2014 Subaru Outback vs Forester

 

Looking for the perfect Subaru? One of the most common questions posed by Manalapan, Marlboro and Englishtown residents is the difference between the Subaru Outback vs. Forester, Subaru's two top-selling vehicles. Which one is for you? Let's take a closer look?

Look and Feel

 

Larger in size, the Outback offers Manalapan residents a midsize crossover versus the Outback's compact, wagon-like sport utility. Comparing the size of the 2014Subaru Outback vs. Forester, the Outback is longer and wider, while the Forester is taller. The Outback offers a slightly larger backseat, while the Forester offers more rear space for large dogs. Have kids? The Forester's heavy duty interior step lets kids climb in with ease. Avid cycler? Opt for the extra length of the Outback. Hauling cargo? It's a close call; you get 71.3 cubic feet of space with the Outback, and 74.7 cubic feet of space on the Forester.

2014 Subaru Outback vs Forester - Comfort

 

When comparing the ride quality of the 2014 Subaru Outback vs. Forester, the Outback has the advantage of a slightly smoother ride thanks to its longer wheelbase, making bumps in the road less noticeable. The Forester features an SUV-style suspension and a shorter wheelbase; however the ride is far from harsh, but merely not as smooth as the Outback. In fact, this year's Forester has undergone upgrades in technology and insulation to improve ride quality and cabin noise over previous models, so much so that there is quite a noticeable difference between the 2013 and 2014 vehicles.

 

  

Vehicle Performance

Both the 2.5i model Outback and Forester utilize the same powerful 2.5 liter 4-cylinder horizontally opposed Subaru boxer engine, making 170 and 173 horsepower, respectively. The 3.6R Outback has an upgraded 256 horsepower 3.6 liter 6-cylinder horizontally opposed boxer engine. 2.0XT Forester models offer the added fun of a 250 horsepower 2 liter 4-cylinder boxer engine complete with intercooler and turbo.

Transmission-wise, the Forester features a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with the option of a 6-speed manual transmission on 2.5i base and Premium models. The Outback also offers a continuously variable transmission (CVT) on 4-cylinder models, with the option of a 6-speed manual transmission on 2.5i base and Premium trims. The 2.5i Limited Outback features a standard CVT with 6-speed manual mode and paddle shifters, which is also available as an upgrade on the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium.

When considering the towing capacity of the 2014 Subaru Outback vs. Forester, however, Englishtown consumers will find that though both vehicles have the same ride height, the Outback has the clear advantage offering a towing capacity of 2,700 pounds on 2.5i models and 3,000 pounds on 3.6R models. While the 2014 Forester still has this capability, it offers a maximum capacity of only 1,500 pounds.

MPG Efficiency

Fuel economy for the 2014 Subaru Outback vs. Forester is as follows:

• Outback

• 24 city/30 highway mpg with the 2.5 liter engine and CVT.
• 18 city/25 highway mpg for 6-cylinder 3.6R models.

• Forester

• 24 city/32 highway mpg for 2.5i models with a CVT.
• 22 city/29 highway mpg with the 2.5i manual.
• 23 city/28 highway mpg for 2.0XT models ENGINE/TRANNY

Safety

Marlboro passengers can ride safe knowing that the 2014 Subaru Outback and Forester both won "Top Safety Pick Plus" awards from the IIHS, and come equipped with standard active safety features such as symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, brake-assist, brake-override, vehicle dynamics control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and more.

Test drive and compare the 2014 Subaru Outback vs. Forester at Freehold Subaru. Freehold Subaru is your NJ Subaru dealer, proud to assist Manalapan, Marlboro and Englishtown residents in finding the perfect vehicle to fit their needs.