CR-V vs Outback: Performance & Efficiency

First and foremost, you’ll need your SUV to be capable of tackling what the road throws at it. It will also be a nice bonus to have a vehicle that helps you avoid constant stops for fueling. Luckily, both the 2021 CR-V and 2021 Outback beautifully blend high-powered performance with jaw-dropping fuel efficiency.

For the Honda CR-V, you’ll find a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine under the hood, churning out tremendous power in the form of 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.

On the other hand, the Subaru finds its power in a standard 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine. While it certainly has the push to help you conquer the trails ahead, it comes up short of the CR-V with just 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

Both vehicles have a bit in common when it comes to handling and efficiency, as they utilize continuously variable transmissions alongside their engines. However, the CR-V grabs another slight advantage with its fuel economy…

• CR-V 2WD (All Trims): EPA-estimated 28 city/34 highway MPG*
• CR-V AWD (All Trims): EPA-estimated 27 city/32 highway MPG*
• CR-V Hybrid (EX, EX-L, and Touring): EPA-estimated 40 city/35 highway MPG*
• Outback: EPA-estimated 26 city/33 highway MPG
• Outback XT Trims: EPA-estimated 23 city/30 highway MPG

In practically every configuration, the fuel economy of the CR-V outdoes that of the Outback. Also, as you probably noticed, the 2021 CR-V comes with hybrid capabilities, boosting your vehicle’s fuel efficiency in the process.

Unfortunately, the Subaru Outback doesn’t come with any hybrid options.

CR-V vs Outback: Interior Comfort & Convenience

Inside, both the 2021 Honda CR-V and 2021 Subaru Outback come with beautiful cabins designed for your comfort. This is accomplished through a slew of convenient comfort technology.

The first way that both models provide top-notch comfort is through their spacious designs. Each vehicle easily fits five passengers, with plenty of personal space for everyone to settle into for those long road trips.

If you’ve got something other than passengers, both SUVs also provide plenty of cargo space. While the 32.5 cubic feet of the Outback will be enough to fit a few extra bags, you won’t have to leave anything behind with the 39.2 cubic feet of the CR-V. Both also provide over 75 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold down the rear seats.

The two vehicles share plenty of additional convenient features, as well, like:

• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Hands-free power tailgate
• Power moonroof
• Push button start

You won’t have any problem finding comfort in either the CR-V or Outback.

CR-V vs Outback: Infotainment & Safety Technology

Staying connected or feeling safe in the CR-V or Outback will not be an issue, thanks to impressive suites of infotainment, safety, and driver-assistance technology.

When it comes to staying connected, the technology of each SUV is remarkably similar. This includes integrative technology like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, as well as:

• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
• Bluetooth® capability
• Intelligent navigation system

Both vehicles also share a number of active and passive safety features, like an advanced airbag system, Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, and rearview camera.

For some added peace of mind behind the wheel, both the CR-V and Outback feature their own sets of intelligent and intuitive driver-assistance technology.

In that regard, some of their shared features include:

• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor
• Auto High-Beam Headlights

As you can see, the driver-assistance technology of the CR-V and Outback are remarkably similar. Along with these, you’ll also find a Forward Collision Warning system, Collision Mitigation Braking System™, and a Road Departure Mitigation System in both SUVs.