2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT vs 2026 Subaru Forester Touring
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Forester Touring starts at $41,495, $1,900 less. Forester Touring leads with 30 MPG. Outback Touring XT makes 260 hp (+80).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT | 2026 Subaru Forester Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $43,395 +$1,900 | $41,495 Save $1,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L Turbo | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 260 hp +80 hp | 180 hp 80 hp less |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 6 less | 29 +6 |
| Hwy MPG | 29 4 less | 33 +4 |
| Combined MPG | 26 4 less | 30 +4 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 32.5 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,860 lbs | 3,650 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.1" | 105.1" |
| Length | 191.3" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 18" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | EyeSight |
Outback Touring XT or Forester Touring?
Both are competitive. Forester Touring has a lower entry price, Forester Touring leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT and 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Outback Touring XT or Forester Touring?
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru Outback or Subaru Forester?
Which is more reliable, the Subaru Outback or Subaru Forester?
Is the Subaru Outback bigger than the Subaru Forester?
What is the cost of insurance for the Outback Touring XT vs Forester Touring?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT?
Who Should Choose the Outback Touring XT
The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring XT appeals to buyers who prioritize what Subaru does best: practicality and resale value. At $43,395, it positions itself as the more powerful option.
Subaru ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Outback Base vs Outback Premium, Outback Base vs Outback Onyx XT, Outback Base vs Outback Touring XT.
Who Should Choose the Forester Touring
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 30 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Subaru's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Forester Touring deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,900 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Outback Touring XT is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Outback Touring XT makes 80 more hp. Feature differences like 80 more horsepower also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 80 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Subaru and Subaru often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.