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2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2026 Subaru Outback Comparison

See how the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Subaru Outback performed in our rigorous, independent road tests. Our experts evaluate hundreds of vehicles annually at our 327-acre testing facility, putting each model through over 50 data-driven assessments—including braking, emergency handling, fuel economy, and cabin noise. Review our side-by-side comparison of tested specifications, real-world fuel efficiency, and crash-test safety ratings to see which is the best for reliability, performance, and more.

Comparing 2 Models

Crosstrek 2026

Subcompact SUVs

2026 Subaru Crosstrek

$26,995 - $34,995

All Test Results

Outback 2026

Midsized SUVs

2026 Subaru Outback

$34,995 - $47,995

All Test Results
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About
About
The popular Crosstrek, essentially a raised Impreza hatchback posing as a subcompact SUV, features a larger standard engine for 2026. All conventional Crosstreks now come with a 180-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder, in the traditional Subaru flat-four lay...
 
The Outback has morphed from an adventure-inspired wagon into a full-fledged SUV. Size-wise, it sits nicely in between the smaller Forester and the larger three-row Ascent. The blocky new look adds cargo space and headroom, but some styling elements ...
Highs
Highs
Green Checkmark Icon Comfortable ride
Green Checkmark Icon Strong fuel economy
Green Checkmark Icon Short stopping distances
Green Checkmark Icon Predictable handling
Green Checkmark Icon Standard all-wheel drive
Green Checkmark Icon Airy outward visibility
 
Green Checkmark Icon Punchy turbo engine with the XT model
Green Checkmark Icon Short stopping distances on the Premium trim
Green Checkmark Icon Compliant and composed ride
Green Checkmark Icon Comfortable seats front and rear
Green Checkmark Icon Easy to get into and out of
Green Checkmark Icon Excellent outward visibility
Green Checkmark Icon Straightforward controls
Lows
Lows
Red 'X' Icon Laggy infotainment screen
 
Red 'X' Icon Slow acceleration with the standard engine
Red 'X' Icon Some debatable exterior styling details
Road Test Score
Road Test Score
/ 100
 
/ 100
Reliability
Reliability
/ 100
 
/ 100
Owner Satisfaction
Owner Satisfaction
/ 100
 
/ 100

Overview

Body Styles
Body Styles

4-door SUV

 

4-door SUV

Trim Lines
Trim Lines

Base, Limited, Wilderness, Premium, Sport

 

Touring, Wilderness, Touring XT, Limited XT, Limited, Premium

Base Price Range
Base Price Range

$26,995 - $34,995

 

$34,995 - $47,995

Drive Wheels
Drive Wheels

AWD

 

AWD

Seating Capacity
Seating Capacity

2 Front, 3 Rear

 

2 Front, 3 Rear

Engines/Motors
Engines/Motors

2.5-liter 4 (180 hp)

 

2.5-liter 4 (180 hp); 2.4-liter 4 turbo (260 hp)

Transmissions Available
Transmissions Available

CVT

 

CVT

Performance

Comfort & Convenience

Fuel Economy & Range

Vehicle Safety

Specification

Warranty

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Auto Test Center

Precision testing comes standard at our 327-acre auto test center.

TESTING LIKE NOBODY ELSE

50+

tests are conducted on every car we buy.

PERFORMANCE TESTING

6

miles of track for testing acceleration, ride, handling, braking, and advanced driver assist systems.

TIRE TESTING

400

tires tested a year for all-weather grip and rolling resistance.