2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE vs 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
The 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE and 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS represent two compelling choices for RV enthusiasts. Let's break down what sets them apart.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Class C | Class C | — |
| Year | 2024 | 2025 | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Length | 31.5 ft | 24 ft | — |
| Width | 7.5 ft | 7.5 ft | — |
| Height | 10.5 ft | 11 ft | — |
| Dry Weight | 17,600 lbs | 8,900 lbs | — |
| GVWR | 22,500 lbs | 11,700 lbs | — |
| Sleeping Capacity | 8 | 5 | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE |
| Fresh Water | 54 gal | 65 gal | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Gray Water | 38 gal | 38 gal | Tie |
| Black Water | 37 gal | 26 gal | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE |
| Fuel Capacity | 75 gal | 53 gal | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE |
| Horsepower | 196 hp | 319 hp | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Engine | Mercedes-Benz 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel | Chevrolet 6.0L V8 | — |
| Slide-Outs | 3 | 1 | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE |
| Solar | 200 W | 350 W | 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS |
| Battery | 150 Ah | 150 Ah | Tie |
| Inverter | 1,500 W | 1,500 W | Tie |
| MSRP | $193,000 | $199,000 | 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE |
Detailed Comparison
The 2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE and 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS represent two compelling choices for RV enthusiasts. Let's break down what sets them apart.
The Forest River Forester 2351LE measures 31.5 ft in length at 17,600 lbs, compared to the Forest River Forester 2861DS's 24.0 ft and 8,900 lbs. GVWR ratings sit at 22,500 lbs and 11,700 lbs respectively.
Capacity-wise, expect to sleep 8 in the Forest River Forester 2351LE versus 5 in the Forest River Forester 2861DS. With 3 and 1 slide-outs respectively, the parked floor plans differ significantly.
Tank capacities are a key off-grid consideration. The Forest River Forester 2351LE carries 54 gal of fresh water, 38 gal gray, and 37 gal black. The Forest River Forester 2861DS offers 65 gal fresh, 38 gal gray, and 26 gal black. The Forest River Forester 2861DS has the edge for extended dry camping.
Budget-wise, the Forest River Forester 2351LE is listed at $193,000 compared to $199,000 for the Forest River Forester 2861DS.
For family camping trips, the larger floor plan and additional berths make a real difference. For boondocking, the model with superior solar and battery setup will keep you comfortable off the grid longer. For occasional getaways, the more affordable and nimble option usually makes the most sense.
No comparison can replace walking through each unit yourself. Visit a dealer and experience the layouts firsthand.
Individual Overviews
2024 Forest River Forester 2351LE
- Category: Class C
- Length: 31.5 ft
- Weight: 17,600 lbs
- Sleeps: 8
- MSRP: $193,000
2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
- Category: Class C
- Length: 24 ft
- Weight: 8,900 lbs
- Sleeps: 5
- MSRP: $199,000