Rates as low as 0% APR on select new 2025 models
Side profile view of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek

Compare the 2026 Subaru
Outback vs. Crosstrek vs. Forester

Are you trying to decide on the ideal SUV for your active lifestyle? Our Subaru dealership near Davidson has many enticing choices, led by the popular 2026 Subaru Outback, Crosstrek and Forester. While each model offers the adventure readiness and off-road capabilities you love from Subaru, they do differ slightly in terms of performance, size and features.

We invite you to review our Outback vs. Crosstrek vs. Forester comparison and determine which model is best for your preferences. Whether you're drawn to a fuel-efficient new Forester Hybrid or a family-friendly Outback in North Carolina, Randy Marion Subaru has something perfect for you!

2026 Subaru Outback side profile view

Is the Subaru Outback, Crosstrek or Forester Biggest?

Between the 2026 Subaru Outback, Crosstrek and Forester, the Outback is the biggest overall. While all three SUVs have two rows of seats for up to five passengers, the Outback shows its station wagon heritage with a sizeable max cargo capacity of 80.5 cubic feet, making it easy to store all your equipment.

The more compact Crosstrek and Forester dimensions make those SUVs well suited to city driving, but all three offer plentiful passenger space to keep everyone comfortable.

2026 Subaru Outback

  • Rows of Seats: 2
  • Max Passenger Capacity: 5
  • Max Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 112.3
  • Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.): 80.5

2026 Subaru Crosstrek

  • Rows of Seats: 2
  • Max Passenger Capacity: 5
  • Max Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 100.5
  • Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.): 54.9

2026 Subaru Forester

  • Rows of Seats: 2
  • Max Passenger Capacity: 5
  • Max Passenger Volume (cu. ft.): 110.8
  • Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.): 74.4

2026 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek vs. Forester Performance

These new Subaru SUVs near Davidson also differ slightly in terms of performance. While all three models include Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 180-horsepower SUBARU BOXER® engine as standard, the Outback offers the most powerful performance with an available 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

On the other hand, both the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Subaru Forester are offered with hybrid powertrains, making your adventures even more efficient. Plus, all three Subaru SUVs provide up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, though the Outback offers a higher capacity as standard.

2026 Subaru Forester parked outside

2026 Subaru Outback

  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Standard
  • Standard Horsepower: 180
  • Standard Torque (lb-ft): 178
  • Max Horsepower: 260
  • Max Torque (lb-ft): 277
  • Hybrid Engine: N/A
  • Standard/Max Towing Capacity (lbs.): 2,700 / 3,500

2026 Subaru Crosstrek

  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Standard
  • Standard Horsepower: 180
  • Standard Torque (lb-ft): 178
  • Max Horsepower: N/A
  • Max Torque (lb-ft): N/A
  • Hybrid Engine: Available
  • Standard/Max Towing Capacity (lbs.): 1,500 / 3,500

2026 Subaru Forester

  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Standard
  • Standard Horsepower: 180
  • Standard Torque (lb-ft): 178
  • Max Horsepower: N/A
  • Max Torque (lb-ft): N/A
  • Hybrid Engine: Available
  • Standard/Max Towing Capacity (lbs.): 1,500 / 3,500

Which Subaru SUV Is Best for Me?

The right SUV depends on your needs for size, performance and features. Contact Randy Marion Subaru in Mooresville to learn more about each model in our lineup and test-drive a new Outback, Crosstrek or Forester. Whether you're interested in a hybrid Subaru SUV for commutes or an adventure-ready vehicle for the outdoors, we're sure to have your perfect match at our NC Subaru dealer!

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