Many Similarities, Many Differences
At a glance with a Crosstrek compared to Forester, these SUVs may seem very similar, but several key points distinguish the two from each other. For starters in Subaru Crosstrek vs. Forester similarities, both SUVs come with a 1,500 lbs tow rating (when properly equipped), 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine, and Lineartronic™ CVT transmission that make them massively capable on any terrain.
For both models as well, on the inside the two are also very similar at first glance. Riding on the shared Subaru Global Platform, these similarities are logical, but there are differences. For the Forester, a wider range of options and technology are available, and the overall design offers more cargo space.
When stacking up the cargo room of a Subaru Crosstrek vs. Forester, a 2022 Crosstrek, gives you 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space, while the 2022 Forester will give 76.1 cubic feet. One more difference to note, a base trim 2022 Crosstrek and 2022 Crosstrek Premium offer a 152-hp 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine, while the 2022 Forester offers a 182-hp 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine across all trims (Crosstrek Sport and Limited trims do equip the SUV with this 182-hp engine, though).
Mileage-wise, the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Forester comparison is also rather similar. You're looking at an EPA estimate of 33 MPG hwy, 26 MPG city for all Forester trims. The Crosstrek hits a similar mark with an EPA estimate of 33 MPG hwy, 28 MPG city for base and Premium trims, as well as an EPA estimate of 34 MPG hwy, 27 MPG city for Sport and Limited trims. Of course, there's also a major difference in exterior looks, but overall, deciding between a Subaru Crosstrek compared to Forester boils down to personal taste in these two adventure-ready SUVs, as well as how much cargo room and tech features you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What's better, a Subaru Crosstrek or Forester?
This is a question without an objective answer. If you want a slightly more affordable, smaller Subaru SUV, then the Crosstrek is for you, while those after a bigger, more feature- and advanced tech-rich SUV will find the Forester attractive. Additionally, the Forester has more power than the Crosstrek when comparing certain trims, but overall, the two are very similar in nature and a matter of personal taste.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek or Forester bigger?
The Forester's main point of distinction over the Crosstrek is that it comes in at a slightly larger size. The Crosstrek gives a plentiful 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space and the Forester gives an even better 76.1 cubic feet, while the overall exterior dimensions of the Forester, similarly, are larger. Not to worry though, as the Forester is still a small SUV compared to most of the market, and both give agile car-like driving experiences.
Is the Crosstrek more reliable than the Forester?
Every Subaru vehicle scores high for reliability, and either of these two SUVs will make for a faithful ride you can trust. Though, comparing the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Forester, official rankings do put the Forester slightly higher than the Crosstrek. Namely, J.D. Power ranked the 2022 Crosstrek a 77 out of 100 for reliability, while the Forester received an 81 out of 100.
Explore the Subaru Crosstrek
