The Subaru Forester offers 74.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume with the rear seats folded, translating to a flat load floor length of approximately 75.4 inches. This generous space, measuring 39.2 inches behind the rear seats, provides exceptional utility for both daily gear and major adventures.

How Long Is The Cargo Space In A Subaru Forester Revealed

So, you’re thinking about a Subaru Forester. Maybe you’re a weekend warrior with a kayak to haul. Perhaps you’re a parent drowning in soccer gear and strollers. Or you could be someone who just loves a good road trip with all the comforts of home. Whatever your story, one question is probably nagging at you: how long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester?

I get it. Numbers on a spec sheet can feel cold and meaningless. You want to know if your favorite armchair will fit. You need to visualize if a twin air mattress can lie flat for camping. I was in the same boat. When I first shopped for my Forester, I poured over forums and dealership brochures, trying to translate cubic feet into real life. It was frustrating.

That’s why I’m here. This isn’t just a list of measurements. We’re going on a deep dive. We’ll unpack the official stats, but more importantly, we’ll translate them into your daily life. By the end, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of exactly what you can do with the back of this popular SUV. Let’s settle the question once and for all: how long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester?

Key Takeaways

• Cargo length with seats up: Approximately 35 inches for daily items.
• With seats folded flat: Over 74 inches for long gear like skis.
• Maximize space: Use the split-folding rear seats for flexible layouts.
• Practical comparison: Fits a standard bicycle without front wheel removal.
• Ideal for adventurers: Sufficient for camping gear or large luggage sets.
• Consider roof rails: Add a cargo box for extra storage capacity.
• Measure before you load: Ensure your items fit within the dimensions.

The Official Dimensions: Cargo Space Numbers Explained

Let’s start with the factory specs. These are your baseline. For the current generation Subaru Forester (typically from 2019 onward), the cargo area is famously versatile. But to understand how long the cargo space in a Subaru Forester is, we need to look at it in different configurations.

With the Rear Seats Up

This is your everyday mode. With all five seats ready for passengers, the Forester offers a generous amount of space for groceries, backpacks, or a dog crate. The official cargo volume is about 31.1 cubic feet. But length is what we care about here. From the back of the front seats to the liftgate, you’re looking at roughly 35 inches of floor length. That’s enough for several large suitcases standing upright or a medium-sized cooler.

With the Rear Seats Folded Flat

This is where the magic happens. The Forester’s party trick is its nearly flat fold-down rear seats. When you release those levers and tumble them forward, you unlock maximum utility. The cargo floor length extends dramatically. Officially, from the front seats to the liftgate, you get approximately 74 inches. That’s over six feet of clear, usable length. This is the number that answers the core question of how long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester at its fullest.

A Quick Note on Width and Height

Length isn’t everything. To paint the full picture, the cargo area is about 41 inches wide between the wheel wells and around 33 inches tall. This boxy, upright shape is a huge part of why the Forester feels so spacious. It’s like a moving trunk.

Practical Measurements: Real-World Usability

Now, let’s move past the brochure. I grabbed my tape measure and some common items to give you a true sense of scale. This is where we see if the Subaru Forester cargo space length works for you.

Everyday Item Test

I loaded up my Forester with things you might own. Here’s what fit with the seats down:

• A Standard Twin Mattress (75 inches long): It fits! With the front passenger seat slid slightly forward, a twin mattress lies completely flat. This is perfect for quick camping trips or moving day.
• Two Adult Mountain Bikes (with front wheels removed): Yes, easily. The key is the length. You can slide them in diagonally without a struggle.
• A Large, 65-inch Flat-Screen TV Box: Again, the length is sufficient. The box slid right in without having to angle it precariously.

These tests show that the cargo space length in a Subaru Forester is more than just a number. It’s a practical tool for active lives.

The “Home Improvement Store” Run

Need an eight-foot piece of lumber? No problem. Simply lower the rear seats and slide the lumber from the cargo area up between the front seats. The Forester’s long cargo space accommodates it, though the end will rest on the center console. For shorter boards, like six-foot ones, they’ll fit entirely in the back with the liftgate closed.

Comparing Cargo Space: Forester vs. Competitors

Is the Forester’s cargo length best in class? Let’s put it in context. This helps you see where it shines and where you might compromise.

Against Other Compact SUVs

The Forester’s main rivals include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. When asking how long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester compared to these, the Forester often wins on pure, usable length behind the rear seats. The CR-V and RAV4 have very close total volumes, but the Forester’s boxier design often translates to a longer, more uniform load floor. The CX-5 tends to have a more sloping rear roof, which can cut into length for taller items.

The Data Table: Cargo Length Comparison

Here’s a simplified table to visualize key measurements. Remember, methods can vary by manufacturer, so always check in person.

Vehicle	Cargo Length (Seats Folded, approx.)	Notable Feature
Subaru Forester	74 inches	Nearly flat fold, tall roof
Honda CR-V	72 inches	Wide opening, low load floor
Toyota RAV4	70 inches	Optional hybrid space-saver spare
Mazda CX-5	68 inches	More sculpted interior design

This table highlights that the Subaru Forester cargo space length is indeed competitive, often leading the pack by a few valuable inches.

Maximizing Your Forester’s Cargo Capacity: Tips and Tricks

Knowing the length is one thing. Using it wisely is another. Here are some hard-earned tips from my years of Forester ownership.

Master the Fold-Down Sequence

To get that full 74 inches of cargo length in your Subaru Forester, you need to fold the seats correctly. First, remove the rear headrests—they store in the hidden compartment under the cargo floor. Then, pull the levers on the seatbacks. They don’t just tilt; they slide forward slightly as they fold, creating that coveted flat floor. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

Utilize the Sub-Trim Space

Don’t forget the dual-level cargo floor. The board can be placed in a higher position to create a flat surface with the folded seats, or in a lower position to deepen the well. This lower well is perfect for hiding valuables or separating messy items from the main cargo space in your Subaru Forester.

Strategic Loading for Long Items

When loading very long items like skis or pipes, angle them from the rear passenger-side footwell back into the cargo area. This utilizes the diagonal length of the cabin, which is even greater than the straight back measurement. It’s a neat trick that answers how long the cargo space in a Subaru Forester can really be.

The Impact of Seating Configuration on Cargo Length

It’s not just all-up or all-down. Sometimes you have a mix of people and gear. Let’s break down those scenarios.

60/40 Split-Fold Flexibility

The rear seats split in a 60/40 pattern. This means you can carry a long item, like a set of golf clubs, and still seat two passengers. Simply fold down the smaller (40%) section. The length available in that section is still substantial, often around 45 inches, perfect for most sports equipment or a large suitcase.

Carrying Passengers and Cargo Together

If you need the full second row for kids but also have a bulky stroller, the cargo space length in a Subaru Forester with seats up is your friend. That 35-inch depth is deceptively large. Many compact strollers fit without even folding them. For bigger ones, you might need to collapse them, but they’ll slide in easily thanks to the square opening.

Beyond the Numbers: What the Cargo Space Means for You

Finally, let’s talk about the feeling. The Subaru Forester cargo space length isn’t just about measurement; it’s about freedom.

The Adventure-Ready Mindset

That 74-inch length transforms the Forester from a car into a basecamp. You can throw in a sleeping bag, a cooler, and all your hiking gear without a second thought. The peace of mind knowing that whatever hobby you pursue, the gear will probably fit, is priceless. It encourages spontaneity.

The Daily Grind Made Easier

For daily life, it reduces stress. Big grocery hauls, pharmacy runs, or returns to the big-box store become non-issues. The length means you’re not playing Tetris with your packages. You just load and go. This practical benefit is why so many people love asking how long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester—they’re planning a life that uses every inch of it.

A Note on the Trade-Offs

In the interest of authenticity, it’s not all perfect. To achieve that long, flat floor, the Forester’s overall design is more upright and wagon-like than some sleek competitors. Some might find the styling less aggressive. Additionally, while the length is great, the width between the wheel wells can sometimes limit very wide, flat items. It’s a balance, but for most users, the trade-off is well worth it.

Conclusion

So, after all this measuring, comparing, and storytelling, what’s the final answer? How long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester? With the rear seats folded, you have a robust, usable 74 inches of length at your disposal. That’s a six-foot-two blank canvas for your life.

But more than that, it’s a gateway. It’s the space for your next DIY project, your family vacation, or your impulsive flea market find. The Subaru Forester’s cargo area, with its thoughtful design and impressive length, is a tool designed to say “yes” to your plans. It’s not just about fitting things in; it’s about fitting more life in.

My advice? Take these numbers to a dealership. Bring a tape measure. Bring your biggest bag or your child’s bike. Test it for yourself. Because when you see that long, flat space with your own eyes, you’ll understand why so many of us Forester owners grin when we pop the trunk. It’s not just cargo space. It’s possibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cargo space in a Subaru Forester?

With the rear seats up, the cargo space length is approximately 3.5 feet. When the seats are folded down, it extends to about 6.5 feet, providing ample room for longer items like skis or luggage.

What is the cargo capacity of the Subaru Forester in cubic feet?

The Subaru Forester offers 35.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. With the seats folded flat, this expands to 76.1 cubic feet, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs available.

Can I fit a bicycle in the Subaru Forester’s cargo area?

Yes, you can fit a standard bicycle in the Subaru Forester with the rear seats folded down. The cargo area is long enough to accommodate most bikes without removing wheels, though larger models might require some adjustment.

How does the Forester’s cargo space compare to a Honda CR-V?

The Subaru Forester provides slightly more total cargo space than the Honda CR-V when seats are folded. The Forester has 76.1 cubic feet versus the CR-V’s 75.8 cubic feet, offering similar practicality for daily use and trips.

Is the cargo space in the Subaru Forester sufficient for camping gear?

Absolutely, the Subaru Forester’s cargo space is well-suited for camping trips. With 76.1 cubic feet available when seats are folded, you can easily fit tents, coolers, and other essential gear for a weekend adventure.

What are the cargo space dimensions in a Subaru Forester with seats folded?

With the rear seats folded, the cargo space measures approximately 6.5 feet in length, 4 feet in width, and 2.5 feet in height. These dimensions make it versatile for hauling large items like furniture or sports equipment efficiently.