2021 Honda CR-V vs Subaru Outback

Honda CR-V vs Subaru Outback: Powerful

You’ll get quite a bit of power out of these SUVs thanks to their impressive engines. The Subaru Outback offers a capable standard 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

Under the hood of the Honda CR-V, though, we find a bit better of a balance between power and efficiency. With its standard 1.5L in-line turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, this SUV offers up to 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.

Both SUVs do use standard continuously variable transmissions, or CVTs, to deliver power to the wheels. These transmissions not only conserve fuel (a factor we’ll cover next!), but they also balance gas mileage with power and performance.

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CR-V vs Outback: MPG Ratings

So, does the 2021 CR-V or Outback go farther on one tank of fuel? When you look at the gas-powered models, the competition is close, but the Honda SUV comes out slightly ahead.

The Subaru Outback is pretty easy on fuel with an EPA-estimated 26 city/33 highway MPG from its base engine. But you’ll be able to travel a bit better through busy streets and on the open road in the Honda CR-V, which sports an EPA-estimated 28 city/34 highway MPG rating for 2WD trims.¹

A hybrid version of the Outback may be in the works for later model years. But until it comes to fruition, Honda has the market cornered in fuel efficiency with the CR-V Hybrid. This outstanding compact SUV earns an EPA-estimated 40 city/35 highway MPG across all hybrid trim levels.¹

Save more at the fuel pump—and spend less time at the gas station—when you drive the CR-V Hybrid.

You May Also Like: Honda CR-V Gas Mileage

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2021 CR-V vs 2021 Outback: Cargo Size

Who doesn’t want more cargo space to fit everything they need for that big trip? The Subaru Outback certainly isn’t cramped with its standard 32.5 cubic feet of volume with the back seats up. When you choose to fold down the back seats, your cargo volume will go all the way up to 75.7 cubic feet.

If you’re finding that’s not enough space for you, though, you may want to upgrade to the Honda CR-V. This SUV starts you off with 39.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row of seats, so you’re already afforded more utility. Fold down the back seats, and you’ll expand that volume all the way to 75.8 cubic feet behind the first row.

Need to access all that cargo space when you have your hands full? It couldn’t be easier in the Honda CR-V and Subaru Outback, both of which offer an available power tailgate with hands-free access. Just wave your foot under the rear bumper, and the tailgate will open automatically! You won’t need a free hand to make the magic happen.

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Driver-Centric Design

Cabins are for drivers, so you want your cabin to feel welcoming when you slip in behind the wheel. That’s why the Subaru Outback features an available 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. This feature provides you with the option to change your seating position in 10 different directions for optimal comfort.

Once again, though, we find that the Honda CR-V comes out on top, as this vehicle offers drivers an available 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. With more directions available to customize your seating position, you’ll have a better time finding that ideal seating position. If you want comfort, you’ll simply find more of it behind the wheel of the Honda CR-V.

Want to quickly warm up when the winter months roll around? The CR-V and Outback offer available heated front seats that will acclimate your cabin to your needs. And that’s not all—a Dual-Zone Climate Control System can be equipped in both as well. In the winter as well as the summer months, your new SUV will keep you comfy! 

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An SUV That Caters to You

As you move up trim levels, the features selection in the 2021 CR-V and Outback becomes ever more impressive. What kinds of luxuries will be added to your drive if you choose the CR-V Touring or Outback Touring, the range-topping trims in these lineups?

You’re in luck. At the highest levels, these SUVs have many conveniences and creature comforts in common. Just to name a few available features:

• One-Touch Power Moonroof. Let the natural sunlight and fresh air flow through the cabin and treat your passengers to a more relaxing drive.
• Leather-Trimmed Interior. The seats and the steering wheel are two of the biggest contact points, so why not make them more comfortable with leather?
• Wireless Phone Charger. No matter how remote your destination, you’ll never have to worry about a dead phone battery. Stay connected with cordless charging.
• Advanced Driver Assistance. Honda Sensing® and Subaru EyeSight® offer their most advanced active safety features in the highest trim levels. 

All that said, there are some ways in which the Honda CR-V stands out. For instance, only the CR-V offers more aesthetic features like ambient lighting and dual chrome exhaust finishers! They add so much style to every drive.