Outback vs Competition

2026 Subaru Outback vs. Competition

At Balise Subaru, the Outback remains a popular choice at our West Warwick, RI dealership serving the Providence area. To see why it stands out and how it stands out against fellow SUVs, come by and see us at the dealership today and learn more.

Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V & Mazda CX-50

Features2026 Subaru Outback2026 Honda CR-V2026 Mazda CX-50
DrivetrainAll wheel driveAll wheel driveAll wheel drive
Engine power180 hp @ 5,800 rpm158 hp @ 6,500 rpm187 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Engine torque178 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm138 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Engine displacement2.5 l2.0 l2.5 l
Engine configurationFlat 4Inline 4Inline 4
TransmissionContinuously variable-speed automaticContinuously variable-speed automatic6-speed shiftable automatic
City/Hwy/Combined MPG25 / 31 / 27 MPG25 / 30 / 27 MPG24 / 30 / 26 MPG
Fuel Capacity18.0 gal.14.0 gal.15.9 gal.
Driving Range (city/hwy)450 / 558 miles350 / 420 miles382 / 477 miles

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Subaru Outback

Compare Interior and Exterior Features and Options

The new Subaru Outback stands out with interior and exterior features by offering standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across its entire lineup, while others like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50 only provide all-wheel drive as an option.

Additionally, it offers best-in-class ground clearance of 8.7 inches, and with the Subaru Outback Wilderness, you will find an off-road trim that offers a tuned suspension, skid plates, and more adventure features.

What many also like is that with a design that has a lower load floor over SUVs, the Outback is easier to load up, and with its longer roofline, you get more cargo room flexibility.

The Outback blends SUV capability with wagon practicality, giving it a unique niche that competitors don't fully match.

Compare Performance and Efficiency

Thanks to the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, you'll find better all-weather performance and traction than competitors on the Outback, and that's important around areas like East Greenwich, Coventry, and Pawtucket, RI.

You also get quality performance, which includes the Outback Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT with an upgraded 260-horsepower engine that tops other SUVs in its segment like the Kia Sorento or Honda CR-V.

The Outback prioritizes all-weather confidence and off-road readiness, while rivals lean toward efficiency or on-road sportiness, making the Outback a better choice in New England.

Subaru Outback
Subaru Outback

Compare Technology and Safety

Like all new Subaru vehicles, the 2026 Subaru Outback offers standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology across its entire lineup that includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking and more, which many competitors such as the Toyota RAV4, reserve equivalent features for higher trims.

You'll also find that there's the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system available, which helps keep you locked in on driving, along with a wide-angle camera to look around when driving and backing up.

For onboard technology, the Subaru Outback has a large 11.6-inch touch display with a tablet-style interface to stay in line with others in its segment.

Safety is where the Outback stands out, however. It continues to earn some of the highest honors in safety and road tests, beating out brands like Hyundai, Kia and Toyota. That's why so many in the area choose it, and trust the Subaru Outback.

Why Choose the Subaru Outback?

If you're looking for:

  • Standard AWD
  • Best-in-class ground clearance
  • Real off-road capability with the Outback Wilderness
  • Wagon practicality and SUV versatility
  • Strong safety reputation and standard features

Then the Outback is for you!

Subaru Outback

Subaru Outback FAQs

The Outback has wagon-like features and SUV capability, making it a quality blend for those who want versatility but also more of a car-like drive.

Yes, the Outback is good in snow. It is regarded as one of the top in its class due to its standard AWD, high ground clearance, and traction systems. That's important in West Warwick and Providence.

Subaru reliability is good, with strong long-term owner satisfaction, though maintenance consistency is key. Many people drive their Subaru Outback for many miles and years and continue to have a reliable option, especially with proper maintenance.

The Outback achieves good fuel economy for its segment, meaning you can count on it being efficient for everyday travel and trips.

The Outback Wilderness is an off-road edition with a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, enhanced all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance, and extra protection components.

How Can We Help?

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  1. Balise Subaru

    561 Quaker Lane
    West Warwick, RI 02893

    • Sales: 401-352-5909
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  • Contact our Sales Department at: 401-352-5909
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