jtom

Basically I can spend 20k and I want a subaru. Im sure you guys know all about the differences between the two models. I like the OBS because the rims are far superior to the hubcaps of the base 2.5x, plus you get the all weather package. However, I am not sure if I would like the two tone color combo. Most people I have read hate it but I have not seen it in person yet. The two colors I would consider for the OBS would be the black or silver main body color. I will immeditely remove the rack BTW.

For the 2.5x I will only be looking at the silver. The forester has more road height so it does have its advantages, plus it looks more off roadish. I have never owned an SUV before so I am not sure if I will like being higher up though.

On both models I will be getting the sport grille.

Thanks!

Heres a pic of the OBS I found, obviously the black color hides the two tone better then other colors. Also if anyone has any silver pics please post, I havent seen many. Also with the black I am a little concerned about scratches and keeping it clean, I have always owned silver cars and never had to worry about anything like that.

sea-scooby

Do you have kids or plan on it within the lifespan of this vehicle? If so the Forester is the much better option.

If your without little ones and don't need the extra room, the OBS might be a little more bang for the buck.

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jtom

More then likely I wont have any kids until after this vehicle is done with.

08forester

Hello,
I have an 08 Forester Sports 2.5 and I love it. I have the silver. I have always had trucks before this car and it's nice because it does sit higher than say my wife's accord, but not as high as a truck. It is pretty much in the middle. I think it is sporty. The only thing I have done to it is window tint, and an after-market in-dash navigation system with bluetooth and i-pod which is nice. I will post pics below. And I spent right around 20k.

Good luck

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CabinDude

Check insurance rates as well. I'm not sure what the companies classify the OBS, but when i was purchased my Forester over an Impreza Hatchback, I was shocked to learn the Forester was almost $400/year cheaper (currently pay about $800 per year) than the less expensive (purchase cost) Impreza.

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rpiereck

I'm not a big fan of the '09 Forester, so I voted for the OBS.

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BAC5.2

We recently had to make a similar decision. The non-drum rear brakes, and the fact that my wife didn't want something as large as the Forester guided us to an 09 2.5i Premium. We actually pick it up today!

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Lone Ranger

2009 Forester 2.5X base has disc brakes all four wheels. Plus all 2009's have the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability control system, even the base models.

BAC5.2

Really? I couldn't really see behind the hubcaps. I thought the tradition of drums carried over. The BASE Impreza has rear drums, though the knuckles have tabs for calipers, which is really odd.

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sicko

I voted for the Forester b/c I feel it's a bit more versatile. However, it sounds like you're basing your decisions primarily on looks. I say go to a dealership and test drive both of them (multiple times if you can) and see which one you like better. Both are great cars and do their own things great, but for myself and my needs I recently bought an '09 Forester. Check them out for yourself and see which one feels right to you and which one would work with your needs.

Don't forget though, the '09 Forester has things like VDC which is supposed to make the car much safer. Check out Research: Electronic stability control for information about it "Electronic stability control could prevent nearly one-third of all fatal crashes and reduce rollover risk by as much as 80%; effect is found on single- and multiple-vehicle crashes"

jtom

Based on subarus site, it appears that both have VDC.

JeffLee

I vote for the Outback......... (not the sport)......

I love the Outback wagon..

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GodWhomIsMike

whoosh on nasioc can tell you a bit about his '08 OBS.

jtom

I am really not leaning towards either at the moment. I am very nervous about the look of the OBS two tone look. I have not seen it in person and the pics online I either dont care for or dont think they look bad.

I do like the OBS because it offers the premium package and the all weather package, fog lights, underguards etc. It basically offers alot more for the money. However, it obviously has alot less cargo room. I personally prefer the styling more of the OBS.

I like the forester because of the extra space and the more rugged look to it. However, it doesnt offer the extra options that the OBS offers.

Anyone else?

JeffLee

Like i said before, the Outback, comes in mono tone and it's got all the options like you mentioned.. it looks pretty rugged.. and it's got a ton of room........

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