Subaru Outback vs Forester: Montana Buyer's Guide

Both the Subaru Outback and Forester come with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and are built for Montana's diverse road conditions. But they serve different needs. Here is how to choose between them.

Subaru Outback: The Adventure Wagon

The Outback is a raised wagon with a longer wheelbase, more cargo space, and a lower roofline than the Forester. It feels more car-like to drive, handles highway miles comfortably, and has more ground clearance (8.7 inches) than most crossovers. The Outback is ideal for buyers who want a versatile vehicle for both daily commuting and weekend adventures on Montana backroads.

Subaru Forester: The Practical SUV

The Forester is a traditional compact SUV with a taller, more upright seating position. It offers better visibility, easier entry and exit, and a more spacious rear seat for passengers. Fuel economy is slightly better than the Outback. The Forester is the better choice for families, buyers who prioritize passenger comfort, or anyone who prefers a higher driving position.

How They Compare

Both get standard AWD, similar safety ratings, and Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance. The Outback has more cargo volume (75.7 vs 74.2 cubic feet with seats folded) and a slightly more powerful available turbocharged engine. The Forester has better fuel economy and more rear headroom. Price-wise, they start within a few hundred dollars of each other.

The Bottom Line for Montana

You cannot go wrong with either one for Montana driving. If you drive long distances and want a smoother highway ride with more cargo space, choose the Outback. If you have a family and want easier access with better visibility, choose the Forester. Visit Rimrock Subaru or browse our Subaru inventory online at ez.car.