2024 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback: A Comprehensive Comparison

Subaru, a carmaker synonymous with quality craftsmanship, presents two remarkable SUVs for 2024: the Crosstrek and the Outback. These models epitomize Subaru’s commitment to performance and dependability while catering to distinct lifestyles. This comparison delves into the two vehicles’ unique attributes, empowering you to make an informed choice that aligns with your needs.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Crosstrek embodies urban agility. Its compact dimensions (176.4-inch length, 70.9-inch width) and sharp body lines exude a sporty presence. Updated LED lighting and redesigned bumpers further sharpen its modern appeal.

Meanwhile, the Outback demands attention with its robust stance. Its larger proportions (191.9-inch length, 74.2-inch width) convey an unmistakable sense of go-anywhere capability.

Interior Comfort and Space

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback prioritize space and comfort for the driver and passengers. Both seat five, but the Outback offers a more expansive interior.

Cabin Capacity

The 2024 Outback cabin clocks in at a generous 109 cubic feet. What about legroom? There’s no shortage for the rear seats, with 39.5 inches of space to stretch out. The compact Crosstrek supplies 100.5 cubic feet of passenger space. In terms of rear legroom, it offers a respectable 36.5 inches.

Premium Touches

Quality materials are used throughout; however, the Outback elevates with soft-touch surfaces and available woodgrain or metallic accents. The rugged Crosstrek sticks to a no-frills, functional design ethos ideal for outdoor excursions around Corinth, Texas.

Cargo Space

If you’re loading up for a weekend escape, the Outback supplies a cavernous 75.6 cubic feet of cargo room with rear seats folded. The compact Crosstrek, meanwhile, offers 54.7 cubic feet, which is still generous for its size class. Innovative storage solutions in the larger Outback include under-floor compartments and a capacious center console.

Performance and Capability

Get ready for the open road with the Crosstrek’s two engine options. The Standard and Premium trims pack a punch with a 2.0-liter flat-four that churns out 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque — perfect for daily drives and light adventures. Sport and Limited models feature an upgraded 2.5-liter flat-four, unleashing 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.

The Outback starts strong with a standard 2.5-liter double overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine delivering 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. An available 2.4-liter turbocharged DOHC engine takes performance to new heights, generating a whopping 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque.

Conquer Any Terrain

Both vehicles come equipped with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and control no matter the conditions. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance as standard, the Crosstrek and Outback are ready for off-road adventures straight off the bat. But for the true thrill-seekers, the Wilderness trims elevate the game with up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and Subaru’s advanced X-MODE system for conquering deep snow, mud, and rugged terrains.

Towing Power Unleashed

Equipped with the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, the Outback can tow up to an impressive 3,500 pounds — ideal for hauling boats, trailers, or camping gear. Even the standard 2.5-liter option has a respectable 2,700-pound towing capacity.

While the Crosstrek’s standard engines max out at 1,500 pounds of towing, the Wilderness trim levels the playing field, offering 3,500 pounds of towing to match the Outback’s top performer.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2024 Crosstrek and Outback models deliver cutting-edge connectivity. Standard equipment includes a STARLINK multimedia system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM integration. Base trims feature dual 7-inch touch screens for easy access.

Higher trims upgrade to an immersive 11.6-inch touch-screen display. The Outback Touring, Limited XT, and Touring XT add built-in navigation. The Crosstrek Limited gets optional navigation, but lower trims miss out on this.

Sound Systems

The Outback offers an available 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, while the Crosstrek tops out at 10 Harman Kardon speakers. Both provide exceptional sound quality.

Driver-Assistance Technology

Every Crosstrek trim includes EyeSight driver-assist technology, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. The Outback takes safety further with Subaru’s DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, which uses facial recognition to alert you if you seem distracted or drowsy.

The Outback offers additional safety technologies, such as reverse automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system to simplify towing and make maneuvering in tight spaces easier.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel costs impact budgets, so it’s significant that the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback earn noteworthy efficiency ratings. The compact Crosstrek has an edge over the Outback in this regard.

Crosstrek: Urban Efficiency Champ

The base Crosstrek’s 2L engine gets 27 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined. The Sport and Limited trims’ 2.5L engine achieves 26 mpg for city driving, 33 mpg for highway driving, and 29 mpg combined.

The off-road Wilderness trim’s efficiency dips a little to 25 mpg for city driving, 29 mpg for highway driving, and 27 mpg combined.

Outback: Highway Hauler

The Standard Outback with a 2.5L engine rates at 26 mpg for city, 32 mpg for highway, and 29 mpg combined. The Turbo 2.4L engine option returns 22 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 25 combined. The Wilderness trim’s rugged capability reduces these ratings to 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined.

Pricing and Trims

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback come in various trim levels, each aiming at different priorities and budgets.

The Crosstrek’s Capable and Affordable Lineup

The Crosstrek opens at $25,195 for the base trim. It bundles features such as symmetrical all-wheel drive, a 7-inch touch screen with STARLINK multimedia, and EyeSight driver-assist technology. Higher trims unlock additional amenities and capabilities:

• Premium ($26,345): Heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-inch touch screen.
• Sport ($29,195): Rugged exterior styling, dual-mode X-MODE, and StarTex water-repellent upholstery.
• Limited ($31,095): A leather-trimmed interior, an 8-inch STARLINK multimedia system, and a power driver’s seat.
• Wilderness ($32,195): Off-road prowess with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and exclusive exterior accents.

The Outback’s Expansive and Premium Offerings

The Outback lineup starts at $28,895 for the base model. It matches the Crosstrek’s core features while delivering more power and space. Higher trims for an elevated experience are described below:

• Premium ($31,195): Dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and rear automatic braking.
• Onyx Edition XT ($39,360): Turbocharged performance, unique exterior styling, and a hands-free power liftgate.
• Limited ($35,795): Leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and heated rear seats.
• Wilderness ($39,960): Rugged enhancements, such as a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and skid plates.
• Touring XT ($42,795): A turbocharged engine, nappa leather accents, and a massaging front driver’s seat.

Striking the Perfect Balance

For budget-conscious buyers, the Crosstrek Premium at $26,345 offers an attractive blend of features and value. Those needing extra space, power, and amenities can explore the Outback Premium ($31,195) or higher trims.

Make Your Choice Confidently

Deciding between Subaru’s capable 2024 Crosstrek or 2024 Outback requires carefully weighing your priorities. City dwellers craving nimble handling may gravitate toward the Crosstrek’s sportier proportions, while adventurers needing ample cargo room will appreciate the Outback’s expansive interior. Whichever 2024 Subaru model aligns with your driving needs, rest assured that both vehicles reflect the automaker’s unwavering focus on quality. Contact our team today at Huffines Subaru Corinth near Dallas, Texas, or check out the Subaru Drive magazine for more in-depth reviews and resources.