Outback vs Crosstrek: Which Subaru SUV is Right for You?
Choosing between the Outback and Crosstrek is like choosing between two flavors of the same delicious adventure. Both are Subaru SUVs, great for families, solo travelers or anyone who loves the road less traveled. If you’re torn between these two, you’re not alone. The Outback and Crosstrek are both built on Subaru’s rugged reliability but they each bring their own perks and quirks to the table. So let’s get into the details of the 2024 Outback vs Crosstrek and see which one is right for you.
Details
The Subaru Outback and Subaru Crosstrek are two of the most popular Subarus out there, each with their own blend of performance, practicality and all-weather capability. The Outback is more of a larger, more comfortable SUV-wagon hybrid while the Crosstrek is a smaller, city-friendly crossover with surprising off-road ability. Whether it’s cargo space, fuel economy or safety features we’ll get into what sets these two apart—and maybe have a little fun at their expense along the way.
At a Glance
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Size and Space: Outback is bigger with more cargo.
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Performance: Outback has more power, Crosstrek has better fuel economy.
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Safety Features: Both are loaded but Outback has a few extra bells and whistles.
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Technology and Comfort: Outback goes premium, Crosstrek goes functional.
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Price Point: Crosstrek is cheaper, Outback has more value with features.
Size and Dimensions
The Numbers
When it comes to size the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek are pretty different which is why one might be better for you depending on your needs. The Outback is the bigger sibling with a bit more of everything: height, width and length. It’s 2 inches wider, 2.5 inches taller and 15.5 inches longer than the Crosstrek. That’s like bringing a bigger backpack on a hike—more space but you better have the shoulders to carry it.
Outback Dimensions
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Length: 191.3 in.
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Width: 73 in.
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Height: 66.4 in.
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Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (9.5 in. for Wilderness trim)
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Wheelbase: 108.1 in.
Crosstrek Dimensions
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Length: 176.5 in.
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Width: 71 in.
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Height: 64.2 in.
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Ground Clearance: 8.7 in.
How Big Matters
Subaru Outback fans will love the extra space inside. It’s more roomy if you have a family, pets or just a lot of gear for your next adventure. Only the Outback has the expansive cargo room and larger seating capacity, can seat five adults with room to spare. The Crosstrek holds its own especially if you’re navigating tight parking spaces or don’t want to feel like you’re piloting a yacht down narrow city streets. The Crosstrek’s smaller size makes it easy to zip around town or squeeze into that elusive downtown parking spot.
Interior Space and Comfort
The interior of the Outback feels like a mini living room on wheels. With a passenger volume larger than the Crosstrek it has plenty of room for all passengers to spread out and relax. Heated rear seats in the Outback are a nice touch for those chilly morning commutes. The Crosstrek’s interior is more functional but still comfortable, with heated front seats on certain trims and simple controls.
The outback interior is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. From the plush seating to the intuitive layout everything is designed to make your drive more enjoyable. And not to forget the leather wrapped steering wheel, even the most mundane drive feels like a luxury.
Outback vs. Crosstrek Seating Capacity
When comparing seating capacity of Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback both can seat five but the Outback’s extra inches make a big difference, especially in the rear seat. Families and pet owners will love the Outback’s space, room for child seats, furry friends and luggage without feeling cramped.
Cargo Room and Storage
One of the best features of the Outback is the cargo room. You get 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 75.6 cubic feet when you fold them down. Perfect for grocery runs to camping trips. The Crosstrek models have less cargo space—20.8 cubic feet with seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded—but still practical for daily use. Both vehicles have underfloor storage bins so you can stay organized.
The Outback is most versatile when the rear seats are folded down and you have a flat load floor for big items. Whether you’re hauling sports gear, furniture or camping equipment the Outback’s cargo space will adapt to your needs.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency
Performance wise the Outback has more engine options and more towing capacity but the Crosstrek wins on fuel economy. The Outback comes with a standard 2.5L engine or an optional 2.4L turbo engine for those who like to put the pedal to the metal. The Crosstrek has a standard 2.0L engine or a more robust 2.5L engine in the Crosstrek Sport trim.
Outback Engine Options
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2.5L 4-cylinder: 182 hp, 176 lb-ft
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2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder: 260 hp, 277 lb-ft
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Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs
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Outback MPG: 22 city / 29 highway 2.5L, 26 city / 32 highway 2.4L Turbo
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CVT: Across all trims
Crosstrek Engine Options
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2.0L 4-cylinder: 152 hp, 145 lb-ft
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2.5L 4-cylinder: 182 hp, 176 lb-ft
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Hybrid: Gas engine and electric motor
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Towing Capacity: 1,500 lbs
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MPG: 27 city / 34 highway 2.0L, 26 city / 33 highway 2.5L
Fuel Capacity and Economy
The Outback has a 18.5 gallon fuel tank, slightly larger than the Crosstrek’s 16.6 gallon tank. So you’ll stop at the pump less often on a long road trip. In terms of fuel economy the Crosstrek edges out with slightly better gas mileage especially in the hybrid, so it’s the better choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Performance Features: Paddle Shifters and Driving Modes
For those who like to have more control the Crosstrek’s paddle shifters give you manual control over the CVT and add some fun to your daily commute. Both the Crosstrek and Outback have Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive so you have grip and stability on wet roads or off-road trails. The Outback comparison by Subaru engineers shows a vehicle ready for any terrain, while the Crosstrek feels agile and playful in the city.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for Smoother Driving
Both the Outback and Crosstrek have continuously variable transmission (CVT) for better fuel efficiency and smoother driving. CVT allows for seamless acceleration without gear changes perfect for city driving and long road trips.
Safety Features
Packed with Advanced Safety Tech
Both the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek have Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a collection of safety features to keep you out of harm’s way. From automatic emergency braking to rear cross traffic alert, both have plenty of safety features. But as always the Outback adds a few more, like LED steering responsive headlights, adaptive control and automatic emergency steering.
Safety Features
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Subaru Outback:
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Advanced adaptive cruise control
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Automatic emergency steering
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NHTSA 5-star rating
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Vented front seats
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Additional safety features for extra peace of mind
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Curtain airbags for passenger protection
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Subaru Crosstrek:
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Rear cross traffic alert
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Hill descent control
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Automatic emergency braking
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Roof spoiler for better visibility
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Heated rear seats for chilly drives.
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Outback Safety: Fog Lights and Hill Descent Control
The fog lights on the Outback provide better visibility in bad weather, so you can drive safely in foggy or misty conditions. Hill descent control is available on both but works best on the Outback Wilderness trim where you get steady control when driving down steep, slippery hills.
Subaru Global Platform: Smoother Ride and Better Stability
Both the Outback and Crosstrek have the Subaru Global Platform which improves ride comfort, safety and stability. This platform absorbs impact energy better so it’s safer for passengers. It also makes both vehicles feel more composed whether you’re driving in the city or on a twisty mountain road.
Technology and Features
Infotainment and Comfort
Subaru doesn’t hold back on keeping you connected and both the Outback and Crosstrek have the SUBARU STARLINK system. The Outback has bigger screens, optional premium audio and features like heated rear outboard seats, nappa leather upholstery and ventilated front seats. The Outback’s technology makes it the better choice for those who want a little luxury on their drive.
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Subaru Outback:
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STARLINK Multimedia Navigation
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Bigger touchscreen (up to 11.6 inches)
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Heated steering wheel
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Heated front seats for colder climates
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Auto climate control.
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Subaru Crosstrek:
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6.5 or 8.0 inches touchscreen
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Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (optional)
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Simpler interior but functional design
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Auto climate control.
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Some trims have paddle shifters for sport mode.
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Adaptive Control and Driver Assist
Both have adaptive cruise control but the Outback’s advanced has lane centering so long highway drives are much more manageable. The advanced safety features in the Outback like the optional automatic emergency steering will keep you in your lane and add an extra layer of protection during emergency maneuvers.
Roof Rails for Extra Cargo
One of the underrated but highly useful features of the Outback is the roof rails. It’s standard and ready to haul kayaks to extra luggage, perfect for adventure seekers. The Crosstrek also has roof rails but the Outback’s design integrates it more seamlessly into the vehicle’s overall design.
Pricing and Trims
How Much?
Budget is a factor in any buying decision. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $23,645 MSRP, the most affordable entry in Subaru’s SUV lineup. The 2024 Subaru Outback starts at $28,395 but will cost more if you want the higher trims or turbo engine.
Crosstrek Pricing
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Base: $23,645
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Sport: Around $30,500
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Hybrid: More expensive but with tax incentives
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Has more ground clearance in its Wilderness trims
Outback Pricing
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Base: $28,395
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Premium: Around $33,000 with extras
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Wilderness: Built for the trail with more ground clearance
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The outback has trims for every adventurer
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Check out the outback inventory at your local Subaru dealer if you’re looking for a deal.
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Price varies by model, trim and options so there’s something for every budget.
Outback Trims and Models: Find Your Fit
The Outback comes in different trims: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring and the rugged Outback Wilderness for off-roaders. The outback trims are designed for different tastes and needs, from luxurious leather interiors to adventure ready features. The outback xt models bring in the turbo fun, a sportier drive with more acceleration and power.
Crosstrek Models and Their Appeal
The Crosstrek models are geared towards a younger crowd with its smaller size, sporty looks and affordable price. From the base to the Sport trim, each Crosstrek has something unique, whether it’s the fuel capacity for longer drives or the paddle shifters for a more engaging drive.
Outback vs Crosstrek: Subaru Global Platform and Design
Both vehicles are built on the Subaru Global Platform which improves ride quality, safety and overall on-road feel. This platform provides more stability, a smoother ride and better safety dynamics on both models. The outback comparison by Subaru engineers shows the vehicle’s ability to tackle rough terrain while still being comfortable on-road which makes it a great choice for drivers with different needs.
Subaru Outback: Outback Wilderness and XT Models
The Outback Wilderness trim is for the adventure lovers with more ground clearance, rugged looks and features that’s off-road ready. For those who want speed and power, the outback xt models with turbo engines are fun to drive with a touch of luxury, making the Outback not just practical but also fun.
Crosstrek Sport vs Outback Wilderness: Off-Road Awaits
For those who love the road less traveled, the Crosstrek Sport and Outback Wilderness trims have more off-road capability. The Outback Wilderness has more ground clearance, all-terrain tires and upgraded suspension to handle the toughest trails. The Crosstrek Wilderness has a compact, nimble feel perfect for light off-roading and urban adventures.
Interior and Features: Outback vs Crosstrek
The outback interior is all about comfort and luxury, especially in higher trims with nappa leather and ventilated seats. The Crosstrek interior is about functionality, with durable materials that can withstand outdoor activities. Both have ample storage but the Outback’s more spacious layout makes it feel like a class above.
Outback Interior Features
The outback interior features are not just about comfort; it’s about making every drive more enjoyable. From the leather wrapped steering wheel that adds a premium feel to your hands to the thoughtfully designed cabin that keeps everything within reach, the Outback makes driving better.
Technology: Stay Connected
Both vehicles have technology features that keeps you connected on the go. The Outback’s optional premium audio system is crystal clear, perfect for your road trip playlist. The Crosstrek’s technology is simple but functional with available features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Subaru’s STARLINK infotainment system.
Outback vs Crosstrek: Which one to choose?
So after all the specs, features and price points, which one should you take home? If you’re looking for comfort and space, the Outback’s interior and cargo space makes it a great car for families, long trips or anyone who needs the extra room. If you prefer a compact SUV with great fuel efficiency and a bit of sporty vibe, the Crosstrek Wilderness is your pick.
Who’s the Outback for?
The Outback is for those who need more ground clearance, advanced safety features and a spacious interior with luxury touches. It’s for families, frequent travelers and anyone who wants a vehicle that can do both on and off the road.
Who’s the Crosstrek for?
The Crosstrek is for city dwellers, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking for a more compact and affordable SUV with great fuel economy. Its compact size, paddle shifters and sporty design makes it perfect for younger drivers or those who prefer a smaller ride.
“The Crosstrek is like the Outback’s little brother—it’s smaller but just as tough,” says Alex Collantes.
Test Drive and Decide
Whether you’re a city boy with weekend warrior fantasies or a family looking for a reliable SUV that can do it all, there’s a Subaru for you. Test drive both at your nearest Subaru dealer to feel the difference.
Conclusion: Outback or Crosstrek?
The Subaru Outback and Crosstrek both deliver in their own ways with symmetrical all-wheel drive and proven reliability. It all comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a vehicle. The Outback is for those who need space, comfort and versatility while the Crosstrek is for those who want agility, better fuel economy and off-road capability in a smaller package. So, are you team Outback or team Crosstrek?