Subaru SUV Comparison Crosstrek, Forester, & Outback

Price and Trim Levels

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is the lowest-priced option of the three SUVs. However, all Subaru SUVs offer a wide range of trim levels, so you can get exactly what you want.

Price & Trim Levels | 2023 Subaru Crosstrek

• Base | $24,870
• Premium | $26,220
• Special Edition | $27,970
• Sport | $29,220
• Limited | $30,720
• Hybrid | $38,070

Price & Trim Levels | 2023 Subaru Forester

• Base | $27,620
• Premium | $30,620
• Sport | $32,190
• Limited | $34,000
• Wilderness | $35,245
• Touring | $37,720

Price & Trim Levels | 2023 Subaru Outback

• Base │ $29,620
• Premium │ $31,920
• Onyx Edition | $34,720
• Limited │ $36,520
• Wilderness │ $39,670
• Limited XT | $40,920
• Touring │ $41,070
• Touring XT │ $43,520

Exterior & Colors

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is the smallest of the three SUVs, measuring 177″ L x 71″ W x 64″ H. The middle SUV, the 2023 Subaru Forester, measures 183″ L x 72″ W x 68-69″ H. On the larger end, the 2023 Subaru Outback is rated at 191″ L x 73-75″ W x 66-67″ H. All three Subaru SUVs can be equipped with 17" or 18" wheels and your choice of colors.

Interior Design & Seating

It doesn't matter which Subaru SUV you choose; all three of these models include two rows of seats to hold a maximum of five people. However, you can upgrade the interiors to offer some high-end materials for a more luxurious feel.

Infotainment & Features

There are a lot of similarities between the three SUVs. For example, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek includes a 6.5" touch screen, a USB port, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a four-speaker audio system. The 2023 Subaru Forester features a 6.5" touch screen, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, HD Radio and a four-speaker audio system. Finally, the 2023 Subaru Outback comes with dual 7" touch screens, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, HD Radio, and a four-speaker audio system. 

Cargo Capacity

All three Subaru SUVs have ample cargo space. Here are the rankings based on what's behind the back seat and the total with the back seat folded down.

• Crosstrek: 20.8/55.3 cubic feet
• Forester: 28.9-31.1/70.9-76.1 cubic feet
• Outback: 32.5/75.5 cubic feet

Towing Capacity

Both the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and Forester models are rated for towing a maximum of 1,500 pounds. Even more capable is the 2023 Subaru Outback, with a maximum tow rating of 3,500 pounds.

Drivetrain & Suspension

All Subaru SUVs include standard all-wheel drive, which gives the models an advantage over most of the competition. With the new Crosstrek and Forester, you also get 8.7" of ground clearance, while the new Outback offers 9.5" instead. 

Engine

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek has a standard 152-hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine, or you can choose the available 182-hp 2.5L four-cylinder. There's also a Crosstrek Hybrid model. The gas-powered Crosstrek also offers the option of a six-speed manual or CVT. With the 2023 Subaru Forester, you earn a 182-hp with a CVT. In comparison, the 2023 Subaru Outback also comes standard with the 182-hp 2.5L four-cylinder, but you can choose an available 260-hp 2.4L turbo-four. With either engine, you get a CVT.

Performance & MPG

The three Subaru SUVs have comparable fuel economy numbers. According to the EPA, the 2023 Crosstrek earns 22/29 mpg city/highway with the base motor and manual transmission, or it can get up to 28/33 mpg with the CVT. The rating on the 2023 Subaru Forester is 26/33 mpg. In comparison, the 2023 Subaru Outback earns 26/33 mpg with the base engine or 23/30 mpg with the more powerful option.

Safety Features

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek comes with a standard rearview camera. There's slightly more standard with the 2023 Subaru Forester, including lane centering assist, forward automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2023 Subaru Outback builds on those and adds standard adaptive pivoting headlights, pedestrian detection, a rear seat reminder, and a head-up display.

Ratings & Reviews

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Plus, Car and Driver says, "The baby SUV of the Subaru family shares its siblings' outdoorsy image." With the 2023 Subaru Forester, you'll also see that it's an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, with Car and Driver saying, "The Forester is good at being both practical and projecting an outdoorsy image." Finally, it should come as no surprise that the 2023 Subaru Outback also earned a spot as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, while Car and Driver says, "Its rugged looks make it attractive to those with outdoorsy lifestyles."