2026 Subaru Outback Vs. Forester

Every Subaru SUV delivers enhanced capability, long-lasting value, and added peace of mind. If you’re shopping for a 2-row model, you’ll want to check out this 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Forester guide from Serra Subaru Champaign. Below, we’ll compare these popular vehicles and show how they differ in size and performance. 

Subaru Outback Vs. Subaru Forester: Interior Space

Both the Forester and the Outback have 5 seats, so you take on the roads of Champaign solo or with friends and family in either vehicle. While these models have generously spaced cabins, the Outback is slightly more spacious with more passenger and cargo volume. Need the extra room? You’ll go with the Outback. Otherwise, the Forester has plenty of space for your drives around Mahomet. Check out the interior dimensions of these models here:

2026 Subaru Forester Interior

• Row count: 2

• Seating capacity: 5 passengers

• Passenger volume: 110.8 or 106.6 cubic feet (depending on trim)

• Cargo volume behind 2nd row: 29.6 or 27.5 cubic feet (depending on trim)

• Cargo volume behind 1st row: 74.4 or 69.1 cubic feet (depending on trim)

2026 Subaru Outback Interior

• Row count: 2

• Seating capacity: 5 passengers

• Passenger volume: 111.1 or 112.3 cubic feet (depending on configuration)

• Cargo volume behind 2nd row: 34.6 cubic feet

• Cargo volume behind 1st row: 80.5 cubic feet 

Subaru Outback Vs. Subaru Forester: Performance

For performance, both the Forester and the Outback use the 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine as the standard powertrain. That said, you will enjoy the same horsepower and torque in either model. However, if you want next-level performance on the roads of Danville, only the Outback offers an option to upgrade to the 260-hp 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine. 

See the specs for these SUVs’ engines below:

2026 Subaru Forester Performance

Base Engine (All Trims)

• 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
• 180 hp
• 178 lb-ft of torque

2026 Subaru Outback Performance

Base Engine (Premium, Limited, Touring)

• 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
• 180 hp
• 178 lb-ft of torque

Optional Engine (Wilderness, Limited XT, Touring XT)

• 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
• 260 hp
• 277 lb-ft of torque

Compare The Latest Subaru SUVs At Serra Subaru Champaign

Whether you’re leaning toward the Outback or Forester, head on over to our dealership in Savoy for a test drive. If you have any questions in the meantime, be sure to contact us today. We’d love to help you in any way possible!