Need expert opinion on my next Subaru...

FastBunniBoi

FastBunniBoi

New Member
Joined
Feb 20, 2022
Messages
3
Location
12780
Car Year
2013
Car Model
Mazdaspeed 3
Transmission
Manual
Looking to start with my next off-road project, but I'm just not sure which Subaru makers the most sense for what I'm trying to do. Here's my choices so far: SG Forester (N/A with the 5-spd.), BP Outback (3.0L H6 manual or auto), or BL Outback.

My main goal is to build the most winter capable vehicle I can. Priorities are going to be reliability, aftermarket, and ground clearance. USDM models by the way.

Any advice or insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks 🫠
 
G'day & Welcome aboard @FastBunniBoi

In stock form the Forester has better approach and departure angles than the Outback. If towing the H6 would be very nice. I prefer auto for offroading and both my current vehicles are auto (I've had other manual 4WDs with low range in the past)
 
:welcome: to the forum.

A friend had a 3.6L Outback. Then a 2.5L.
He was surprised that the 2.5L EJ253 version had better torque characteristics at low revs than his 3.6L!

Basically, the Outback is a more comfortable, family touring car.

As Kevin said, the Forester is (much) better off the bitumen, with far better approach, departure and ramp over angles (shorter wheelbase, lesser overhangs).
 
Kevin said:
G'day & Welcome aboard @FastBunniBoi

In stock form the Forester has better approach and departure angles than the Outback. If towing the H6 would be very nice. I prefer auto for offroading and both my current vehicles are auto (I've had other manual 4WDs with low range in the past)
Click to expand...
Yeah, I likely won't be towing. Can I ask why you prefer an auto for off-roading? I've always considered manual to be superior, but I guess it's easier to do low speed maneuvers if you have an auto?
 
Ratbag said:
:welcome: to the forum.

A friend had a 3.6L Outback. Then a 2.5L.
He was surprised that the 2.5L EJ253 version had better torque characteristics at low revs than his 3.6L!

Basically, the Outback is a more comfortable, family touring car.

As Kevin said, the Forester is (much) better off the bitumen, with far better approach, departure and ramp over angles (shorter wheelbase, lesser overhangs).
Click to expand...
Yeah, from what I've been seeing all over, the Forester seems to be the preferred model.
 
Any of those would do fine in snow or else with little lift they good . And if forester is 2.0 na that power difference vs h6 will be so pleasant.
I would consider legacys as well same gen as they can be lifted be same as obk, cost less and could be find in 2.0 engines as well. Good for economy.
H6 3.0 is not most economical but could be better on fuel the. 2.5 4eat just because that 5th gear.
Then again maybe most important thing there could be VDC on h6 3.0 obk . Foresters got vdc just from 2009.
Just so much more stable and secure on road and works just fine off road too specially snow. And tc off button just makes its free power mode if you need that. Best of both worlds and more power
 
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