2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander Comparison

There are many different models swimming in the sea of compact SUVs, but the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander manage to stand out from the crowd. The Subaru Forester has been carrying the torch for adventure-minded buyers long before it was mainstream, while the Outlander conveniently houses three rows of seats, while its rivals have two.

For all their similarities, these two compact SUVs also have big differences. Here’s how the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi Outlander compare to each other.

2025 Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester has long been the easy answer for outdoorsy individuals and families seeking a compact SUV. It’s got the traits Subaru loyalists love — standard all-wheel drive (AWD), ample ground clearance, and top safety marks — along with rugged appeal and lots of cargo room for all the gear. The Forester is all new for 2025, so it brings all those goods along with the latest tech and safety features. For this all-new generation, Subaru is also introducing the first Forester Hybrid for those seeking improved fuel economy.

Subaru Forester Highlights

Standard all-wheel drive: Having power go to all four wheels instead of just the front, like most SUVs, means enhanced traction. The extra traction and capability aren’t just handy for off-roading. If you regularly deal with snow or slick roads, all-wheel drive grants better handling and assurance. The Outlander offers all-wheel drive, but you have to pay extra for it.

EyeSight safety suite: This standard safety and driver assistance suite includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and a rear-seat reminder. 

Adventurous attitude: A Subaru Forester is more than your ordinary, commuter-minded SUV. The Subaru brand and adventure are intertwined. These vehicles are built to get you beyond the reach of the hustle and bustle, and the Forester is known and loved for doing exactly that. This is especially true if you opt for the Subaru Forester Wilderness model with its extra ground clearance and off-road hardware.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Forester models for sale near you.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander holds a special place among compact SUVs: It is now the only model with three rows of seats, and its ability to hold up to seven people is standard in every trim. That special trait also makes the Outlander the least-expensive 3-row SUV on sale today. Beyond that X-factor, the Outlander becomes more noteworthy for 2025 thanks to an update this model year that brings design tweaks and a standard audio system from a famous brand. In addition to the standard gas engine, the Outlander is also available as a plug-in hybrid, the Outlander PHEV.

Mitsubishi Outlander Highlights

Yamaha audio: New for 2025, all Outlander models come with a specially tuned audio system by Yamaha. This marks the first Yamaha system in a car sold in the U.S., and our ears are pleased with the results.

Seating for seven: Granted, the third-row seats in the Outlander are tiny, but they are great to have in a pinch. You can leave them folded most of the time, then put them to use in case the kiddos want to bring a couple of friends along.

Stellar warranty: All Mitsubishi vehicles tout a fantastic warranty that includes five years/60,000 miles for basic coverage and 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain. Subaru can’t touch those terms.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Outlander models for sale near you.

Similarities

The Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi Outlander begin at nearly the same price and compete in the same class. They also both come with the latest tech and active safety features and offer a fuel-efficient gas-electric hybrid variant.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Subaru Forester vehicles and New 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

	2025 Subaru Forester	2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
Popular Powertrains
Engine	2.5-liter boxer 4-cylinder	2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower	180 hp @ 5,800 rpm	181 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	178 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm	181 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
Transmission	CVT/AWD	CVT/FWD
Fuel Economy	26 city/33 highway/29 combined mpg	24 city/31 highway/27 combined mpg
Also Available	Hybrid	AWD; plug-in hybrid
Specs
Basic Warranty	3 years/36,000 miles	5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles	10 years/100,000 miles
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating	5-Star	Not rated
Max Seating Capacity	5	7
Wheelbase	105.1 inches	106.5 inches
Overall Length	183.3 inches	185.8 inches
Width	72.0 inches	74.7 inches
Height	68.1 inches	68.7 inches
Turning Diameter	35.4 feet	36.1 feet
Headroom, Front	41.2 inches	40.6 inches
Headroom, Rear	39.6 inches	39.1 inches
Headroom, Third Row	NA	34.5 inches
Legroom, Front	43.3 inches	41.7 inches
Legroom, Rear	39.4 inches	39.9 inches
Legroom, Third Row	NA	18.7 inches
Shoulder Room, Front	57.7 inches	57.9 inches
Shoulder Room, Rear	56.7 inches	55.9 inches
Shoulder Room, Third Row	NA	51.2 inches
Cargo Volume (rear seats up/down)	NA/29.6/74.4 cubic feet	10.9/30.6/64.3 cubic feet

Conclusion

If you want a compact SUV that is rugged, comes with all-wheel drive standard, and has lofty resale value, it’s hard to beat the Subaru Forester. The Mitsubishi Outlander, meanwhile, stands out as the only new compact SUV with standard seating for seven, and the least expensive new 3-row SUV. It also boasts a fantastic warranty and a commendable Yamaha audio system as standard. Determining which of these assets is best for you and your family will help you find the compact SUV that’s best for you.