Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Forester

The subcompact 2018 Subaru Crosstrek and compact 2018 Subaru Forester are all-wheel-drive SUVs known for being reliable, safe, and ready for your next adventure. If you're seeking a vehicle for traveling through Turnersville, Cherry Hill, and Mount Laurel, either of these Subarus is a great match.

To help you see which SUV is the right pick for your lifestyle and needs, our team at Prestige Subaru put together the following comparison.

2018 Crosstrek vs 2018 Forester: Engine Performance

Advanced engines and equipment power these petite SUVs. Let's take a closer look at what's offered under the hood of the Crosstrek and Forester:

• 2018 Crosstrek: 2.0L four-cylinder engine that makes 152 horsepower
• 2018 Forester: 2.5L four-cylinder engine good for 170 horsepower; 2.0L turbo-four rated at 250 horsepower
• Both models: Six-speed manual transmissions standard, Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) available

Since the Subaru Crosstrek is a smaller ride, it makes sense that it produces a bit less power than the Forester's starting engine. Buyers seeking an SUV with the added pep that comes from a turbocharged powertrain may be interested in the Forester's larger 250-horsepower motor.  

In the efficiency category, the new Crosstrek with CVT comes in first at an EPA-estimated 27 city/33 highway MPG. The entry-level Forester with CVT comes in at a close second with 26 city/32 MPG highway.

Surprisingly Spacious Subaru SUVs

Despite belonging to small SUV classes, the 2018 Crosstrek and 2018 Forester manage to provide colossal cargo holds and impressive passenger room throughout their cabins. In the front seat, the driver and passenger can enjoy nearly identical stretch out space, with 43.1 and 43.0 inches of legroom offered in the Crosstrek and Forester respectively.

Let's not forget that these are vehicles built to carry whatever you need in order to take on the great outdoors with friends and family. Which is why you'll find great space in their back seats and cargo areas too.

• Subaru Crosstrek: 36.5 inches backseat legroom; max cargo space of 55.3 ft³
• Subaru Forester: 38.0 inches backseat legroom; max cargo space of 68.5 ft³

As you can see, the larger Forester has more room when it comes to what you can carry under its hatch. If you'll be using the backseat daily and need extra space for your daily adventures, the Forester may be a better fit for you.

2018 Subaru Media & Technology Features

We've reviewed a couple of categories in which the Crosstrek and Forester have their differences. But, when it comes to infotainment technology and driver safety aids, cutting edge systems from Subaru means you can't go wrong with either model.

A couple of technologies they share include:

• Large standard touchscreen displays (6.5 inch in the Crosstrek and 6.2 inch in the Forester)
• Subaru STARLINK™ multimedia system with smartphone integration
• Available Subaru EyeSight® driver assistance bundle

By keeping an extra pair of eyes on the road as well as on the cars moving around you, Subaru EyeSight® helps you stay a step ahead traffic changes and low-visibility situations. The EyeSight® pre-collision, Lane Keeping, and Adaptive Cruise Control systems can equip Crosstrek or Forester drivers with added peace of mind.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2018 Subaru Forester: Which SUV Gets Your Vote?

The 2018 Crosstrek and 2018 Forester are talented vehicles that offer excellent handling, spacious cabins, and convenient technology that help you drive connected and confident.

For efficient daily commuting and the occasional family getaway, the Crosstrek is a great model to go for. On the flipside, the Forester's added power and cargo space make it a willing companion for families who intend to use the backseat often and bring along extra luggage or belongings.

We hope this comparison helped you see which Subaru is right for your drives around Turnersville, Cherry Hill, and Mount Laurel. Whether you have your answer, or you're still reviewing features and options, head out to Prestige Subaru to test drive the 2018 Crosstrek, Forester, or both! We look forward to seeing you soon.