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Subaru is a well-known brand with a loyal following, and for good reason. The brand is synonymous with reliability, safety, and versatility. In recent years, two models in particular have stood out for their impressive reliability: the Subaru Outback and the Subaru Forester. Both vehicles offer plenty of benefits for drivers, but when it comes to reliability, the Outback has an edge over the Forester. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the positive benefits of the Subaru Outback versus the Forester when it comes to reliability.

1. Longevity

One of the biggest factors that contribute to the reliability of a vehicle is its longevity. The longer a car can last, the more reliable it is considered to be. According to reports from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, the Subaru Outback has a longer lifespan compared to the Forester. The latest model of the Outback has an average lifespan of about 200,000 miles, while the Forester's average lifespan is around 180,000 miles.

This is due to the fact that the Outback has been around for a longer period of time, giving Subaru more time to perfect and refine the model. This has resulted in a vehicle that is built to last and can withstand the test of time.

2. Lower Maintenance Costs

When you invest in a car, you want it to be not only reliable, but also affordable to maintain. This is where the Outback has a clear advantage over the Forester. According to a study by RepairPal, the annual maintenance costs for the Subaru Outback are about $267 lower compared to the Forester. This is because the Outback has a simpler design and fewer complicated features, making it easier and more affordable to maintain in the long run.

3. Exceptional Safety Ratings

Subaru is known for its safety features, and both the Outback and the Forester received top marks in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). However, the Outback has consistently received higher safety ratings compared to the Forester. In fact, the 2020 Outback was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS, the highest rating given by the organization, while the Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating.

This is due to the fact that the Outback is built on a different platform than the Forester, and it has a longer wheelbase, which gives it better stability and handling on the road. In addition, the Outback comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology, which includes features like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, making it one of the safest vehicles on the road.

4. All-Wheel Drive Capability

Both the Outback and the Forester come standard with Subaru's famous all-wheel drive system. This is a major advantage for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather, as it provides better traction and handling on wet or slippery roads. However, the Outback has an upgraded AWD system with X-MODE, which enhances performance and control in even the toughest road conditions. This makes the Outback a more reliable option for drivers who frequently encounter harsh weather conditions on their daily commute.

5. Higher Resale Value

Resale value is an important factor to consider when purchasing a vehicle, as it can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership. According to a study by Kelley Blue Book, the Outback has a higher resale value compared to the Forester. This means that you can get a better return on your investment when it's time to sell or trade in the Outback, making it a more reliable long-term option.

In conclusion, while both the Subaru Outback and the Forester are reliable and well-respected vehicles, the Outback has some significant advantages when it comes to reliability. Its longer lifespan, lower maintenance costs, exceptional safety ratings, all-wheel drive capability, and higher resale value make it a top choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting vehicle. So if reliability is a top priority for you when looking for a new car, the Subaru Outback should definitely be at the top of your list.