Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Forester: Which SUV is Best for You?
If you live in Lethbridge, Alberta, you know our weather can change in a heartbeat—sunshine one minute, wind and snow the next. That’s why so many Southern Alberta drivers choose Subaru. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, class-leading safety, and incredible reliability, the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester are two of the most popular SUVs on the road in Lethbridge. But which one is right SUV for you? Let’s break down what makes each Subaru a top choice for driving in and around Lethbridge.
Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is a favourite among drivers who want something compact, fuel-efficient, and capable of handling Alberta’s unpredictable conditions.
Why Lethbridge Drivers Love the Crosstrek
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Standard Symmetrical AWD—ideal for winter commutes down Mayor Magrath or highway drives to Calgary.
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220 mm of ground clearance makes it perfect for gravel roads around Waterton or Castle Mountain.
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Compact size makes parking downtown or at Park Place Mall a breeze.
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Great fuel economy, keeping costs down during those windy Lethbridge days when you’re running more errands.
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Comfortable interior with easy-to-use tech for daily Lethbridge traffic.
Subaru Forester
For families or anyone who needs more space, the Subaru Forester delivers exceptional comfort, safety, and cargo capacity without being overly large.
Why Lethbridge Drivers Choose the Forester
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Outstanding visibility—great for winter driving when visibility matters most.
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Massive interior space for road trips to Fernie, sports gear for the kids, or Costco runs.
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Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, ideal for busy Lethbridge intersections and high-traffic areas.
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Great fuel efficiency for a larger SUV.
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Adventure-ready capability with up to 220 mm of clearance and available X-MODE® for off-pavement trips.
Thoughts from Joe-long time Subaru Sales Consultant…
Should I buy a Forester or a Crosstrek? You get this question a lot from customers who are shopping for a Subaru for the first time. The question is hard to answer, because, frankly, both are excellent choices. I can advise them to go for one or the other after we delve into specifics about features they are looking for. For example, if they want cooled seats or a power rear liftgate, then the Forester is the way to go because these features are currently not available in a Crosstrek. But in terms of core design features, the lines between the two are less clear, as both models possess the same core values in terms of design, performance, and safety. Often customers come to the dealership to test drive either a Crosstrek or a Forester, having done all of their research ahead of time, drawn predominantly the look of one of either of them. In many instances, once through the door or based on available inventory, they will drive the other model as well and be pleasantly surprised. This becomes the occasion of some weighty considerations. In this case I observe, offer advice, or my own opinion. But what I find happens is that they decide to go for one or the other for one of two reasons. Firstly, space – the Forester is considerably larger and once inside it, if feels more spacious. This consideration often tips the balance in terms of Forester. However, if space isn’t an issue, and the lack of something like the power liftgate isn’t a problem, the Crosstrek will win out for the sportiness of its drive and the crispness of its handling. The smaller quality of the Crosstrek translates into a more dynamic drive. And because the Crosstrek has the same ground clearance and the same amazing all wheel drive system, it is every bit as capable as the Forester. Both are excellent choices, and the difference is a matter of flavour, rather than taste. Have a look at our current new inventory and come in for a test drive to find out Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Forester: Which is the best SUV for You?
Have questions or would like to take a test drive, feel free to reach out!
