Eric's reply..

They are both great vehicles!
They both score well above average in reliability tests.

 

The 2015 Forester is an all wheel drive small SUV.
Engines available: 2.5 liter 4 (170 hp) or 2.0 liter 4 turbo (250 hp)
Transmissions available: 6-speed manual or CVT

Standard Equipment:
2.5i 2.5 liter 4 (170 hp), Brake assist, AM/FM stereo, CD player, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth Connection, A/C, Security System, Cruise Control, Adjustable steering wheel, Variable speed wipers, Steering wheel audio controls, Anti-theft system, Automatic headlights, Back up camera, Keyless entry, Power mirrors, 4 wheel disc brakes, Steel wheels, and spare tire.

2.5i Premium adds HD radio, Power driver seat, Heated front seats, Driver adjustable lumbar, Aluminum wheels, Sunroof, Dual moonroof.

2.5i Limited adds CVT transmission, Climate control, Fog Lamps, Leather steering wheel, Power liftgate, Heated mirrors, Rear spoiler.

2.0XT Premium adds 2.0 liter 4 turbo (250 hp).

2.5i Touring adds 2.5 liter 4 (170 hp), Satellite radio, Multizone A/C, Fog lamps, HID headlights, power liftgate.

2.0XT Touring 2.0 liter 4 turbo (250 hp)

The 2015 Outback is an all wheel drive wagon.
Engines available: 2.5 liter 4 (175 hp) or 3.6 liter 6 (256 hp)
Transmissions available: CVT

Standard Equipment:
2.5i 2.5 liter 4 (175 hp), CVT transmission, Brake assist, AM/FM stereo, CD player, Auxiliary audio input, HD radio, Bluetooth connection, A/C, Security system, Cruise Control, Adjustable steering wheel, Variable speed wipers, Steering wheel audio controls, Anti-theft system, Automatic headlights, Luggage rack, Back up camera, Keyless entry, Power mirrors, 4 wheel disc brakes, Steel wheels, Spare tire, and Rear spoiler.

2.5i Premium adds Satellite radio, Power driver seat, Heated front seats, Driver adjustable lumbar, Multizone A/C, Fog lamps, Leather steering wheel, Trip computer, Cargo shade, Heated mirrors, Aluminum wheels.

2.5i Limited adds Premium sound system, Power passenger seat, Seat memory, Heated rear seats, Woodgrain interior or trim, Power liftgate.

3.6R Limited adds 3.6 liter 6 (256 hp), HID headlights.

Both vehicles are very close! It's a tough call. The Outback is slightly roomier on the interior except in cargo volume where the Forester edges out a bit more room. The Outback has an exceptional towing capacity of 2,700 lbs. versus the Forester's weaker 1,500 lbs. The Forester has slightly better fuel efficiency and it has a faster acceleration from 0 to 60 mph. It also has a slightly better stopping distance (on wet and dry road) than the Outback. The Outback has a slightly quieter ride and a more comfier ride than the Forester.

The verdict: Given the cheaper price points and the driving performance, the Subaru Forester is marginally better.