Subaru has built a strong reputation among outdoor enthusiasts, and the Wilderness lineup represents the boldest expression of that adventurous spirit. Tailored for weekend explorers and off-road travelers alike, these models are purpose-built for life beyond the pavement. Whether you're planning a camping trip, venturing down a rugged trail, or simply breaking free from the daily grind, the Subaru Wilderness trim is designed to get you there with confidence and capability. With increased ground clearance, tough all-terrain tires, and specially tuned suspension, Wilderness models handle rough conditions and unpredictable weather with ease. The Outback Wilderness stands out with its reinforced roof rack, perfect for rooftop tents and heavy-duty gear, while the Forester Wilderness offers compact versatility and agile handling with the same rugged DNA. Both come equipped with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE® with hill descent control for superior traction. Not sure which model suits your needs? Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, has created a detailed comparison page to help you decide between the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and the 2025 Outback Wilderness. Explore your options, compare features, and schedule a test drive-or try them both-to find the ideal companion for your next adventure.
2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Design & Exterior Features
The 2025 Forester Wilderness and 2025 Outback Wilderness are both equipped to handle rugged adventures with confidence and style. Each model rides on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a bold black matte finish, wrapped in all-terrain tires that enhance traction and deliver a tough, trail-ready appearance. When it comes to clearance, the Forester Wilderness offers 9.2 inches, while the Outback Wilderness edges ahead slightly with 9.5 inches-both designed to help you navigate uneven terrain with ease. Standard features on both SUVs include LED steering responsive headlights, hexagonal LED fog lights, and a windshield wiper de-icer for improved visibility in harsh conditions. The Forester Wilderness stands apart with its standard roof spoiler and heated side mirrors. It also includes a standard panoramic moonroof, whereas the same feature is optional on the Outback Wilderness. Both vehicles come with raised roof rails built for adventure, supporting rooftop tents and gear with a static load capacity of 800 lbs on the Forester and 700 lbs on the Outback.
2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Comfort & Technology
When it comes to interior space, the 2025 Outback Wilderness has a slight edge, offering 109 cubic feet of passenger volume and up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The 2025 Forester Wilderness is still impressively roomy, with 107.6 cubic feet of passenger volume and 69.1 cubic feet of cargo space-plenty for weekend gear and everyday needs. Both models come standard with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats, providing personalized comfort for every drive. For those seeking extra luxury, the Outback Wilderness adds standard heated rear outboard seats and a heated steering wheel, elevating cold-weather comfort for everyone on board. Inside both SUVs, you'll find StarTex® water-repellent upholstery-tough, easy to clean, and ready to handle muddy boots, damp gear, or anything else your adventures throw its way. Whether you choose the Forester or Outback, you'll enjoy a well-appointed cabin designed for comfort and durability.
Both the 2025 Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness come equipped with the intuitive Multimedia Plus system, keeping you connected on every adventure. The Forester Wilderness features an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Outback Wilderness steps up with a larger 11.6-inch display for a more immersive interface. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard on both, though only the Outback Wilderness includes wireless connectivity for added convenience. Built-in navigation is available as an optional upgrade on both models. For audiophiles, the Forester Wilderness offers the Harman Kardon® premium audio system as an available option, while the Outback Wilderness includes it as standard, delivering rich, high-quality sound for all your journeys.
2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Performance
Under the hood of the 2025 Forester Wilderness, you'll find a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque-plenty of muscle for most outdoor adventures. If you're craving more power, the 2025 Outback Wilderness steps it up with a turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER® engine producing an impressive 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both models feature a Lineartronic® CVT automatic transmission, but the Forester Wilderness adds a unique 7-speed manual mode for more driver control. Standard features on both SUVs include Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, X-MODE®, Hill Descent Control, and Active Torque Vectoring, giving you confidence across all types of terrain. The Forester Wilderness also includes SI-DRIVE® as standard, allowing for selectable drive modes tailored to your driving needs. In terms of capability, the Forester Wilderness can tow up to 3,000 pounds and achieves up to 28 highway MPG, while the Outback Wilderness offers a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and up to 26 highway MPG.
2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Safety
Both the 2025 Forester and Outback have earned Top Safety Pick honors and a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. While the Wilderness models have not yet been separately rated, they are equipped with the same advanced safety features and driver assist technologies as their standard counterparts. Both SUVs come standard with Subaru's renowned EyeSight® system, which includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and more. Additionally, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard on both models, enhancing your awareness on the road. Reverse Automatic Braking comes standard on the Forester Wilderness and is available as an option on the Outback Wilderness, providing extra peace of mind when backing up in tight spots.
2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness vs 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness: Overall Value
At Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, we've made it simple to compare the 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness and the 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness side by side. Whether you prefer the Forester Wilderness's compact agility and higher ground clearance or the Outback Wilderness's longer wheelbase and greater cargo capacity, both models deliver rugged performance built for adventure. Each comes equipped with Subaru's reliable Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, off-road-tuned suspension, and a bold, trail-ready design that stands out whether you're on paved roads or exploring rough terrain. This comparison helps highlight the unique advantages of each model, making it easier for you to decide which one best fits your weekend adventures and everyday driving. Stop by Capitol Subaru in Salem, OR, to see both vehicles in person and schedule your test drives. We're here to help you find the perfect Subaru Wilderness to take your next journey to the next level.
 | 2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness | 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Engine | 2,5-Liter BOXER® | 2.4-Liter Turbocharged BOXER® |
| Standard Horsepower | 182 | 260 |
| Standard Torque | 176 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Passenger Volume | 107.6 Cubic Feet | 109 Cubic Feet |
| Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 28 City / 25 Highway | 21 City / 26 Highway |
| Max Cargo Volume | 69.1 Cubic Feet | 75.6 Cubic Feet |
| LED Steering Responsive Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Wheels | 17-inch Aluminum-Alloy | 17-inch Aluminum-Alloy |
