I believe the Forester is easier to get in and out of because of the way the roof is structured. The Outback's A pillar is more slanted back so if you bend forward while getting into the car it's more in the way than it would be in a Forester. The Forester's greenhouse is taller as well, as evident from the roof height being higher in the Forester than the Outback.

I'm not sure how to accurately measure seat height to the ground but the Forester's seating position is more upright and the Outback's is more car-like, so despite having identical ground clearance, the Forester's seat bottoms are higher than the Outback's and your legs will extend more while seated in an Outback.

So these various factors make the Forester easier to enter and exit for most people, but people come in all shapes and sizes and ultimately I'd suggest you give it your own seat entry test because seat height numbers won't do it justice.

Once seated, you might find the Outback more comfortable for long drives, and the suspension is more relaxed and supple, with a longer wheelbase.

 

Yeah, i reckon you are right with all of that. I guess the only way to really find out is to get into an Outback and go for a drive. I do appreciate your feedback.

thanks

 

My wife and I have both a 2020 Outback and a 2017 Forester and I think I read somewhere that the Forester seat is 2" higher than the Outback, which seems about right to me. I think my Outback is just as easy to get into as her Forester, for what that's worth.

Cheers,
Dave.

 

Thanks Dave

 

Somethign to keep in mind is that height from ground will vary. Tires, suspension, wear of each, mods, and even if the ground is level (mine isn't) will all affect the measurements.

 

Subaru may have made it easier for you to set the seat for entry and then use another seat memory for driving. I offer the following for your consideration.

Each FOB is individually recognized by the Outback and each can be linked to an individual seat position memory. I am suggesting you can have the FOB seat memory set to a seat position that is easiest for entry and seating in the driver's seat. Push the FOB button, then open the door at which time the seat will automatically move to the entry position you have set for the specific FOB. Remember that each FOB can have its own memory position.

A second memory position for the seat can be set using one of the two buttons, identified as 1 or 2, on the door; This memory position is using a different memory from the FOB. Once the driver is positioned in the driver's seat the appropriate seat memory button should be pushed to move the seat to the preset desired driving position. Once moved, the seat belt may be fastened.

Using this procedure will allow the seat to automatically be optimally positioned for entry using positions in the seat memory and then move to the optimum set position for driving without having to touch the seat's side controls.

 

I don't have the exact figures but can tell you that ease of entry and exit were main concerns of mine when I shopped. I'm in my 60's, have a bad leg and was coming from a minivan. Both our parents are also well into their 80's. I really needed ease of entry and yet wanted better ground clearance. The gen 6 Outback won over the Ascent (and other brands ) for me due to it's low seat height, seat retracting feature and the fact that it's doors opened wider than previous versions. AlI I can tell you is to go try one for yourself. I doubt you'll have an issue.