The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Forester are two capable, versatile SUVs that meet a variety of driving needs. Both vehicles offer Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system and commitment to safety, making them solid options if you’re seeking reliability and performance. When choosing between the Crosstrek and the Forester, it’s important to consider factors such as design, performance, interior space, and features to find the right fit for your lifestyle.
Design and Styling
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek has a sportier and more compact look, making it a great choice if you want an elegant and adventurous SUV. Its rugged exterior emphasizes its off-road capabilities, while its smaller dimensions are better suited for city driving or tight parking spots.
The 2025 Subaru Forester boasts a practical design with excellent visibility and a larger footprint. However, the 2025 model brings subtle exterior changes, including redesigned headlights and an updated front grille for a refreshed, modern look. The Forester’s boxier profile gives it a more traditional SUV aesthetic and increases cargo space, making it an excellent choice if you need more room for gear or passengers.
Performance and Handling
The Crosstrek has two engine options: the standard 2.0-liter engine that produces 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque and the optional 2.5-liter four-cylinder Subaru Boxer that boosts the output to 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek’s smaller size gives it a more agile driving feel, perfect for maneuvering through urban areas or tight corners on back roads.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Forester houses a standard 2.5-liter engine that generates 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, the same as its 2024 model. The fuel efficiency is the same as the 2024 version, with 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The Crosstrek sprints ahead with a 3,500-pound towing capacity, slightly higher than the Forester’s 3,000 pounds. However, the 2025 Forester features an improved steering system, borrowing the WRX’s dual-pinion electronic power steering for better responsiveness and a more natural feel.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
When it comes to interior space, the Forester easily outpaces the Crosstrek. The 2025 Forester offers the same spacious interior as the 2024 model but with some refinements in cabin materials, making it more comfortable and luxurious. With its boxier shape, the Forester provides a more open, airy feel in the cabin. It also has an impressive cargo space of 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 74.4 cubic feet when folded flat. If you travel often with your family or friends, the Forester is a better choice.
While more compact, the 2024 Crosstrek is still practical for everyday use. It has 20.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, but folding them down expands the space to 54.9 cubic feet. The Crosstrek works well if you prefer a smaller, more maneuverable SUV.
Technology and Features
The 2024 Crosstrek and the 2025 Forester offer Subaru’s latest technology. Most Crosstrek trims come standard with an 11.6-inch touch-screen display, except for the base trim, which gets a smaller one. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration make smartphone connectivity easy, and Subaru’s intuitive STARLINK system ensures you stay connected on the road.
The 2025 Forester also includes an 11.6-inch touch screen with the same smartphone integration options, but it goes a step further with more advanced driver-assistance technologies, including the latest version of Subaru’s DriverFocus system. This feature uses facial recognition to monitor the driver’s alertness for an added layer of safety.
Safety and Reliability
Both vehicles come equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Forester adds a 360-degree surround view monitor to help you monitor your surroundings better and a traction control system to help you drive in bad weather. The 2025 Forester features an updated version of the DriverFocus system.
Subaru’s commitment to safety continues with its high-reliability ratings. Both the Crosstrek and Forester meet best-in-class safety standards. However, the Forester edges ahead due to its additional driver-assistance features.
Pricing and Value
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrekstarts at $25,195, making it an affordable choice if you want a versatile compact SUV. The 2025 Subaru Forester, starting at $29,695, has a slightly higher price tag but offers more space, comfort, and features. While the Crosstrek provides great value for its price, particularly if you prefer a smaller SUV, Forester’s additional features and larger size justify its higher starting price for those who need more from their vehicle.
Pros and Cons
Below is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of owning each model to help you choose the right one.
Subaru Crosstrek
Here are the pros of owning a Crosstrek:
- Lower starting price
- Compact size for easier parking and maneuvering
- Powerful engine options
- Light off-roading capabilities
- Higher towing capacity
However, there are some cons, including:
- Smaller cargo space than the Forester
- Less legroom for rear passengers
2025 Subaru Forester
Here are some benefits of driving a Forester:
- More spacious interior and cargo capacity.
- Advanced safety features, including the latest version of the DriverFocus system.
- Increased comfort for long trips.
Likewise, there are cons to consider, such as:
- Higher price.
- Available in a single-engine option only.
- The kick tailgate sensor is permanently disabled if a trailer hitch is installed.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2025 Forester depends on your needs. The Crosstrek is ideal if you’re looking for a smaller, more agile SUV that’s easy to drive in the city but capable enough for outdoor adventures. It’s an affordable option if you want a versatile, compact vehicle that doesn’t compromise features.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Forester is better if you need more interior space and advanced features. It is perfect for families, road trippers, or those who prioritize comfort and roominess. Its additional safety technology and slight performance improvements make it a strong contender.
Test-Drive Your Favorite Subaru Today at John Kennedy Subaru in Plymouth Meeting, Philadelphia
Both the Crosstrek and Forester offer unique strengths. If you need help choosing between them, visit us at John Kennedy Subaru Plymouth. Here, you can browse our selection of Subaru Foresters and Crosstreks in person. We also offer flexible financing options to ensure you get the best deal. Contact us today to schedule a test drive, and let us help you find the perfect Subaru for your needs.
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