What To Know
- The Crosstrek Wilderness is a compact SUV with a sleek and agile design, while the Outback Wilderness boasts a more rugged and spacious wagon body.
- However, the Crosstrek Wilderness utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Outback Wilderness offers a choice between a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission.
- The Crosstrek Wilderness with CVT achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Outback Wilderness with CVT returns 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Are you an adventure enthusiast seeking the perfect vehicle to conquer rugged terrains and embrace the great outdoors? Look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness and Outback Wilderness. These two formidable off-roaders offer exceptional capabilities, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness vs Outback Wilderness, helping you make an informed decision for your next off-road escapade.
Body and Dimensions
The Crosstrek Wilderness is a compact SUV with a sleek and agile design, while the Outback Wilderness boasts a more rugged and spacious wagon body. The Crosstrek measures 178.1 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width, and 65.2 inches in height, while the Outback is larger at 191.3 inches long, 73.4 inches wide, and 67.1 inches tall. The Outback’s increased dimensions provide ample cargo and passenger space for extended adventures.
Engine and Performance
Both vehicles feature the same 2.5-liter Boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. However, the Crosstrek Wilderness utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Outback Wilderness offers a choice between a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission. The manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience, but the CVT offers improved fuel efficiency.
Off-Road Capabilities
This is where the Wilderness models truly excel. Both the Crosstrek Wilderness and Outback Wilderness come equipped with Subaru’s X-MODE system, which optimizes the vehicle’s performance for off-road conditions. Additionally, they feature raised ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates for added protection.
The Crosstrek Wilderness offers a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, while the Outback Wilderness boasts an impressive 9.5 inches. This increased clearance allows you to navigate uneven terrain with confidence. Both vehicles also feature hill descent control and X-DRIVE all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability on slippery or challenging surfaces.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Crosstrek Wilderness and Outback Wilderness offer comfortable and functional cabins. The Crosstrek’s interior is more compact and sporty, while the Outback’s cabin is more spacious and luxurious. Both vehicles feature heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a suite of safety features.
The Outback Wilderness comes with additional amenities such as a panoramic moonroof, leather-trimmed seats, and a premium audio system. It also offers more cargo space, making it a better choice for hauling gear and equipment for extended expeditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite their off-road capabilities, both the Crosstrek Wilderness and Outback Wilderness offer respectable fuel efficiency. The Crosstrek Wilderness with CVT achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Outback Wilderness with CVT returns 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Outback Wilderness with manual transmission slightly reduces fuel economy to 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness has a starting price of $32,295, while the Outback Wilderness starts at $38,145. The Outback Wilderness offers a more spacious cabin, additional amenities, and a slightly higher ground clearance, but it comes at a premium price. The Crosstrek Wilderness is a more affordable option while still providing impressive off-road capabilities and a comfortable interior.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness and Outback Wilderness depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize compactness, affordability, and agility, the Crosstrek Wilderness is an excellent choice. However, if you desire a more spacious interior, luxurious amenities, and the highest ground clearance, the Outback Wilderness is the better option.
Key Points: Embracing the Wilderness with Confidence
Whether you choose the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness or Outback Wilderness, you can embark on your off-road adventures with confidence. These vehicles combine exceptional capabilities, comfort, and versatility, making them perfect companions for exploring the great outdoors. So, buckle up, engage X-MODE, and embrace the wilderness with these two formidable Subaru Wilderness models.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?
A: The Subaru Outback Wilderness has a higher ground clearance of 9.5 inches compared to the Crosstrek Wilderness’s 8.7 inches.
Q: Does the Outback Wilderness offer a manual transmission?
A: Yes, the Outback Wilderness is available with a 6-speed manual transmission in addition to the CVT.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness with CVT is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Outback Wilderness with CVT, achieving 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Q: Does the Crosstrek Wilderness have a panoramic moonroof?
A: No, the panoramic moonroof is only available on the Outback Wilderness.
Q: Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Subaru Outback Wilderness has a larger cargo capacity of up to 32.5 cubic feet, while the Crosstrek Wilderness offers 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space.