Crosstrek vs Outback: Subaru’s Adventure-Ready SUVs

Explore the dynamic differences between Subaru’s two rugged siblings – the compact Crosstrek and the flagship Outback.

Subaru Outback. Image: Subaru SA

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Subaru, known for its commitment to safety and all-terrain versatility, offers two standout vehicles in its SUV lineup: the compact Crosstrek and the mid-sized Outback. Both vehicles share Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and off-road readiness, but they cater to different types of drivers.

Design and Dimensions

At first glance, the Crosstrek and Outback showcase distinct personalities, even though they both embrace Subaru’s adventurous spirit. The Crosstrek, having replaced the XV, sports a bolder and more playful design aimed at urban explorers and weekend adventurers. It features a hexagonal 3D grille, sharper headlights, and bulging wheel arches. And for a bit of added toughness, it has rugged cladding around its body and new C-shaped taillights.

Related: Subaru Crosstrek packs a bigger punch than outgoing XV model

On the other hand, the Outback adopts a more robust, utilitarian look, suited for more demanding terrains and longer road trips. Larger and more imposing than its smaller sibling, the Outback’s body is 50 mm longer and 30 mm wider. Its black roof rails, active grille shutters, and larger volume body panels further highlight its rugged demeanour. The Field variant emphasises adventure with its green accents and black trim, while the Touring model adopts a more premium, city-friendly design with silver highlights. The flagship XT is differentiated by its 18-inch black alloy wheels.

In terms of dimensions, the Crosstrek’s compact footprint is perfect for urban driving and parking, but if you’re looking for a more spacious SUV with greater road presence, the Outback’s longer and wider frame wins the design battle.

Subaru Crosstrek. Image: Subaru SA

Interior Comfort

Inside, both vehicles feature Subaru’s latest driver-centric design philosophy, offering modern tech and premium touches. The Crosstrek has made notable strides in its cabin refinement, incorporating an 11.6-inch touchscreen (in the iS model), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Driver Monitoring System that can store driver profiles using facial recognition. The Crosstrek’s seating also receives a human-centric design update, and, according to Subaru, prioritises lower back support aimed at reducing fatigue on longer drives. The iL model features fabric upholstery while leather is incorporated in the iS.

Related: ROAD TEST: Subaru Outback 2.5i-Field ES Lineartronic

The Outback, however, takes comfort up a notch. Its larger cabin is designed for longer adventures, with more spacious seating and superior visibility. The Outback’s front seats, for example, are designed to offer multi-contoured support. Like the Crosstrek, it features a portrait-oriented 11.6-inch infotainment screen, but it also introduces more advanced tech such as the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. Additionally, the Outback’s cargo space, with the convenience of a Hands-Free Tailgate, makes it the better option for families or outdoor enthusiasts who need to haul extra gear.

Subaru Crosstrek. Image: Subaru SA

Powertrains and Performance

Both the Crosstrek and Outback are powered by Subaru’s signature BOXER engines and feature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making them excellent on varied terrain. The Crosstrek’s 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine produces 115 kW and 196 N.m of torque, paired with a Lineartronic CVT. With Active Torque Vectoring and the SI-Drive driving mode management system, the Crosstrek is agile in the city and can tackle moderate off-road conditions.

Meanwhile, the Outback comes with a more robust engine line-up. Its 2.5-litre engine produces 138 kW/245 N.m, while the recently added 2.4-litre turbocharged BOXER engine delivers 183 kW and 350 N.m. Both engines are mated to Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. The Outback also features Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control for added stability, making it the more capable choice when it comes to handling tough terrains and steeper gradients.

Subaru Outback. Image: Subaru SA

Pricing and Warranty

Pricing is where the Crosstrek pulls ahead for buyers seeking Subaru’s famed AWD system on a tighter budget. The Crosstrek range starts at R609 000 for the iL variant and R699 000 for the iS. The Outback, with its larger frame, additional tech, and superior comfort features, comes at a higher price point, starting at R839 000. This pricing difference makes the Crosstrek an attractive option for those wanting Subaru’s off-road credentials at a more accessible price.

Subaru Crosstrek

• Crosstrek 2.0i L – R609 000
• Crosstrek 2.0i S – R699 000

Subaru Outback

• Outback 2.5i Field – R839 000
• Outback 2.5i Touring – R889 000
• Outback 2.4T XT – R999 000

Both vehicles come standard with Subaru’s 3-year/75 000 km maintenance plan and a 5-year/150 000 km warranty.

Subaru Crosstrek. Image: Subaru SA

Verdict: Which Subaru?

If you’re looking for a versatile, well-equipped, and agile compact SUV that excels in city driving and light off-roading, the Subaru Crosstrek is the ideal choice between the two. It is friendly on the budget (contextually speaking), practical, and packed with advanced safety features, making it a good all-rounder.

However, if long road trips, family outings, or frequent off-road excursions are more your speed, the Subaru Outback emerges as the superior choice. Its larger dimensions, enhanced comfort, and superior off-road prowess justify the higher price tag – to an extent.

Ultimately, your decision should hinge on your lifestyle needs, because urban explorers are likely to lean towards the Crosstrek, while outdoor lovers will appreciate the Outback’s versatility.

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