Auto123: Uncover the Showdown: Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback

Uncover the Showdown: Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback - A Journey of Discovery

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, potential buyers should consider a range of factors. Both vehicles offer unique advantages and disadvantages depending on individual needs and preferences.

The Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV, while the Outback is a midsize station wagon. The Crosstrek is smaller and more maneuverable than the Outback, making it a good choice for city driving and off-road adventures. The Outback has a larger cargo capacity and a more powerful engine, making it a better choice for hauling cargo and towing.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Crosstrek and Outback depends on the buyer's individual needs and preferences. Both vehicles offer a unique combination of features and capabilities, and both are excellent choices for Subaru enthusiasts.

Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, there are several key aspects to consider:

Size: The Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV, while the Outback is a midsize station wagon.
Engine: The Outback has a more powerful engine than the Crosstrek.
Cargo capacity: The Outback has a larger cargo capacity than the Crosstrek.
Fuel economy: The Crosstrek has better fuel economy than the Outback.
Price: The Crosstrek is less expensive than the Outback.
Off-road capability: The Crosstrek has better off-road capability than the Outback.
Towing capacity: The Outback has a higher towing capacity than the Crosstrek.
Reliability: Both the Crosstrek and Outback are known for their reliability.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Crosstrek and Outback depends on the buyer's individual needs and preferences. If you need a compact and fuel-efficient SUV with good off-road capability, the Crosstrek is a good choice. If you need a larger vehicle with more power and cargo space, the Outback is a good choice.

Size

The size of the Crosstrek and Outback is an important consideration for potential buyers. The Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV, while the Outback is a midsize station wagon. This means that the Crosstrek is smaller and more maneuverable than the Outback, making it a good choice for city driving and off-road adventures. The Outback has a larger cargo capacity and a more powerful engine, making it a better choice for hauling cargo and towing.

Exterior dimensions: The Crosstrek is 176.5 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 62.8 inches tall. The Outback is 193.3 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 66.1 inches tall. This means that the Outback is about 17 inches longer, 2 inches wider, and 3 inches taller than the Crosstrek.
Interior space: The Crosstrek has 95.4 cubic feet of passenger space and 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The Outback has 108.1 cubic feet of passenger space and 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space. This means that the Outback has more space for both passengers and cargo.
Ground clearance: The Crosstrek has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Outback has 8.9 inches of ground clearance. This means that both vehicles are capable of handling rough roads and off-road conditions.

Ultimately, the size of the Crosstrek and Outback is a matter of personal preference. If you need a compact and maneuverable vehicle, the Crosstrek is a good choice. If you need a larger vehicle with more space for passengers and cargo, the Outback is a good choice.

Engine

The Outback's more powerful engine is a significant advantage over the Crosstrek, particularly for drivers who need to tow heavy loads or drive in mountainous areas. The Outback's engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the Crosstrek's engine produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power is noticeable when accelerating, towing, or driving up hills.

For example, the Outback can tow up to 2,700 pounds, while the Crosstrek can only tow up to 1,500 pounds. This makes the Outback a better choice for drivers who need to tow a boat, camper, or other heavy load.

Additionally, the Outback's more powerful engine makes it a better choice for drivers who live in mountainous areas. The Outback's engine provides more power for climbing hills, making it easier to maintain speed and avoid getting stuck.

Overall, the Outback's more powerful engine is a significant advantage over the Crosstrek. Drivers who need to tow heavy loads or drive in mountainous areas should consider the Outback over the Crosstrek.

Cargo capacity

Cargo capacity is an important consideration for many drivers, especially those who frequently transport large items or equipment. The Outback's larger cargo capacity is a significant advantage over the Crosstrek, particularly for drivers who need to transport bulky items such as luggage, sports equipment, or tools.

For example, the Outback has 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the Crosstrek has only 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space. This means that the Outback can accommodate more luggage, groceries, or other items than the Crosstrek.

Additionally, the Outback's cargo area is more versatile than the Crosstrek's. The Outback's cargo area has a wider opening and a lower load floor, making it easier to load and unload bulky items. The Outback also has a number of cargo tie-down points, making it easy to secure items in place.

Overall, the Outback's larger and more versatile cargo area is a significant advantage over the Crosstrek. Drivers who frequently transport large items or equipment should consider the Outback over the Crosstrek.

Fuel economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many drivers, especially those who drive long distances or are on a budget. The Crosstrek's better fuel economy is a significant advantage over the Outback, particularly for drivers who want to save money on gas.

Fuel efficiency ratings: The Crosstrek has better fuel economy ratings than the Outback in both city and highway driving. The Crosstrek gets up to 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Outback gets up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This means that the Crosstrek can travel more miles on a gallon of gas than the Outback.
Real-world fuel economy: In real-world driving conditions, the Crosstrek typically gets better fuel economy than the Outback. According to Fuelly, a website that tracks real-world fuel economy data, the Crosstrek gets an average of 27 mpg, while the Outback gets an average of 24 mpg.
Cost savings: The Crosstrek's better fuel economy can save drivers money on gas. For example, if you drive 15,000 miles per year and gas costs $3 per gallon, you could save over $200 per year by driving a Crosstrek instead of an Outback.

Overall, the Crosstrek's better fuel economy is a significant advantage over the Outback. Drivers who want to save money on gas should consider the Crosstrek over the Outback.

Price

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, price is an important consideration for many buyers. The Crosstrek is less expensive than the Outback, which can be a significant factor in making a purchasing decision.

Initial purchase price: The Crosstrek has a lower initial purchase price than the Outback. This is due to several factors, including the Crosstrek's smaller size, less powerful engine, and fewer standard features.
Ongoing costs: The Crosstrek also has lower ongoing costs than the Outback. This is due to the Crosstrek's better fuel economy and lower insurance rates.
Resale value: The Crosstrek has a lower resale value than the Outback. This is because the Outback is a more popular vehicle, and it holds its value better over time.

Ultimately, the price difference between the Crosstrek and Outback is a matter of personal preference. If you are on a budget, the Crosstrek is a more affordable option. However, if you are looking for a more powerful and spacious vehicle, the Outback is a better choice.

Off-road capability

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, off-road capability is an important consideration for buyers who plan to venture off the beaten path. The Crosstrek has better off-road capability than the Outback, thanks to its smaller size, lighter weight, and more aggressive tires.

Ground clearance: The Crosstrek has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Outback has 8.9 inches of ground clearance. This difference is negligible, but it can make a difference when driving on rough roads or trails.
Approach and departure angles: The Crosstrek has better approach and departure angles than the Outback. This means that the Crosstrek can climb over obstacles and drive up and down steep hills more easily than the Outback.
Tires: The Crosstrek comes standard with all-season tires, while the Outback comes standard with highway tires. All-season tires provide better traction on dirt, gravel, and snow than highway tires.

Overall, the Crosstrek's smaller size, lighter weight, and more aggressive tires give it better off-road capability than the Outback. If you plan to do any serious off-roading, the Crosstrek is the better choice.

Towing capacity

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, towing capacity is an important consideration for buyers who need to tow a trailer, boat, or other heavy load. The Outback has a higher towing capacity than the Crosstrek, making it a better choice for drivers who need to tow heavy loads.

Towing capacity: The Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, while the Crosstrek has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This means that the Outback can tow a heavier load than the Crosstrek.
Engine power: The Outback's more powerful engine gives it a higher towing capacity than the Crosstrek. The Outback's engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the Crosstrek's engine produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: The Outback is available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual transmission. The CVT is better suited for towing than the manual transmission, as it provides smoother power delivery and better fuel economy.
Frame: The Outback has a unibody frame, while the Crosstrek has a monocoque frame. A unibody frame is stronger and more rigid than a monocoque frame, which gives the Outback a higher towing capacity.

Overall, the Outback's higher towing capacity makes it a better choice for drivers who need to tow heavy loads. If you need to tow a trailer, boat, or other heavy load, the Outback is the better choice.

Reliability

Reliability is an important factor to consider when choosing a new car. Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, and both the Crosstrek and the Outback have excellent reliability ratings. This means that you can expect your Crosstrek or Outback to be dependable and trouble-free for many years to come.

There are several reasons why the Crosstrek and Outback are so reliable. First, Subaru uses high-quality materials and components in the construction of its vehicles. Second, Subaru vehicles are assembled with great care and precision. Third, Subaru has a rigorous quality control process to ensure that its vehicles meet the highest standards of reliability.

The reliability of the Crosstrek and Outback is a major selling point for these vehicles. When you buy a Crosstrek or Outback, you can be confident that you are getting a vehicle that will provide you with years of trouble-free driving.

Here are some real-life examples of the reliability of the Crosstrek and Outback:

In a recent study by J.D. Power and Associates, the Crosstrek was ranked as one of the most reliable compact SUVs on the market.
The Outback has been named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for several years in a row.
Consumer Reports has consistently given the Crosstrek and Outback high ratings for reliability.

The reliability of the Crosstrek and Outback is a major advantage for these vehicles. When you buy a Crosstrek or Outback, you can be confident that you are getting a vehicle that will provide you with years of trouble-free driving.

FAQs about the Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, potential buyers often have questions about the key differences between the two vehicles. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Question 1: Which vehicle is better for off-roading, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

The Crosstrek has better off-road capability than the Outback, thanks to its smaller size, lighter weight, and more aggressive tires. The Crosstrek has 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the Outback has 8.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the Crosstrek's smaller size and lighter weight give it a better approach and departure angle, making it easier to climb over obstacles and drive up and down steep hills.

Question 2: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

The Outback has a higher towing capacity than the Crosstrek. The Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, while the Crosstrek has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. This is due to the Outback's more powerful engine and stronger frame.

Question 3: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

The Crosstrek is more fuel-efficient than the Outback. The Crosstrek gets up to 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Outback gets up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Question 4: Which vehicle is more spacious, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

The Outback is more spacious than the Crosstrek. The Outback has 108.1 cubic feet of passenger space and 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Crosstrek has 95.4 cubic feet of passenger space and 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

Question 5: Which vehicle has a lower price, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

The Crosstrek has a lower price than the Outback. The Crosstrek has a starting price of $24,895, while the Outback has a starting price of $27,995.

Question 6: Which vehicle is more reliable, the Crosstrek or the Outback?

Both the Crosstrek and Outback are known for their reliability. Subaru vehicles are consistently ranked among the most reliable vehicles on the market. The Crosstrek and Outback have both received high ratings from J.D. Power and Associates and Consumer Reports.

Transition to the next article section:

In addition to the FAQs above, here are some additional factors to consider when comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback:

Size
Engine
Fuel economy
Cargo capacity
Towing capacity
Off-road capability
Reliability
Price

By considering all of these factors, buyers can make an informed decision about which vehicle is the best fit for their needs.

Tips when Considering the Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback

When comparing the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback, keep in mind these tips to make a well-informed decision:

Tip 1: Determine Your Needs

Consider your lifestyle and driving habits. If you frequently encounter rough roads or go off-roading, the Crosstrek's superior off-road capability may be more suitable. If you need a vehicle for towing or hauling heavy loads, the Outback's higher towing capacity and more powerful engine would be advantageous.

Tip 2: Consider Size and Space

The Outback offers more interior space and cargo capacity than the Crosstrek. If you frequently transport passengers or large items, the Outback's roominess may be more practical. However, if you prefer a more compact and maneuverable vehicle, the Crosstrek's smaller size could be a better fit.

Tip 3: Compare Fuel Economy

The Crosstrek has better fuel efficiency than the Outback. If you prioritize fuel savings, the Crosstrek's lower fuel consumption could result in significant cost savings over time.

Tip 4: Evaluate Reliability

Both the Crosstrek and Outback are known for their reliability. Research their respective reliability ratings and consider your own priorities when it comes to vehicle dependability.

Tip 5: Set a Budget

The Crosstrek has a lower starting price than the Outback. Determine your budget and compare the vehicles' price ranges to ensure you make a financially sound decision.

By following these tips, you can effectively compare the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback and make a well-informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Key Takeaway: Consider your lifestyle, space requirements, fuel efficiency preferences, reliability expectations, and budget to determine which vehicle, the Crosstrek or Outback, is the optimal choice for you.

Conclusion: The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are both excellent vehicles with unique strengths. By carefully evaluating your needs and considering the tips outlined above, you can confidently choose the vehicle that best meets your requirements and provides a fulfilling driving experience.

Conclusion

The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are both excellent vehicles with distinct advantages and target audiences. The Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV that excels in off-road capability and fuel efficiency, making it a suitable choice for adventurous and eco-conscious drivers. The Outback, on the other hand, is a midsize station wagon that offers a more spacious interior, higher towing capacity, and a more powerful engine, catering to those who prioritize space, versatility, and performance.

Ultimately, the choice between the Crosstrek and Outback depends on individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors explored in this article, potential buyers can make an informed decision that aligns with their specific requirements and driving style. Both the Crosstrek and Outback represent the Subaru legacy of reliability, safety, and all-around capability.