What To Know
- The Outback offers superior capability and a more spacious interior, while the CR-V is more affordable and offers a more fuel-efficient engine.
- The CR-V gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg….
When it comes to adventure-ready SUVs, the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles offer a combination of ruggedness, versatility, and comfort, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. But which one is the better choice? To help you decide, we’ve put the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V head-to-head in a comprehensive comparison.
Performance and Capability
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V offer different powertrain options, each with its own unique strengths. The Outback comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient shifting. The CR-V, on the other hand, offers two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a CVT.
In terms of capability, the Subaru Outback has a slight edge over the Honda CR-V. The Outback offers standard all-wheel drive, which provides superior traction and stability in slippery conditions. The CR-V, on the other hand, offers all-wheel drive as an option. Additionally, the Outback has a higher ground clearance than the CR-V, making it better suited for off-road adventures.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V offer spacious and comfortable interiors. Both vehicles offer seating for up to five passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom in both rows. The Outback has a slightly larger cargo area than the CR-V, with 35.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Features and Technology
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V come equipped with a variety of features and technologies to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. Both vehicles offer a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a suite of driver-assistance features such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Outback also offers a few unique features, such as a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V have both earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Outback also offers a few additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Price
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are both priced competitively. The Outback starts at $26,945, while the CR-V starts at $25,750. Both vehicles offer a variety of trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Outback Touring XT costing $41,145 and the top-of-the-line CR-V Touring costing $35,650.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are both excellent choices for adventure-ready SUVs. The Outback offers superior capability and a more spacious interior, while the CR-V is more affordable and offers a more fuel-efficient engine. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
The Verdict: A Close Call
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are both excellent choices for adventure-ready SUVs. The Outback offers superior capability and a more spacious interior, while the CR-V is more affordable and offers a more fuel-efficient engine. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle off-road adventures and has a spacious interior, the Outback is the better choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable SUV with good fuel economy, the CR-V is the better choice.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
- Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Honda CR-V has better fuel economy than the Subaru Outback. The CR-V gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Outback gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
- Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Outback has more cargo space than the Honda CR-V. The Outback offers 35.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
- Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?
A: The Subaru Outback has a higher ground clearance than the Honda CR-V. The Outback has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, while the CR-V has a ground clearance of 8.2 inches.