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.
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.
@@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.
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.
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.
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. 😁
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.
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.
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.
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: th-cam.com/video/aTbzfcOdSUg/w-d-xo.html
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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”.
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
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.
The rear air vents really need to be in the roof in the back seats. Especially if you have babies in car seats. Not having any rear vents is unacceptable in 2020.
Many cars for years have discretely piped them in the floor under the front seats. My '91 maxima, '01 itrepid, '13,'16 outback have hole in carpet. They just didn't have in back of console.
80srockerable Yes, this works for heat, but not so awesome for A/C. I have a 2017 Golf Sportwagen, which is an economy car and way cheaper than the Outback, and it has A/C vents in the rear part of the console.
80srockerable P.S. I had a ‘92 Maxima...that was an awesome car!! That V6 engine was so smooth. This is another thing that bothers me about Subaru...they stick a 4 cylinder in every car they make.
@@howtobeatadrum Yes Maxima was a neat car for its time. I was always a honda guy before it. I recall it seemed to dry my eyes out on long drives. Seemed to always push air through defrost no matter which position selected on hvac. Yes, I'm afraid the decline of v6 is due to fuel economy goals. Honda doing in Accord. Some full size trucks even going 4. I really have no complaints in the 4 in my current '16 OB though. It seems peppy and speeds with ease. Almost 100k on. My '13 did use oil. '16 does not. But now I read where new OB throttle response is softer. Mine is super sensetive. They constantly tweak electroncis.
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.
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.
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.
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
I have a 11 Rav 4WD Limited with a 269hp 3.5 V6 and I raced an Outback XT. I was surprised but my Rav ran off and left the Subaru and my Rav gets better mpg than Subie’s turbo 4cyl.
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. 😁
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.
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.
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.
@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 .
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 !
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.
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!
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!
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.
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
i have owned 2 legacies (still have one) and one forester i will not buy another subaru till they get rid of the cvt, also they have got too heavy, too large and too much electronics but the cvt is why i will not update my current one
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
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
The CVT on the high output motors (Outback XT, Ascent, WRX Automatic, the old 3.6R's, etc) are what Subaru calls the "High Torque" CVTs. They use different drive ratios and actually require different trans fluid as well. Thanks for watching glad you enjoyed it!
Honest and not dealer propaganda. Well done.
Yeah the sun is coming out it's a beautiful day. :)
Outback is a LEGEND!!!
Drove em both. Hated the Outback infotainment screen, and it feels claustrophobic compared to Forester. Forester much easier to see out of!
Can anyone explain why the forester doesn’t tow as much as the outback?
Outback has a more powerful engine
Only thing I can attribute it to is that the Outback has slightly larger brakes.
Different CVT?
@@therealnoodles7638 Not the standard engine. Both 2.5 non turbo
Insurance is less expensive for the outback since it’s considered a station wagon while the Forester is a SUV. Something to think about....
That's literally the biggest concern of mine and I want the Forester. Thanks for the bad news.
Good to know. I didn’t think about that
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.
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.
@@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.
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.
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.
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. 😁
Been selling Subies for over 6 years. This video represents my life eerily accurately. Thanks.
Let me know if you can identify with the intro of this video:
th-cam.com/video/2X-NPv1tHSg/w-d-xo.html
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.
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.
Rear seat vents are important, hope Outback adds them in soon. Ventilated seats are nice, would be a great option on Forester
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.
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.
So can you sleep well In it ?
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: th-cam.com/video/aTbzfcOdSUg/w-d-xo.html
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!
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.
This is about the best comparisons I've seen.
Outback is the REAL DEAL...
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.
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.
Thank you for your kind words and for watching my video!
Team forester 👅
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.
Yeahhh, I feel like people aren't reacting quite as well to the giant screen as Subaru had hoped
Same. Saw the big screen and I'm like nope. Would rather have the smaller screen.
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.
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
This one one of the reasons I bought a Forester over an Outback
I just got my 2020 Forester 2020 touring the other day I absolutely love it. I am obsessed.
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.
2:01 I'm driving an outback, sir
Outback is simply the perfect.
Just retired my 2002 subaru outback shortly after joining the 300k original mile club!
Great Job Sarah!
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.
Actually Your Correct! Maybe that’s why my previous Foresters lasted at least 200,000k. Without high maintenance costs (via Dealership, bought New).
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.
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.
@@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.
I totally agree I am 610 and I had a 2001 went to a 2011 in the seats are shorter
6 foot 1
We have a 2014 Subaru Forester in black. We really like it!!!
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.
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.
Currently driving a Manual trans. Forester. A/T tires and roof basket. Lol. I love it !
I drove a loaner forester and it has a nice suspension really enjoyed the ride
Love the blank buttons to remind you that you can’t afford the upper trim.
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!
My pleasure thank you so much for watching!
Forester is the best.
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.
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.
I'm six two and never thought of that. Great point!
I have a 2015 Forester Touring, with all the bells and whistles. I could not be happier.
Have the same & love it.
“ I don’t have the key, that’s why *HA* “
Made my depressed quarantine day. ♥️💪
Glad to be of service! We all need little things to lift our spirits right now
Outback drives great.. Outback 2022 owner
Buy the forester guys you will love it more than the outback
thank you. you have helped me choose the Forester after going back and forth for days.
Glad I could help!
Outback for Family, And Forester for slippery roads.
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”.
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
2020 outback touring xt here. so in love.
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.
The rear air vents really need to be in the roof in the back seats. Especially if you have babies in car seats. Not having any rear vents is unacceptable in 2020.
Many cars for years have discretely piped them in the floor under the front seats. My '91 maxima, '01 itrepid, '13,'16 outback have hole in carpet. They just didn't have in back of console.
80srockerable Yes, this works for heat, but not so awesome for A/C. I have a 2017 Golf Sportwagen, which is an economy car and way cheaper than the Outback, and it has A/C vents in the rear part of the console.
80srockerable P.S. I had a ‘92 Maxima...that was an awesome car!! That V6 engine was so smooth. This is another thing that bothers me about Subaru...they stick a 4 cylinder in every car they make.
@@howtobeatadrum Yes Maxima was a neat car for its time. I was always a honda guy before it. I recall it seemed to dry my eyes out on long drives. Seemed to always push air through defrost no matter which position selected on hvac. Yes, I'm afraid the decline of v6 is due to fuel economy goals. Honda doing in Accord. Some full size trucks even going 4. I really have no complaints in the 4 in my current '16 OB though. It seems peppy and speeds with ease. Almost 100k on. My '13 did use oil. '16 does not. But now I read where new OB throttle response is softer. Mine is super sensetive. They constantly tweak electroncis.
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.
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.
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.
Enjoy your Subaru! 3.6R is a great engine
Come on, man; I would give my car to my mom!
Biggest drawback of the Outback: they did away with the knobs and buttons on the dash.
and fitted a cvt, its is absolutely horrid
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
I have a 11 Rav 4WD Limited with a 269hp 3.5 V6 and I raced an Outback XT. I was surprised but my Rav ran off and left the Subaru and my Rav gets better mpg than Subie’s turbo 4cyl.
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. 😁
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.
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.
The Outback will always look like it can't decide what it wants to be, June Cleaver in hiking boots?
The Forester KNOWS it's a small SUV.
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.
Congrats on your new Subaru!
Thank you! Finally someone did a proper and clear explanation! If I lived in US I would probably buy a car from you.
I have a 2016 forrester. NOT reccomended for canadian winters. Gets tossed around in the snow, too light.
@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 .
Hopefully Subaru will bring back the Forester XT for the next generation.
Customer: “so what’s the difference between these cars”.
This guy - holds up YT video on phone. 😂
Great info. Right to the point, no babble. thank you
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 !
Lift kits solves clearance
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.
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!
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!
I’m not sure why anyone would buy a forester, get a Crosstrek or go bigger with an outback….
My hair was brushing against the headliner in the new Outback even with the seat at its lowest position. Forester has plenty of headroom.
You must be a tall person and/or have huge hair!
@@CarDietrich 80's hair.
Outback and luxury is an oxymoron. Toilet paper is a luxury in the outback.
Someday, they will put a real trans in those vehicles. ZF 9 speed will do.
The 8-speed ZF is much better than the 9-speed IMO, its a lot smoother than the cars I've driven with the 9-speed.
Moot point though.. They won't do either 😔
That outback is not a wagon anymore. It's just a long SUV. Look at that it's as tall as the forester
It’s too bad that I can’t get Ivory interior in the Limited trim for the Forester but I can in the Outback.
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.
Love the ride of the 2020 Forester but the wind noise in that nice $$$ a car was a deal killer.
Wind noise? LOL you should drive a 2006 Forester sometime.
What type a gas use
Both use regular 87 Octane
I kinda wish you would have compared cargo capacity
Forester is made in japan, I'd take Forester over outback any day
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
Outback is ugly and looks like old people car. Forester looks better.
Gifting my 2014 Forrester to a relative. No more topping off oil every month for me!!!!!
i have owned 2 legacies (still have one) and one forester
i will not buy another subaru till they get rid of the cvt, also they have got too heavy, too large and too much electronics but the cvt is why i will not update my current one
Love your videos busting the internet scammers!
@3:30 Lost me at luxury. I want none of that. I want a rally/camper car.
Really helpful information!
Well im coming from a civic & just bought an onyx Xt lol
Well done! I just purchased a forester and not one sales person was able to explain what you spoke about in the video.
Forester touring nice car
Forester opening back gate is automatically
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
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.
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.
Greg will cut and paste this comment wherever he sees a Subaru video.
@@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.
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.
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...
i don't need a long boat outback, i'll take the forester.
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.
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.
Great video. I still love my Outback, it is simply Awesome.
Never knew this before, thanks for the explanation 👍.
2010 Outback baby
The Outback actually does *not* give you more cargo and passenger room if you're measuring by cubic feet.
HydraliskX yes it does. Check the specs on the Subaru website.
I love my 18' limited outback.
Excellent review. Great job.
Thank you very much!
And the outback is white.
they should ... must have FULL SIZED spare wheels
Get the Wilderness
Forster made in Japan vs outback made in USA
Correct
So what? Have had 2 Foresters, a2011 and 2014. Now have 17 Outback. Can't see any difference in quality.
Forester xt else no subaru
I was pleasantly surprised with my forestor rental I just hated the start stop system
The 2021 Outback has the on/off system too
basically like a V90 Cross Country vs XC60.
I drive the S60 2.5t turbo but bought the outback limited today, its gonna be weird for a while I'm sure.
Is the cvt on the forester and base engine outback different from the XT? great video by the way.
The CVT on the high output motors (Outback XT, Ascent, WRX Automatic, the old 3.6R's, etc) are what Subaru calls the "High Torque" CVTs. They use different drive ratios and actually require different trans fluid as well. Thanks for watching glad you enjoyed it!