Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V Features and Performance Comparison

Choosing the right SUV can feel overwhelming, especially when evaluating Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V. These two popular crossovers excel in different areas, catering to specific lifestyles. The Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V comparison highlights the Outback’s rugged design and impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Honda CR-V stands out with its urban-friendly handling and efficient design. Whether you’re considering the Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V for family trips, light off-road adventures, or daily commutes, understanding their unique strengths will help you make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• The Subaru Outback is great for outdoor lovers. It has a tough design and can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

• The Honda CR-V is better for city life. It saves gas and gets up to 34 MPG on highways.

• Both SUVs focus on safety. They have smart systems to keep you safe while driving.

• The Outback is better for rough roads. It has Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE® for off-road trips.

• Think about your needs: pick the Outback for adventures and towing, or the CR-V for city driving and saving gas.

Subaru Outback Overview

Key Features

The 2025 Subaru Outback offers a blend of rugged capability and modern convenience, making it a standout choice for adventurous drivers. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures optimal traction on various terrains, while the X-MODE® feature enhances off-road performance with up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance. This makes the Outback a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Inside, the Outback provides a spacious cabin with up to 109 cubic feet of passenger space and 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 75.6 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system includes an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, ensuring seamless connectivity. For audiophiles, the Harman Kardon® Premium Audio system delivers exceptional sound quality through 12 speakers.

Safety remains a top priority for Subaru. The DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System actively monitors driver alertness, while the vehicle’s high-strength steel frame and eight airbags provide robust crash protection. These features, combined with Subaru’s reputation for reliability, make the Outback a compelling choice for families and solo adventurers alike.

Performance Highlights

The 2025 Subaru Outback delivers impressive performance tailored to diverse driving needs. Its standard 182-horsepower SUBARU BOXER® engine offers a smooth and efficient ride, achieving up to 32 MPG on the highway with a range of nearly 590 miles. For those seeking more power, the available 260-horsepower turbocharged engine generates 277 lb-ft of torque, enabling confident acceleration and towing capabilities of up to 3,500 pounds.

Independent tests highlight the Outback’s balanced performance. The standard engine accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9 seconds, while the turbocharged variant achieves the same in about 8 seconds. These metrics ensure the Outback performs well in both urban and highway settings.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring rugged trails, the Outback’s engineering ensures a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. Its combination of fuel efficiency, power, and advanced technology sets it apart from competitors like the Honda CR-V.

Honda CR-V Overview

Key Features

The 2025 Honda CR-V offers a refined blend of practicality, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a top contender in the compact SUV segment. Its sleek design and aerodynamic profile enhance both aesthetics and efficiency, appealing to urban drivers and families alike.

Inside, the CR-V boasts a thoughtfully designed cabin with premium materials and intuitive controls. The 7-inch color touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity for your favorite apps and media. For added convenience, features like auto-on/off headlights, hill start assist, and cruise control simplify your daily drives.

Safety remains a cornerstone of the 2025 Honda CR-V. Equipped with the i-SRS airbag system, Vehicle Stability Assist, and ABS, it prioritizes your protection on the road. These features, combined with Honda’s reputation for reliability, make the CR-V a dependable choice for families.

Feature Type	Details
Engine Type	1.5L DI VTEC Turbo
Horsepower	190 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	179 lb.-ft. @ 1,700-5,000 rpm
Safety Features	i-SRS Airbag System, Vehicle Stability Assist, ABS
Driver Convenience Features	Auto-On/Off Headlight, Hill Start Assist, Cruise Control
Audio & Connectivity Features	7-inch Color Touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

Performance Highlights

The 2025 Honda CR-V delivers a dynamic driving experience, combining power, efficiency, and smooth handling. Its 1.5L DI VTEC Turbo engine generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque, outperforming the Subaru Outback’s standard engine. This powertrain ensures responsive acceleration, with the CR-V reaching 60 mph in just 7.6 seconds, compared to the Outback’s 8.7 seconds.

Fuel efficiency is another standout feature of the CR-V. The front-wheel-drive model achieves an impressive 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive variant offers 26 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. These ratings make the CR-V an economical choice for both urban commutes and long-distance travel.

Metric	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
Zero to 60 MPH	7.6 seconds	8.7 seconds
Quarter Mile	16.2 seconds	16.6 seconds
Fuel Economy (FWD)	28 city / 34 hwy	26 city / 32 hwy
Fuel Economy (AWD)	26 city / 31 hwy	22 city / 29 hwy
Horsepower	190	182
Torque	179	176

The CR-V’s superior acceleration and fuel economy make it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.

Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the 2025 Honda CR-V offers the versatility and reliability you need. Its advanced drivetrain options, including Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™, ensure confident handling in various driving conditions.

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Engine and Performance

Power and Torque Comparison

When comparing the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V, their engine specifications reveal distinct strengths. The Outback offers two engine options: a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. These engines provide robust performance, especially for towing and off-road adventures.

The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, features a 1.5L turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It also offers a hybrid variant with a 2.0L engine, generating 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. While the CR-V’s hybrid option excels in fuel efficiency, the Outback’s turbocharged engine outperforms it in raw power and torque, making it a better choice for drivers who prioritize towing capacity or rugged terrain.

Specification	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
Horsepower	190 (1.5L Turbo), 204 (Hybrid)	182 (2.5L), 260 (2.4L Turbo)
Torque	179 lb-ft, 247 lb-ft (Hybrid)	176 lb-ft, 277 lb-ft (Turbo)
0-60 MPH	8.1 sec (Turbo), 7.9 sec (Hybrid)	8.8 sec (2.5L), 8.6 sec (Turbo)

The Outback’s boxer engine design also enhances handling stability, a feature not available in the CR-V. However, the CR-V’s hybrid model offers a combined fuel efficiency of up to 40 MPG, making it an economical choice for urban commutes.

Drivetrain Options

Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V provide advanced drivetrain systems tailored to different driving needs. The Outback comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, ensuring optimal traction and stability on various terrains. This system, combined with the X-MODE® feature, enhances off-road capabilities, making the Outback a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Honda CR-V offers Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ as an option. This system provides responsive handling in slippery conditions but lacks the rugged off-road focus of the Outback’s drivetrain. For drivers who frequently encounter challenging road conditions, the Outback’s drivetrain offers superior reliability and performance.

Drivetrain Feature	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
Standard Drivetrain	FWD	AWD
Optional Drivetrain	Real-Time AWD	Symmetrical AWD
Off-Road Enhancements	None	X-MODE®

The CR-V’s front-wheel-drive configuration suits urban environments, while the Outback’s all-wheel-drive system caters to adventurous lifestyles. Your choice will depend on whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or off-road reliability.

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Fuel Economy

Standard Models

When comparing the fuel economy of the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V, their standard models cater to different priorities. The Outback, equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. This performance suits drivers who frequently encounter varying terrains or weather conditions.

The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, offers front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with AWD available as an option. Its FWD configuration delivers an impressive 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, making it a more economical choice for urban commutes and highway travel. Even with AWD, the CR-V maintains a slight edge in fuel efficiency over the Outback.

Model	City MPG	Highway MPG
Honda CR-V	28	34
Subaru Outback	26	32

The CR-V’s superior fuel efficiency in standard models makes it an attractive option for cost-conscious drivers who prioritize daily commuting over rugged adventures.

Hybrid Options

For those seeking even greater fuel efficiency, the hybrid options of these SUVs provide compelling choices. The Honda CR-V Hybrid stands out with its advanced powertrain, offering an EPA-estimated 43 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway for the FWD model. The AWD variant achieves 40 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. These figures highlight the CR-V Hybrid’s ability to maximize fuel savings, especially in urban settings.

The Subaru Outback, while not available as a hybrid, still delivers respectable fuel economy with its AWD system, achieving 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. However, it cannot match the efficiency of the CR-V Hybrid. Honda’s hybrid model also incorporates features like regenerative braking, which converts inertia into energy, and a cap-less fueling system to reduce fuel evaporation—further enhancing its fuel efficiency.

Model	City MPG	Highway MPG
Honda CR-V Hybrid (FWD)	43	36
Honda CR-V Hybrid (AWD)	40	34
Subaru Outback (AWD)	26	32

If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the Honda CR-V Hybrid emerges as the clear winner. Its innovative technology and impressive EPA-estimated MPG ratings make it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Interior and Cargo Space

Legroom and Seating Comfort

When it comes to interior comfort, both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V offer spacious cabins designed to enhance your driving experience. The Outback provides generous legroom, with 42.8 inches in the front and 39.5 inches in the rear. This ensures ample space for taller passengers, making long drives more enjoyable. The CR-V, on the other hand, offers slightly less legroom, with 41.3 inches in the front and 40.4 inches in the rear. While the difference may seem minor, it can impact overall comfort during extended trips.

Both models prioritize seating comfort with ergonomic designs and high-quality materials. The Outback features supportive seats with available leather upholstery and an optional heated and ventilated front row. The CR-V also offers premium seating options, including leather-trimmed seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. However, the Outback’s additional headroom, measuring 40.1 inches in the front compared to the CR-V’s 38 inches, provides a more open and airy feel.

Cargo Capacity

Cargo space is another critical factor when choosing between these two SUVs. The Subaru Outback excels in this area, offering 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats expands this to an impressive 75.6 cubic feet, accommodating larger items like camping gear or bicycles. The Honda CR-V, while slightly smaller, still provides a competitive 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and up to 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

For practical use, the CR-V’s lower cargo floor makes loading and unloading easier, especially for heavier items. However, the Outback’s wider cargo opening and standard roof rails give it an edge for outdoor enthusiasts who frequently transport bulky equipment. Whether you’re packing for a family road trip or a weekend adventure, both SUVs deliver versatile storage solutions tailored to your needs.

Vehicle Model	Cargo Space (Rear Seats Up)	Cargo Space (Rear Seats Down)
Subaru Outback	32.6 cubic feet	75.6 cubic feet
Honda CR-V	39.2 cubic feet	75.8 cubic feet

Tip: If you prioritize ease of loading and urban practicality, the CR-V might suit you better. For those who need rugged versatility and off-road readiness, the Outback stands out.

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Safety Features

Subaru EyeSight vs Honda Sensing

Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V come equipped with advanced safety technologies designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru EyeSight and Honda Sensing are comprehensive driver-assistance systems that include features like Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist. However, EyeSight offers an additional layer of protection with Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which reduces engine power to minimize the impact of a potential collision.

In pedestrian safety evaluations, the Outback outshines the CR-V. The Outback avoided collisions at both 12 MPH and 25 MPH during testing, while the CR-V only managed to slow down significantly, failing to avoid impact. This performance highlights the superior responsiveness of Subaru EyeSight in real-world scenarios. Additionally, studies show that EyeSight reduces rear-end crashes with injuries by up to 85%, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in safety technology.

While both systems enhance driver confidence, the Outback’s ability to prevent collisions at higher speeds gives it an edge. If pedestrian safety and advanced collision prevention are priorities for you, the Subaru Outback stands out as the better choice.

Crash Test Ratings

Crash test ratings from recognized organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA provide valuable insights into the safety performance of these SUVs. Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V received a “GOOD” overall evaluation in crash tests, indicating strong protection for occupants. However, a closer look at specific metrics reveals key differences.

Feature	Subaru Outback	Honda CR-V
Overall Evaluation	GOOD	GOOD
Structure	ACCEPTABLE	GOOD
Head Injury Criterion	387	119
Neck Tension	67 lbs.	45 lbs.
Torso Max Deflection	1.42 in	1.06 in

The CR-V demonstrated better structural integrity and lower injury metrics in head and neck evaluations. However, the Outback excelled in pedestrian collision avoidance, avoiding impacts at both 12 MPH and 25 MPH, while the CR-V slowed to -10 MPH and -18 MPH, respectively.

Feature	Subaru Outback	Honda CR-V
12 MPH (Child)	AVOIDED	-10 MPH
25 MPH (Adult)	AVOIDED	-18 MPH

Both vehicles earned high marks in frontal and side crash tests, but the Outback’s pedestrian safety performance and advanced collision avoidance features make it a compelling option for families and safety-conscious drivers. The CR-V, with its robust structure and lower injury metrics, also remains a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.

Tip: When evaluating safety features, consider both crash test ratings and real-world performance. The Subaru Outback’s superior pedestrian safety and collision avoidance capabilities make it ideal for urban and suburban environments.

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Pricing and Value

Base Model Pricing

When comparing the pricing of the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V, both SUVs offer competitive starting points that cater to different budgets and priorities. The 2025 Subaru Outback has a starting MSRP of approximately $28,895, which includes standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This feature adds significant value for drivers who frequently encounter challenging road conditions or enjoy off-road adventures. On the other hand, the 2025 Honda CR-V starts at an MSRP of around $29,500 for its base front-wheel-drive (FWD) model. While slightly higher in price, the CR-V’s efficient design and urban-friendly handling make it an appealing choice for city dwellers.

For those seeking additional features, both models offer higher trims with advanced technology and luxury options. The Outback’s upper trims, such as the Touring XT, can exceed $42,000, while the CR-V’s top-tier Hybrid Sport Touring AWD reaches a similar price range. These pricing tiers allow you to choose a model that aligns with your lifestyle and budget, whether you prioritize rugged capability or fuel efficiency.

Tip: If you value AWD as a standard feature, the Outback provides better initial value. However, the CR-V’s slightly higher base price reflects its focus on urban practicality and hybrid options.

Maintenance Costs

Long-term ownership costs play a crucial role in determining the overall value of a vehicle. Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are known for their reliability, but their maintenance expenses differ slightly. On average, the Outback’s annual maintenance costs range from $600 to $700, while the CR-V’s costs are slightly lower, averaging $500 to $600 per year. These figures reflect routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.

Resale value retention also impacts the total cost of ownership. After five years, the Honda CR-V retains 57.72% to 58.67% of its original value, outperforming the Subaru Outback, which retains 51.27% to 54.93%. This higher resale value makes the CR-V a more attractive option for buyers who plan to sell or trade in their vehicle after a few years.

Vehicle	Resale Value Retention (5 years)
Honda CR-V	57.72% to 58.67%
Subaru Outback	51.27% to 54.93%

While the Outback may have slightly higher maintenance costs, its rugged design and standard AWD justify the expense for drivers who prioritize off-road capabilities. The CR-V, with its lower maintenance costs and stronger resale value, offers better long-term savings for urban and suburban drivers.

Note: Consider your driving habits and future plans when evaluating maintenance costs and resale value. The CR-V’s lower upkeep and higher resale value make it ideal for cost-conscious buyers, while the Outback’s durability suits those seeking adventure.

Similarities Between Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V

Shared Features

The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V share several features that make them appealing choices for drivers seeking reliable and versatile SUVs. Both models prioritize safety, earning five-star ratings in crash tests. Advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, come standard in both vehicles. These features enhance your confidence on the road, whether you’re navigating busy city streets or cruising on the highway.

In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer spacious interiors with premium materials. While the Outback includes heated and air-conditioned seats in higher trims, the CR-V focuses on ergonomic seating and user-friendly controls. Both vehicles also provide ample cargo space, with the CR-V offering 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and the Outback providing 32.6 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats expands the cargo area to over 75 cubic feet in both models, accommodating larger items like luggage or sports equipment.

Standard Equipment

Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V come equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance your driving experience. Each model includes a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, ensuring seamless connectivity for your devices. The CR-V features a 7-inch display, while the Outback offers a larger 11.6-inch screen in its base model. Both systems provide intuitive navigation and entertainment options.

Safety remains a priority in both SUVs. The Outback includes adaptive headlights as a standard feature, improving visibility on winding roads. The CR-V, while lacking this feature, compensates with its Real-Time AWD system, which enhances handling in slippery conditions. Both vehicles also come with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty, reflecting their manufacturers’ confidence in reliability.

Feature	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
All-Wheel Drive	Optional	Standard
Cargo Space (Seats Up)	39 cubic feet	32.6 cubic feet
Towing Capacity	1,500 pounds	2,700–3,500 pounds
Heated Rear Seats	Not available	Standard in higher trims
Air-Conditioned Seats	Not available	Standard in higher trims
Safety Ratings	5-star	5-star
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles	3 years / 36,000 miles

Both SUVs cater to a wide range of needs, from daily commuting to family road trips. Their shared features and standard equipment ensure a comfortable, safe, and practical driving experience.

Key Differences Between Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V

Off-Road Capabilities

When it comes to off-road performance, the Subaru Outback clearly outshines the Honda CR-V. Built as a midsize crossover, the Outback features Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which is designed from the ground up to provide superior traction and stability. This system reacts quickly to changes in terrain, ensuring optimal grip even on slippery or uneven surfaces. In contrast, the CR-V’s Real-Time AWD is an add-on to its front-wheel-drive base, which limits its responsiveness in challenging conditions.

The Outback also offers X-MODE®, a feature that enhances off-road capabilities by optimizing engine output and braking for rugged trails. With up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, the Outback easily handles rocky paths and steep inclines. The CR-V, with its lower ground clearance and lack of off-road-specific features, is better suited for light dirt roads or urban environments. Additionally, the Outback’s towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (with the turbocharged engine) far exceeds the CR-V’s 1,500-pound limit, making it the better choice for hauling gear or trailers.

Feature	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
Drivetrain	Real-Time AWD	Symmetrical AWD
Ground Clearance	8.2 inches	9.5 inches
Towing Capacity	1,500 pounds	2,700–3,500 pounds
Off-Road Enhancements	None	X-MODE®

If you frequently explore rugged trails or need a vehicle for outdoor adventures, the Subaru Outback is the clear winner. Its advanced drivetrain and off-road features make it a reliable companion for challenging terrains.

Advanced Technology

Both the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V come equipped with cutting-edge technology, but their offerings cater to different priorities. The Outback includes an 11.6-inch touchscreen with SUBARU STARLINK®, providing seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In comparison, the CR-V features a smaller 7-inch display, which, while functional, lacks the immersive experience of the Outback’s system.

In terms of safety technology, both SUVs include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Subaru EyeSight offers features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking. However, it goes a step further with Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which reduces engine power to prevent accidents. Honda Sensing, while robust, does not include this feature. Additionally, the Outback’s adaptive headlights improve visibility on winding roads, a feature absent in the CR-V.

Technology Feature	Honda CR-V	Subaru Outback
Touchscreen Size	7 inches	11.6 inches
Adaptive Headlights	Not available	Standard
Pre-Collision Throttle	Not available	Included
Driver Assistance Systems	Honda Sensing	Subaru EyeSight

For tech enthusiasts, the Outback offers a more advanced infotainment system and superior safety features. However, the CR-V’s straightforward technology may appeal to those seeking simplicity.

Choosing between the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V depends on your lifestyle and driving priorities. The Outback excels in off-road capabilities, towing capacity, and rugged design, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous families. The CR-V, with its efficient fuel economy, urban-friendly handling, and hybrid options, suits city dwellers and eco-conscious drivers. Both SUVs offer advanced safety features, spacious interiors, and reliable performance. To find the perfect fit, test drive the Outback and CR-V to experience their strengths firsthand.