2013 OBW vs. 2014 Forester - by the numbers

[dboz]

With the torque of the XT, I would think it would be very competitive with H6 OB in acceleration also. I would go for the Forester just based on MPG and what has to be very similar performance numbers. The Forester will also be less expensive I would think. Most turbo cars lose about 10-20hp if you run them on 87.

I wish they would add a turbo to the XV, that to me would be the perfect combo for my needs. I just wish the FORESTER had a little better look to it.

The XV is not a competitor to the FORESTER in any category I can see except AWD.

[jogosub]

Originally Posted by lloyd123

Does the new Forester require premium or is it only recommended for optimum performance? If it can be run on regular - as a lot of cars can that only recommend, not require - then how much of a reduction in HP and torque would be acceptable? I had two VW Passats - both 4 cylinder turbos - in the past that recommended premium that I couldn't really tell the difference in performance or gas mileage when I ran it on regular so I only used regular for years and over 60,000 miles each with no ill effects.

My Forester XT 2010 required premium gas only! Not sure about the non-turbo though....

[sleze]

I entered the subaru show room with the intention of buying a forester. However, as soon as I sat in it, I was immediately turned off by the cheap feel. Because the price points are so close, I never looked back.

And since when did we start calling it OBW (Outback wagon) vs just OB?

[Novablue]

All these XT's require premium, you could run regular but it's not designed for it and years of doing that will cause issues.

The non XT's should run REG.

I do like the new Forester styling.

[pgh]

Originally Posted by mopartodd

I don't know about that. Motortrend did a "quick drive" of the new XT and said Subaru has addressed alot of the current Forester weaknesses. Suppose well see.

Your correct, the new Impreza addressed weakness but I still consider it noisy and underpowered, but a 20k car in todays world buys the basics. I did hear from a source that focus groups involved with the new Foresters development had more positive reactions than the new Impreza during it's development. I'm curious and can't waite until I drive one to see and feel the improvements.

[digdah]

Here's a cool intro video Subaru did on the new Forester.

[SUBARU] SUBARU NEW FORESTER Projection Mapping - YouTube

[statueim]

Originally Posted by sleze

And since when did we start calling it OBW (Outback wagon) vs just OB?

It's a term with historical origins. The Outback was originally a Legacy with a different suspension and body cladding. Previously, there was a Legacy sedan and a Legacy wagon and the Outback started out by changing the suspension and body cladding for both models. Therefore you had OBS (Outback sedan) and OBW (Outback wagon). The Outback sedan died out first and the Legacy wagon thereafter. Now, we have the Outback in wagon form only and the Legacy in sedan form only (here in the States anyways).

OBS also is sometimes used as an abbreviation for Outback Sport -- an upscale wagon Impreza model using the Outback's branding and a two-tone paint scheme. This model has subsequently been replaced by the Impreza sport (most likely because applying the name Outback to several models led to brand confusion). I'm certain the Impreza sport will also go away with the advent of the Crosstrek (a true "Outbacking" of the Impreza wagon).

[JordanMayPhoto]

Premium Fuel kills any daily driver in my book.

Those fuel numbers are way off. Maybe the 3.6 motor gets that horrible 18/25 but I am getting 26/32 roughly in my 2.5.

[Healey3000]

Originally Posted by sleze

I entered the subaru show room with the intention of buying a forester. However, as soon as I sat in it, I was immediately turned off by the cheap feel. Because the price points are so close, I never looked back.

And since when did we start calling it OBW (Outback wagon) vs just OB?

Sounds like you may have seen the current model Forester, which is indeed as you describe. The 2014, due out soon is supposed to have a very high quality interior and excellent NHV characteristics.

OBW? Sorry, I'm used to my 2002. OB it is!

[fun2drive]

Worth driving it when it comes out for sure.
Sounds like a nice ride. I drive a friends 12 Forester and then the 13 Outback. Considerable amount of difference regarding how quiet the OB is and the H-6 vs 4 spd 2.5L. New Forester who knows. I think the power will be spot on for a 3600 lb car...