Comparison
2019 Subaru Outback vs 2019 Subaru Forester
A comprehensive side-by-side comparison of fuel economy, operating expenses, and total cost of ownership.
Detailed Comparison Analysis: 2019 Outback vs. 2019 Forester
The interactive calculator above evaluates these two vehicles using DriveCost's transparent methodology: EPA-rated efficiency, age-banded maintenance and tire models by powertrain, and residual value depreciation.
Adjust the sliders for annual mileage and your local fuel or electricity prices to see which vehicle is cheaper for your specific commute.
Comparison FAQs
DriveCost multiplies your estimated annual gallons by the gasoline price you enter (or the national average). Estimated gallons = annual miles ÷ weighted MPG, where weighted MPG blends the EPA city and highway ratings using your city/highway driving split.
EPA ratings come from standardized lab tests at fueleconomy.gov. They are useful for comparing vehicles, but real-world economy varies with weather, traffic, speed, terrain, vehicle condition and driving style. DriveCost labels them "EPA-rated" and treats them as estimates.
Cost per mile = total annual operating costs ÷ annual miles. Operating costs include fuel or electricity, maintenance, tires and other recurring costs you enter. It excludes the one-time purchase price and depreciation.
Five-year energy cost is the annual energy cost multiplied by your ownership period. The full five-year ownership view also adds estimated maintenance, tires, depreciation and optional insurance/registration, using documented assumptions that are shown on the methodology page.