
Subaru Outback Comparison
| Subaru Outback | Toyota RAV4 | Honda Passport | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive / All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 in. | 8.1–8.5 in. | 8.3 in. |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Space | 34.6 cu. ft. | 37.8 cu. ft. | 44.0 cu. ft. |
| Engine Configuration | Flat 4 | Inline 4 | V6 |
| Engine Displacement | 2.5 L / 2.4 L turbo | 2.5 L | 3.5 L |
| Transmission | Continuously variable automatic | Electronically controlled CVT / eCVT, depending on powertrain | 10-speed automatic |
| City/Hwy/Combined MPG | 25 / 31 / 27 MPG (2.5 L) | Varies by powertrain and trim | 19 / 25 / 21 MPG (RTL) |
Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 vs. 2026 Honda Passport
Looking for an SUV that combines comfort, capability, and everyday versatility? At Joseph Subaru of Florence, we're here to help you compare the Subaru Outback with the Toyota RAV4 and 2026 Honda Passport. Each SUV offers distinct advantages, but the Subaru Outback stands out with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, generous ground clearance, and advanced safety technology.
Engine Performance and Horsepower
Each SUV delivers a different balance of performance, efficiency, and capability.
- Subaru Outback: The standard 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine produces 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. An available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine generates 260 horsepower.
- Toyota RAV4: The standard hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for 226 horsepower with front-wheel drive or 236 horsepower with all-wheel drive.
- 2026 Honda Passport: The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque.
The Subaru Outback offers two gasoline engine choices, allowing drivers to prioritize everyday efficiency or stronger acceleration.
All-Wheel Drive and Ground Clearance
Traction and ground clearance matter when navigating snow, rain, and uneven roads.
- Subaru Outback: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, standard X-MODE, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Subaru Outback Wilderness increases clearance to 9.5 inches.
- Toyota RAV4: Available all-wheel drive with ground clearance ranging from approximately 8.1 to 8.5 inches, depending on trim.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Standard all-wheel drive and 8.3 inches of ground clearance.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness offers greater ground clearance than either competitor, making it a compelling choice for outdoor adventures.
Interior Comfort and Passenger Space
All three SUVs seat five passengers and offer convenient features for everyday travel.
- Subaru Outback: Up to 112.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, available Nappa leather upholstery, heated seating, and a redesigned cabin.
- Toyota RAV4: Comfortable five-passenger seating, available heated and ventilated front seats, and modern interior materials.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Up to 119.1 cubic feet of passenger volume and available leather-trimmed seating with premium comfort features.
The Subaru Outback balances passenger comfort with an easy-to-use interior and practical storage solutions.
Cargo Space and Versatility
Cargo capacity matters when transporting groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and outdoor gear.
- Subaru Outback: Up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Standard raised roof rails add carrying flexibility.
- Toyota RAV4: Approximately 36.6 to 37.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, depending on configuration.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Up to 83.8 cubic feet behind the front seats using its standard cargo measurement, with additional maximum-volume measurements available.
The Subaru Outback offers substantial cargo capacity and convenient roof-mounted storage opportunities for active lifestyles.
Technology and Connectivity
Each SUV offers modern infotainment technology to help drivers stay connected.
- Subaru Outback: Standard 12.1-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- Toyota RAV4: Available large multimedia touchscreen, digital instrument display, and wireless smartphone integration.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, Google built-in compatibility, and wireless smartphone connectivity.
The Subaru Outback combines its large standard displays with physical climate controls for convenient adjustments while driving.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Technology
Advanced safety features help support driver awareness during daily commutes and longer trips.
- Subaru Outback: Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with Pre-Collision Braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centering assistance.
- Toyota RAV4: Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 includes advanced collision-avoidance and driver-assistance features.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Honda Sensing includes collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance.
The Subaru Outback also offers available hands-free highway driving assistance on select trims under appropriate conditions. Drivers must remain attentive.
Towing Capacity Comparison
Planning to tow recreational equipment? Compare each SUV's available towing capability.
- Subaru Outback: Up to 3,500 pounds with properly equipped turbocharged models.
- Toyota RAV4: Up to 3,500 pounds on select properly equipped configurations.
- 2026 Honda Passport: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The 2026 Honda Passport offers greater maximum towing capacity, while the Subaru Outback provides useful capability for smaller trailers and recreational equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Subaru Outback
Yes. Every Subaru Outback includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE for enhanced traction management.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness leads this comparison with 9.5 inches of ground clearance.
The Toyota RAV4 offers higher EPA-estimated fuel economy through its standard hybrid powertrain.
Yes. Its comfortable seating, spacious cargo area, standard AWD, and available driver-assistance technology make it a practical road-trip companion.
Test Drive a Subaru Outback at Joseph Subaru of Florence
At Joseph Subaru of Florence, we're ready to help you explore the Subaru Outback and compare its features with competing SUVs. Our team can explain available trims, performance options, and technology packages.
Contact us today to schedule a test drive and discover how the Subaru Outback combines comfort, safety, and adventure-ready capability.
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Joseph Subaru of Florence
7600 Industrial Rd
Florence, KY 41042
- Sales: (859) 938-0100




