When it's time to upgrade to a new car, it can be exciting but daunting as well, as you try to navigate the features and specs to see which one would be ideal for your needs. Even once you narrow it down to a certain brand, choosing which model is still a time-consuming task. When you choose Subaru, you can rest assured that no matter which model you end up driving home, you're getting the highest quality as well as impressive power, fuel economy, and the latest in connectivity and technology. Below you'll find a comprehensive comparison between two of the best-selling Subaru crossover SUVs, the 2026 Forester and 2026 Outback. Both boast the powerful BOXER® flat-four engine as well as the award-winning EyeSight® suite of driver assist technology. This page will show you the similarities and differences between the two models so you can make a more informed decision. Drivers in Columbus, OH, as well as New Albany, Gahanna, and Pickerington know they can trust Byers Airport Subaru for the best in new Subaru models. Drop by today or contact us for a test drive or two.
Both the 2026 Forester and 2026 Outback offer an 8.7-inch ground clearance for easy clearance on unpaved or rarely-used roads. The Forester comes standard with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, with available upgrades to 18- or 19-inch wheels. The Outback, meanwhile, starts with 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and offers an available upgrade to 19-inch wheels. LED steering responsive headlights are standard fare on both SUVs, while LED fog lights are standard only on the Outback; you have to climb trim levels of the Forester for the same feature. A panoramic moonroof is available on both models, while you'll only find rain-sensing windshield wipers on the Outback.
You'll find comfortable seating for 5 in both the 2026 Forester and 2026 Outback. Both SUVs offer similar passenger volume, but you'll find over 15% more cargo space behind the front seat of the Outback than the Forester. Heated front seats are available on higher trim levels of the Forester and standard on the Outback. Ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a heated steering wheel are available on both models. A dual-zone climate control is standard fare in both the Forester and the Outback. Dual 7.0-inch touchscreen displays are standard on the Forester, while the Outback comes with a 12.1-inch display, available navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ - the Forester offers wireless connectivity only on higher trim levels.
Both the 2026 Forester and the 2026 Outback come standard with the potent 2.5-liter BOXER® engine, making a solid 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. If you're looking for more power, only the Outback offers a 2.4 turbocharged BOXER that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. SI-DRIVE® is standard only on the Forester, an amenity not found on the Outback. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard fare on both SUVs, and while X-MODE® is only available on higher trim levels of the Forester, it's standard on the Outback.
The 2026 Forester was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, the highest honor they give out, while both the Forester and the 2026 Outback were awarded a perfect 5-star overall crash safety rating by the NHTSA. This is in part due to the standard EyeSight® suite of driver assist technology. Both models include Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Sway and Lane Departure Warning, and Automatic Emergency Steering. You'll find more features on the Outback, including the Emergency Stop Assist, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, and more. While the Blind Spot Detection and Reverse Automatic Braking are available on higher trim levels of the Forester, they're standard fare on the Outback.
No matter which crossover SUV you choose, you'll get amazing value, powerful performance, and award-winning safety. The 2026 Subaru Forester is ideal for families that plan on using their vehicle as a daily driver and occasional weekend adventurer, while the 2026 Subaru Outback is more rugged, tailored to those who enjoy taking the road less traveled. Both offer the Wilderness trim level for those looking for more power and excitement. With the iconic BOXER engine, drivers from Lancaster and Westerville will love being behind the wheel of either model. Contact Byers Airport Subaru today, just a quick drive from Reynoldsburg, and take a test drive or two!
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2026 Subaru Forester | 2026 Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2,5-Liter BOXER® | 2.5-Liter BOXER® |
| Standard Horsepower | 180 | 180 |
| Standard Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Passenger Volume | 110.8 Cubic Feet | 112.3 Cubic Feet |
| Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | 33 Highway / 26 City | 31 Highway / 25 City |
| Max Cargo Volume | 74.4 Cubic Feet | 80.5 Cubic Feet |
| LED Steering Responsive Headlights | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Wheels | 17-inch Aluminum-Alloy | 18-inch Aluminum-Alloy |
