I drove both 2018s and found
I drove both 2018s and found the Outback was a little bit smoother over bumps was quicker. The Forester felt more spacious with great viability. Forester also has crazy good turning radius. The Forester to me had more precise and nimble handling. The Outback with its larger wheel base made it feel bigger and less nimble. That was my biggest turn off. And to me the Forester still has very adequate acceleration and a very smooth ride. So I went with the Forester and I'm happy with that choice. Plus it fits in my garage better than the Outback. Another thing, I'm not a fan of turbos. Most recommend premium fuel and I'm not about that.