2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Comparison

Are you looking for a new Subaru SUV but aren’t sure which one is right for you? McLaughlin Subaru has put together a comprehensive comparison of two popular options: the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek compact crossover SUV and the 2023 Subaru Outback mid-size SUV. In this article, we’ll take a look at their similarities and differences so you can be confident in your decision. If you have any questions along the way, please feel free to get in touch with our Subaru dealership in Moline, IL, and serving Bettendorf and Davenport, IA, by sending a message or calling (309) 726-4684.

Learn more about the Crosstrek and Outback by reading our individual reviews on both vehicles. Once you make a decision, check out our new inventory and then schedule a test drive at McLaughlin Subaru. You can also browse current offers for a great deal.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Interior Features

Get comfortable and stay connected with the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Outback. Both vehicles come with several seating options, including StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, contrast seat stitching on the CrossTrek, and Nappa leather upholstery on the Outback. 

Other available interior features include:

• Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Heated front seats
• Automatic climate control
• Eight cup and bottle holders
• Ventilated front seats (Outback)
• Heated rear seats (Outback)

You’ll find a STARLINK® infotainment system inside of both the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback. The Crosstrek is available with a 6.5- or 8-inch touchscreen, while the Outback is available with a dual 7-inch or 11.6-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and Bluetooth® are standard features on both SUVs as well.

Other available technology features include:

• 4G LTE Wi-Fi® capability
• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
• Four- or six-speaker audio system, or Harman Kardon® premium audio system (eight speakers on Crosstrek, 12 speakers on Outback)
• Keyless access with push-button start and PIN code access

Engine Options & Performance

The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback have a wide range of engines for you to choose from. The energetic Crosstrek has two gas SUBARU BOXER® engine options, as well as a plug-in hybrid engine, which gets up to 90 MPGe. The Crosstrek has two SUBARU BOXER gas engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. 

Both SUVs are standard with Symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), while the Outback is standard with X-MODE®, an AWD optimization feature for enhanced traction. X-MODE is available on the Crosstrek Sport, Limited, and Hybrid. If you’re looking for a vehicle that offers significant towing capabilities, the 2023 Subaru Outback is a great choice as it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Model	2023 Subaru Crosstrek			2023 Subaru Outback
Engine	2.0L I4	2.5L I4	2.0L plug-in hybrid I4	2.5L I4	2.4L turbo I4
Horsepower	152 HP	182 HP	137 HP	182 HP	260 HP
Torque	145 lb.-ft.	176 lb.-ft.	134 lb.-ft.	176 lb.-ft.	277 lb.-ft.
Transmission	Six-speed manual	Lineartronic® CVT	Lineartronic CVT	Lineartronic CVT	Lineartronic CVT
Max. MPG	22 city / 29 hwy	27 city / 34 hwy	90 MPGe	26 city / 33 hwy	23 city / 30 hwy
Max. Towing	1,500 lbs.	1,500 lbs.	1,000 lbs.	2,700 lbs.	3,500 lbs.

Cargo Space & Dimensions

Although they’re both adventure-driven SUVs that seat five passengers, the Crosstrek and Outback are substantially different in size. The Subaru Crosstrek has 100.9 cubic feet of total passenger space and 55.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, while the Subaru Outback has 109 cubic feet of passenger space and 75.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Both models have rear seating that folds completely flat for better loading efficiency. For added storage capacity, you’ll love the under-floor cargo storage area for increased flexibility and protection.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Colors

• 2023 Subaru Crosstrek
• Crystal Black Silica
• Cool-Gray Khaki
• Horizon Blue Pearl
• Crystal White Pearl
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Lagoon Blue Pearl
• Magnetite Gray
• Pure Red
• Plasma Yellow Pearl

• 2023 Subaru Outback
• Autumn Green Metallic
• Brilliant Bronze Metallic
• Cosmic Blue Pearl
• Crimson Red Pearl
• Crystal Black Silica
• Crystal White Pearl
• Dark Mahogany Pearl
• Geyser Blue
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Magnetite Gray Metallic

Safety Options & Features

No matter which model you choose, you’ll get EyeSight® driver assist technology features, which are designed to help you navigate tricky driving situations. Plus, the Crosstrek and Outback are also available with blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert.

Available safety features include:

• EyeSight driver assist technology
• Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Pre-collision braking system
• Lane departure and sway warning
• Pre-collision throttle management (Crosstrek)
• Lane keep assist (Outback)
• Automatic emergency steering (Outback)
• High beam assist
• DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system (Outback)
• Reverse automatic braking (Outback)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Price

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $23,645 MSRP, while the 2023 Subaru Outback starts at $28,395 MSRP.

2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2021 Subaru Outback: What’s the Difference?

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and 2021 Subaru Outback are both capable SUVs designed to go anywhere your heart desires. What are the differences between the Outback and Crosstrek, though? The Outback is larger and offers a bigger infotainment screen. The Crosstrek, on the other hand, has a hybrid powertrain in the lineup and offers similar features to the Outback when it comes to safety and technology. For more differences and similarities, read through the following 2021 Subaru Outback vs. 2021 Subaru Crosstrek guide.

Looking to buy or lease one of these Subaru SUVs? Check the McLaughlin Subaru Outback models for sale and Crosstrek models for sale. Be sure to match your favorite model with a Subaru offer. Have further questions not answered here? Call our dealership in Moline, IL, at (866) 960-7363.

Power & Handling

The 2021 Subaru Outback and 2021 Subaru Crosstrek collectively have four peppy powertrains between them. The Crosstrek pairs its 2.0L SUBARU BOXER® gas-powered engine with a six-speed manual transmission, while the remainder of the engines are matched with the Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission. Both the Crosstrek and Outback, as with all Subaru models, are paired with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.

Engine	2.0L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder	2.0L SUBARU BOXER hybrid four-cylinder	2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder	2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder
Fuel Economy (city/hwy MPG)	28/33	28/33	27/34 (Crosstrek) 26/33 (Outback)	23/30
Horsepower	152 HP	137 HP	182 HP	260 HP
Torque	145 lb.-ft.	134 lb.-ft.	176 lb.-ft.	277 lb.-ft.
Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs.	1,000 lbs.	1,500 lbs. (Crosstrek) 2,700 lbs. (Outback)	3,500 lbs.
Model Availability	Crosstrek	Crosstrek Hybrid	Crosstrek, Outback	Outback XT

Dimensions

Both the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are spacious SUVs with room for family, pets, and cargo. The Outback is overall the larger of the two SUVs, but both include the same number of seats — five.

Crosstrek	2021 Subaru SUV	Outback
Five	Seating Capacity	Five
55.3 cu.-ft.	Max. Cargo Capacity	75.7 cu.-ft.
39.8 in.	First-row Headroom	40.1 in.
43.1 in.	First-row Legroom	42.8 in.
38 in.	Second-row Headroom	39.1 in.
36.5 in.	Second-row Legroom	39.5 in.
176.5 in.	Length	191.3 in.
71 in.	Width	73 in.
63.6 in.	Height	66.1 in.

Interior

Get comfy in either the 2021 Subaru Outback or 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Both offer heated front seats and a heated steering wheel — though the heated steering wheel is only optional on the Crosstrek and eventually becomes standard on the Outback. If you want to give your rear seat passengers heated seats too, you’ll want to consider the Outback, as the Crosstrek does not offer heated rear outboard seats. The driver’s seat on the Outback is a ten-way power seat with power lumbar, while Crosstrek drivers can expect to enjoy a six-way power driver’s seat. The Outback has an eight-way power front passenger’s seat, while the Crosstrek has a four-way manual front passenger’s seat. And only the Outback offers ventilated front seats. 

Safety

While both offer EyeSight® driver assist technology, the features offered in the suite vary slightly. The Outback has lane keep assist as part of this suite, while the Crosstrek includes pre-collision throttle management. For other features that both SUVs include in their EyeSight suite, check the following list.

• Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Pre-collision braking
• Lane departure and sway warning

Exterior

Admire the sharp and sleek looks of either the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek or Outback. Both provide raised roof rails so you have an additional space to store luggage. The Crosstrek brings a sporty vibe to the table with a roof spoiler, while the Outback focuses on convenience with a hands-free power rear gate.

Technology

The 2021 Subaru Outback and 2021 Subaru Crosstrek each bring top-notch technology features to the table. The Outback includes an 11.6-inch STARLINK® Multimedia infotainment touchscreen, while the Crosstrek features an 8-inch STARLINK Multimedia touchscreen. Other than that, their features are virtually the same, and can be viewed in the following list. 

• Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
• Bluetooth®
• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
• HD Radio®
• Voice-activated multi-touch navigation system
• SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link®
• AM/FM stereo

2020 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2020 Subaru Outback

Do you need an SUV that's ready to take your family on adventures across the country? If so, either the 2020 Subaru Outback or 2020 Subaru Crosstrek might be for you! Each of these Subaru SUVs offer distinctive specifications, including cargo capacity, performance, towing capability, and safety and technology features. To determine the differences between the Outback and Crosstrek, review the following research guide put together by the team at McLaughlin Subaru.

If you're ready to select an SUV, check out our new Crosstrek inventory and new Outback inventory in Moline, IL, then investigate our Crosstrek lease deal and Outback lease special. Would you like to speak to a representative in person? You can either call us at (866) 960-7363 or contact us through our online form.

Summary

What’s the difference between the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek and 2020 Subaru Outback? The key difference between these two models is size and power. The 2020 Crosstrek is designed for narrow city maneuvering and is 15.5 in. smaller than the Outback. The Outback, on the other hand, is more powerful than the Crosstrek with a maximum 277 lb.-ft. of torque and the ability to tow up to 3,500 lbs. The Crosstrek can be equipped with either a hybrid or gas-powered 2.0L engine, while the Outback is paired with either a dynamic 2.5L or lively 2.4L engine. Continue reading to determine which SUV is right for you.

Size Comparison

Stretch out comfortably in either of these two spacious Subaru SUVs. Size-wise, the 2020 Subaru Outback is larger than the Crosstrek, measuring 2 in. wider, 2.5 in. higher, and 15.5 in. longer. For the full Crosstrek and Outback dimensions, review the following information. 

Crosstrek	2020 Subaru SUV Model	Outback
175.8 in.	Length	191.3 in.
71 in.	Width	73 in.
63.6 in.	Height	66.1 in.
8.7 in.	Ground Clearance	8.7 in.
100.9 cu.-ft.	Passenger Volume	109 cu.-ft.
39.8 in.	First Row Headroom	40.1 in.
43.1 in.	First Row Legroom	42.8 in.
38 in.	Second Row Headroom	39.1 in.
36.5 in.	Second Row Legroom	39.5 in.

Cargo Space

Haul the family pets, pool toys, or suitcases in either the 2020 Subaru Outback or 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. The Outback is larger, with 75.7 cu.-ft. in cargo space when the rear seat is folded and 32.5 cu.-ft. in the trunk. The Crosstrek can hold a maximum of 55.3 cu.-ft. when the back seat is lowered and 20.8 cu.-ft. behind the upright rear seat.

Power & Handling

Energy that’s ready to go places will be yours no matter which Subaru SUV model you pick. Both the 2020 Outback and Crosstrek boast two engine options apiece, so select your preferred power and towing capabilities below. 

Engine	Horsepower	Torque	Towing Capacity	Model Availability
2.0L SUBARU BOXER® I4	152 HP	145 lb.-ft.	1,500 lbs.	Crosstrek
Hybrid 2.0L SUBARU BOXER I4	137 HP	134 lb.-ft.	1,000 lbs.	Crosstrek
2.5L SUBARU BOXER I4	182 HP	176 lb.-ft.	2,700 lbs.	Outback
2.4L SUBARU BOXER I4	260 HP	277 lb.-ft.	3,500 lbs.	Outback

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all 2020 Outback and Crosstrek models. This performance feature is designed to simplify driving in inclement weather or over uneven roads.

Fuel Economy

The 2020 Subaru Outback and Crosstrek fuel economy estimates will give you an idea of which SUV has the fuel efficiency you require, so review the following information for details.

Engine	MPG (city/hwy)	Model Availability
2.0L SUBARU BOXER I4	27/33	Crosstrek
Hybrid 2.0L SUBARU BOXER I4	90 combined MPGe	Crosstrek
2.5L SUBARU BOXER I4	26/33	Outback
2.4L SUBARU BOXER I4	23/30	Outback

Engine Upgrades

If you select the Crosstrek, you can upgrade from a 2.0L SUBARU BOXER engine to a Hybrid 2.0L SUBARU BOXER on the Crosstrek Hybrid trim level. On the Outback, switch from the 2.5L SUBARU BOXER to the 2.4L SUBARU BOXER for an exclusive power boost available only on the Outback XT models. 

Safety

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback both have implemented features to keep you and your loved ones safe and secure. The Outback and Crosstrek both include daytime running lights, but the Outback has LED daytime running lights while the Crosstrek does not. For other safety features that both Subaru SUV models share, review the following list. 

• X-MODE® with hill descent control
• Blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert
• Keyless access with push-button start and PIN-code access
• High beam assist
• Reverse automatic braking
• LED steering responsive headlights
• LED fog lights
• SUBARU STARLINK® Safety and Security
• Brake assist
• Brake override system
• Rear vision camera
• Keyless entry system

Both the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek and 2020 Subaru Outback have been commended by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for their safety standards. The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek has earned a Top Safety Pick award and the 2020 Subaru Outback received a Top Safety Pick+ award.

EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology

Crafted for your reassurance, Eyesight® Driver Assist Technology is available on both 2020 Crosstrek and Outback models. This suite of technology systems includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist. 

Technology

The Outback and Crosstrek keep you connected to the entertainment and news you crave, while making it easy to reach out to those you care about. Both Subaru SUVs offer SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia touchscreens and are standardly equipped with four or six speakers. On the Outback, a Harman Kardon® premium audio system with 12 speakers is standard on certain trim packages, while the Crosstrek offers a Harman Kardon audio system with eight speakers as an option. 

​Touchscreen Comparison

Interact with your favorite apps with the SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia touchscreen systems equipped on both the 2020 Outback and 2020 Crosstrek. STARLINK Multimedia includes a range of options, such as Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Bluetooth®. On the Outback, you can have a touchscreen as large as 11.6 in. or as small as two 7-in. screens. When you choose a Crosstrek, your STARLINK Multimedia system will either be 8 in. or 6.5 in., depending on the trim level you select. 

Pricing

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $23,155 MSRP and the 2020 Subaru Outback starts at $27,655 MSRP.