Comparison
Crosstrek vs. Forester
Same engine family, same ground clearance. The real differences are size, cargo space and available features.
Facts checked November 1, 2026
These are the two Subarus people cross-shop most. On paper they're close: both have all-wheel drive, the same 2.5-liter engine family and the same ground clearance. The decision usually comes down to how much room you need and which features you want.
Side by side
| Crosstrek | Forester | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller and easier to park | Larger, with more cargo space |
| Gas engine | 2.5-liter, 180 hp | 2.5-liter, 180 hp |
| Hybrid | 194 hp combined; EPA range 630 miles (2027) | 194 hp combined; EPA range 581 miles (2026) |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 in (Wilderness 9.3 in) | 8.7 in (Wilderness 9.3 in) |
| Towing | 1,500 lb (Wilderness 3,500 lb) | Wilderness 3,500 lb |
| Cargo, seats up | Up to 23.3 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Cargo, seats folded | About 50 cu ft | 74.4 cu ft |
The Forester cargo figures are for the current generation (2025 on), as published by Subaru dealers; the Crosstrek figures are from Subaru's 2027 press kit.
Choose the Crosstrek if…
- You park in tight spaces or downtown, or want the smallest footprint with all-wheel drive.
- You mostly carry one or two people plus gear. Roof rails handle bikes and skis.
- You want the longer-range hybrid: an EPA-estimated 630 miles for the 2027 Crosstrek Hybrid, vs. 581 for the 2026 Forester Hybrid.
Choose the Forester if…
- You haul a lot: about 6 more cubic feet behind the rear seat, and far more with it folded.
- You want the top-end comfort of the Forester Touring: ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and memory for the driver's seat and mirrors.
- You want more hybrid trims to pick from: Premium, Sport, Limited and Touring Hybrid.
The Wilderness versions
Both have a Wilderness trim with the same recipe: 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires on matte-black wheels and a 3,500-pound towing rating. The Forester Wilderness adds Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud X-MODE settings and a full-size spare.
Still on the fence? Tell me how you'll use it, or check what's in stock for both, and I'll help you narrow it down.