Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4

Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4: Compare Crossover SUVs in Lunenburg

The Subaru Outback is a supremely versatile midsize crossover, combining comfortable and spacious accommodations, appealing features, and flexible cargo-carrying options with car-like drivability courtesy of its wagon heritage. Plus, attributes like tall ground clearance, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and Subaru X-MODE® make the Outback well-suited to outdoor adventures, particularly in the Wilderness trim.

While crossovers comprise the largest section of the automotive industry, the Subaru Outback stands out as one of the most well-rounded options. Here's a quick look at how it compares in a few areas to a prominent crossover competitor, the Toyota RAV4.

Interior and Utility

The Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 each offer cozy and modern cabins. However, Fitchburg families will find the Outback more accommodating, especially for taller drivers. Compared to the RAV4, the Subaru Outback provides an extra 0.6 inches of front headroom and nearly two more inches of front legroom. Rear passengers get an extra 1.7 inches of legroom and seven more inches of hip room.

The Outback is renowned for its front seats, which are nicely cushioned and supportive, with just the right amount of bolstering. Edmunds reviewers noted of the Outback that, "You'll be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable vehicle for the money." The RAV4's front seats appear nicely sculpted and padded, but the cushions begin to feel a bit flat the longer you sit on them, making them a bit of a burden on long road trips.

Utility

Both crossovers provide flexible cargo options and multiple small-item storage solutions. However, the Subaru Outback has the edge when it comes to maximizing capacity for your Gardner outings or errands, offering 75.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded compared to 69.8 cubic feet in the RAV4. For larger items, all Outback trims include raised roof rails. The RAV4 offers roof rails in higher tiers, but they're the less versatile low-profile kind.

Performance

Both the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 utilize a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as their standard powertrain. However, if you want something more potent to propel your Lancaster or Leominster commute, Outback XT and Wilderness trims upgrade to a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The Toyota RAV4 doesn't offer a commensurate turbocharged upgrade.

The Subaru Outback comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Subaru X-MODE® traction management, providing surefooted handling and control in various conditions. The Wilderness trim takes that capability to the next level with a dual-function X-MODE® system, all-terrain tires, terrain-tuned suspension, and more. The Toyota RAV4 offers all-wheel drive, but it's more of an on-road system and isn't standard for any trim level. The RAV4 used to have a more rugged off-road-oriented option, but both the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims have since been discontinued.

Technology

The Outback and RAV4 both come standard with a suite of advanced driver aids, including collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Outback's adaptive cruise system is more advanced and includes Lane Centering. Additionally, the Outback's base trim includes steering-adaptive LED headlights, a feature not found in any RAV4 model.

While the Outback's base trim has a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, all higher tiers get an 11.6-inch infotainment display and wireless smartphone integration.  Most RAV4 models have an 8-inch touchscreen, while the available 10.5-inch upgrade is reserved for only the highest trim level.

Shop New Subaru Outback Models in Lunenburg, MA

Get in touch with North End Subaru today for more information about the latest Subaru models, including their available features, financing opportunities, and current special offers. Would you like to check out the Subaru Outback's accommodations, amenities, and performance for yourself? We invite you to schedule a test drive or visit us in Lunenburg at your convenience. It will be our pleasure to assist you.

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