When it comes to choosing the right vehicle, size is a crucial factor for many buyers. Two popular models from Subaru, the Outback and the Crosstrek, often find themselves under scrutiny for their dimensions and capabilities. In this article, we will delve into the details of both vehicles, comparing their sizes, features, and functionalities to answer the question: Is the Subaru Outback bigger than the Crosstrek?
Introduction to the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek
The Subaru Outback and Crosstrek are two distinct models that cater to different needs and preferences. The Outback is known for its ruggedness and is often classified as a mid-size crossover SUV, while the Crosstrek falls into the subcompact crossover SUV category. Both vehicles boast Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and control on various terrains.
Subaru Outback Overview
The Subaru Outback is designed with adventure in mind. It offers a spacious interior, ample cargo space, and a robust engine that can handle both on-road comfort and off-road challenges. The Outback’s size is one of its selling points, providing passengers with a comfortable ride and sufficient room for luggage or gear. With its higher ground clearance, the Outback is well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities or live in areas with rough road conditions.
Subaru Crosstrek Overview
The Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, is a more compact vehicle that still packs a punch. It’s ideal for city driving, thanks to its smaller footprint, but also capable of handling light off-road adventures. The Crosstrek is a favorite among those who want the benefits of a crossover without the bulk. It offers a balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and the reliability that Subaru is known for.
Size Comparison: Outback vs. Crosstrek
To answer the question of whether the Outback is bigger than the Crosstrek, let’s look at the key dimensions of both vehicles.
The Subaru Outback generally measures around 191.3 inches in length, 72.4 inches in width (without mirrors), and has a height of about 65.3 inches. It boasts a wheelbase of approximately 108.1 inches. The Outback’s ground clearance is around 8.7 inches, which is significant for navigating rough terrains.
In contrast, the Subaru Crosstrek is smaller, with a length of about 176.5 inches, a width of 71 inches (without mirrors), and a height of 63.6 inches. Its wheelbase is roughly 103.9 inches. The Crosstrek has a ground clearance of around 8.7 inches as well, which is impressive for its size and class.
Interior and Cargo Space
When considering the size of a vehicle, the interior space and cargo capacity are crucial factors. The Subaru Outback offers more interior space, with a passenger volume of about 109 cubic feet and a cargo area that can accommodate up to 35.5 cubic feet of luggage behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats increases the cargo space to approximately 73 cubic feet.
The Subaru Crosstrek, while smaller, still provides a comfortable interior with a passenger volume of around 100 cubic feet. Its cargo space behind the rear seats is about 20.8 cubic feet, which can be expanded to roughly 55 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
Both vehicles seat five people, but the Outback offers more legroom and headroom for passengers, especially in the rear seats. This makes the Outback a better choice for families or those who frequently have rear-seat passengers.
Engine and Performance Comparison
The size of a vehicle can also influence its engine and performance capabilities. The Subaru Outback comes with several engine options, including a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.6-liter 6-cylinder, providing more power for towing and off-road driving.
The Subaru Crosstrek, being smaller and lighter, is equipped with smaller engines, such as a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, which is more fuel-efficient and suitable for city driving and light adventures.
Towing Capacity
For those who need to tow trailers or boats, the towing capacity is an essential consideration. The Subaru Outback has a higher towing capacity, up to 3,000 pounds with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, making it more versatile for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Subaru Crosstrek, with its smaller engine, has a lower towing capacity, typically up to 1,500 pounds, which is still adequate for smaller trailers or lightweight boats.
Conclusion: Outback vs. Crosstrek Size Comparison
In conclusion, the Subaru Outback is indeed bigger than the Crosstrek in terms of exterior dimensions, interior space, and cargo capacity. The Outback’s larger size and more powerful engine options make it a better fit for those who prioritize space, towing capacity, and off-road capability.
However, the Crosstrek’s compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability make it an excellent choice for city dwellers or those with lighter demands on their vehicle. Ultimately, the decision between the Outback and the Crosstrek depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
When choosing between these two Subaru models, consider factors such as your typical driving conditions, the number of passengers you plan to transport, and your requirements for cargo space and towing capacity. By weighing these factors, you can decide which vehicle best suits your lifestyle and provides the best value for your investment.
| Vehicle | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Ground Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | 191.3 inches | 72.4 inches | 65.3 inches | 108.1 inches | 8.7 inches |
| Subaru Crosstrek | 176.5 inches | 71 inches | 63.6 inches | 103.9 inches | 8.7 inches |
By understanding the size differences and capabilities of the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and enhances your driving experience. Whether you prioritize size, power, or efficiency, Subaru has a model that can cater to your lifestyle and preferences.
What are the key differences in size between the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek?
The Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek are two distinct models in the Subaru lineup, each catering to different needs and preferences. In terms of size, the Outback is generally larger than the Crosstrek. The Outback is classified as a mid-size SUV, while the Crosstrek falls into the subcompact SUV category. This size difference is reflected in their exterior dimensions, with the Outback being longer and wider than the Crosstrek. The Outback’s larger size provides more interior space, making it a better option for those who need ample room for passengers and cargo.
The size difference between the Outback and the Crosstrek also affects their ground clearance and approach/departure angles. The Outback has a higher ground clearance, which is beneficial for off-road driving and navigating rough terrain. In contrast, the Crosstrek has a lower ground clearance, making it more suited for urban driving and paved roads. Despite these differences, both vehicles offer a comfortable and capable driving experience, with the Outback being better suited for those who require more space and off-road capability, and the Crosstrek being ideal for city dwellers who prioritize ease of parking and maneuverability.
How do the interior dimensions of the Subaru Outback compare to the Crosstrek?
The interior dimensions of the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek vary significantly, reflecting their different size classifications. The Outback offers more passenger space, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. In contrast, the Crosstrek has less interior space, although it still provides a comfortable and spacious cabin for its class. The Outback’s larger interior also translates to more cargo space, with a maximum cargo capacity of up to 73 cubic feet, compared to the Crosstrek’s 60.5 cubic feet. This makes the Outback a better choice for road trips, camping, or other activities that require ample storage.
The interior dimensions of the Outback and the Crosstrek also impact their seating capacity. The Outback can seat up to five passengers, while the Crosstrek also seats five. However, the Outback’s larger size provides more comfort and space for rear-seat passengers, making it a better option for families or those who frequently transport multiple passengers. In terms of features and amenities, both vehicles offer a range of standard and optional features, including infotainment systems, driver assistance technologies, and premium materials. Ultimately, the choice between the Outback and the Crosstrek will depend on individual priorities and needs.
Does the size difference between the Outback and the Crosstrek affect their fuel efficiency?
The size difference between the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek does have an impact on their fuel efficiency. Generally, the Crosstrek is more fuel-efficient than the Outback, due to its smaller size and lower weight. The Crosstrek’s more compact dimensions and lower curb weight result in better fuel economy, particularly in city driving. In contrast, the Outback’s larger size and higher weight contribute to slightly lower fuel efficiency, although it still offers respectable fuel economy for its class. However, it’s essential to note that fuel efficiency can vary depending on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and trim levels.
The fuel efficiency of the Outback and the Crosstrek can also be influenced by their powertrains and transmission options. Both vehicles offer a range of engine options, including gasoline and hybrid powertrains. The Crosstrek’s smaller engine options, such as the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, tend to be more fuel-efficient than the Outback’s larger engines, like the 3.6-liter 6-cylinder. Additionally, the Outback’s all-wheel-drive system, which is standard on all trim levels, can also affect fuel efficiency. Nevertheless, both vehicles offer a balance of performance, capability, and fuel efficiency, making them suitable for a wide range of driving needs and preferences.
How does the size of the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek impact their off-road capability?
The size of the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek plays a significant role in their off-road capability. The Outback’s larger size, higher ground clearance, and more aggressive approach/departure angles make it better suited for off-road driving. The Outback’s higher ground clearance provides more clearance for navigating rough terrain, such as rocks, logs, and steep inclines. Additionally, the Outback’s larger size and weight contribute to more stability and traction on uneven surfaces. In contrast, the Crosstrek’s smaller size and lower ground clearance make it less capable in extreme off-road conditions, although it still offers a capable all-wheel-drive system and decent ground clearance.
The Outback’s larger size also allows for more suspension travel, which is beneficial for absorbing bumps and shocks on rough terrain. Furthermore, the Outback’s more extensive range of trim levels, including the Outback Wilderness, offer more off-road-focused features, such as increased ground clearance, unique suspension tuning, and protective skid plates. While the Crosstrek is still a capable vehicle on paved roads and light off-road trails, the Outback’s larger size and more aggressive design make it a better choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. However, it’s essential to note that both vehicles are designed to handle a variety of driving conditions, and their off-road capability should not be the sole determining factor in the purchasing decision.
Are there any notable differences in features and amenities between the Outback and the Crosstrek?
The Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek offer a range of standard and optional features, although there are some notable differences between the two models. The Outback tends to offer more premium features, such as heated and ventilated seats, a larger infotainment screen, and more advanced driver assistance technologies. The Outback’s higher trim levels, such as the Limited and Touring, offer more luxurious amenities, including premium leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, and a 180-degree front-view camera. In contrast, the Crosstrek’s feature list is more focused on functionality and practicality, although it still offers a range of desirable amenities, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
The differences in features and amenities between the Outback and the Crosstrek are also reflected in their safety features. Both vehicles offer a range of standard safety features, including all-wheel drive, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. However, the Outback tends to offer more advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning. The Outback’s EyeSight driver assistance system, which is standard on most trim levels, provides a range of features, including pre-collision braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. While the Crosstrek also offers a range of safety features, the Outback’s more comprehensive safety suite makes it a better choice for those who prioritize safety and driver assistance technologies.
How do the prices of the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek compare?
The prices of the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek vary significantly, reflecting their different size classifications, feature lists, and capabilities. The Crosstrek is generally more affordable, with a starting price around $22,000 for the base model. In contrast, the Outback starts at around $25,000 for the base model, although prices can range up to over $40,000 for the top-of-the-line Touring trim. The Outback’s higher price is due to its larger size, more premium features, and more advanced safety technologies. However, both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to choose the features and capabilities that best fit their needs and budget.
The prices of the Outback and the Crosstrek can also be influenced by options and packages. Both vehicles offer a range of optional features, including moonroofs, navigation systems, and driver assistance technologies. The Outback’s more extensive range of trim levels and options can result in a higher overall price, although it also provides more flexibility and customization. In contrast, the Crosstrek’s more streamlined trim level structure and option list make it easier to configure and price. Ultimately, the choice between the Outback and the Crosstrek will depend on individual priorities and budget, as well as the specific features and capabilities that are most important to the buyer.
Which Subaru model is right for me: the Outback or the Crosstrek?
The choice between the Subaru Outback and the Crosstrek depends on individual needs, preferences, and priorities. The Outback is a better choice for those who require more space, off-road capability, and premium features. Its larger size, higher ground clearance, and more aggressive design make it well-suited for road trips, camping, and serious off-road adventures. In contrast, the Crosstrek is ideal for city dwellers, commuters, and those who prioritize ease of parking and maneuverability. The Crosstrek’s smaller size, lower price, and more fuel-efficient powertrains make it a great option for those who want a capable and practical vehicle without the need for excessive space or off-road capability.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outback and the Crosstrek will depend on a range of factors, including lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. It’s essential to research and compare the features, capabilities, and prices of both vehicles to determine which one best fits your needs. Test driving both models can also provide valuable insight into their handling, comfort, and overall driving experience. By considering your priorities and needs, you can make an informed decision and choose the Subaru model that is right for you. Whether you opt for the Outback or the Crosstrek, you can expect a capable, reliable, and enjoyable driving experience from Subaru’s renowned lineup of vehicles.