Superior Off-Road Capability

The 2025 Subaru Outback distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), a feature that many competitors, including the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan, reserve for higher trims or offer as an option. The bottom line is that it costs more to get AWD when you buy one of the Outback’s rivals. This gives the Outback a clear advantage, particularly in regions with challenging weather conditions or for drivers who prioritize off-the-grid adventures. Plus, the Outback’s standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance sets it up for rugged terrain, while the Wilderness Edition provides even more at 9.5 inches – outdoing even the Ford Bronco Sport's 8.8 inches of ground clearance.

Ample Cargo Space

Cargo capacity is another area where the ‘25 Outback outshines its peers. With 32.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and up to 75.6 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded, it surpasses that of the Toyota RAV4 (69.8 cu. ft.), Ford Bronco Sport (60.6 cu. ft.), Mazda CX-50 (56.3 cu. ft.), and Volkswagen Tiguan (65.3 cu. ft.). While the Honda CR-V’s maximum capacity of 76.5 cubic feet is slightly higher, it’s still a negligible difference.

Practical Design and Cutting-Edge Infotainment

The Outback’s rugged yet refined design, combined with its spacious interior, entices families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. While competitors like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-50, and Volkswagen Tiguan may have a more upscale vibe, the Outback’s cabin is built for both comfort and durability, making it a more practical option for active lifestyles. Its generous rear legroom also eclipses that of the RAV4, Bronco Sport, Nissan Rogue, and Volkswagen Tiguan, while its rear headroom exceeds the CR-V and CX-50, making it a superior choice for taller occupants.

Subaru also makes an impression in the infotainment department with an available 11.6-inch touchscreen. This is significantly larger than the displays found in the RAV4, CR-V, Bronco Sport, Mazda CX-50, and Volkswagen Tiguan, enhancing the user experience with easy access to navigation, entertainment, and connectivity features.

Advanced Safety Features

Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite is standard across all ‘25 Outback trims, providing advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency steering. While the competitors offer similar driving aids, they often come at a higher cost or are limited to higher-end trims. This perk makes the Outback a standout for safety-conscious buyers in the market for a well-equipped vehicle at a competitive price point.

Fuel Efficiency and Power

For those seeking strong fuel economy, the ’25 Outback’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine achieves an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, outperforming AWD-equipped models like the Ford Bronco Sport, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan. The Outback is also eligible for a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that should appeal to buyers who want a little more performance. It cranks out 260 horses and 277 lb.-ft. of torque, making it more powerful than the RAV4, CR-V, Bronco Sport, Tucson, Rogue, and Tiguan.

Value and Resale

Subaru’s reputation for reliability and durability means that the Outback will retain its value better than most competitors. This makes it not only a smart choice for today but for the long-term as well, especially for budget-conscious buyers looking for a long-lasting vehicle that holds onto its worth.