Crossover SUVs are all the rage, and expected to continue to grow in popularity. Never one to fall behind on trends, Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR is excited to talk about the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Subaru Outback. If you are considering one of these two crossover SUVs, but are unsure as to which would be absolutely right for you and your family, keep reading below. At Capitol Subaru, we've done the research for you, and put together this handy guide detailing the all-important basics of design, safety, performance, technology, and more on both the 2025 Forester and the 2025 Outback. Both of these reliable, family-centric vehicles are designed with comfort as well as behind-the-wheel agility in mind. But there are a few key differences that are worth noting. It is our hope that, with the help of this guide, some of the stress and confusion that so often comes with shopping for a new vehicle is taken out of the picture. We also invite you to schedule a test drive with us, to see firsthand just how exceptional each of these Subaru models is. We are centrally located for your convenience at 920 Auto Group Avenue NE in Salem, and look forward to meeting you soon.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Design & Exterior Features
Cars are like books in that most people judge them by their cover upon first glance. It's no different with the 2025 Forester and the 2025 Outback, and at Capitol Subaru in Salem, Oregon, we get it. But beyond the scope of the contemporary look and feel of the Forester, as well as the modern yet slightly rugged build of the Outback, lies a power unmatched by other SUV crossover competitors. Starting from the ground up, both Subaru models start off with standard 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The Forester debuts a classic look with an impressive grille, while the more angular exterior features of the Outback allow for easier off-road maneuvering. LED steering responsive headlights provide maximum visibility as they follow direction of the steering wheel and are standard on both models.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Comfort & Technology
Comfort is also high on the list of necessities desired by families searching for their next reliable vehicle. As midsize SUV crossovers, both the 2025 Forester and the 2025 Outback naturally provide ample cabin and cargo space as well as a wide range of state-of-the-art technology. The Forester offers a spacious 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down, while the Outback boasts an impressive 75.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. Both the Forester and the Outback offer dual 7-inch displays as standard fare while an 11.6-inch touchscreen is available on higher trim levels of both SUVs. Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity are standard on both models so that you can stay in touch with those who matter most.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Performance
You can trust that the 2025 Forester and the 2025 Outback deliver a superior range of performance. Both the Forester and Outback feature the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and offer a dynamic 2.5-Liter BOXER® as their base engine, with horsepower starting at 180 and 182, respectively. This equates to a 178 lb-ft of torque for the Forester, and 176 lb-ft of torque for the Outback. The storied BOXER® engine goes above and beyond not just for day-to-day errands, but for long-distance road tripping, boasting exceptional highway fuel economy for both models, as well as a max towing capacity of 3,000 pounds for the Forester and 3,500 pounds for the Outback.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Safety
From design to performance to state-of-the-art automotive technology, above all else, safety factors in highest when it comes to selecting your new family vehicle. As a leader in the automotive industry, over the years, Subaru has been instrumental in pioneering new and innovative safety and security features for drivers to easily access and take advantage of. In the 2025 Forester and the 2025 Outback, a standard safety feature is EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, an incredibly helpful asset to have for accident prevention. This technology provides for easier traffic monitoring, lane assist technology and optimized cruise control. DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System is also available on select trim levels for both models.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Subaru Outback: Overall Value
Now that you have an idea of the similarities and key differences between the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Subaru Outback, we hope you feel better equipped to make a final decision between these two noteworthy models. But don't just take it all from us; come experience for yourself what it's like to drive one of these amazing models. At Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, we encourage you to schedule a test drive in either the Forester or the Outback, and to learn more about what a great value a Subaru really is. We are confident that once you step behind the wheel of one of these amazing vehicles and familiarize yourself with all the stylish features, modern comforts, and up-to-date tech capabilities, you'll be keen to drive home in one. So come visit us today, and let us help you drive away in your dream Subaru.
 | 2025 Subaru Forester | 2025 Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Engine | 2.5-Liter BOXER® | 2.5-Liter BOXER® |
| Standard Horsepower | 180 | 182 |
| Standard Torque | 178 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Passenger Volume | 110.8 Cubic Feet | 109.0 Cubic Feet |
| Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 33 Highway / 26 City | 32 Highway / 26 City |
| Max Cargo Volume | 74.4 Cubic Feet | 75.6 Cubic Feet |
| LED Steering Responsive Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Wheels | 17-inch Aluminum-Alloy | 17-inch Aluminum-Alloy |
