2026 Subaru Outback vs. Forester

2026 Subaru Outback

Feature 2026 Subaru Forester 2026 Subaru Outback
Seating Capacity 5 passengers 5 passengers
Maximum Cargo Volume 69.1 or 74.4 cubic feet 80.5 cubic feet
Base Engine 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine
Standard Horsepower 180 hp 180 hp
Standard Torque 178 lb-ft 178 lb-ft
Available Engine 194-hp 2.5L Hybrid SUBARU BOXER® powertrain 260-hp 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine

 

Navigating daily commutes along Highway 501, crossing the Waccamaw River, or heading out for weekend trips down to the Grand Strand requires an SUV built for confidence and versatility. Whether you are facing sudden coastal downpours or loading up beach gear for a day in North Myrtle Beach, Subaru delivers two exceptional 2-row crossovers engineered for any adventure: the 2026 Subaru Forester and the 2026 Subaru Outback. At Hadwin-White Subaru, we are helping drivers across Conway, Carolina Forest, and Loris find the perfect vehicle to fit their Lowcountry lifestyle.

Every Subaru SUV delivers enhanced capability, long-lasting value, and added peace of mind. If you’re shopping for a 2-row model, compare these popular vehicles below to see how they differ in size and performance.

Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Forester: Interior Space & Cargo

Both the Forester and the Outback feature seating for 5 passengers, so you can take on the roads of Conway solo or with friends and family in either vehicle. While both models offer generously spaced cabins, the Outback provides a slightly longer footprint with additional passenger and cargo volume. Need maximum cargo capacity for long trips along Highway 22? You’ll likely lean toward the Outback. Otherwise, the versatile Forester offers plenty of room for your daily drives around Carolina Forest. Check out the interior dimensions of these models here:

2026 Subaru Forester Interior

  • Row count: 2
  • Seating capacity: 5 passengers
  • Passenger volume: 110.8 or 106.6 cubic feet (depending on trim)
  • Cargo volume behind 2nd row: 29.6 or 27.5 cubic feet (depending on trim)
  • Cargo volume behind 1st row: 74.4 or 69.1 cubic feet (depending on trim)

2026 Subaru Outback Interior

  • Row count: 2
  • Seating capacity: 5 passengers
  • Passenger volume: 111.1 or 112.3 cubic feet (depending on configuration)
  • Cargo volume behind 2nd row: 34.6 cubic feet
  • Cargo volume behind 1st row: 80.5 cubic feet

Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Forester: Performance

For standard performance, both the Forester and the Outback feature a 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine as their base powertrain, producing an identical 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. However, both SUVs offer versatile performance upgrades tailored to your driving preferences in Conway. For drivers looking for increased efficiency and smooth power delivery around Horry County, the Forester offers an available 194-hp 2.5L Hybrid SUBARU BOXER® powertrain. Meanwhile, if you want high-output acceleration and expanded towing capability for trips down Highway 17, only the Outback offers the optional 260-hp 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine.

See the engine specifications for these SUVs below:

2026 Subaru Forester Performance

  • Base Engine (Standard Trims): 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower: 180 hp
    • Torque: 178 lb-ft of torque
  • Available Engine (Hybrid Trims): 2.5L Hybrid SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower: 194 hp
    • Torque: 154 lb-ft of torque

2026 Subaru Outback Performance

  • Base Engine (Premium, Limited, Touring): 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower: 180 hp
    • Torque: 178 lb-ft of torque
  • Optional Engine (Wilderness, Limited XT, Touring XT): 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower: 260 hp
    • Torque: 277 lb-ft of torque

Compare The Latest Subaru SUVs At Hadwin-White Subaru

Whether you are leaning toward the versatile Forester or the spacious Outback, head on over to Hadwin-White Subaru in Conway for a test drive. We proudly serve drivers from Aynor, Socastee, and across Horry County. Explore our new Subaru inventory online, or contact us to schedule service and routine maintenance for your current vehicle. Planning to upgrade? You can also value your trade right from home before visiting our dealership today!

Disclaimer: All vehicle specifications, including cargo volume, passenger dimensions, and seating capacities, are based on the latest available manufacturer-published data for the 2026 model year at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Maximum cargo and passenger volumes vary depending on the specific model, trim level, and optional equipment selected (such as a panoramic moonroof). Horsepower, torque, and overall performance metrics vary by engine configuration; the 260-horsepower capability for the Subaru Outback requires the available 2.4L turbocharged engine, and the 194-horsepower capability for the Subaru Forester requires the available Hybrid powertrain. Competitive comparisons are intended for informational purposes only. Please consult your Owner’s Manual or see the specialist team at Hadwin-White Subaru for complete vehicle details, current trim availability, and full operating instructions.

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2325 E Highway 501, Conway, SC, 29526
Hadwin-White Subaru 33.7941149, -78.9982283.