What car is equivalent to a Subaru Outback?

The Honda Passport is generally regarded as the closest mainstream counterpart to the Subaru Outback in size, capability, and practical family-focused design; for premium wagon-style options, Volvo’s V60 Cross Country and the Audi A4 Allroad are commonly cited comparables.

How the Outback is defined in today’s market

The Subaru Outback blends wagon-like practicality with crossover utility: raised ride height, standard all‑wheel drive, solid cargo space, and a focus on comfort and reliability. It sits between a traditional wagon and a compact/midsize SUV, appealing to buyers who want daily usability with light off‑road capability and strong safety features. Prices vary by trim and market, but the Outback remains one of Subaru’s best-selling models thanks to its balance of efficiency, space, and AWD confidence.

Mainstream rivals

These are the non-premium, widely available models that most closely match the Outback’s blend of interior space, AWD capability, and versatile cargo area. They are popular alternatives for buyers who want a rugged, family-friendly crossover without stepping into luxury branding.

• Honda Passport — a mid-size, two-row SUV known for spacious cargo, strong engine options, and available all‑wheel drive; commonly cited as the closest mainstream competitor to the Outback in market comparisons.


• Toyota RAV4 (with the off-road or Adventure trims) — a compact/midsize crossover offering rugged styling, higher ground clearance, and AWD capability, widely chosen for practicality and reliability.


• Mazda CX-50 — a stylish, well‑appointed crossover with available all‑wheel drive and competitive cargo space, appealing to buyers who want a sportier feel with utility.


• Subaru Forester (or Crosstrek, depending on needs) — other Subaru options that share AWD and practical space, though with different sizes and capabilities.

In practice, the Passport is often seen as the closest direct substitute in the mainstream segment, with the RAV4 and CX-50 offering competing blends of space, efficiency, and all‑wheel drive. Premium-feeling options from other brands may trade some cargo space for luxury finishes and advanced tech.

Premium wagon-style equivalents

For buyers who want wagon-like interior quality, quieter cabins, and elevated ride height, premium options provide a different kind of appeal. These are generally more expensive but can offer superior materials, refinement, and brand cachet.

• Volvo V60 Cross Country — a lifted wagon with upscale interiors, strong safety tech, and refined driving dynamics; a direct premium counterpart to the Outback’s concept in many markets.


• Audi A4 Allroad — a higher-riding wagon with Audi’s cabin tech and quattro AWD; availability varies by market and model year, but it remains a common benchmark for premium all-wheel-drive wagons.


• Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain — a larger, more luxurious all-wheel-drive wagon with rugged styling and substantial cargo capacity (availability and trims vary by region).

These premium wagons emphasize interior quality, ride comfort, and tech features, often at the expense of some cargo space and lower maintenance cost advantages that mainstream rivals may offer.

How to choose the right equivalent for you

Consider these factors when evaluating substitutes for the Outback:

• Budget and total ownership cost — upfront price, fuel economy, maintenance, and depreciation.


• Passenger and cargo needs — how much space you require for people, gear, and cargo daily.


• Drivetrain and capability — whether you want standard AWD, genuine off‑road capability, or simply higher ride height for rough roads.


• Interior quality and tech — premium vs. mainstream materials, infotainment systems, and driver aids.


• Reliability and resale value — track records from brands and models over time in your market.

Test drives and break-in periods help reveal real-world comfort, visibility, and driving dynamics that specs alone can’t capture.

Bottom line

The Honda Passport is typically viewed as the closest mainstream substitute to the Subaru Outback in terms of size, versatility, and AWD practicality. For buyers who want a more premium experience, the Volvo V60 Cross Country and the Audi A4 Allroad represent the most direct wagon-style equivalents, offering refined interiors and capable all‑wheel drive at a higher price point. Your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize cargo space and affordability, or cabin luxury and branding.

Summary: The Outback sits in a niche that blends wagon practicality with SUV versatility. If you want a direct mainstream match, look to the Honda Passport; if you prefer premium wagon options, consider the Volvo V60 Cross Country or Audi A4 Allroad. Other rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-50 provide solid alternatives with varied strengths. Always weigh space, cost, and intended use when selecting your equivalent.

What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues. 
Years to avoid

• 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up. 
• 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues. 
• 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks. 
• 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips. 

Other potential problem years

• 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
• 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
• 2017: Reliability issues were noted. 

What SUV is comparable to a Subaru Outback?

SUVs comparable to the Subaru Outback include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Mazda CX-50. Key competitors often overlap in terms of passenger capacity and cargo space, but the Outback stands out for its standard all-wheel drive and rugged capability, while rivals may offer more upscale interiors or a hybrid powertrain option. 
Key competitors and their strengths

• Toyota RAV4: A very popular and capable compact SUV that is especially competitive when comparing hybrid models, like the RAV4 Woodland Edition, and offers a strong alternative for those who may need a hybrid option. 
• Honda CR-V: Known for a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, making it a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment. Some models also offer a more upscale feel compared to the Outback's rugged, durable interior. 
• Hyundai Tucson: A strong contender that is comparable to the Outback, especially with its higher tow rating and new terrain-driving modes in some trims. 
• Kia Sportage: Praised for its technology and design, the Sportage also offers a capable all-wheel-drive system and hybrid/PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) options, making it a compelling alternative. 
• Mazda CX-50: A strong competitor with a focus on upscale design and technology, similar to the Sportage. 
• Subaru Forester: As a Subaru, the Forester shares many similarities, including standard all-wheel drive, and is a good option if you want a more traditional, compact SUV with comparable cargo space and driver assistance features. 

How they compare to the Subaru Outback

• Capability: The Outback is known for its standard all-wheel-drive and rugged capability. Some competitors, like the RAV4 and CR-V, require an extra payment for AWD, whereas others, such as the Forester and Sportage, come standard with AWD. 
• Interior: The Outback's interior is designed for durability and practicality, whereas competitors like the Tucson and Sportage may offer more upscale and modern interior designs. 
• Infotainment: The Outback's available 11.6-inch touchscreen is larger than those offered in many competing models. 
• Powertrain: The Outback offers a standard engine and an optional turbo engine. Many competitors, like the Sportage and RAV4, offer hybrid versions, providing a more fuel-efficient alternative. 

What does the Subaru Outback compare to?

The Subaru Outback can be compared with its smaller sibling, the Forester, or larger models like the Ascent and competitors such as the Toyota RAV4. Key distinctions include the Outback's greater cargo space and more powerful turbocharged engine option, while the Forester is slightly taller and the Ascent offers more passenger capacity. For 2026, the Outback received a redesign with updated styling and interior features. 
You can watch this video to compare the Subaru Outback and Forester: 57sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Mar 22, 2025
Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Forester

• Cargo and size: The Outback is about 9 inches longer and 2 inches wider than the Forester, offering more cargo space, although the Forester has a taller roofline. 
• Engine and towing: Both have a standard 2.5L boxer engine, but the Outback offers an optional 2.4L turbocharged engine. The Outback has a higher towing capacity (up to 3,500 lbs with the turbo engine) compared to the Forester (up to 1,500 lbs, or 3,000 lbs for the Wilderness trim). 
• Roof rails: The Outback has quick-release levers for its roof crossbars, while the Forester's require a screwdriver to adjust. 
• Interior: Both share similar technology, including a 11.6-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for 2025. The Outback generally offers more premium features like Nappa leather on higher trims. 

This video compares the Subaru Outback and Forester based on size: 44sSubaruYouTube · Mar 13, 2025
Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Ascent

• Size and capacity: The Outback is a midsize wagon, while the Ascent is a larger SUV with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers.
• Powertrain: The 2026 Outback's base model has a 2.5L engine, whereas the Ascent Premium comes standard with a 2.4L turbocharged engine.
• Price: The Ascent starts at a higher MSRP than the Outback. 

This video compares the Subaru Outback and Forester based on their engines: 54sAuto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosYouTube · Apr 26, 2025
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4

• Powertrain: The Outback's base engine is a 2.5L boxer, while the standard RAV4 has a 2.5L 4-cylinder. The Outback also offers a more powerful 2.4L turbocharged engine option. 
• Fuel economy: The RAV4 generally has a slight edge in combined fuel economy compared to the Outback, though the difference is minimal. 
• Transmission: The Outback uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), while the RAV4 has an 8-speed automatic. 

You can watch this video to compare the Subaru Outback with its competitors: 51sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Mar 24, 2025
2026 Subaru Outback redesign

• Exterior: Features a new front design, more boxed-off rear with light bars, and potentially taller roof bars.
• Interior: Includes an updated dashboard with physical climate control buttons, upgraded back seats, and a redesigned dash and display.
• Trunk: The rear trunk opening is taller and appears more upright, suggesting more cargo space. 

Who is Subaru's biggest competitor?

Subaru makes use of the rational and functional design that provides the finest performance.

• Top Subaru competitors in 2023.
• 1) Hyundai.
• 2) Toyota.
• 3) Honda.
• 4) Nissan.
• 5) Volkswagen.
• 6) Jeep.
• 7) Ford.