Compare the Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 in this comprehensive guide from the experts at Hughes Subaru.
To whet your appetite, let's first review the entry-level trims of these SUVs. Then, we take a deeper dive below.
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| 2025 Subaru Outback Base | 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE | |
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| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 182 | 203 |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD standard, AWD available |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 26 / 321 |
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| Fuel Tank Size | 18.5 gal | 14.5 gal |
| Curb Weight | 3,641 lbs | 3,370 - 3,490 lbs |
| Max Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs3 | 1,500 lbs4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 191.9 in | 180.9 in |
| Height | 66.1 in | 67 in |
| Width | 74.2 in | 73 in |
| Cargo Space | 32.6 - 75.6 cu ft | 37.6 - 69.8 cu ft |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Key Interior Features |
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| Key Exterior Features |
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| Safety Ratings |
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NHTSA 5-star safety rating7 |
| Starting Price | Higher | Lower |
| Warranty |
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| 2025 Subaru Outback | Used Toyota RAV4 |
With two engine options and standard Symmetrical AWD, the Subaru Outback offers more available power and better standard traction. The Toyota RAV4 has just one engine and must be upgraded to acquire AWD.
Subaru Outback - The first five trims come with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The top four trims feature a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Symmetrical AWD and a CVT are standard with each configuration.
Toyota RAV4 - The Toyota RAV4 has a single engine option for all trim levels: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. These numbers place the performance of the RAV4 slightly above the standard Outback engine but lower than the available unit. Furthermore, the RAV4 has standard FWD in every trim, with AWD available as an upgrade. An eight-speed automatic transmission is equipped across the board.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 falls behind the 2025 Subaru Outback when it comes to off-road capability and towing prowess. The Subaru Outback Wilderness is specifically geared for off-roading, and its top trim levels can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Subaru Outback - This sport-ute boasts enhanced off-road capability with features such as X-MODE (a dual-function version is also available), up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, a skid plate, water-repellent upholstery, and specially designed front and rear bumpers for optimal approach and departure angles. The towing capacity is 2,700 pounds3 with the standard engine. Trims equipped with the turbocharged motor can tow 3,500 pounds.3
Toyota RAV4 - In terms of off-roading, the RAV4 offers Multi-Terrain Select, Hill Start Assist Control, and Downhill Assist Control in select trims; the Outback sports Hill Descent Control in every variant. Its ground clearance only reaches 8.6 inches at its highest. Additionally, it features a more lackluster 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity.4
For Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 fuel economy, the RAV4 has a slight edge. While it earns greater MPG figures with both FWD and AWD, the difference is marginal. Not to mention, the fuel tank capacity is larger in the Outback.
Subaru Outback - The standard Subaru Outback engine earns an EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 With the available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, the Outback achieves up to an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 This SUV also boasts a vast 18.5-gallon fuel tank.
Toyota RAV4 - The FWD Toyota RAV4 gets up to an EPA-estimated 27/35/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 With AWD, the RAV4 returns an EPA-estimated maximum of 27/34/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 Compared to the Outback, the RAV4 has a fuel tank that is four gallons less.
The Outback is 11 inches longer than the RAV4, and it offers significantly more interior space for both passengers and cargo. The 2025 Subaru Outback takes the lead in this category.
Subaru Outback - The new 2025 Subaru Outback for sale measures 191.9 inches long, 74.2 inches wide, and between 66.1 and 66.9 inches tall. Interior dimensions are as follows:
Toyota RAV4 - The Toyota RAV4 is 180.9 inches long, 73 inches wide, and 67 or 67.2 inches tall. Inside, the RAV4 offers the following measurements:
Interior features and technology between the Outback and RAV4 are similar. However, the Outback has more impressive available amenities, such as a larger touchscreen and water-repellent upholstery.
Subaru Outback - The Outback offers perks like a 12-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, a cargo-area underfloor storage compartment, and cloth, StarTex water-repellent, or Nappa leather upholstery. Both SUVs come standard with a six-way adjustable driver's seat, a 60/40 split-folding second row, and smartphone integration.
Toyota RAV4 - The RAV4, by comparison, has an available 11-speaker JBL® audio system, and its largest touchscreen option is 10.5 inches, falling just over an inch smaller than the Outback. It also lacks leather and water-repellent upholstery options, but SofTex is offered in certain trims. It does not have an underfloor storage compartment.
The starting MSRP of the 2025 Toyota RAV4 is just slightly lower than the 2025 Subaru Outback. However, the Outback backs its higher price tag with more trim levels, two engine options, and an off-road-oriented variant – and that's just to start. Warranty coverage is the same for both.
Subaru Outback - The starting MSRP of the Outback Base trim is close to the starting MSRP of the RAV4 LE. While a little higher price-wise, the Outback comes standard with Symmetrical AWD off the bat and offers a larger towing capacity. Warranty coverage includes a three-year/36,000-mile New Car Limited Warranty8 and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.8
Toyota RAV4 - The Toyota RAV4 is a well-priced SUV from the start, but as we see in our Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 matchup, it fails to provide comparable value. The warranty coverage also comprises a three-year/36,000-mile Basic Warranty8 and a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty.8
Want to continue your research? Check out these additional Hughes Subaru resources below:
If you're ready to experience the 2025 Subaru Outback, come by Hughes Subaru for a tour and test drive. We can answer any additional questions and get you behind the wheel. Plus, we regularly run Subaru Outback offers for leasing and financing.
The Subaru Outback has more total cargo space than the Toyota RAV4. The Outback offers up to 75.6 cubic feet behind the front seats, which is more than the 69.8 cubic feet offered by the RAV4. It also boasts a greater passenger volume of up to 109 cubic feet vs. 98.9 cubic feet, arguably making it a better choice for families and adventurers alike.
In our Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison, we find that every trim of the Outback has more ground clearance than the RAV4. The Outback features a ride height of 8.7 or 9.5 inches, while the Toyota RAV4 offers 8.4 or 8.6 inches. For drivers who prioritize off-road capability, the extra clearance of the Outback results in a noticeable advantage.
The Subaru Outback has standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The RAV4, on the other hand, has standard front-wheel drive on all trims. All-wheel drive is an available upgrade, but you will need to pay extra for this feature. If you want built-in confidence for all-weather driving and unpaved roads, choosing the Outback is a no-brainer.
1EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
2Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
3Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
4Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/subaru/outback-4-door-wagon/2025.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2025/SUBARU/OUTBACK/SW/AWD.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2025/TOYOTA/RAV4/SUV/FWD.
8Warranties 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.
