2025 Subaru Outback vs.  Honda CR-V: SUV Comparison

Compare the 2025 Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V to see which SUV is better for road trips, off-roading, and family adventures.

Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Which SUV Wins in 2025?

In the world of midsize crossovers, the 2025 Subaru Outback and the 2025 Honda CR-V stand out as top picks for drivers who value versatility, reliability, and comfort. Whether you’re planning a long road trip, a weekend camping excursion, or daily family hauling, both SUVs bring serious value. But how do they compare in areas like cargo space, off-road capabilities, safety, and fuel economy? Let Hello Subaru of Valencia, part of Hello Auto Group, help sort out how these two SUVs compare.

Performance and Driving Experience

The 2025 Subaru Outback continues its legacy with a standard 2.5-liter boxer engine (182 horsepower) and an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine (260 horsepower) on higher trims like the Onyx XT and Wilderness. The flat-four layout gives the Outback a low center of gravity, which contributes to solid handling and ride comfort.

Honda CR-V models are available with either a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (190 horsepower) or a hybrid setup that offers 204 combined horsepower. While the CR-V Hybrid is smooth and fuel-efficient, it doesn’t offer the same grunt or off-road confidence as the Outback’s turbocharged variant.

If you value driving dynamics and want more power for climbing hills or towing small trailers, the Outback edges out the CR-V here.

Off-Road and Outdoor Capability

What’s the best crossover SUV for outdoor adventures in 2025? The answer leans clearly toward the Outback.

Every Subaru Outback comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE, making it capable on dirt trails, snow, and steep grades. The Outback Wilderness trim increases ground clearance to 9.5 inches (compared to 8.7 inches standard) and adds all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a more aggressive AWD tuning.

The Honda CR-V also offers AWD, but it’s optional, and there’s no dedicated off-road trim. It has decent ground clearance at 8.2 inches, but it’s clearly more city-focused.

Is the Outback or CR-V better for camping and off-road use? The Outback, especially in Wilderness trim, is built for it.

Interior and Cargo Space

Both SUVs are family-friendly with spacious cabins and high-quality materials. But if gear-hauling is a priority, you’ll want to look at cargo specs.

Which SUV has more cargo space: Outback or CR-V? On paper, the CR-V slightly edges out the Outback:

• CR-V: 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 76.5 cubic feet with seats folded.
• Outback: 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 75.6 cubic feet max.

However, the Outback’s wider cargo opening and lower load floor make it more practical for bulky items like tents, bikes, or a cooler full of food.

And let’s not forget the roof rails with built-in crossbars — standard on all Outback trims. That’s a huge plus for outdoor gear and rooftop cargo boxes.

Fuel Efficiency

How does fuel economy compare between the Outback and CR-V?

The Honda CR-V takes the win on efficiency. Its hybrid variant delivers up to 43 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Even the gas-only CR-V posts 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

In contrast, the Outback’s base engine offers 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Turbocharged versions dip slightly to 22/29 mpg. If maximum fuel economy is your priority, the CR-V Hybrid is your move.

Still, for drivers who need AWD all the time and are heading into less-predictable terrain, the Outback’s efficiency remains respectable, especially considering its all-terrain focus.

Safety Ratings and Technology

Which is safer in 2025: Subaru Outback or Honda CR-V?

Both models are well-equipped with active safety tech and have excellent crash-test ratings. The Subaru Outback comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking.

The Honda CR-V features Honda Sensing with a nearly identical suite of features. Both models earn top scores from the IIHS and NHTSA.

One key difference? Subaru’s standard AWD improves road grip in poor weather — something especially relevant if you’re driving in snow or rain.

Long-Term Reliability and Value

What’s more reliable for families: Outback or CR-V?

Honda has long had a reputation for reliability, and the CR-V continues to uphold this reputation with strong predicted dependability ratings. Subaru has made big strides in recent years, with the Outback earning average to above-average reliability scores and strong owner satisfaction.

But when comparing the total package — AWD, off-road chops, utility, and comfort — the Outback presents better long-term value for adventurous families.

Final Thoughts: Should I Buy the 2025 Outback or the 2025 CR-V?

How does the Subaru Outback compare to the Honda CR-V? In short, both are strong contenders. But if your lifestyle includes road trips, outdoor adventures, mountain drives, or you just want the peace of mind that comes with standard AWD and trail-ready confidence, the Outback is tough to beat.

Hello Subaru of Valencia, part of the Hello Auto Group, has a full lineup of 2025 Outbacks ready for test drives. Whether you’re comparing trims or figuring out which SUV fits your needs, our team is ready to help. Visit us today.

So, Should I buy the 2025 Outback or the 2025 CR-V? If rugged capability, utility, and outdoor adventure matter to you, go with the Outback.

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