They are Subaru’s two smallest SUVs in the lineup. However, the subcompact Crosstrek and compact Forester (growing in size with each major update) don’t necessarily cater to the same shopper. Their differences are vast. If you’re unsure which Subie is right for you, we help break it down.
The Performance and Power Differences
Crosstrek engine: standard 2.0L engine with 152 horsepower and CVT transmission; optional 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower and CVT transmission.
Forester engine: 2.5L engine with 180 horsepower and CVT transmission.
The Subaru Forester and Crosstrek offer distinct engine options tailored to different preferences. The new Forester, across all trim levels, is powered by a 2.5L engine, delivering a solid 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque (two fewer horses than the outgoing 2024 model).
Its Lineartronic CVT ensures smooth and quiet performance. For those who seek a more engaged driving experience, the Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims feature a manual mode with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, offering control over the transmission via eight preset ratios.Â
On the other hand, the Crosstrek comes with versatile engine choices. The Base and Premium trims have a 2.0L 4-cylinder direct-injection engine, producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb.-ft. of torque. The Sport and Limited trims upgrade to a 2.5L BOXER engine for enhanced responsiveness, delivering 182 hp and 178 lb.-ft. of torque. Like the Forester, the Crosstrek features a Lineartronic CVT with a manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters, providing a customizable driving experience with eight pre-set ratios.
The Off-Road Abilities and Handling Features Setting Them Apart
Regarding off-road chops, Subaru SUVs have long proven they’re up for adventure. No other subcompact crossover SUV comes close to the Crosstrek’s adventure-going abilities, and the Forester has nothing to prove after twenty-plus years of existence.
Overall, the off-road capabilities of the 2024 Crosstrek and 2025 Forester showcase Subaru’s commitment to rugged performance. The 2024 Crosstrek, built on the enhanced Subaru Global Platform with a 10-percent increase in torsional rigidity, features full inner frame construction and advanced welding techniques, resulting in improved body rigidity and reduced weight. This enhances dynamic performance and ensures a smoother ride and a quieter cabin, making it well-suited for off-road adventures.
Similarly, the 2025 Forester, designed to blend a large SUV’s capabilities with a car’s comfort and efficiency, boasts an impressive 8.7-inch ground clearance for all models. The Subaru Global Platform enhancements, including a 10-percent stiffer torsional rigidity, full inner frame construction, and additional structural adhesive, contribute to enhanced body rigidity and lighter weight, further elevating off-road performance with improved dynamics and a refined driving experience.
Towing Capacity: The Crosstrek Pulls More Than the Forester?
For better towing prowess, you again need to turn your gaze toward the Forester with a maximum towing capacity of 3,000 pounds vs. 1,500 pounds for the Crosstrek. More on the Forester’s towing capacity here.
However, this has now changed. The first-ever 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness we reviewed will tow an impressive 3,500 pounds. Yes, that’s more than its larger Forester sibling. So now we have a subcompact crossover that will pull more than Subaru’s compact SUV.
Interior, Passenger, and Cargo Space Differences
The next-generation Crosstrek and the next-generation Forester prioritize enhanced interiors to elevate the overall driving experience. But overall, and no surprise here, the Forester is more prominent, longer, and broader, with more curb weight and cargo room. While both are spacious and can accommodate five passengers, the Forester, larger than the two, has a more significant cargo area than the Crosstrek.
In the Crosstrek, a focus on occupant well-being is evident, featuring a more supportive front seat design for increased comfort and reduced fatigue. Dedicating to minimizing sounds within specific frequency ranges results in a quieter and more pleasant cabin ambiance. The modern interior design is characterized by a prominent center information display with intuitive controls, providing ample head and legroom, as well as storage space. Standard rear dark-tint privacy glass adds a touch of sophistication.
Similarly, the all-new 2025 Forester boasts an advanced interior, featuring a prominent multimedia system with an integrated center information display. Intelligent design choices, such as contoured dash elements and textured trim pieces, ensure durability while avoiding visible damage from daily use. The dark headliner cleverly conceals scuffs from passenger and cargo loading, maintaining a polished appearance. Strategic pillar placement and generous glass area offer an excellent all-around view from the inside, enhancing the driving experience. Standard rear dark-tint privacy glass adds a layer of style and comfort to the Forester’s interior.
Exterior Styling: Subauru SUVs with Different Personas
Both utility vehicles showcase distinctive exterior styling geared toward adventure enthusiasts. The Crosstrek sports a ready-for-adventure spirit with a frameless hexagonal grille, compact headlights, a sculptural body, and a commanding stance. The black wheel arch cladding and rocker panels contrast the body colour, enhancing its rugged aesthetic.
The 2025 Forester introduces a sleek, contemporary design while preserving the classic ruggedness that defines its predecessors. The front features a bold grille seamlessly merging into compact LED headlights, creating an integrated shield effect and debuting the updated Subaru star cluster emblem. Emphasizing height and strength, the Forester’s bold shoulder lines and prominent wheel arches underscore its off-road capability. There’s a lot more here; we touch on that in this article – The Redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester is Refined & Ready to Go
Takeaway
At the end of the day, because of the size difference, the Crosstrek and Forester are vastly different. While they’re both off-road capable, with the smaller of the two with even better towing capacity, it comes down to whether shoppers are looking for something small, agile, and less expensive with the Crosstrek. The Forester is a compact SUV that keeps growing in size. Hence, it offers much more cargo space and costs more money. If you’re shopping for one of the two, check out all our Subaru SUV reviews and news here.
