Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback

Subaru has long dominated the outdoor-themed high-riding wagon segment and the Crosstrek and Outback are two models that exemplify the car-like ride and high-clearance benefits of that concept. The Crosstrek morphs from the hatchback Impreza and serves as the entry-point Subaru “SUV” while the larger Outback wagon is based on the Legacy sedan. They might share a similar mission but with different price points, sizes, and powertrains, which is the best for your situation?

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Price

The Crosstrek ranges from $24,870 to about $30,720 and then shoots up to $38,070 for the plug-in hybrid that is no longer eligible for federal tax credits. The Outback starts at $29,620 and expands to $43,520 with premium features such as leather seats, premium audio, and a front camera.

Subaru doesn’t currently have good lease deals and isn’t offering any factory rebates. The 2023 Crosstrek and Outback models should be hitting the showrooms this September and have received updates over the 2022 model year.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Size

The Crosstrek’s hatchback shape makes the most of its 176-inch length and 71-inch width which is 15 inches shorter and two inches narrower than the Outback.

The rear seat passengers are afforded 36.5 inches of legroom (down three from the spacious Outback) and 38 inches of headroom which is about the same as in the wagon.

The Crosstrek’s cargo room measures 20 cubic feet that expands to 55 with the rear seats folded while the Outback, expectedly, offers more room at 32 and 75 cubic feet.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Specs

The base models of the Crosstrek lineup are equipped with a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder and they complete the 60 mph sprint in about 10 seconds. The upper trims feature a larger engine with 182 horsepower and can do the dash in about 8 seconds.

The same engine serves as the Outback’s base engine while the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine power the premium trims. It delivers a significant improvement in power (260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque) and can accelerate to 60 in about six seconds.

The Crosstrek Hybrid uniquely offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain. All engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive that features a slip-resistant center differential on most trims. The Crosstrek can tow a small trailer (up to 1,500 pounds) while the Outback with the uprated engine can manage a larger camper, up to 3,500 pounds.

When it comes to getting to the campsite, the Crosstrek and Outback feature 8.7 inches of ground clearance while the Outback Wilderness offers another inch.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Gas Mileage

If fuel economy is what you’re after, the Crosstrek Hybrid trim can deliver 17 miles of EV range and achieve an EPA-estimated 95 MPGe. The most efficient gas-only powered version of the Crosstrek earns 30 MPG although the larger engine comes with just a one-point penalty. The base Outback achieves a good 28 MPG rating while the turbocharged version gets 25 MPG. The Wilderness model lessens that rating to 23 MPG.

Crosstrek vs. Outback: Which Subaru Is Better?

The Crosstrek and Outback offer additional ground clearance and off-road capability - but their weak powerplants will cause some to lean for the Outback’s optional turbocharged engine. The size and price of the Outback might make it a hard pass for some but its better-balanced skill set gets the nod from us.

Alternatively, the Subaru Forester could strike the right balance between price and versatility for some shoppers. If you like the Crosstrek but are considering a more carlike footprint, we think it's worth noting that the Subaru Impreza is available as an all-wheel drive hatchback with a very similar layout.

Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, photos and more!

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