If you’re looking for an analysis of two top contenders in the outdoorsy two-row SUV sphere, our Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V guide is for you. Although both models in today’s comparison are good choices and have excellent interior features, the Subaru Outback stands out in terms of power, convenience, and overall luxury – not to mention its trail-conquering prowess. Read our guide to learn about the specs and amenities for each of these sport-utes.
Then, contact the friendly Quantrell Subaru staff if you’d like additional information on the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback – a model that we think is more than worthy of your time and attention.
The specifications of these two SUVs can help you decide which model is better for your lifestyle, which is why they’re the first stop on our 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V matchup.
The Subaru Outback specs are excellent. There are two engine options found within the 2026 lineup. A 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine comes standard on the first three trims, offering drivers 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, plus the ability to tow 2,700 pounds.1 Move up to one of the top three trims – the Wilderness, Limited XT, or Touring XT – and you’ll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Choose this engine option to tow up to 3,500 pounds.1
The Honda CR-V specs also come from two engine options. However, one of them is a hybrid setup, meaning you’ll only have one gas powertrain if that’s what you’re looking for. Let’s start with the gas-powered engine.
The LX, EX, and EX-L trims for the 2026 Honda CR-V are the gasoline variants – a much more limited selection for motorists who aren’t seeking a hybrid. They come standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. While these specs appear a bit more impressive on paper than those of the standard Outback engine, they’ll only allow you to tow up to 1,500 pounds2 behind the SUV.
As you move on to the Honda CR-V Hybrid trims – the Sport Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid – you’ll find increased output. Their 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine pairs with a hybrid setup to deliver 204 combined horsepower. Here, we see that this available motor can’t keep pace with the upgraded power of the 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER unit in higher Outback trims. What’s more, where the Outback increases your towing capacity with its available engine, the stronger available hybrid powertrain in the CR-V drops your towing capacity to 1,000 pounds.2
Given the close values with the standard engines, higher available output, and significantly beefier towing capacity, we think the specs section of this battle is a clear win for the 2026 Subaru Outback. Get to know a few more details in the chart below, which depicts the base trims for each SUV.
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 in |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 25 / 31 / 273 |
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs1 |
| Performance Features |
|
| Engine | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain |
|
| Transmission | CVT |
| Ground Clearance |
|
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
|
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs2 |
| Performance Features |
|
Both models in our Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback comparison are fuel-efficient. Let’s start with a look at the Subaru Outback MPG. The base model garners an EPA-estimated 25/31/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)3 with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, allowing you to go farther between trips to the gas pump, especially given its 18-gallon fuel tank.
The Honda CR-V MPG varies depending on several factors, including the trim level and the drivetrain. To keep this section fair, we will only review the gasoline engine’s fuel rating. Choose the LX, EX, or EX-L in 2WD to take advantage of an EPA-estimated 28/33/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4 Meanwhile, AWD varieties offer an EPA-estimated 27/31/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4
One stark difference between the Subaru and Honda is that the CR-V comes with a 14-gallon fuel tank capacity, so even though it is slightly more efficient, you may need to make more trips to the gas station.
Let’s compare the interior of the two SUVs in our Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V showdown. The Subaru Outback interior can come in the following interior color and upholstery combinations:
The Subaru Outback Base offers you technology features to help you feel confident behind the wheel, including a 12.1-inch multimedia system, a 12.3-inch configurable digital instrument cluster, whiplash-reducing front seats, a Rear-Vision Camera, and driver-assistance aids ranging from High Beam Assist and Blind-Spot Warning to Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control.
Comfort is prioritized, too, thanks to standard heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a reclining 60/40-split flat-folding rear seatback, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Higher trims add amenities like ventilated front seats, heated second-row outboard seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Alternatively, the Honda CR-V interior offers just four color and upholstery combinations: Black cloth, Gray cloth, Black leather, and Gray leather. This SUV’s touchscreen tops out at 9 inches, and it comes with a 7- or 10.2-inch instrument cluster display. The second trim and above feature heated front seats, but no trim offers ventilated front seats or heated second-row seats. A reclining second row is standard, and a leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control are available.
Safety is similar between the two SUVs, as the CR-V also comes with a Rearview Camera, Auto High-Beam Headlights, and Adaptive Cruise Control. However, it does not offer whiplash-reducing front seats, and its Blind Spot Information System is not standard. These models do share some available amenities, though, such as an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and a 12-speaker audio system.
While preferences can be subjective when it comes to cabin features, we think the Subaru Outback is the better-equipped choice and offers more options to customize the interior. You can explore this excellent cabin once you book an appointment at your local Subaru dealer in Lexington, KY.
The two SUVs in our 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V comparison have similar measurements. The Subaru Outback dimensions showcase a sleek, spacious SUV with a 191.7-inch-long, 74-inch-wide frame. It offers an elevated 67.5 inches of height with 8.7 inches of standard road clearance; the Wilderness trim is 68.5 inches tall and has 9.5 inches of ground clearance. Inside, you can expect the SUV to offer 34.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear row, which means ample space for most belongings, gear, and groceries. Fold the rear seats to enjoy 80.5 cubic feet of total cargo volume.
Comparatively, the Honda CR-V dimensions show a slightly smaller model. The Honda CR-V rests at only 184.8 inches in length and 73.5 inches in width, meaning it’s a bit shorter and narrower than the Subaru Outback. Honda CR-V models with 2WD measure 66.2 inches tall, while models with AWD are 66.5 inches tall. This SUV has 7.8 or 8.2 inches of ground clearance, making the more elevated Subaru Outback a better choice for uneven terrain.
Behind the rear row, the CR-V allows up to 39.3 cubic feet of cargo volume, which expands to a maximum of 76.5 cubic feet. However, that standard load space behind the rear row is only applicable to gas variants. Opting for the Sport Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, or Sport-L Hybrid will drop that value from 39.3 cubic feet to 36.3 cubes. Take home the range-topping CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, and you’ll be looking at 34.7 cubic feet of space with all seats in use.
As you can see, both models have their advantages. It should also be noted that almost every trim of the 2026 Subaru Outback for sale comes with cargo-area underfloor storage, making it that much more competitive in this regard; this is not offered in the CR-V.
Are you ready to see the winner of our Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V comparison in person? Book an appointment with our store to take a test drive and enjoy this rugged SUV’s benefits. Discuss your desired features with our friendly staff, who will help you find the trim perfect for your lifestyle. Then, you can work with a Subaru financing department that understands your budgetary restrictions and can find you competitive rates for your Subaru-owning journey.
Don’t forget to ask about our new Subaru specials, which can potentially help you get behind the wheel of a higher-level trim than you were initially anticipating. We frequently offer incentives for both financing and leasing.
| Subaru Outback Towing Capacity | Subaru Outback Roadtrip Preparation | Shop New Subaru Outback |
| Subaru Outback Lease Deals | Shop Used Subaru Outback | Shop Subaru Outback Wilderness |
1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
4Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
