Subaru Outback Vs. Pathfinder: Which One Should You Buy?

In the realm of adventure-ready vehicles, the Subaru Outback and the Nissan Pathfinder stand as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast a legacy of dependability, rugged capability, and versatility. However, each possesses unique strengths and characteristics that set them apart. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Subaru Outback vs Pathfinder, analyzing their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision about your next adventure companion.

Performance and Capability: Untamed Power Meets Rugged Terrain

1. Engine Performance:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback’s standard 2.5-liter boxer engine delivers a respectable 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and light off-road excursions.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder’s 3.5-liter V6 engine generates a more robust 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating acceleration and confident towing capabilities.

2. All-Wheel Drive Systems:

• Subaru Outback: Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures exceptional traction and stability in all conditions, making it a true all-season performer.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder’s Intelligent 4×4 system seamlessly switches between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, optimizing fuel efficiency and enhancing off-road performance.

3. Ground Clearance:

• Subaru Outback: With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Outback tackles rough terrain with ease, allowing you to navigate unpaved roads and mild off-road trails confidently.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder offers a slightly higher 8.2 inches of ground clearance, providing an edge in tackling more challenging off-road obstacles.

Interior Comfort and Convenience: Embracing Adventure in Style

1. Passenger Space:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback provides ample seating for five adults, with generous legroom and headroom in both rows, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder offers seating for up to eight passengers, making it an ideal choice for large families or groups of adventurers.

2. Cargo Capacity:

• Subaru Outback: With 35.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, the Outback offers ample room for gear, luggage, and outdoor equipment.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder boasts a more spacious cargo area, offering 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and a cavernous 87.5 cubic feet with all seats folded.

3. Infotainment Systems:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback features a user-friendly infotainment system with a 11.6-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder’s infotainment system boasts a larger 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity, along with a Bose premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability: Ensuring Peace of Mind on Every Journey

1. Safety Features:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder offers an equally impressive array of safety features, including Intelligent Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Intervention, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, ensuring your safety on every drive.

2. Reliability Ratings:

• Subaru Outback: Subaru vehicles consistently rank among the most reliable in the automotive industry, with the Outback earning top marks from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder has also garnered praise for its dependability, with solid reliability ratings from various reputable sources.

Value and Pricing: Striking a Balance Between Cost and Capability

1. Starting Price:

• Subaru Outback: The Subaru Outback has a starting price of $27,995, making it a more affordable option for adventure-seekers on a budget.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Nissan Pathfinder starts at a slightly higher price of $34,990, offering a more premium experience with its larger size and more powerful engine.

2. Trim Levels and Options:

• Subaru Outback: The Outback offers a variety of trim levels, including the Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring XT, each with its unique features and amenities.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder also provides a range of trim levels, including the S, SV, SL, and Platinum, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Key Points: Choosing Your Ideal Adventure Companion

The Subaru Outback and Nissan Pathfinder are both excellent choices for adventure-minded drivers seeking a vehicle that seamlessly blends rugged capability with everyday practicality. The Outback excels in fuel efficiency, affordability, and all-weather performance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commutes and occasional off-road adventures. The Pathfinder, on the other hand, offers more power, seating capacity, and cargo space, making it a compelling option for larger families and those who frequently engage in more demanding off-road excursions. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Subaru Outback or the Nissan Pathfinder?

• The Subaru Outback offers better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Pathfinder’s 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

2. Does the Subaru Outback have more cargo space than the Nissan Pathfinder?

• No, the Nissan Pathfinder offers more cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.5 cubic feet with all seats folded, compared to the Outback’s 35.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

3. Which vehicle offers a more engaging driving experience, the Subaru Outback or the Nissan Pathfinder?

• The Subaru Outback provides a more engaging driving experience, with its responsive handling, well-weighted steering, and X-Mode system that optimizes performance for various off-road conditions.