Subaru Outback vs. Forester: Which Should You Buy??

[@mk14617]

Honest and not dealer propaganda. Well done.

[@kevintoth5365]

Yeah the sun is coming out it's a beautiful day. :)

[@mikebri5274]

As a past owner of a 2003 Forester and (along with my daughter) a current owner of a 2008 Outback, 2015 Forester, and 2017 Forester, we think the Forester is a little more efficient in terms of cargo space and utilization.

[@gregoryfox7551]

Insurance is less expensive for the outback since it’s considered a station wagon while the Forester is a SUV. Something to think about....

[@jeffghant4760]

That's literally the biggest concern of mine and I want the Forester. Thanks for the bad news.

[@thecabin3995]

Good to know. I didn’t think about that

[@americanhornet4679]

Actually depends on ‘safety features’ regarding ‘your insurance’. I’m in Northeast, we saved ‘same amount’ on Outback, Forester. I own New Forester trim level ‘Limited’, which has ‘more safety features’. So look into the upper trims (Limited, Touring) check with your insurance before purchase.

[@McFartsnatcher]

Definitely... I live in the PNW and I got insurance quotes for both the Forester and the Outback (same year each), and the Outback was by far the cheaper insurance rate. I was able to get my newer model Outback fully covered through State Farm for $78 a month. Something to definitely think about... Like the above comment, this may also be different in some areas.

[@jeffghant4760]

@@McFartsnatcher I have a new 2021 forester and a 2003 camry. My combined 6month premium is less than $500 in nj. Do you pay monthly or every 6mos? I also set a high deductible.

[@chippsdubbo89]

Been selling Subies for over 6 years. This video represents my life eerily accurately. Thanks.

[@CarDietrich]

Let me know if you can identify with the intro of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aImQf4OsZtl7ick

[@reneeparker7475]

I have a 2015 Forester Touring, with all the bells and whistles. I could not be happier.

[@333AppalachiaEnergetics]

Have the same & love it.

[@quantumfzx]

Forester all day. I've driven both cars. Even with the turbo in the Outback XT ... I still choose the Forester. The forester feels more spacious and I love the interface of the dashboard better. The full touch screen interface in the outback is invasive IMO and also the roof feels too close to my head so I get a sense of claustrophobia. The Forester has a proper amount of space that feels nice and better vision. Wish they would have put the turbo in the Forester rather then the Outback.

[@ehgiteb9116]

I found 2019 a Forester XT from 2017 brandnew, was a showcar in an other country. For me the perfect mix of sleeping space, cargo room and fun of power. Just love it. 😁

[@BeardedRascel]

I think there was an obvious difference in the first shot of the cars. I was interested in the Outback, and compared the Forester, but was leaning to the Outback. Took a test drive, and was ready, but I decided to test drive the Forester just to make sure. The windows are much bigger. Sightlines are much better in the forester. Also the ease of getting in, for an older man like me, the Forester was a better choice. If I liked the low cars I might think different. Both are great cars, but I agree that the Forester matches me better.

[@adso5555555]

Glad somebody else has mentioned the Sightlines! I have been road-testing all the 2021 SUV's, and none of them have the vision of a Forester... i.e. parking, blind-spots, seeing objects behind you.. I wonder if modern drivers are watching the camera instead of turning their head? You cant do both, so I'm not sure what the future is exactly. I will say my 2011 Forester is substantially better again than the 2021 model, the cars are longer/wider and slightly higher door frames, but its still much better than its SUV competitors.

[@xlprincess123567]

I just got my 2020 Forester 2020 touring the other day I absolutely love it. I am obsessed.

[@SilverScarletSpider]

Rear seat vents are important, hope Outback adds them in soon. Ventilated seats are nice, would be a great option on Forester

[@winstonsmith1032]

If you are a serious outdoors person (hiking/climbing/camping, etc.) there is a critical difference you did not mention: the distance between the back of the front seats (slid all the way forward and tilted all the way toward the dash) and the inside of the tailgate. This determines how useful it is to sleep in (rear seats folded down, of course). Who would sleep in their Subaru? ME! If you haven't resorted to sleeping in your car you probably don't do a lot of camping (50 mph wind and hail, anyone?). Take it from me, the Outback makes a far better shelter when things get really nasty.

[@CarDietrich]

Good point I did forget to mention that, and I assure you that you are not the only Subaru owner who sleeps in their car during outdoor excursions.

[@williamseay7983]

So can you sleep well In it ?

[@CarDietrich]

Well I've never tried, I'm not much of a camper, but I'm 6'5" so its a little short for me. If you want to see the full cargo measurements of the 2020 Outback you can watch this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4XFq5mZhMmGi8k

[@winstonsmith1032]

william seay I can, but I'm only 5'9". That being said, trying to set up a tent in 40 mph wind or trying to sleep on the ground when the temp. is 15 degrees F is probably worse than bending yourself a little bit in the relative comfort of the Sube. Besides, if you have climbed a 3,000 foot peak that day you're likely to be able to sleep anywhere!

[@troutstalker4744]

You are definitely not the only one. My camp buddies always make fun of me when I sleep in my 2003 legacy gt wagon while camping. Lol..luv it. I now own a 2020 onyx xt.

[@matthewrobinson4323]

When we lived in San Diego, I sold cars for about 4 years (1985-1989), and based on my experience, you sir, are truly an excellent car salesman! I mean that sincerely. I'm seriously considering a Forester for my next car, if I ever wear out my Trailblazer or my wife's Ranier.

[@CarDietrich]

Thank you for your kind words and for watching my video!

[@jpshipwash6240]

This is about the best comparisons I've seen.

[@michaelbuske7072]

I owned a 17 Outback Limited 6cyl; one of my favorite cars I’ve owned. I loved the power! I’m 6’3” and 70 years old. Every time I sat in a new Forester, I realized how much easier it was for me to get in and out of (height and age). Also great visibility. I now have a 2020 Forester Touring, which was a good choice for me. They are both great cars; can’t go wrong with either.

[@vanvuite7307]

Due to accident I had to replace my Forester with CX-7, even after 3 months of having it, I still bump my head on my door, I missed my Forester, and now I am planning to buy it.

[@tagheuer001]

I'm six two and never thought of that. Great point!

[@justabrake]

I drove a loaner forester and it has a nice suspension really enjoyed the ride

[@buckdude181]

Currently driving a Manual trans. Forester. A/T tires and roof basket. Lol. I love it !

[@ofcbob6391]

I looked at both, the HUGE infotainment screen (dust collector) killed it for me. I'm old school and like knobs and switches, not having to go into a touchscreen to do things.

[@CarDietrich]

Yeahhh, I feel like people aren't reacting quite as well to the giant screen as Subaru had hoped

[@mrjjthor]

Same. Saw the big screen and I'm like nope. Would rather have the smaller screen.

[@JimmyG3237]

I have to agree with you. When you just get inside and see a big dark blank screen it just does not look appealing at all.

[@OnPatrolFan]

They made an update though that fixes the apple car play so it takes up more of the screen real estate was the one caveat so im saving and probably buying a onyx xt subaru outback next july

[@eggplant2369]

This one one of the reasons I bought a Forester over an Outback

[@dylanmark1357]

One look at the side profile is all you need to see. The windows on the Forester are huge and visibility is amazing. Being able to see well is the greatest safety feature on a vehicle. Forester for me.

[@pedroc6823]

I moved to Texas with a stunning Audi A6 T. First month bad rain storm got totaled. I did not want a truck as many of my new friends suggested. Coming from MA Foresters and Outbacks are every where. So gave the Forester a shot. Found a mint Forester Touring in mint certified condition. Gave it a shot. The power is down compared to my Audi and previous Lexus RX350. But I am very pleased with it. The interior is so bright you can see everything. Love the pano and it’s about the right size. I am slowly adjusting to less power but it’s plenty for what it’s intended. I hope in the future they drop the 2.4 T into the forester. I now understand why so many enjoy their Subaru’s I truly enjoy mine.

[@jacksan1]

We have owned an '01 Forester, '13 Outback, and '18 Impreza. We like them all, but if compared with the other two, the Outback feels like a ship. If we were buying right now, we would go for the Forester. But there is no mistake in buying an Outback, either.

[@Nyckaka]

Wow lot of cars. I have the same out back my parents used it’s a 3 generation hand me down. 1 out back 15 years of history still strong.

[@harrisond8132]

Not weird to me that the Forester is now the better seller. I had a 2007 Outback that I absolutely loved. The newer ones are just too big. I switched to Forester.

[@elevatorproductionsbymaxpassa]

We have a 2014 Subaru Forester in black. We really like it!!!

[@AndyTK421]

If Subaru put the new thigh extender driver's seat available in the top of the line Outback in the Forester, that would be awesome. It really helps us taller drivers.

[@LindaEEaton]

I totally agree! The major thing I don't like is how the seat cuts into my thighs. I traded my Toyota Highlander in for my Subaru Forester, and that's the one thing I didn't realize the Forester didn't have. The other thing I don't like is the placement of the cup holders...they need to be in front of the gearshifter. Too may times I'm getting my cups stuck on the lip of the center console. Bad placement for those.

[@americanhornet4679]

@@LindaEEaton I must be 'odd one' here although I know literally 500 folks that love 2020 Forester...Limited trim as my recent buy last summer. If cup holders were in front of 'shift' I'd be hitting shift 'reaching for my cup' although my driver seat 'not close to dash'. Thighs cutting in? I've never had that problem, seats are 'wonderful' at least this trim. I'm not an 'oversize' person so I had no 'seats cutting into me issues. Also New SUV Forester maneuvers better than Outback, yet seems roomier inside.

[@tinabridgemohan8160]

I totally agree I am 610 and I had a 2001 went to a 2011 in the seats are shorter

[@tinabridgemohan8160]

6 foot 1

[@johnsimon4662]

I loved your video on the Outback - Forester comparison. I went from a 2014 Base Model Forester, that I bought in 2017 with only 17,500 miles, sold it with 87,500, and loved it. I agree, it seems sportier to me, as well and actually, I feel better connected to the road than I have felt in a long time. I went from a 2004 Audi A6 to the Forester and always wondered if the Outback was a better fit. I arrived at your same conclusion and just purchased a 2018 Premium Forester with 17,500 miles. I appreciate the upgrades, i.e. Adjustable Rear View Mirror, heated Side Mirrors, and WOW at the Back-up Camera. Thank you for the thoughtful video. John

[@allankawakami]

Well done! I just purchased a forester and not one sales person was able to explain what you spoke about in the video.

[@caseyreed5231]

We own both. Towing in the forester 1500lbs outback 2700lbs the forester is faster and more of a street vehicle but the outback is more capable off-road. Not to say foresters can’t go for an adventure that’s just what I noticed as differences. I absolutely love and recommend both I have a 2019 outback my mom has a 2020 forester and my wife has a 2020 accent. We are all supper pleased. Subaru is the new Toyota haha jk, however they did work together for the Brz.

[@richardban4181]

thank you. you have helped me choose the Forester after going back and forth for days.

[@CarDietrich]

Glad I could help!

[@mattcrumrine618]

Great video. I previously drove a 2011 Outback and now have a 2019 Forester Premium. I agree with all your points on driving impressions and agility. As this is a comfort car I am most likely going back to Outback when my lease is up but I would go Forester again if they offered a hybrid version and the Outback didn’t. I also love the panoramic moonroof in the Forester and would love to see it in Outback even if it was fixed and didn’t open (like a Tesla one). Thanks for your videos!

[@CarDietrich]

My pleasure thank you so much for watching!

[@kevtop351]

Forester is the best.

[@roselucht4583]

We love our Forester it has all the bells and whistles, and I love how much higher the roof is, also the train is higher off the ground. It’s pure luxury !

[@imrichbtch1995]

Lift kits solves clearance

[@buqwik525]

The Outback is very comfortable and more room for rear passengers. I would buy another Outback in a heartbeat. Thanx for your comparison between the Forester & Outback

[@user-rc2ym5tr3v]

I agree that the main difference is the luxury feel of the Outback. I was surprised at how loud the Forester road compared to the Outback. It would be interesting to see a high-end trim level for the Forester that provides the luxury aspects-acoustics, smooth ride, smooth touch points-of the Outback.

[@ehgiteb9116]

I found 2019 a Forester XT with 241hp Version 4 from 2017 brandnew, was a showcar in an other country. For me the perfect mix of sleeping space, cargo room and fun of power. Easy to park because of the size and very cool to be fast very quick and the big sunroove is really nice. Just love it. Sorry, it's not my mother tongue. 😁

[@juliecats812]

Nice video! Also, you forgot to mention that the Forester is made in Japan while the Outback in Lafayette, Indiana. Cars built in Japan have a tendency to be more reliable.

[@americanhornet4679]

Actually Your Correct! Maybe that’s why my previous Foresters lasted at least 200,000k. Without high maintenance costs (via Dealership, bought New).

[@pureted]

Outback is simply the perfect.

[@Greiger10]

I went from a 2002 Chevy Trailblazer LTZ (fully loaded & upgraded) to a 2012 Subaru Outback 3.6r Limited (fully loaded). I am not dissapointed, I enjoy the AWD.

[@CarDietrich]

Enjoy your Subaru! 3.6R is a great engine

[@jeffbeaudoin4544]

Just bought a 2022 Outback Premier. It feels luxurious. The big screen is growing on me.

[@RCGJR_]

“ I don’t have the key, that’s why *HA* “ Made my depressed quarantine day. ♥️💪

[@CarDietrich]

Glad to be of service! We all need little things to lift our spirits right now

[@sungwlee86]

2020 outback touring xt here. so in love.

[@tripeee58]

Thank you for an amazing presentation! Concise, info packed & extremely helpful. Full of thought evoking considerations & comparisons. Not to mention an authoritative yet friendly voice. U knocked this one out of the park! Problem solved, decision made! Thx again!

[@Billybobthor]

I love my 2020 Subaru Outback premium. It’s been a dependable car and with Blizzak tires unstoppable in the snow this winter. The downsides to me are no hard buttons for the heated seats, auto vehicle hold, and turning off the auto stop start. I have to push so many buttons every time I start the car!

[@obed3115]

Facts. I got the 2021 limited and i love it but I wish that had it to once you set the setting you want it should stay that way

[@R2D2trashcan]

I was surprised how different the forester feels inside as opposed to the outback. The forester really feels like a more basic utilitarian vehicle whereas the outback feels to me much more like a regular car. It’s funny though I much prefer the outback, two women I spoke to said they prefer the forester as it’s higher and “easier to drive”.

[@losusmil]

2012 outback base model owner with 114k miles on it and still love it. Will be upgrading to a new one in a couple years but will go with the premium for more lux and power.

[@gattifan609]

Outback is a LEGEND!!!

[@TonyMureithi]

Outback is the REAL DEAL...

[@pilkjaer]

Thank you! Finally someone did a proper and clear explanation! If I lived in US I would probably buy a car from you.

[@marounelhajj2668]

Buy the forester guys you will love it more than the outback

[@michaeljablonsmi4686]

Great info. Right to the point, no babble. thank you

[@americanhornet4679]

Always liked your videos! I ‘learned more’ about ‘tech buttons’ a year ago in Forester, thanks to you. Actually Forester is a small SUV, my auto insurance dropped when I purchased ‘limited’ trim . Previously owned almost 17years...Forester (bought New). Although now small SUV Forester (check your New Car auto sticker readout on window) is labeled as a ‘truck’. Love This Forester!

[@CarDietrich]

Thank you for watching William!

[@Doc1855]

We Love our Outback. It’s actually my wife’s commuter car and our road car. We needed to replace our 18 year old Camry and a car with AWD or a 4X4, bc we get 5-6 ft of snow every winter. We looked at the Toyota Venza & Rav AWD hybrid. The rear visibility on both were horrible. We called our insurance company to see how much more would our premiums would be for the Venza which was $1K more a year. The Rav was $700 more each year. We then asked about the Outback and it was only $300 more a year. We donated our Camry to our church & bought the Outback. Once we dropped the insurance on the Camry and added the Outback our insurance actually dropped by $100 a year. Our other car is a 11 Rav 4WD Limited with a 3.5 V6. I must admit that the Subaru is far superior in all driving conditions over our (my) Rav. We’ve had the Outback for almost a year now and have been to ID twice and MT twice. We have to go to Seattle twice a year for my dad’s Dr visits. We’ve never had a problem going over the mtn passes to Seattle, which is about a 3 hour drive. Our Outback is only the 2.5 naturally aspirated engine so it’s barely adequate in acceleration. When my Rav wears out, we’ll replace it with an Outback XT or if the Forester gets a turbo, I’ll get it instead.

[@Tom-ej8bb]

Tremendous job!!!! I wanted to know the diffs too and u explained options and packages very well!!!!

[@jessicahill2979]

I just got into a 2018 premium outback and I love it. I just got out of a 2016 Chrysler 200. I wouldn't go back to a car after getting into this vehicle.

[@CarDietrich]

Congrats on your new Subaru!

[@Slappywag69]

Just faced this dilemma myself, came in to look at foresters, left with a 2020 outback. Both are great cars, but I chose the outback for several reasons. Based on the available financing offers, the outback came out really close on the trim levels i was considering...difference that I’d pay in Forester/Outback premium trims was negligible. Also, the Outback interior just seemed a little more refined...I was ok in the Forester front seats, but the back seats are truly awful in my opinion...I felt like I was sliding forward in the upright position. I sit very upright, so I’m a bit out of the norm, so a lot of folks would probably find the seats in the forester just fine.

[@CarDietrich]

It's funny you should say this, because over the years when somebody comes in for one of these models and switches to the other, they came in for a Forester and left with an Outback. The seats are often a reason for this. Personally I am comfortable in both but different strokes and all that. Enjoy your Outback!

[@Slappywag69]

hardworkrr12 on cars thanks! Coming from a Honda Element, The Forester was a natural choice on my list, but in a way they were a little too much alike...after driving the Element for the better part of 15 years, I was ready for some a little different...the Outback retains enough of the functionality I loved in the Element, but feels much more like a “real” car for a daily driver and to take a while family on long road trips!

[@willrobinson4089]

We have a poverty pack 2020 Outback (Aussie version) and we could not be happier with it. We test drove a few other SUVs around the same price bracket and the Outback was an absolute standout. The Outback came with a few less bells and whistles, but for driveability and comfort it was easily the best.

[@CarDietrich]

Thank you for watching from Down Under! I'm glad you are happy with your Subaru

[@goranghair5704]

What did you choose, sport or touring?

[@jamespostle6894]

To me the outback just screams adventure mobile and has a bit more character in my opinion. I also like the space and extra comfort you get from the longer wheelbase

[@islandgirl5382]

Very great video. I have decided on the Forester, liking the wider sunroof and the height difference. Thanks for showing the difference with the 2 , one behind the other .

[@CarDietrich]

Glad it was helpful!

[@whitneydesignlabs8738]

Love my '06 Outback XT. Just got my wife an '02 Forester. Both great cars.

[@DAlexKablack]

my girlfriend has a forester, I drove a Outback for about a week but after coming from Honda Civics and Honda Fits, decided on a Crosstrek. Just handles better, its a bit smaller and has better geometry for mountain roads / trails

[@lawrencelawrence3920]

A selling point for me is if the front passenger seat could fold down flat like in the Toyota Matrix. It sure is handy when carrying lumber or to sleep in when camping. Unfortunately no one makes these anymore, as far as I know. Pity.

[@sejas19]

Just retired my 2002 subaru outback shortly after joining the 300k original mile club!

[@CarDietrich]

Great Job Sarah!

[@SnCroadster]

I like that the outback is better for sleeping and camping out of it and I wanted to love it but the Forester like you said drives way better and easier. Just a better feel with the forester. I wish Subaru made a small truck about the size of the forester. I would definitely be a buyer.

[@christianj252]

I've driven a previous-gen Forester and a current-gen Outback. Both with base engines. The Outback feels like a lumbering submarine compared to the very punchy and responsive Forester. Driving it is like sitting in a fishbowl sportscar. Sounds nice as well. If you want to pass on the freeway, have fun flooring it in the Outback and relying on momentum. It was so slow above 60 mph. I think I may be more used to having more action in the cabin in cheaper cars.

[@Level-333]

Love the blank buttons to remind you that you can’t afford the upper trim.

[@etothej]

The 11.6" screen is nice but the backup camera screen on these is super tiny!! Test drove a 2021 Outback Limited yesterday and was shocked by how small it was.

[@rezjrprod]

I love the turning radius with my forester.. If your in a tight situation on a dirt road is easier to turn around.. Parking in LA is easier with the forester too

[@johnl.8616]

The Forester has a larger sunroof than the outback. The outback has a lesser selection of x mode unless you get the Onyx outback than the forester. I am starting to think the forester is a better selection.

[@amogh2101]

Love the video. I wanted to know about the reliability and problems with each. I've heard that 4th and 5th gen outbacks have a lot of problems.

[@CarDietrich]

As a rule of thumb, the Foresters are more reliable (they're still built in Japan). If you're looking at used cars, focus on the individual car. A well-maintained Outback will do better than a neglected Forester. If you're buying new, get whichever one you like best and do all the factory scheduled maintenance on it when you're supposed to and you'll probably be fine.

[@joweemac]

Thank for the comparison ..... I've often wondered myself (Outback owner 10years)

[@CarDietrich]

You're welcome!

[@cruiseadmiral]

Outback or Forester has never been a question for me. I have bought Outback recently. The options to choose from were CR-V, Rav4, CX-5, Santa Fe. I have never considered Forester as an option. I am not completely satisfied with my Outback but it has character that Forester does not. I can close my eyes to inadequate engine & CVT because Outback is kind of a "special" car. If not the Outback, after weighing all pros and cons, I would probably go with Santa Fe or Rav4. Note: towing capacity is the same for both cars (1,500 lbs ) for 2.5L engine.

[@AmmaLove24]

Just because someone didn't have a luxury car previously doesn't mean they don't want a more luxury feel now. Point them towards both! I came from a tiny hatchback Yaris that didnt even have power windows or locks for the last 14 years, and I love my new Outback Limited!

[@kevinglainez8151]

Money is the key

[@saadalenazi]

Never knew this before, thanks for the explanation 👍.

[@Madman6505]

Really helpful information!

[@davidk4682]

Excellent review. Great job.

[@CarDietrich]

Thank you very much!

[@rogerthat24]

My hair was brushing against the headliner in the new Outback even with the seat at its lowest position. Forester has plenty of headroom.

[@CarDietrich]

You must be a tall person and/or have huge hair!

[@johnl.8616]

@@CarDietrich 80's hair.

[@williamstevenson8518]

I've spent a lot of time deliberating between these two models, reading, watching videos, going on multiple test drives, and ultimately I've decided I like the Forester better. The Outback tows more and gets more driving range. But I think the Forester is a more comfortable vehicle to drive. And, the Outback demands much more of an investment in touchscreen technology for necessary vehicle controls.

[@gregherman4691]

I purchased a new Outback in 2017. It had RAB and many other electrical problems from the start. I had it in the shop 10 times for repair. towed to the dealer no less than 4 times. Went a total of 42 days without my car. It was a Lemon. Even the district service manager told me to contact Subaru Customer service to get a full refund, as they could not figure out what is wrong with the car. After months of being given the run around, Subaru customer service did not refund my money as they should have. Major problem with the dealer, they do not give you any paperwork, to prove you were there in the first year, they delete the PC history, (destroy the evidence). I traded my car in, still under warranty, still not fixed. I lost over $14,000 . Fair warning to everyone, Subaru does not stand behind the customer. Subaru knows I was treated wrong, but refuse to do what is right. Subaru has had plenty of time to investigate my Lemon of a car, and make good, they have refused.

[@amdreym]

Hi, maybe you not try hard enough to get your $$$ back. Any dealership like that and it's can happen with any brand. Just next time never give up, and try hard enough to get your money back or new car.

[@tpolerex7282]

Greg will cut and paste this comment wherever he sees a Subaru video.

[@gregherman4691]

@@tpolerex7282 so, your saying, you would not want to be warned of a dishonest car company ? Your the first, most everyone else is glad to be warned.

[@Greiger10]

I bought a 2012 Outback 3.6r limited over 7 months ago now. I have done ZERO maintenance on it and have had ZERO issues. It has nearly 130k miles on it and runs great. You just got unlucky and got a lemon.

[@spol1622]

Why didn't you keep all the papers after the dealer repaired your car? I have never been at any dealership where they did not give me a paper. The only time I did not get any paper receipt was when the dealer refused to do the work...they actually refuse to take a ride to see what the problem was...

[@galantsoldier9258]

Wow, a honest dealer, thankyou

[@rightnearthebeach]

2:01 I'm driving an outback, sir

[@benjaminallen2370]

V good analysis. We have both, albeit different ages- 19 Forester and 11 OB. OB quite a bit more ride quality and space for not slot more money (always figured 3k diff, surprised its now ~2k per this vid).

[@jp93309]

Super informative. Thanks for posting!

[@legend22]

Outback drives great.. Outback 2022 owner

[@biagiocozza8875]

Great video. I still love my Outback, it is simply Awesome.

[@Subie-Driver]

We have an ‘11 outback with 219,000 km on it...’18 crosstrek with 50,000km on it. Not ready to give up the OB yet. Won’t do the forester though. OB is a nicer vehicle

[@JT-ol5xo]

I love my 2020 Outback Touring XT. I bought the Touring because I wanted the upgraded stereo plus the front camera, as well as the Nappa leather. I haven't had any issues or regrets.

[@gommett]

Outback for Family, And Forester for slippery roads.

[@michaelcoll433]

When I got my 2014 outback, it had greater towing 3k+ vs less than 2k for the Forester. 0% financing sold me on the outback. The price was only $1000 different.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

When you reviewed the Outback and you measured the length of the cargo area with the back seats down you measured from the back of the cargo area to the top of the back seats laying down. With the measurement of the Forester you measured from the back of the cargo area to the back of the front seats, which is of course different. Was wondering what the length of the cargo area is of the Outback from the back of the cargo area to the back of the front seats with the front seats in about the middle of their track. Thank you for your detailed reviews.

[@CarDietrich]

You, my friend, are a dedicated viewer of my videos and I appreciate that. Luckily you caught me when I was at the LA Auto show and one of the helpful people at the Subaru booth had a tape measure. From the top of the back seat to the rear of the cargo area with the back seat folded down the Forester has 60" (5 feet) of space

[@mickeybrumfield764]

@@CarDietrich My good man thank you for your much quicker than expected response but the info I was interested in is the info you normally provide in your videos on cargo space length from the back of the "front" seat when it positioned about in the middle of its track to the back of the cargo area on the "Outback". On your video review of the Outback you measured from the top of the 2nd row seat laying down to the back of the cargo area but the info I could use is the measurement from the back of the front seat on the Outback. In some specs on the Outback I have seen it measured at 70 inches to the back of the cargo area but I don't know about where the front seat is positioned on its track with that measurement. In your videos with the measurement you usually say it is positioned about in the middle. I own a 2016 Forester and am considering an Outback is the reason I am curious. I do have another question you may know since you used to sell Subarus, is there a way of getting either the Outback or the Ascent in the "base" trim with tinted windows the way all the others trims come. I would be happy with the base trims and what they offer if they just had tinted windows, but feel $2,000 or $3,000 to step up to the premium trim is a bit too much for tinted windows. Thank you for your well done videos I get a lot out of them.

[@CarDietrich]

Lol sorry I misunderstood your question, add four or five inches to the measurements I guess for your purposes. Easiest way to get tint on a base model is to just get aftermarket tint put on the windows. I have tinted the windows on all my Subarus. If you want the factory look go for 35% (medium) on all the rear glass. And of course you can get darker or lighter if you'd prefer that. Thanks again for watching!

[@mickeybrumfield764]

@@CarDietrich Thank you

[@johnhenry363]

Thanks, useful information delivered in an excellent manner.

[@CarDietrich]

You're welcome, thank you for watching!

[@hphillips7425]

Good video. We have a forester on the way. The outback is to large for my uses

[@wandastagg7929]

I have a real problem. I've had 3 vans and 3 suburban. I have a suburban now and love it. I'm 80 years and I love to drive but it's getting harder and harder to step up to get in. I have a runner to step up on but it's still hard to pull myself up. I love the big seats, don't need or want and sun roof. No little kids so I don't game stations. Love setting up high off the ground but if it's too high I would have the same problem getting in. The bigger seats are really important to me. Hate bucket seats. I don't need all the electronics on the console. I have GPS on my phone. Love pretty wheels. Not going to be traveling that much. Like to have leg room. Heat for the the back seats if needed.safe vehicle. Don't like Fords! I'm for comfort and not a lot of noise. As you can see I love my suburban! Please answer this email. Thank you

[@CarDietrich]

The Forester is probably the right car for you, it rides a little higher than the Outback, but not as high as your Suburban so it will be easier to get in and out of. The visibility is also excellent in Forester. Unfortunately there will be a few things you're going to have to compromise on with any new car. You're going to get bucket seats these days pretty much no matter what unless you buy a pickup truck. All new cars are going to have some level of technology that probably is not in your current Suburban, that is just part of the deal these days for better or worse. In the case of Forester, to get some of the factory options you might want (fancier wheels, rear air) it's going to come with a moon roof too, that's just how they build them. But there are advantages to these compromises as well: new cars are safer than they have ever been if you get in a crash, and if you get a new Subaru there's lots of technology in there that can prevent a crash before it even happens. It will also be more comfortable than your current car, save gas, and you might actually like some of the new toys! I would tell you to check out a Forester Sport or Limited model, they both come with nice wheels and rear air. See what you think!

[@Skunked68]

We’ve owned about 6 Suubies over the last 28 years. Call ‘Em Super-Boobs. U-R-A-Bus backwards. Good miles with all of them. Few troubles. Gravel road and deep snow is main reason why. First CVTs (2010/2012) without simulated shift points, rubber band like, droning up and down, I cannot recommend. But newer CVT’s are very much improved. Ride quality, I would like a smoother ride over rough roads. Only the 2010/2011 Outback had that "just right" ride quality, otherwise the design engineers keep tending towards faster corners and then the bumps hit the spine harder. I’m too old for that. Give me a Buick ride, or 2007-2011 Camry ride for 90% of the time and to heck with flying around corners 10% of the time. 40 more hp would always be nice. Not sure willing to pay for turbo nor 6 cyl, tho. Then loss of economy. That’s one thing to say for CVT, economy jumped up average 4 or 5 mpgs right away with CVT. I think from lighter weight and far fewer moving parts, a guess.

[@m3rdpwr]

If they put the turbo in the Forester, and some of the upgraded features of the Outback, I would probably get the Forester. I personally prefer to sit up higher since I'm used to driving a truck. So I am stuck between deciding between those two.

[@CarDietrich]

Outback Wilderness.

[@m3rdpwr]

@@CarDietrich I thought the Outback Touring XT was going to have more options than the Wilderness, no? I didn't think the seating was any higher in the wilderness. Since I've waited this long, I figure I can start looking at the 2023 Outback which has some upgraded features, based on things I've read so far . I assume the worst gas mileage of the wilderness, comes from different gearing I can assume. I'm also a big fan of ventilated seats. I do think the Wilderness black rims look better. Thanks for responding,

[@CarDietrich]

Touring has the most features out of any of the Outback models, it certainly feels the most luxurious. I suggested the Wilderness because it rides a little higher than the typical Outback and it has the turbo engine. The fuel economy does suffer from the gearing and the ride height. There are various aftermarket lift kits for Outbacks, so if you have your heart set on the features and engine of the Touring it is possible to lift it an inch or two after you buy it.

[@mikeb5926]

Nice comparison -- much appreciated!

[@CarDietrich]

Thanks for watching!

[@TBoss3313]

I would like to see a comparison between the Forrester, the Outback, and the Crosstrek please.

[@ericr2zz]

hate my 2016 2.5 Premium Forester. Quality and ergonomics aren't the same as Toyota or Honda SUV. Configuring the dash panel is very confusing. There is good cargo space and I like the Eyesight technology, but the 2016 Forester has a "jackrabbit" start when engine is cold which is VERY ANNOYING- just barely touch the gas pedal and the car takes off. There is no way to tie down the back trunk if trunk has to be open when carrying cargo. the gas mileage is fair (28ish overall). No light in the trunk cargo space. Easy to change Oil with very easy access to oil filter, but the spark plugs are very difficult to access. Rear view camera is crap and low quality, especially at night. The one great feature on the Forester is the large glass windshield. This will probably be my last Subaru. Going back to Toyota Rav4 or Honda CRV.

[@tonysmith7665]

Love the ride of the 2020 Forester but the wind noise in that nice $$$ a car was a deal killer.

[@CarDietrich]

Wind noise? LOL you should drive a 2006 Forester sometime.

[@danoneill2846]

@2:00 what .. ? NO wrong Question . I drive a dump truck or a crew cab silverado .... has zero to do with what I want as a CAR now I have a 2018 SS Camaro .

[@deandarvin553]

I've owned a forester for nearly a decade, I've convinced two friends and my mom to each purchase one. Two still drive theirs. The other walked away from getting T-boned by a semi. I've done countless mountain trips, two cross-country trips, forded (small) rivers, drove dunes, and climbed trails I had absolutely no business being on. The 3rd Gen has amazing rear-visibility for it cars of its age and the only time I've had to call road service is when I forget to turn a ceiling lamp off. I've lived in two cities and the car is just as comfortable in urban traffic (and compact parking spaces) as it is out on trails, desert, snow or mud. Amazing car. Still a mark of pride to take the car out for business fresh from camping, still caked in mud. Hoping to drive it till it dies, but looking at an Outback for the family. Only downside is a truly disappointing 4-speed auto transmission. Wishing I had gone with the manual. But that's about it. It get's the job done with great low-end power, but the car simply does not want to go faster than 75mph.

[@rc2257]

It's not a fair comparison to pit the Forester Premium (second lowest trim level) against the Subaru Touring (highest trim level). I have a 2020 Forester Touring and it has a lot of luxury features the Premium doesn't have. Rear seat warmers, rich warm leather seats like in the Outback Touring, heated steering wheel, and many, many others. The Forester Touring's touch screen display isn't as big as the Outback Touring display, but it's bigger than the one you show in your Premium Forester and plenty big for most anyone's needs. Additionally, because the Forester and Outback each have the same 182hp engine but the Forester is lighter, it has better acceleration than the Outback. Before I got my Forester, I owned an Outback and always noticed and regretted its weak acceleration. The Outback and Forester are both great cars, and you're doing a service by helping people figure out which of them is the best fit for their preferences and needs.

[@toddkestner3742]

Great comparison video!

[@CarDietrich]

Thank you for watching!

[@dlg5485]

I am currently deciding between these 2 models. It's either going to be a Forester Sport or Outback Onyx XT. Pretty much the only reason I'm considering the Outback is for the turbo engine. The additional space and creature comforts it offers would be nice, but I don't really need it. I too prefer the smaller footprint and sporty feel of the Forester, not to mention that it's nearly over $5000 less than the Onyx XT. Even a loaded Forester Touring would be $3000 less than the Outback. Damn you Subaru for pulling the Forester XT!

[@jennymao29]

Wow I love your comparison 👍👍😊