive Outback instead of waiting), it was also in winter with winter coat on, which made me even wider. Returned Outback in 15 minutes because I couldn't comfortably seat in it, sat in Forester and immediately noticed difference. Ended up buying even older SJ Forester from dealer, love it.

[@richroj]

very good Alex, thank you 👍

[@alexpmo]

Thank you!

[@Thee-DanO]

Great video Alex. Can you tell me the weight limits for the roof rack on a 24 Outback? Thanks.

[@terriefaber5446]

When will the new forester wilderness come out

[@kenmunozatmmrrailroad6853]

Great Subaru info- consider me subbed.

[@davidholmes3323]

Forester for me. Like the extra height in the cargo area.

[@stana2z]

Alex, I’m about 6-4 and a big guy. Which model would you recommend? Outback or Forrester?

[@philsmgb4393]

Outback. My dad's 6' 3", no issues.

[@FordEnthusiast413]

Hey Alex. Really enjoy your videos. My choice is the Outback. Have owned both a Forester and an Outback and to me the Outback wins hands down! I am eagerly awaiting the announcement of the 2026 Outback! Any new info on when that may happen??

[@philsmgb4393]

Outback because the roof rail system is beautiful. I had to drive my LL Bean Outback with those goofy crossbars permanently installed for over 18 years. Also it's easier to wash with the lower roof. Yeah, I wash my cars because I'm a tightwad who doesn't go to the Super Auto Wash for 20 bucks a pop.

[@Redzircon]

You're not the only one!

[@vypir313]

I really wish the towing capacity on the forester were higher. I also wonder why they can't put the hand sensor in the door emblem on the liftgate of the forrester if you get a hitch.

[@judylogan4417]

Yes. I had a2013 and2014. Forester. And a light when you stepped on the gas you had like a. I hesitation a jerk do the 2025 oysters have that still

[@adriellepretre9047]

How is gas mileage in turbo outback? Not económical?

[@Slurpcat1]

Will the 2025 Forester eventually have a Hybrid option similar to the Outback?

[@alexpmo]

@@Slurpcat1 the Forester won’t have a hybrid option until the 2026 model year. The Outback doesn’t currently have a hybrid option but we’re hoping to get that after the Forester hybrid is released. If you meant to say turbo option like the Outback, the Forester isn’t likely to get that either

[@Sir_Lionheart]

I can see most of your videos tend to be associated with the Outback, or Forester, but please can you sometimes do a video, or comparison with the Ascent. I don’t seem to see many of your videos covering the Ascent. I have a 2023 Ascent and I’d like to know how things have changed over the last couple of years with the Ascent. Have there been any noticeable differences lately? Thanks for your channel.

[@gregbishop7206]

I owned a 2019 outback until recently. I've bought a 2025 Outback Premium. I'm noticing when I'm driving at 30 to 45 mph no stress on the engine then apply power there is a definite jolt. My 2019 did not do this. Could I possibly have a transmission issue. About 3800 miles

[@Mogsy28uk]

Outback Touring XT if it was available in UK, currently have '22 Outback Touring just now.

[@kenttu1003]

Forester to me for bigger and higher view.

[@phil9410]

Thanks

[@alexpmo]

You're welcome!

[@charlie3851]

Outback with base engine noticeably slower than the Forester because of extra weight?

[@sebastianrodriguez-b1r]

i got the 2024 outback premium

[@RockDavid2]

Hi Alex, do you have any news about hybrid model of Forest and Outback? When will they be on the market?

[@alexpmo]

@@RockDavid2 not sure on the Outback but the forester hybrid will be here this time next year (summer 2025)

[@RockDavid2]

@@alexpmo Got you. Thank you.

[@randyp9491]

is length or width more important?

[@grumpyoldguy6117]

My spin outback = station wagon forrexter= mini suv.

[@jackenloe9803]

Can you address the problem that Subaru has, 2017-2020, with the battery drain. (StarLink, back hatch). There is a lawsuit against Subaru for the battery drain. Thanks

[@BillaBong1]

I got a question. bought a used 2022 outback on feb 23 2024. battery died today. tried going to subaru dealership where i bought it from guy at the service center says theres no warranty coverage on the battery with the gold coverage whatever it is that i got for the car when i bought it. got home and looked at the battery closer and see a 12/23 circle sticker on it and the subaru 30month free replacement decal. Am i able to show them that to get a free battery replacement?? its hast even been a year yet and the battery pooped out on me.

[@linkedinroses9447]

Hi I don't know how else to leave a message but can you do a video about the nationalwide shortage on subie windshield...ETA is unknown and others before me have been waiting for months....is there a comparable alternative and what do I jeopardize if I go with alternative I'd hate for another peddle to drop 😢 and shatter the glass completely

[@grcigar9911]

Once you drive the turbo, it is hard to go back. I would gladly trade though for a (Toyota) hybrid powertrain…2026??

[@jdobe9461]

I have the 2025 Forester Touring model. My biggest disappointment is that this model doesn't have Home link. This is my third Subaru Forester and they always had home link. Even the dealership was not aware of this. I didn't know until I took the car home and tried to set up the garage door opener. Now I have to use 3 garage and gate openers. With all the crazy stuff they now have in this car they discontinue something as useful as home link.Shame on you Subaru!

[@alexpmo]

Hopefully Subaru will come out with an updated mirror that can retroactively be added. I agree this was an area Subaru fell short!

[@lynchcreekmuzzy5759]

You mean the Touring has No ability to garage door open? I just got a 2025 Forester Sport and mine has what appears to be 3 options. I do have one button synced for my garage, which is a nice option.

[@philsmgb4393]

Homelink is a double edged sword. Park your car outside for some reason and junkies break your window and open your garage. Happened to us.

[@michaelbalding3694]

Are you able to give me/us, some idea of the longevity and maintenance of the CVT unit in the ‘24 Outback XT, when used for occasional towing (1.2 tons), please, as I am waiting on delivery of an Australia-spec Outback Touring XT this month?

[@jamesseabolt5915]

I'm driving my 3rd Subaru Outback 2021 Limited and the lease ends in December. I don't like the looks of the newer Outbacks because of all the black accents they've added. It just looks ugly to me. I've considered going back to the Ascent that I had before this Outback. And of course it's only my opinion, but the Wilderness models with that orange accents is pretty ugly as well. I am a big fan of Subaru's. And I always enjoy your reviews.

[@bkstarkey]

Do me a favor? Send that green outback wilderness to Jersey please?

[@ElizabethKinard-o1k]

Forester definitely. New colors?

[@alexpmo]

25 forester now has the river rock pearl. It’s a new lighter gray color

[@stevenmadrigal5106]

On my 2020 Outback in front of you on top of the dash next to the windshield are 2 orange lights that flash when I’m driving, Why?

[@azlecaazleca-k2w]

Nice

[@MaggieChasse-e3n]

How do you sync garage door opener and a 2024 Subaru Outback Limited to the rear view mirror??

[@alexpmo]

@@MaggieChasse-e3n here you go! Be sure to use your original garage door opener. After market remotes won’t work on the newer model Subarus. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6G6q3uLpdJ9b5osi=t4uNN3BEdQaNHa8L

[@magicman1266]

Outback 💯%

[@geebee7529]

The biggest thing that scares me away from Subaru are the transmissions. I do maintain my vehicles, but not so religiously as to spend tons of money on trans service every few years lest it falls apart.

[@michaelgmarks]

Why don't they put the XT option back in the Forester? Personally, I'll never buy another Subaru without the Turbo engine. It's just drastically underpowered without it. So the Forester can never compete with any Outback XT, thus the Outback XT wins. I also like the longer cargo space and the better roof racks on the Outback. I don't like the lower seating, but it can be overcome by raising the seat. Forester has much better overall visibility. I'm on my 4th Subaru, 1st Outback (due to XT), and love these vehicles.

[@CyberSERT]

Why choose? Get one of each!

[@gordontyler9317]

I would have to pick an Outback XT to get the more powerful engine. My 10 year old Outback is nice, but would be nicer with more power. When will there be hybrid options on the Outback? I see lots of rumors on line but no official announcement

[@InaFromChina]

Thank you for telling us about how the trailer hitch will mean removing the kick sensor 🥲

[@SquallRinoa89]

Honestly, none. With the removal of the XT from Forester, I'll pass. It's honestly one of the reasons I spent 6mo hunting for a 17 Forester XT Touring.

[@KastkingAngler]

and yet they both still have crappy cameras! But I still love our 2025 Outback Touring XT.

[@betterinthe80sdude]

Love my Forester Wilderness, hate my wife's Outback Onyx XT. My Forester is so much smoother, quieter, and has much better visibility. I hate the large screen in her Outback, and that every setting is buried in it. I like the physical buttons in my car and will definitely not be getting a new Forester because of the large screen in them now. The best part about my Forester though is the ergonomics of the doors and seats. I've never gotten in or out of my wife's car without hitting my head on something, and the seats just aren't comfortable for long trips. And there's no difference at all in acceleration between my car and her turbo.

[@ctclardy]

I would go for the 2025 Forester if Subaru offered a turbo-powered version like they do on the Outback. The base engine is too anemic for my taste.

[@alexpmo]

Thankfully we still have the option in the Outback!

[@ctclardy]

@@alexpmo That works if you want an Outback but it doesn't work if you like the Forester more but want a more powerful engine choice.

[@charlie3851]

@@alexpmo I have seen reviews that say that the turbo and cvt do not work together as good as the base engine and cvt.. e

[@judih.8754]

​@@charlie3851 Nave you driven one? I have and it was fine. I opted for the non turbo though as it was peppy enough for what I needed.

[@charlie3851]

@@judih.8754 No, have not driven one.

[@markbloss3702]

Outback wagon

[@nikitayang9920]

Which one has a bigger sunroof? 😊

[@alexpmo]

Forester! It has the panoramic sunroof on all but the base trim!

[@1949rgs]

For me it's quite simple. The lack of a turbo option on the Forester is a deal breaker. Our 2023 Outback XT is great, and I love my 2020 WRX, which is my 5th WRX . For a car guy, 180 HP in cars this large is just not adequate.

[@mpepperable]

We really like our 2024 Outback Touring XT ! Still trying to get use to motor 😮 negatives are road noise and instrument panel is terrible! So slow and while talking to someone I lose Apple car play connection and it’s not my phone !! One more thing about how slow it is ,as you are going down the road after leaving house , it takes awhile before Sirius radio comes on ! Very big negative 😮