Which Vehicle Has More Maximum Cargo Volume, the Forester or Outback? The Direct Spec Comparison
When planning your next extended road trip or shopping for a versatile vehicle in Plainfield, Illinois, utility is almost always top of mind. If you are asking, Which vehicle has more maximum cargo volume, the Forester or Outback?, the immediate winner on raw numbers is the Subaru Outback. When you fold down the rear seats, the Outback delivers up to 76 cubic feet of maximum cargo space in standard configurations. By comparison, the Subaru Forester offers up to 74 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume on non-moonroof trim levels (or 69 cubic feet on models equipped with the panoramic moonroof). While a 1.2 cubic-foot difference might sound negligible on paper, the physical dimensions and structural geometry of these two iconic Subaru vehicles create distinctly different packing experiences.
The fundamental difference comes down to body style and architecture. The Subaru Outback is built on a midsize wagon platform, resulting in a significantly longer floor from the rear liftgate to the front seats. This extended horizontal floor makes the Outback exceptional for loading long items such as rolled camping tents, skis, full-size suitcases laid flat, and fishing gear. Conversely, the Subaru Forester is a compact crossover with a taller stance and boxier silhouette. It features a higher vertical hatch opening and elevated roofline, making it the preferred choice for carrying tall items like potted nursery plants, upright dog crates, and bulky coolers. At Hawk Subaru, we help drivers across Plainfield, Naperville, and Joliet evaluate how these dimensional nuances fit their everyday routines and getaway habits.
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Dimension / Specification
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2025 Subaru Outback
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2025 Subaru Forester
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Max Cargo Volume (Seats Folded)
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75.6 cu ft
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74.4 cu ft (69.1 cu ft w/ moonroof)
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Cargo Volume (Seats Up)
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32.6 cu ft
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29.6 cu ft (27.5 cu ft w/ moonroof)
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Cargo Floor Length (To Front Seats)
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Approx. 75.0 in
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Approx. 66.5 in
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Hatch Opening Height
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Approx. 30.1 in
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Approx. 32.2 in
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Rear Gate Opening Width
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Approx. 45.2 in
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Approx. 49.2 in
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Subaru Outback vs. Forester Cargo Space Breakdown: Dimensions, Cubic Feet, and Hatch Opening Sizes
The Subaru Outback Cargo Blueprint
With all passenger seats in place, the Subaru Outback yields 33 cubic feet of space behind the second row. This area easily accommodates four large roller bags stacked side-by-side alongside sports equipment or groceries. Folding down the 60/40 split rear seatbacks expands that area to an impressive 76 cubic feet. Because the Outback shares a platform with Subaru's legacy wagon heritage, the cargo floor extends deeper into the cabin—measuring roughly 75 inches from the tailgate sill to the front seatbacks. This long cargo deck allows outdoor enthusiasts to slide in paddleboards, canopy tents, and full camping roll-outs without needing to wedge items diagonally. Furthermore, the Outback feature set includes hands-free Power Rear Gate controls on higher trims, allowing suburban parents to open the rear cargo hold simply by waving a hand near the rear Subaru badge when their arms are full of gear.
The Subaru Forester Cargo Blueprint
The Subaru Forester provides up to 30 cubic feet behind the second row on standard models, expanding to 74 cubic feet when rear seatbacks are lowered. What sets the Forester apart is its extra-wide rear gate opening, which spans nearly 49.2 inches across at its widest point. This broad square opening eliminates the frustrating 'corner squeeze' when loading wide items like large plastic storage tubs, double strollers, or pre-assembled furniture. The Forester's cargo floor length to the front seats measures around 66.5 inches, making it slightly shorter than the Outback but noticeably taller from floor to ceiling (over 32 inches of hatch height). For drivers who prioritize easy loading without crouching, the Forester’s low liftover height and tall rear portal make loading heavy items straightforward and ergonomic.
Cargo Area Layout vs. Vertical Clearance: How Shape Dictates Practical Packing for Family Trips
Strollers & Coolers
For suburban families living in Plainfield and Naperville, everyday errands require versatile storage space. Heavy-duty double strollers and large rotomolded coolers fit flat across the Outback's long floor surface without blocking rearward sightlines through the rearview mirror. However, in the Forester, the taller ceiling height permits stacking coolers or placing bulky jogger strollers upright on their side, freeing up lateral floor space for diaper bags and grocery totes.
Tall Plants & Dog Crates
When transporting vertical items such as mature potted trees from a local greenhouse or rigid extra-large dog crates for pets, vertical clearance is critical. The Forester excels in vertical room, offering over 32 inches of hatch height and an upright glass window design. Pets enjoy enhanced headroom and larger side windows, making the Forester a favorite choice among local dog owners visiting regional dog parks.
Long Luggage & Skis
If your travel style centers on multi-state road trips, cross-country ski excursions, or carrying long duffel bags for hockey equipment, the Outback's extended deck length shines. Duffel bags can lie fully flat without crowding rear passengers. Additionally, the Outback's integrated roof crossbars swing across the roof rails when needed and stow away when idle, delivering quick external gear expansion.
Does the 2025 Outback Ride Smoother on Highway Trips Than the Forester?
Yes, on extended highway cruises along Interstate 55 or I-80, the 2025 Subaru Outback generally delivers a smoother, more planted ride than the Forester. This driving dynamic stems from the Outback's longer wheelbase (108.1 inches vs. the Forester's 105.1 inches) and lower center of gravity wagon architecture. The extended wheelbase absorbs road seams, expansion joints, and highway imperfections with composure, minimizing fore-and-aft pitching during long highway stretches.
Furthermore, the Outback utilizes advanced sound dampening materials in its floor pan and acoustic windshield glass on select trim levels, creating a quiet cabin environment at 70 mph. If your priority is long-distance touring, the Outback provides standard car-like cruising dynamics paired with an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
While the Outback favors long-distance highway composure, the Subaru Forester offers an elevated seating position that delivers commanding forward visibility over traffic. Drivers who commute through busy corridors like Route 59 or downtown Naperville appreciate the Forester's tight turning radius and glass-heavy design, which reduces blind spots during city parking and quick lane changes.
The Forester’s suspension is tuned for responsive handling over city streets while still absorbing rough Midwest pavement. You can experience both driving styles firsthand by exploring our inventory online to compare available models.
What Is the Towing Capacity of the 2025 Subaru Outback for Road Trips?
2025 Outback Towing Ratings
When planning road trips that involve extra recreational gear, towing capacity becomes a decisive factor. The 2025 Subaru Outback standard 2.5-liter Subaru BOXER engine provides a respectable 2,700 lbs towing capacity. However, upgrading to the 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine (found in Outback XT trims and the rugged Outback Wilderness) increases towing capacity up to 3,500 lbs. This higher rating allows you to confidently tow lightweight travel trailers, teardrop campers, personal watercraft, or a small boat for weekend getaways across the Midwest.
2025 Forester Towing Ratings
By comparison, standard Subaru Forester trim levels feature a towing rating of 1,500 lbs, which is ideal for small utility trailers or lightweight hitch-mounted bike racks. For drivers needing extra capability in a compact crossover footprint, the Forester Wilderness trim upgrades towing capacity to 3,000 lbs thanks to an upgraded transmission oil cooler. If your vacation plans routinely involve towing heavy recreational equipment, the turbocharged Outback XT or Wilderness trim delivers superior pulling power.
How Subaru Symmetrical AWD Improves Highway Safety During Heavy Rain in Northeastern Illinois
Continuous Torque Split
Unlike slip-and-grip all-wheel drive systems that only engage rear wheels after front tires lose traction, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continuously transfers power to all four wheels simultaneously. This balanced, layout routes engine power directly through a centered drivetrain, delivering instantaneous response when slick conditions arise.
Severe Rain Stability
During intense summer downpours across Route 59 or unexpected autumn rainstorms along I-55 in Joliet, standing water creates dangerous hydroplaning risks. Symmetrical AWD works alongside Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to monitor wheel speed, throttle position, and steering angles, instantly sending power to the tires with the strongest grip.
Year-Round Confidence
Whether navigating wet asphalt, gravel county roads, or early Midwest snowfalls, the low center of gravity provided by the horizontally opposed BOXER engine keeps both the Outback and Forester exceptionally stable. This engineering standard gives driver peace of mind regardless of unpredictable Chicagoland weather.
Get Your Subaru Labor Day Weekend Getaway Ready with Smart Cargo Organizing Tips
Preparing for a holiday road trip requires more than just cramming bags into the trunk. Implementing smart organization strategies helps protect your cabin, keeps emergency gear accessible, and maximizes comfort for all passengers. Before embarking on your holiday getaway, consider these essential cargo organization techniques:
- Position Heavy Items First: Place heavy coolers and hard suitcases directly against the back of the second-row seats to maintain proper vehicle weight distribution.
- Utilize Under-Floor Storage: Both the Forester and Outback feature concealed storage compartments beneath the main rear cargo floor—ideal for storing tire inflators, first-aid kits, and jumper cables.
- Install Cargo Nets & Trays: Rubberized all-weather cargo trays protect factory carpeting from mud and spills, while envelope-style cargo nets prevent smaller items from rolling around during travel.
- Protect Seatbacks: Heavy-duty seatback protectors shield the rear seat fabric when folding sections down for bulky gear.
What Specific Pre-Trip Service Checklist Items Are Most Important to Address on a 2025 Subaru Before a Labor Day Weekend Road Trip from Plainfield, IL?
Nothing disrupts a holiday road trip faster than mechanical issues along the highway. Before embarking on an extended drive from Plainfield, IL, addressing routine maintenance checklist items ensures maximum safety, fuel efficiency, and vehicle reliability. Here are the vital mechanical systems to review before heading out:
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Inspection Item
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What to Check & Action Needed
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Why It Matters for Highway Driving
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Tire Pressure & Tread
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Check cold PSI against door placard; inspect depth (min 4/32 in).
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Prevents blowouts, improves fuel economy, and optimizes wet traction.
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Brake System
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Inspect pad thickness (min 3mm) and rotor condition.
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Ensures stopping power under heavy vehicle loading or mountain decents.
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Engine Coolant & Fluid Levels
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Verify engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid levels.
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Prevents engine overheating during long summer highway speeds.
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Battery Health
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Conduct conductance test and clean terminal corrosion.
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Avoids unexpected dead battery stalls at rest stops.
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Wiper Blades & Sightlines
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Inspect rubber squeegees for streaks or tears; replace if worn.
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Ensures clear visibility during heavy Midwest rainstorms.
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If you notice uneven tire wear, squeal noises when braking, or maintenance warnings, visit our service center prior to departure. Get Directions to Hawk Subaru located conveniently at 2401 Rte 59, Plainfield, IL 60586 or Call us at (815) 725-3789 to reserve your pre-trip service slot.
What Is Included in a Pre-Trip Multi-Point Inspection at a Subaru Service Center?
Fluid & Engine Systems
Factory-certified technicians perform a comprehensive review of engine oil clarity, transmission fluid condition, differential fluids, engine coolant strength, radiator hoses, serpentine belts, and cabin air filters to ensure optimum climate control and engine protection.
Brakes, Tires & Chassis
Technicians inspect brake pad friction material, brake calipers, suspension shocks and struts, CV boots, wheel bearings, steering linkages, and conduct digital tread depth measurements across all four tires.
EyeSight® & Safety Calibration
Our technicians verify that the Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist camera system is clean and free of windshield obstructions, perform diagnostic system scans, test exterior lighting, and confirm tire inflation pressure.
Choosing Between Forester and Outback for Popular Midwest Destinations from Naperville and Joliet
Long Highway Getaways: Northwoods & Lake Michigan
If your weekend destination involves taking I-94 north to Door County, Wisconsin, or traversing highway miles to Michigan's coastal beach towns, the Outback's extended chassis and car-like highway stability shine. The available 260-horsepower turbocharged engine provides smooth highway passing power, while the long floor easily accommodates luggage, folding beach chairs, and tailgating setups.
Regional Outdoor Escapes: Starved Rock & Local Parks
For day trips to Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, or local forest preserves around Will and DuPage counties, the Forester is exceptionally nimble. Its short front and rear overhangs, high ground clearance, and upright seating position make navigating crowded park lots and tight trailheads effortless, while tall vertical hatch space holds backpacks, hiking boots, and pet gear.
Genuine Subaru Accessories to Boost Storage: Roof Racks, Hitches, and Cargo Covers at Hawk Subaru
Expand your storage capabilities even further with factory OEM Subaru accessories engineered specifically for your vehicle. At Hawk Subaru in Plainfield, we carry a full inventory of genuine accessories designed to integrate seamlessly with factory mounting points.
- Thule® Roof Cargo Boxes: Aerodynamic roof boxes that add up to 16 cubic feet of secure overhead storage.
- Hitch-Mounted Bike Carriers: Heavy-duty rack attachments that carry up to four bicycles without scratching exterior paint.
- Roof Kayak & Ski Carriers: Custom cradles for safely securing kayaks, paddleboards, and winter sports gear.
- Retractable Cargo Covers: Durable privacy screens that shield valuable items in the rear cargo hold from sun and sight.
Comparing Trim Levels, Trade-In Values, and Financing Options in Plainfield, IL
Versatile Trim Hierarchy
Both the Outback and Forester are available across diverse trims including Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, and the rugged Wilderness edition. Each step up adds premium comfort features like StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, heated rear seats, and power liftgates.
Maximize Trade-In Value
Upgrading to a new Subaru is straightforward when trading in your current vehicle. You can Value Your Trade-In online to receive a competitive real-time market appraisal to apply directly toward your purchase.
Tailored Auto Financing
Our finance specialists work directly with local lenders across Chicagoland to secure competitive interest rates and lease terms. You can easily Get Pre-Approved for Financing before visiting our showroom.
Test Drive or Service Your Subaru at Hawk Subaru in Plainfield Before Your Next Adventure
Still deciding whether the long-deck versatility of the Subaru Outback or the tall-hatch accessibility of the Subaru Forester is best for your lifestyle? The best way to choose is to test drive both back-to-back at Hawk Subaru. Our friendly staff is ready to help you test out folding seats, loading gear, and evaluating cabin comfort. You can also explore our high-quality inventory options: Explore Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles or Browse Used Inventory to fit your budget.
If you already own a Subaru and want to ensure it is in peak condition for an upcoming trip, don't wait until the last minute. Schedule Your Service Today with our factory-trained technicians to enjoy a worry-free journey.
