6 Reasons Why Consumers will Choose The New Subaru Outback Wagon vs. Forester SUV

The Outback wagon is now the best-selling vehicle in the Subaru lineup in America and it will keep its number one position when the 2018 model arrives this summer. No other automaker on the planet has a wagon as it’s best-selling vehicle, but Subaru is no ordinary automaker. They’ve created a niche market of all-wheel-drive vehicles and the Outback sits at the top of their lineup.

The newly-refreshed 2018 Subaru Outback just made its global debut at the New York Auto Show and it’s getting even more upgrades for consumers to like. Why will the Outback wagon beat the Forester SUV again? Here’s 6 reasons why.

Spacious, more comfortable interior

Inside, the Subaru Outback interior comes with 108.1 cubic feet of passenger room whereas Forester comes with 103.3 cu ft. Outback’s cabin has been restyled for 2018 with a more refined feel and enhanced comfort with upgraded materials and new finishes, with stitched dash and door panel trim. For 2018, the Outback’s interior is now quieter with the added noise-reducing laminated front side glass and more aerodynamic side mirrors.

New STARLINK Multimedia technology

Outback now comes with Subaru’s updated STARLINK multimedia system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Pandora integration. Tech-savvy consumers can use wireless pairing and hands-free operation with your smartphone while connecting your favorite apps to the new wagon. You can access news, navigation, music, podcasts, audiobooks through available STARLINK apps and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. The 2018 Outback gets a new 8-inch touch screen.

Subaru improved ride quality

Outback has the longer wheelbase (the distance between the axles is four inches longer than the Forester). Lengthening the distance between the axles provides a smoother ride in the Outback because the vehicle platform covers more square area and therefore bumps are less noticeable. Subaru engineers also made upgrades to the chassis that include retuned suspension dampers, along with retuned steering and brake systems for a direct feel and an improved driving experience.

Quieter inside

Subaru Outback gets quieter inside as the Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission for 2.5i models now uses a quieter short-pitch chain, while adjustments to engine timing under acceleration further reduce powertrain noise. Subaru engineers also reshaped exterior mirrors that further reduce wind noise. New sound-insulating glass for the front side windows makes the front seat area quieter and thicker rear wheel well aprons should reduce noise in the backseat.

Go to Page 2- 2.5-liter with 32 mpg plus the larger 3.6-liter engine

Both Subaru Outback and Forester are powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer engine mated with a Lineartronic CVT that delivers up to 32 mpg on the highway. But Outback offers a 256-hp 6-cylinder Boxer engine. Many owners are looking for a vehicle that will tow a small camper, boat or multi-purpose trailer. Forester can tow a small utility trailer, but for a sailboat you'll need the Outback 3.6R. The Subaru Outback has a 2,700 lb. rating with six preset gear ranges (3,000 lb. with optional 3.6-liter engine). The Forester has a 1,500 lb. tow rating with two preset gear ranges.

Outback will go farther

It may not be important in the city where gas stations are plentiful, but Outback features a larger 18.5 gallon tank, and will travel 591 miles on one tank of gas. The Forester comes with a smaller 15.9 gallon tank with a 508 mile range. Many Subaru owners use their vehicle to get away from civilization to go mountain biking, hiking and climbing. When you are in the backcountry, it could be the difference between getting back and getting stuck.

The newly-refreshed 2018 Subaru Outback gets upgrades and offers a few extra features that will keep many consumers buying the all-wheel-drive wagon over the Forester SUV. Outback will stay number one in Subaru’s stable of vehicles. It begins arriving in North American showrooms this summer.

Photo credit: Subaru