The New Subaru Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek: Which Fits Life in Detroit Lakes?

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Adventure-Ready SUVs for Minnesota Roads

Life in Detroit Lakes calls for a vehicle that can handle winter snow, pack in gear for weekends at the lake, and stay efficient for daily drives. Subaru's new lineup offers three standouts: the Outback, the Forester, and the Crosstrek. Each brings symmetrical all-wheel drive, advanced safety, and rugged versatility. Here's how they differ in performance, space, and everyday capability near Callaway.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Subaru Crosstrek is nimble and efficient, perfect for commuting or short trips. Its standard 2.0-liter engine makes 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, while an available 2.5-liter option delivers 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet. It's the most fuel-efficient of the trio, reaching up to 34 miles per gallon highway.

The Subaru Forester balances strength and efficiency with a 2.5-liter engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It's smooth, quiet, and returns up to 33 miles per gallon highway.

The Subaru Outback offers the most muscle. The standard 2.5-liter engine makes 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the available turbocharged 2.4-liter jumps to 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet - ideal for towing up to 3,500 pounds. Fuel economy reaches 33 mpg highway for the base engine and 30 mpg with the turbo.

  • Crosstrek: up to 34 mpg highway
  • Forester: up to 33 mpg highway
  • Outback: up to 33 mpg highway (30 mpg turbo)

Interior Space and Comfort

The Crosstrek suits solo adventurers or small families with 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 55.3 cubic feet with seats down. Its cabin is durable and practical.

The Forester offers more space and excellent visibility, with 28.9 cubic feet of cargo room expanding to 74.2 cubic feet. Its upright seating and big windows are excellent for snowy drives around Perham.

The Outback leads in volume, with 32.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 75.6 cubic feet with seats folded. It's ideal for gear-heavy trips, and higher trims add premium finishes and available Nappa leather.

  • Crosstrek: 55.3 cubic feet max cargo
  • Forester: 74.2 cubic feet max cargo
  • Outback: 75.6 cubic feet max cargo

Ground Clearance and Capability

All three are winter-ready. The Crosstrek and Forester each offer 8.7 inches of clearance, with the Forester adding X-Mode and Hill Descent Control for extra traction. The Outback matches 8.7 inches but its Wilderness trim climbs to 9.5 inches, great for unplowed roads or rugged trails.

  • Crosstrek: 8.7 inches clearance
  • Forester: 8.7 inches with advanced X-Mode
  • Outback: up to 9.5 inches in Wilderness trim

Technology and Features

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard across all three, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, with available 11.6-inch touchscreens.

The Crosstrek focuses on simplicity and value, while the Forester adds premium audio and a digital driver display. The Outback goes upscale with ventilated seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a hands-free power tailgate.

Which Subaru Fits Detroit Lakes Life?

The Subaru Crosstrek is great for efficient commuting and light adventures around Pelican Rapids. The Forester shines for families and anyone who values space with great visibility. For maximum room, towing, and confidence in deep snow or on backroads, the Subaru Outback stands out as the ultimate all-rounder.

Schedule a Test Drive at Doug Smith Subaru

Detroit Lakes adventures demand the right Subaru. Visit Doug Smith Subaru serving Frazee to explore the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback in person, compare trims and features, and find the SUV that fits your lifestyle best.

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  1. R & G Subaru

    1140 US-59 S
    Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

    • Sales: 218-847-2498
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