7 Reasons the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek Are Perfect for Adventure Enthusiasts

When it comes to versatile crossovers that are just as comfortable on rugged trails as they are on city streets, the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek are standout choices. These two vehicles are often compared for their off-road capability, reliability, and overall value, making them top picks among drivers who crave adventure. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Outback Crosstrek, including what sets them apart, their key features, and which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle.

"People are always torn between the Outback and the Crosstrek" says Alex Collantes the owner of Avenue Motors car dealership. "It really comes down to what kind of driving experience you're looking for. Both vehicles are built for adventure but each has its own unique charm."

For those who want to dig deeper into the specifics of the Outback Crosstrek, make sure to check out this Outback vs Crosstrek comparison for a closer look.

1. Overview of the Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is often regarded as the Swiss Army knife of crossovers. It’s got everything you need—space comfort off-road capability and the tech to keep you connected on the go.

Design and Exterior

The Outback has a robust and rugged design that screams adventure. With its high ground clearance and tough cladding it looks ready to tackle dirt trails and muddy paths. Unlike many crossovers that have gone the soft-road route the Outback still feels like a beefed-up wagon which sets it apart from the crowded SUV market.

• Ground Clearance: A towering 8.7 inches which means you can confidently go off-road without worrying about bottoming out.
• Roof Rails with Tie-Down Points: Perfect for attaching kayaks mountain bikes or even a cargo box for your next road trip.
• LED Steering Responsive Headlights: Not just a fancy term—these lights actually swivel as you turn making night drives a lot safer and cooler looking.

Potential Drawback

• Size Matters... Sometimes Too Much: If you’re used to driving compact cars the Outback might feel like driving a small ship. Parking in tight spots can feel like playing Tetris especially when you’re late to brunch.

Performance

The Outback offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.

• Standard Engine: Offers 182 horsepower which is solid for everyday driving but don't expect lightning-fast acceleration.
• Turbocharged Engine: Puts out a spirited 260 horsepower adding some zip to your off-road adventures. Just don’t get too comfortable with frequent pit stops at the gas station—it’s thirsty!

Engine Pros and Cons

• Standard Engine’s Positive Side: Reliable and efficient a great choice for those who prioritize fuel economy.
• Turbocharged Engine’s Dark Side: While the turbo adds excitement it also adds a bit of a drinking problem—gas drinking that is. But hey we all have our vices right?

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Outback is where the magic happens. It's spacious enough to make you forget it’s technically a wagon and not an SUV. The seats are comfy even for long hauls and the tech is intuitive.

• Spacious Cabin: Generous legroom even for rear passengers which is perfect for stretching out after a long hike.
• Quality Materials: Soft-touch plastics and available leather upholstery that make the Outback feel more upscale than you’d expect.
• Cargo Space: 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a whopping 75.7 cubic feet when you fold them down—enough room to fit your camping gear or that impulse Costco buy.

A Humorous Downside

• Screen Overload: The massive 11.6-inch touchscreen is cool until it’s not. You’ll spend a good five minutes fumbling with it just to adjust the air conditioning. Tech-savvy types will feel at home but if you’re more analog good luck.

2. Overview of the Subaru Crosstrek

Now let’s talk about the Subaru Crosstrek—a smaller sibling to the Outback but no less capable. It’s compact nimble and perfect for urban warriors who occasionally like to venture off the beaten path.

Design and Exterior

The Crosstrek carries the Subaru DNA with a sporty yet rugged look. It’s got that classic crossover vibe without looking too aggressive.

• Compact Size: Easy to park and maneuver around town which makes it a hit with city dwellers.
• Ground Clearance: Still a solid 8.7 inches which means the Crosstrek can handle rough terrain just like the Outback.
• Rugged Cladding: Adds to the Crosstrek’s sporty aesthetics plus it keeps rocks and debris from scratching up the sides.

Design Quirk

• Subtle or Snoozy? Some say the Crosstrek’s design is a bit plain. If you’re looking for head-turning style you might be left wanting more. But hey sometimes subtlety is a virtue right?

Performance

The Crosstrek offers three engine options including a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a plug-in hybrid variant.

• Standard Engine: Delivers 152 horsepower which is adequate for daily commutes and light off-roading.
• 2.5-liter Engine: Boosts output to 182 horsepower making the Crosstrek feel much more lively on the road.
• Plug-In Hybrid: A great option for eco-conscious drivers with 17 miles of all-electric range.

Performance Pitfalls

• Base Engine: The Sluggish Commuter The 2.0-liter engine is more suited for leisurely drives. Punching the accelerator feels more like politely asking for speed than demanding it.
• Hybrid Hiccups: The plug-in hybrid option sounds cool until you realize the electric-only range won’t get you much further than the nearest grocery store. And that’s if you’re lucky.

Interior and Comfort

The Crosstrek’s interior is straightforward and functional with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. It’s comfortable enough for long drives but don’t expect any limousine-like opulence.

• Compact Yet Spacious: Despite its smaller size the Crosstrek makes good use of space. There’s enough room for five passengers though things might get cozy on longer trips.
• Versatile Cargo Area: 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats which expands to 55.3 cubic feet with the seats down. Plenty of space for camping gear or hauling groceries.
• User-Friendly Tech: An 8.0-inch touchscreen that’s easy to use and doesn’t require a master’s degree to operate.

Funny Flaw

• Noise Levels: The Crosstrek’s cabin is not exactly what you’d call whisper-quiet. Expect a symphony of wind noise tire roar and the occasional engine groan as your road trip soundtrack. At least you won’t need to worry about awkward silences!

3. Safety Features

Both the Outback and Crosstrek come loaded with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology which includes adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and pre-collision braking. Safety is one area where these vehicles truly shine.

• EyeSight Driver Assist: Keeps you centered in your lane and a safe distance from the car ahead. It’s like having a second set of eyes on the road.
• Standard AWD: All-wheel drive is standard on both models giving you added confidence in slippery conditions.
• Rear Seat Reminder: Alerts you if you’ve left something in the back seat because yes we’ve all forgotten our groceries back there at least once.

Safety Setback

• False Alarms Galore: EyeSight’s sensitivity can be a bit much. It’s great that it wants to keep you safe but constant beeps and alerts might have you feeling like you’re in a video game.

4. Fuel Efficiency and Cost of Ownership

Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability and low cost of ownership but fuel efficiency varies between the Outback and Crosstrek especially when you factor in engine options.

Fuel Economy

• Outback Standard Engine: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway which is pretty decent for a vehicle of its size.
• Outback Turbocharged Engine: Drops to 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway because power has a price at the pump.
• Crosstrek Standard Engine: 28 mpg city / 33 mpg highway making it slightly more fuel-efficient than the Outback.
• Crosstrek Hybrid: The eco-warrior’s choice at 90 MPGe combined.

Ownership Costs

• Maintenance Costs: Subaru’s reputation for reliability means you won’t be spending every other weekend at the mechanic. Routine maintenance is reasonably priced.
• Resale Value: Both the Outback and Crosstrek hold their value well so when it comes time to upgrade you’ll likely get a good return.

Hilarious Downside

• Fuel Tank Size: The Crosstrek’s small fuel tank means you’ll be seeing your favorite gas station attendants more often than you’d like. Think of it as bonding time with your local community.

5. Technology and Infotainment

Both vehicles offer a solid suite of tech features that enhance the driving experience keeping you connected and entertained on the go.

Tech Highlights

• Starlink Infotainment System: Comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard because who doesn’t love seamless smartphone integration?
• Navigation System: Optional but handy especially if you’re prone to getting lost even with Google Maps.
• Harman Kardon Audio System: Available on higher trims for those who want their playlists to sound as epic as the drive itself.

Quirky Tech Mishap

• Infotainment System’s Slow Boot-Up: Imagine getting in your car ready to jam out only to wait awkwardly as the screen slowly wakes up. We’ve all been there.

6. Pricing and Trim Levels

Price can often be the deciding factor between the Outback and Crosstrek. Both vehicles offer a variety of trim levels that cater to different budgets and feature needs.

Outback Pricing

• Base Model: Starts around $28,000—a great value for what you get.
• Onyx Edition XT: Priced around $38,000 with the turbocharged engine and off-road enhancements.
• Touring XT: Tops out near $42,000 for the fully loaded luxury experience.

Crosstrek Pricing

• Base Model: Kicks off at about $24,000 making it a more budget-friendly option.
• Sport: Around $27,000 with the more powerful 2.5-liter engine.
• Hybrid: The eco-friendly model costs about $37,000 but you might qualify for some state or federal incentives.

Funny Financial Quirk

• Pricing Surprises: The Crosstrek Hybrid is great for saving the environment but it’ll also save you from extra cash in your wallet. Consider it your donation to Mother Nature.

7. Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Outback Crosstrek isn’t easy but it comes down to your personal needs. The Outback offers more space and power making it perfect for those long family road trips or if you like to haul a lot of stuff. Meanwhile the Crosstrek is compact and versatile great for city living with the occasional off-road weekend adventure.

Outback Pros:

• More cargo space and a larger interior
• Powerful engine options including a turbo
• Great for long-distance and off-road travel

Crosstrek Pros:

• Smaller size makes it easier to maneuver
• More affordable starting price
• Better fuel efficiency especially with the hybrid option

"No matter which Subaru you pick you’re getting a car that’s built to last with a drive that’s actually fun" Alex Collantes says. "You can’t go wrong with the Outback Crosstrek it’s just a matter of which one fits your lifestyle better."

For a detailed comparison of the Outback Crosstrek make sure to visit this Outback vs Crosstrek comparison.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading off the grid Subaru has your back with these two versatile models. So buckle up and get ready to explore—your next adventure awaits.