Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback are two of the most popular mid-sized SUVs on the market, offering comfortable seating and plenty of cargo capacity for a day of errands or an extended vacation. While they may look similar on the outside, there are some important differences you should be aware of before making your next purchase.

The size difference between the two models is the first and most obvious difference. The Outback is much larger, 12 inches longer than the Forester overall. That additional 12 inches translates to more interior space and cargo capacity, with the Outback offering 73.3 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the Forester’s 68.5 cubic feet.

The Forester is available with an optional turbocharged engine for extra power, while the Outback is only available with a four-cylinder flat-four engine. The turbocharged engine produces 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for towing and other activities that require additional power. The flat-four engine produces 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque and is best suited for everyday driving.

The Forester has a higher ground clearance than the Outback, with 8.7