As you venture options similar to the Subaru Outback, you’ll find a range of vehicles that balance luxury, space, and off-road capabilities. From fun-to-drive alternatives like the Mazda CX-50 to spacious three-row SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, each model offers unique strengths.
If you’re looking for a perfect blend of space, luxury, and off-road prowess, you’ll want to investigate these alternatives more closely – and discover which one best fits your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Volvo XC60 and Audi A6 Avant offer luxury alternatives to the Subaru Outback with advanced safety features and premium interior design.
- Mazda CX-50 and Toyota Highlander provide size SUV rivals with ample seating and cargo space, catering to different needs and preferences.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a premium driving experience with advanced technology features, making it a viable alternative to the Outback.
- Skoda Superb Estate SE Technology features a spacious interior, cutting-edge design, and advanced features, making it a suitable competitor.
- Researching the best station wagons on Car and Driver’s website can provide valuable insights into cars similar to the Subaru Outback.
Alternative Station Wagons
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Subaru Outback experience, you’ll find a range of options from European luxury brands that still produce high-quality station wagons.
Volvo, for instance, offers the Volvo XC60, a more premium experience at a higher price.
Audi’s A6 Avant is also a good alternative, boasting a cutting-edge design and spacious interior.
Skoda’s Superb Estate SE Technology is another option, with a luxurious style and advanced features.
You can research the closest alternative to the Outback on Car and Driver’s website, which lists the best station wagons.
Compact Crossover Competitors
You’ll find compact crossover options that rival the Outback, including the Honda CR-V, which starts at $30,100 and scores 8.9/10 overall.
The Toyota RAV4, a competitor with a starting price of $28,675 and an overall score of 8.8/10.
These alternatives offer varying degrees of off-road capability, sportiness, and value.
Compact Crossover Options
When shopping for a vehicle similar to the Subaru Outback, compact crossover options are worth exploring.
These vehicles offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and capability.
- The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek features standard all-wheel drive and decent off-road capability, making it a great alternative to the Outback.
- The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offers a fun-to-drive experience with two engine options and available all-wheel drive.
- The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is designed for off-road capability and features a rugged design, making it a great option for those who want a more rugged vehicle.
Honda CR-V Comparison
The Honda CR-V stands out as a compact crossover competitor to the Subaru Outback, offering distinct advantages in terms of affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability.
You’ll notice the CR-V starts at $30,100, making it a more affordable option compared to the Outback’s $39,520.
Additionally, its fuel economy is impressive, with an estimated 28/34/30 mpg city/highway/combined, whereas the Outback has an estimated 22/29/25 mpg.
While the CR-V’s cargo capacity is smaller, its compact size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Toyota RAV4 Rival
If you’re looking for a compact crossover that can rival the Subaru Outback, the Toyota RAV4 is a strong contender.
As a compact crossover competitor, it offers a well-rounded vehicle that’s available with all-wheel drive.
Some key points to ponder:
- The RAV4 starts at around $28,675, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Outback.
- It’s available with a choice of robust four-wheel drive systems, making it a suitable alternative to the Outback.
- The RAV4 has an overall score of 8.8/10, making it a strong competitor to the Outback.
Size SUV Rivals
When considering size SUV rivals to the Subaru Outback, you’ll find compact crossover options such as the Mazda CX-50, which offers a fun-to-drive experience with two engine options.
Midsize SUV choices like the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner provide more seating and cargo space, with the Highlander offering three rows of seating.
Family-friendly rivals like the Subaru Ascent and Jeep Wrangler cater to those who need ample space and off-road capabilities.
Compact Crossover Options
Compact crossover options, like size SUV rivals, offer a similar blend of versatility and driving excitement, making them natural alternatives to the Outback.
If you’re looking for a more agile ride, consider these compact crossovers:
- The 2025 Subaru Forester is a fully redesigned compact crossover with a starting price of $29,695 and a U.S. News Overall Score of 8.6/10, making it a close competitor to the Outback.
- The 2025 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover that starts at $30,100, with a U.S. News Overall Score of 8.9/10, making it a strong rival.
- The 2025 Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover that offers all-wheel drive and two engine options, making it a good alternative for buyers who want a sporty ride.
Midsize SUV Choices
Midsize SUVs offer a step up in size and capability, making them natural rivals to the Outback.
You’ll find options like the 2025 Toyota Highlander, which starts at $39,520 and features three rows of seating and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The 2025 Subaru Ascent is another midsize choice, offering standard all-wheel drive and seven- or eight-person seating, starting at $38,910.
If you’re looking for a more rugged alternative, the 2025 starts at $32,095 and features a body-on-frame SUV structure and a range of powertrains.
Family-Friendly Rivals
You’ll find a distinct set of rivals in the family-friendly SUV segment, where prioritizing space and comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing performance or features.
If you’re looking for a hybrid option, you might be out of luck, but there are still some great alternatives.
- The 2025 Toyota Highlander is a smart family pick, with a well-rounded vehicle that’s available with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
- The 2025 Subaru Ascent is the biggest vehicle in Subaru’s lineup, making it a good alternative for buyers who need seven- or eight-person seating.
- The Mazda CX-50 is a fun-to-drive compact crossover that’s available with all-wheel drive and two engine options, making it a good alternative for buyers who want a sporty ride.
Luxury Options to Consider
If you’re willing to splurge, luxury options to ponder offer a more refined driving experience. These upscale alternatives boast premium interiors, advanced technology, and sophisticated designs.
| Luxury Option | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| Toyota Crown Signia | Hybrid powertrain, sportier handling |
| Audi A6 Avant | Premium interior, advanced technology |
| Volvo XC60 | Advanced safety features, premium interior design |
| Skoda Superb Estate SE Technology | Spacious interior, cutting-edge design |
| 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Premium driving experience, advanced technology features |
Off-Road Capable Alternatives
Off-road enthusiasts will find two capable alternatives that prioritize rugged terrain traversal above all else.
These alternatives are designed to tackle dirt roads and rugged off-road capability.
- The Jeep Wrangler offers a manual transmission and Jeep’s 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain for all-electric driving, making it a great option for those who want a more environmentally friendly off-road vehicle.
- The Toyota 4Runner is fully redesigned for 2025 and offers a rugged off-road capability that’s hard to match, making it a good alternative for buyers who prioritize off-roading above all else, but it falls short in terms of value, efficiency, and driving dynamics on pavement.
- The Jeep Wrangler is available with a removable soft top and doors, making it a great option for those who want a more open-air off-roading experience.
Size Family Friendly Options
Family-focused buyers seeking a Subaru Outback alternative will find several size-related options that cater to their needs.
If you need more space, the 2025 Subaru Ascent offers seven- or eight-person seating and tons of cargo space. The 2025 Toyota Highlander also provides three rows of seating, making it an excellent choice for large families.
If you prefer a compact crossover, the 2025 Subaru Forester is a great option, seating five and offering decent cargo space.
These alternatives provide ample space for your family’s needs.
Best Value for Money Alternatives
When searching for a Subaru Outback alternative, you’ll find several options that offer great value for your money.
If you prioritize standard all-wheel drive and a fun-to-drive experience, consider these alternatives:
- Mazda CX-50: Starting at $30,300, this compact crossover offers two engine options and all-wheel drive.
- Toyota Highlander: With a starting price of $39,520, this midsize SUV provides three rows of seating and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
- Subaru Ascent: As the largest Subaru, this seven- or eight-seater starts at $38,910 and offers tons of cargo space and standard all-wheel drive, making it a great value for families.
Conclusion
You’ve examined the alternatives to the Subaru Outback, from station wagons to luxury options. Notably, 70% of Subaru Outback owners prioritize all-wheel drive capability, making the Subaru Ascent a strong contender. Ultimately, the right car for you will depend on your unique needs and preferences. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect vehicle to fit your lifestyle.
