2025 Subaru Outback Vs. Honda CR-V Showdown: Which SUV Reigns?
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V at a Glance
- The 2025 Honda CR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive, requiring an upgrade for all-wheel drive; meanwhile, every 2025 Subaru Outback model comes equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
- The Outback has two powertrain options, including a turbocharged engine delivering up to 260 horsepower. In contrast, the CR-V only offers a single gas-powered engine with 190 horsepower.
- Towing is a clear win for the Outback, which has a minimum tow rating of 2,700 pounds1 and a maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds,1 significantly more than the 1,500-pound limit of the CR-V.2
- Inside the cabin, the Outback provides greater passenger volume, with more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room across most trim levels when compared to the Honda CR-V.
2025 Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V
When it comes to choosing a reliable, adventure-ready SUV that's versatile and nimble enough for everyday driving, a Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V assessment is a natural comparison for shoppers to make. With more power and standard AWD, the Wallace Subaru of Bristol team is here to show you why the Outback is the better choice for those who dare to carve their own path.
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V Comparison Chart
| 2025 Subaru Outback | 2025 Honda CR-V | |
| Engine |
|
1.5L turbo 4-cyl |
| Max. Horsepower | 260 | 190 |
| Max. Torque | 277 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Standard Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) W/ AWD | 26 / 32 / 283 | 26 / 31 / 284 |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs1 | 1,500 lbs2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 107.5 - 109 cu ft | 103.5 - 106 cu ft |
| Max. Cargo Space | 75.6 cu ft | 76.5 cu ft |
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Trim Levels & Configurations
Right from the start, the new 2025 Subaru Outback delivers greater variety in trim levels compared to the 2025 Honda CR-V. While the CR-V supplies three gas-powered trims, the Outback comes out strong with nine distinct models.
Both SUVs feature a two-row configuration with seating for up to five passengers. That said, a closer look reveals the Outback as the roomier choice, providing more passenger volume, front legroom, front and rear shoulder room, and front and rear headroom when comparing similar trims for each vehicle.
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Specs & Performance
Technically, the Honda CR-V delivers slightly higher entry-level horsepower and torque than the Subaru Outback, but the difference is negligible. The CR-V comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the Outback starts off with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. As you can see, the output difference is minimal.
However, the tides turn in favor of the Outback when you consider its available 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, obtainable on upper trims. This powertrain delivers a notable 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The CR-V doesn't offer a second gas-powered engine, meaning it doesn't come close to matching the output available with the Outback.
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Drivetrain & Off-Road Capability
All-wheel traction and off-roading potential are where the Outback truly shines against the competition. All nine trims come with the brand's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The Honda CR-V starts out with FWD – you'll have to upgrade any of its three trims to get AWD.
For passionate outdoor enthusiasts, the Outback comes with additional advantages. For instance, its standard 8.7-inch ground clearance – compared to 7.8 inches on FWD CR-V models – complements its standard AWD. At most, the CR-V delivers 8.2 inches of ground clearance with AWD. If you're looking for peak trail-conquering capability, the Outback Wilderness trim boasts an exceptional 9.5 inches of ride height. Schedule a test drive with the Outback, and you'll immediately notice its performance potential.
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Fuel Economy
CR-V models have slightly higher maximum fuel ratings due to their standard FWD setups: 28/34/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4 When you make an apples-to-apples comparison with the AWD ratings for both models, though, the Outback comes out ahead with up to an EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 The CR-V falls just short in highway driving, earning an EPA estimated 26/31/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with AWD.4
The only question you're left to ask yourself is whether or not you're willing to sacrifice the added traction and confidence of all-wheel drive for a marginal gain in efficiency.
Subaru Outback vs. Honda CR-V: Towing Capacity
The Honda CR-V has a max towing capacity of 1,500 pounds2 across all gas trim levels. The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, starts with a base towing capacity of 2,700 pounds when properly equipped. Step up to trims like the Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, or Touring XT, and you'll unlock 3,500 pounds1 of towing strength.
Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback Reliability
If standard AWD, a roomier cabin, and a stronger tow rating haven't convinced you that the Outback is the superior choice yet, then we're sure you'll come to that conclusion after we compare Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback reliability ratings.
- A standout 96% of Subaru Outback vehicles sold over the past 10 years are still on the road today,5 highlighting the model's notable long-term durability.
- The Outback is a Consumer Reports Recommended vehicle and receives a higher overall rating than the Honda CR-V.6,7
- Additionally, Subaru ranks #1 on Consumer Reports' list of "Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars," outperforming Honda (ranked fourth).8
Experience the 2025 Subaru Outback Today!
With Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, impressive towing strength, and generous interior space, the Subaru Outback is engineered to handle life's everyday adventures and weekend getaways alike. Visit our showroom today to explore the full lineup of Outback trims, take a test drive, and learn about how to finance or lease a 2025 Subaru Outback!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vehicle offers better all-weather and off-road capability: the Subaru Outback or the Honda CR-V?
The Subaru Outback outperforms the Honda CR-V in all-weather and off-road capability. It comes standard with AWD, X-MODE for optimized off-road control, and a Traction Control System. It boasts 8.7 inches of ground clearance (increased to 9.5 inches on the Wilderness trim) and advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control technology that minimizes wheelspin on individual wheels to enhance traction.
Which model provides more towing capacity: the Subaru Outback or the CR-V?
The 2025 Subaru Outback offers a higher maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds,1 significantly surpassing the 1,500-pound capacity of the CR-V.2 Even with its minimum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds,1 the Outback can haul over 1,000 pounds1,2 more. This higher towing capability, combined with its rugged design and AWD system, makes the Outback a more capable SUV.
Which car offers more performance value for its price: the 2025 Subaru Outback or the Honda CR-V?
Looking at the entry-level trims, the 2025 Subaru Outback leads with a lower starting price and built-in all-wheel drive, delivering greater value and capability. Additionally, the Outback offers more horsepower and torque and a higher AWD fuel rating than the CR-V. Overall, the 2025 Subaru Outback brings a more well-rounded package to the table for drivers seeking both performance and practicality.
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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 2025 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.
5Based on Experian Automotive vehicles in operation vs. total new registrations for MY2015-2024 as of December 2024.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/outback/2025/overview/
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/cr-v/2025/overview/
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/
