Subaru Forester vs. Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru Forester
Subaru Crosstrek
Overall Reliability Rating
Overall Car Ratings & Details
| 5 | (3) | |
| 4 | (20) | |
| 3 | (3) | |
| 2 | (1) | |
| 1 | (0) |
Vehicle Comparison Rundown
The Subaru Forester and the Subaru Crosstrek are two SUVs from the same carmaker. The Forester is a compact, two-row SUV, while the Subaru Crosstrek is a compact two-row, car-based, five-door hatchback SUV. Both the Forester and the Crosstrek come with standard all-wheel drive.
The engine choices between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Crosstrek vary. The Forester has a standard engine with 170 horsepower, and an optional engine with 250 horsepower. The car-based Crosstrek has a single engine choice, with an output of 152 horsepower. Forester wins on power, in both amount and choices.
Cargo capacity is one more major difference between these two Subaru vehicles. The Forester gives you 74.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its sloping hatchback roofline, has a total of 55.3 cubic feet behind the front row. That’s a big advantage for the Forester.
The choice between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Crosstrek is mainly about how much space you need inside the vehicle. If you have a family, or need to carry larger loads on a regular basis, the Forester makes more sense. But if a smaller vehicle will suit your needs just as well, go with the Crosstrek. Otherwise, there’s not much difference between them, in off-road capability, price or even fuel economy.