Subaru offers a range of versatile and capable vehicles, with the Crosstrek and Outback standing out as popular choices for those seeking all-wheel drive capability and ample features. The Crosstrek Sport now comes equipped with a larger engine for around $31,000, making it a compelling option for buyers looking for more power.
The Crosstrek and Outback both come standard with all-wheel drive and a variety of driver-assist safety features, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The base Crosstrek starts at around $27,000 and includes dual climate control and a range of USB ports. Premium models add features like a larger infotainment system and heated seats for around $1,150 more.
The standout in the Crosstrek lineup is the Sport model, which adds the larger 2.5-liter engine, wireless phone charging, and a sport cloth interior for around $30,500. The Premium and Sport models offer a great value for the added features they provide. The Outback, on the other hand, starts at around $30,000 and offers keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, and LED lighting.
In terms of performance, the Outback offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter inline-4 and a 2.4-liter turbo-4 in the XT models. The Crosstrek comes with a base 2.0-liter flat-4 engine, with the Sport model and up getting the 2.5-liter flat-4 for more power.
When it comes to driving experience, the Crosstrek excels off-road with its X-Mode traction system and additional off-road capabilities in the Wilderness model. The Outback offers a more luxurious and comfortable ride on the road, making it a great choice for family outings.
Both vehicles are safe choices, with the Crosstrek and Outback earning top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The Outback has a slight edge in safety features, with adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitors standard on most trims.
In terms of fuel economy, the Crosstrek offers better mileage overall, with most models achieving around 29 mpg combined. The Outback gets slightly lower fuel economy, especially in the turbo models.
Overall, the Outback emerges as the winner in this comparison, offering a better feature set, superior comfort, and available turbo performance. The Crosstrek remains a solid choice for those looking for a compact and capable vehicle, with the potential for even better fuel economy in the upcoming Hybrid model.
