Subaru models are commonly sought after by Cartelligent clients — and for a good reason. The brand is known for manufacturing next-level crossovers that dominate the trail but remain practical and efficient enough to double as a high-quality daily driver. When you compare Subaru SUV models like the 2026 Outback, 2026 Forester, and 2026 Ascent, it becomes apparent that these versatile crossovers are perfect for camping, commuting, and even cross-country travel.

Since the Subaru Ascent’s debut, it has established a solid footing among the rest of the lineup, and with both the Outback and Forester receiving significant updates for 2026, we can make fresh comparisons of Subaru’s most sought-after crossovers. Whether you’re deciding between the Subaru Forester vs Outback for your next adventure vehicle, or comparing the Subaru Ascent vs Outback for family hauling needs, Cartelligent offers the best way to buy a car by connecting you with expert advisors who handle the entire process.

Each Subaru SUV in the lineup brings unique strengths to meet different lifestyle needs, from the compact efficiency of the Forester to the three-row versatility of the Ascent and the newly redesigned adventure-ready Outback.

2026 Subaru Outback: Redesigned for Adventure

The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback marks the seventh generation of this iconic vehicle, celebrating its 30th anniversary with bold new styling and upgraded technology. Available in six trim levels — Premium, Limited, Touring, Limited XT, Touring XT, and Wilderness — the redesigned Outback transforms from its wagon roots into a more rugged, SUV-like crossover with enhanced capability.

Starting MSRP:$34,995* (Premium trim)

Powertrain Options:

• Base Engine: 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque
• Turbocharged (XT and Wilderness trims): 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque
• All engines paired with Lineartronic® CVT and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Fuel Economy: EPA estimates expected to match or slightly improve upon the 2025 model (approximately 26 city/32 highway mpg for base engine; 22 city/29 highway mpg for turbocharged)

Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches standard (9.5 inches for Wilderness trim)

Cargo Capacity:

• Behind rear seats: 34.6 cubic feet (up 2 cubic feet from previous generation)
• Maximum (seats folded): Substantial increase thanks to taller roofline

Standout Features:

• All-new 12.1-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• 12.3-inch full digital gauge cluster with customizable display modes
• Latest-generation EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with three forward-facing cameras and radar sensors
• Available hands-free highway driving assist up to 85 mph
• Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection (first-ever on a Subaru)
• Enhanced roof rails with 800-pound static load capacity and lateral load rating for hammocks
• Improved interior with dedicated hard-button climate controls
• Dual-pinion electronic power steering from the WRX for more responsive handling

Safety Ratings: 

• The 2025 Outback earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK award and NHTSA 5-Star Overall Safety Rating with five stars in frontal and side crash tests
• The all-new 2026 model is expected to maintain top-tier safety ratings (awaiting 2026 IIHS and NHTSA testing)

Lifestyle Appeal: The redesigned Outback is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a daily driver with serious adventure capability. With its increased cargo space, improved technology, and enhanced off-road features — especially in the Wilderness trim — it’s perfect for weekend camping trips, ski adventures, and cross-country road trips while maintaining comfortable commuting credentials.

2026 Subaru Forester: Refined Capability

The sixth-generation 2026 Subaru Forester continues to build on its successful redesign from 2025, now joined by an updated Forester Wilderness trim that’s more capable than ever. Available in six trims — Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness — the Forester delivers practical everyday versatility with genuine off-road ability.

Starting MSRP: $29,995* (Base trim)

Powertrain:

• Revised 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque (available at lower RPM for better responsiveness)
• Lineartronic® CVT with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Forester Wilderness features shorter final drive ratio for improved off-road capability

Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 26 city/33 highway mpg (25 city/32 highway for Sport and Touring trims)

Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches standard; 9.3 inches for Wilderness trim

Cargo Capacity:

• Behind rear seats: 28 cubic feet
• Maximum (seats folded): Up to 75 cubic feet (69.1 cubic feet for Wilderness)

Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds for Wilderness trim (highest ever for Forester)

Standout Features:

• Available 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus System with wireless connectivity
• Latest EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with improved pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Emergency Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Steering
• 10% stiffer chassis compared to previous generation
• Redesigned cupholders accommodating 32-ounce bottles
• Rear Seat Reminder standard on all models
• Forester Wilderness: all-terrain tires, X-MODE® Dual Mode System, improved approach/departure angles (23.5°/25.5°)

Safety Ratings: 

• The 2025 Forester (excluding Wilderness trim) earned the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, marking the Forester’s 19th IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK award since 2007 — more than any other small SUV
• The 2026 model is expected to maintain excellent safety ratings (NHTSA testing pending)

Lifestyle Appeal: The Forester excels as the compact crossover for active families and individuals. With impressive fuel economy, generous cargo space, and exceptional visibility, it’s equally adept at daily school runs and weekend trail adventures. The Wilderness trim takes capability further with enhanced ground clearance and all-terrain equipment, making it ideal for serious outdoor enthusiasts who want a smaller, more maneuverable SUV.

2026 Subaru Ascent: Family-Focused Capability

The 2026 Subaru Ascent continues as Subaru’s largest SUV, offering three-row seating and family-friendly features with the brand’s signature all-wheel-drive capability. Available in five trims — Premium, Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring, and Onyx Edition Touring — the Ascent provides space for up to eight passengers.

Starting MSRP: $40,795* (Premium trim)

Powertrain:

• 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque
• Lineartronic® CVT with 8-speed manual mode and paddle shifters
• Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE® and Hill Descent Control

Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 20 city/26 highway mpg (19 city/25 highway for models with 20-inch wheels)

Ground Clearance: 8.7 inches

Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Capacity:

• Behind third row: 17.8 cubic feet
• Behind second row: 43.5 cubic feet
• Maximum (all seats folded): 75.6 cubic feet

Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds

Standout Features:

• Standard 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with Wide-Angle Mono Camera
• Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Automatic Emergency Steering standard
• Emergency Stop Assist standard
• Available Harman Kardon® premium audio system (792-watt, 14 speakers)
• Available 360-degree Surround View Monitor
• Cabin Connect feature projects the driver’s voice to rear passengers
• 19 cupholders throughout the cabin
• Trailer Stability Assist standard

Safety Ratings:

• The 2025 Ascent earned the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK award (marking 8 consecutive years of TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ recognition) and NHTSA 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score
• The 2026 model is expected to maintain these top-tier safety ratings

Lifestyle Appeal: The Ascent is Subaru’s answer for growing families who need three rows but don’t want to sacrifice capability or fuel efficiency. With more third-row legroom than competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride, plus impressive towing capacity and standard all-wheel drive, it’s perfect for family road trips, carpooling, and hauling recreational equipment. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates sports teams, camping gear, or weekly grocery runs for larger households.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Which Subaru SUV Is Right for You?

Choose the 2026 Outback if: You want the newest technology and styling with versatile cargo space for outdoor adventures. The redesigned Outback offers the best of both worlds — wagon-like practicality with SUV ruggedness — and is ideal for couples or small families who prioritize cargo capacity and advanced features.

Choose the 2026 Forester if: You’re looking for exceptional fuel economy in a compact, maneuverable package with excellent visibility. The Forester is perfect for urban dwellers who also enjoy weekend adventures, offering easy parking, generous cargo space, and impressive off-road capability (especially the Wilderness trim) at an affordable entry price.

Choose the 2026 Ascent if: You need three rows of seating and maximum passenger space without sacrificing Subaru’s legendary capability. The Ascent is the clear choice for larger families, carpooling needs, or those who regularly transport groups while still maintaining impressive towing capacity and all-weather confidence.

Experience the Smart Way to Buy Your Perfect Subaru SUV with Cartelligent

All three of these vehicles offer fantastic options depending on your personal circumstances and lifestyle needs. Whether you want a newly redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback with cutting-edge technology, a fuel-efficient 2026 Forester for daily adventures, or the family-focused 2026 Ascent with three-row seating, Cartelligent can help you secure the best car deals on exactly what you want.

Your Cartelligent advisor can talk you through the pros and cons of each vehicle (as well as any other brands) to help you make an educated decision. Our team of car-buying advisors takes the hassle out of the car-buying process, handling negotiations and paperwork so you can focus on what matters — finding the perfect vehicle for your needs.

Information based on official Subaru of America press releases. Pricing, specifications, and availability subject to change. Contact Cartelligent for the most current information and to discuss your specific needs.