If you’re shopping for a versatile new Subaru SUV, comparing the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback is a great place to start. Both models arrive with impressive features, spacious and flexible cabins, and the adventure-ready prowess that Subaru vehicles are known for. However, they do have their differences. Dive into our guide to uncover which SUV is best for your lifestyle and needs, then visit Hughes Subaru in Athens, GA, to take it for a test drive.
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2025 Subaru Outback Base | |
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 152 | 182 |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | Lineartronic CVT |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Highway) | 27 / 341 | 26 / 321 |
| Fuel Tank Size | 16.6 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs2 | 2,700 lbs2 |
| Curb Weight | 3,277 lbs | 3,641 lbs |
| Wheel Size | 17 in | 17 in |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Factory Warranty | – New Car Limited Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles3 – Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles3 |
– New Car Limited Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles3 – Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles3 |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | 5 stars4 | 5 stars4 |
| Standard Features | – Steering responsive LED headlights – Active grille shutters – Dual 7-inch multimedia system – Dual-zone automatic climate control – Remote keyless entry |
– Steering responsive LED headlights – Dual 7-inch multimedia system – Automatic climate control – LED fog lights – Raised roof rails |
| Available Features | – LED fog lights – Raised roof rails – Power moonroof – Wireless phone charger – Harman Kardon® 10-speaker audio system |
– Power moonroof – Harman Kardon® 12-speaker audio system – Dual-zone automatic climate control – Hands-free power rear gate – Nappa leather upholstery |
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | 2025 Subaru Outback |
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek has five trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness.
In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback has nine trims: Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT.
Performance is a primary difference between Crosstrek and Outback SUVs.
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek arrives with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine in the base model, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine in all other trim levels. The standard 2.0-liter unit churns out 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, while the upgraded powertrain renders 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque; it also earns up to an EPA-estimated 26/33 MPG (City/Highway).1 Both engines provide smooth, responsive performance, but you can achieve the maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds2 in the Wilderness trim with the available 2.5-liter engine.
The 2025 Subaru Outback is a larger SUV, and as such, it brings more power to the table right from the start. The Outback equips a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine worth 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque in the first five trims. The remaining variants feature a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain achieves up to an EPA-estimated 22/39 MPG (City/Highway).1 Although the Outback has a higher base towing capacity, the maximum towing capacity mirrors the Crosstrek SUV’s at 3,500 pounds.2
Otherwise, the new Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Outback both come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a Lineartronic CVT, and X-MODE.
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2025 Subaru Outback Base | |
| Length | 176.4 in | 191.9 in |
| Width (Without Mirrors) | 70.9 in | 74.2 in |
| Height | 62.8 in | 66.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in | 108.1 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 in | 8.7 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 39.8 / 38 in | 40.1 / 39.1 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.9 / 36.5 in | 42.8 / 39.5 in |
| Cargo Space | 19.9 cu ft | 32.6 cu ft |
| Max Cargo Space | 54.7 cu ft | 75.6 cu ft |
As expected, the Subaru Outback is notably larger than the Subaru Crosstrek, but the Crosstrek still delivers a comfortable and roomy interior. The Outback is over 1 foot longer than the Crosstrek and more than 3 inches taller, with much of that added size translating into increased cargo capacity and headroom.
Both models prioritize passenger comfort. Front legroom is almost identical between the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback, with the Outback offering slightly more for backseat passengers at 39.5 inches vs. 36.5 inches in the Crosstrek.
If cargo space is your deciding factor, start taking a look through our new Subaru Outback inventory. With 32.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and an impressive 75.6 cubic feet with the second row folded, the Outback is ideal for bringing along the essentials and then some.
The Crosstrek, however, still provides a vast 19.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.7 cubic feet with them folded. These figures are impressive for a compact SUV. Both Subaru SUV models feature cargo tie-down and grocery bag hooks in the storage area for your convenience. The new Crosstrek also incorporates a cargo area light as standard.
Please keep in mind that certain dimensions can vary depending on the trim level; the chart above depicts the base trim levels.
Inside the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Outback base trims are these standard features: a dual 7-inch multimedia system, cloth seating, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, four speakers, and 60/40-split flat-folding rear seatbacks. However, moving up trim levels reveals distinct differences in what each offers.
For instance, the Outback boasts an available 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, while the Crosstrek SUV’s highest upgrade option is a 10-way power-adjustable function. Front-seat ventilation and heated rear outboard seats are also available in the Subaru Outback but not in the Subaru Crosstrek.
Conversely, the Crosstrek has a wireless phone charger in higher trims, a feature not available in any variant of the Outback. Plus, the 2025 Crosstrek comes standard with remote keyless entry, whereas you have to climb a couple of trim levels to access keyless entry in the 2025 Outback.
Of course, these SUVs do offer some of the same upgrade options, including the following:
There’s a lot more to learn and see with both models in our Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback head-to-head comparison. These SUVs are exceptionally well-equipped and have advantages over the other; it all comes down to preference, which we can help you determine. As a bonus, we at Hughes Subaru regularly run Subaru Outback and Subaru Crosstrek deals for the latest 2025 models.
In our Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback matchup, we see that both 2025 models earn a five-star rating from the NHTSA,4 which is an incredible feat. While they have not yet been rated by the IIHS, the 2024 iterations were IIHS Top Safety Pick winners.5 We foresee the 2025 models receiving the same distinction.
High-quality engineering and extensive safety technology are characteristics of the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Subaru Outback. These SUVs come equipped with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a Rear Vision Camera, High Beam Assist, Brake Assist, and more. Plus, various systems are available, including Blind-Spot Detection, Reverse Automatic Braking, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
In our 2025 Subaru SUV comparison, the compact Subaru Crosstrek has a lower starting MSRP than the midsize Subaru Outback. This can make the Crosstrek a more attractive option for drivers looking to get into a new Subaru at a more attractive price point. However, at our Subaru dealership, we do our best to offer competitive pricing and specials for all Subaru vehicles. Plus, you can lease a Subaru Outback or Crosstrek to try it out for a couple of years first.
The Subaru warranty coverage is impressive and comprehensive. Both the 2025 Subaru Outback and 2025 Subaru Crosstrek come with the New Car Limited Warranty for three years or 36,000 miles3 and the Powertrain Limited Warranty for five years or 60,000 miles.3
No matter which option you choose, your new Subaru will deliver the confidence of award-winning safety and long-term reliability for your everyday driving or weekend adventuring.
Are you still deciding between the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback? Or do you already have your mind set? At Hughes Subaru in Athens, GA, we can help you take the next step. Whether you’re interested in learning more or ready to test-drive, our Subaru associates are here to assist. We look forward to working with you soon!
1EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
2Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
3Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit www.nhtsa.gov.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit www.iihs.org.
