2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE vs 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
Looking at the 2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE alongside the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS? Smart move — comparing specs before you buy is the best way to ensure satisfaction.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | 2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Class C | Class C | — |
| Year | 2024 | 2025 | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Length | 28.5 ft | 24 ft | — |
| Width | 8.5 ft | 7.5 ft | — |
| Height | 12 ft | 11 ft | — |
| Dry Weight | 12,600 lbs | 8,900 lbs | — |
| GVWR | 14,800 lbs | 11,700 lbs | — |
| Sleeping Capacity | 4 | 5 | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Fresh Water | 50 gal | 65 gal | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Gray Water | 47 gal | 38 gal | 2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE |
| Black Water | 29 gal | 26 gal | 2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE |
| Fuel Capacity | 42 gal | 53 gal | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Horsepower | 195 hp | 319 hp | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Engine | Mercedes-Benz 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel | Chevrolet 6.0L V8 | — |
| Slide-Outs | 0 | 1 | — |
| Solar | 150 W | 350 W | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Battery | 150 Ah | 150 Ah | Tie |
| Inverter | 1,000 W | 1,500 W | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| MSRP | $199,000 | $199,000 | Tie |
Detailed Comparison
Looking at the 2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE alongside the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS? Smart move — comparing specs before you buy is the best way to ensure satisfaction.
The Forest River Forester 2251SLE measures 28.5 ft in length at 12,600 lbs, compared to the Forest River Forester 2861DS's 24.0 ft and 8,900 lbs. GVWR ratings sit at 14,800 lbs and 11,700 lbs respectively.
For sleeping arrangements, the Forest River Forester 2251SLE offers room for 4 and the Forest River Forester 2861DS can handle 5. The Forest River Forester 2861DS benefits from 1 slide-out(s), expanding the interior when parked.
Looking at self-sufficiency, the Forest River Forester 2251SLE packs 50 gal of fresh water and 150W of solar. The Forest River Forester 2861DS counters with 65 gal fresh water and 350W solar.
Price is often the deciding factor. The Forest River Forester 2861DS starts at $199,000 MSRP, while the Forest River Forester 2251SLE commands $199,000 — a $0 gap.
Off-grid campers should pay close attention to solar wattage, battery capacity, and tank sizes. Weekend warriors will appreciate the easier towing and quicker setup of the lighter model.
Take these specs as a starting point, then go see them in person — there's no substitute for stepping inside.
Individual Overviews
2024 Forest River Forester 2251SLE
- Category: Class C
- Length: 28.5 ft
- Weight: 12,600 lbs
- Sleeps: 4
- MSRP: $199,000
2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
- Category: Class C
- Length: 24 ft
- Weight: 8,900 lbs
- Sleeps: 5
- MSRP: $199,000