Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4

 

Subaru Outback (Base)

  

Toyota RAV4 (LE AWD)
Specs*
 

Drivetrain

 

 Symmetrical AWD AWD
 

Cargo Volume – Behind Rear Seat (cu. ft.)

 

 32.5 37.6
 

Transmission

 

 Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Control and 8-speed manual mode with paddle shifters Direct Shift 8-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift mode
 

Horsepower

 

 182 @ 5800 203 @ 6600
 

Torque

 

 176 @ 4400 184 @ 5000
 

Towing Capacity (lbs.)

 

 2700 1500
 

MPG (city/hwy)

 

 26/33 27/34
 

Fuel Tank Capacity (gal.)

 

 18.5 14.5
 

Ground Clearance (in.)

 

 8.7 8.7
 

Length (in.)

 

 191.3 180.9
 

Passenger Volume (cu. ft.)

 

 109.0 98.9
 

Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.)

 

 75.7 69.8
 

Starting MSRP

 

 $26,645 $27,350

With so many SUVs and crossovers on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. At Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru, our team is here to answer any questions you may have to help you make an informed decision when you’re looking for your next vehicle. As one of our most popular cars and arguably the most iconic Subaru vehicle, the Subaru Outback is hard to beat. We’re stacking this versatile wagon up against one of its fiercest competitors, the Toyota RAV4. Though both cars have similar offerings, there are some differences that might make your decision a little easier. Check out these models side-by-side below, or visit our Burlington, WA Subaru dealership for a closer look at a new Subaru Outback and go for an exciting test drive.

Capable & Powerful SUV

As vehicle technology continues to evolve and improve, it can be difficult distinguishing what sets any given car apart from another. The Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 have a lot in common, but also have clear distinctions. For starters, every Subaru Outback comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive and active torque vectoring, regardless of trim level. You’ll also get the benefit of standard X-MODE®. This feature optimizes engine output and transmission ratio, engages all-wheel drive, and enhances the VDC system to reduce wheelspin, to provide more traction on low friction surfaces. While the Toyota RAV4 offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, you’ll have to pay extra to get the capabilities that come standard on all Subaru vehicles. Another clear difference between these two SUVs is their transmissions. The Subaru Outback is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and the Toyota RAV4 has a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission. A major pro to a CVT is increased efficiency, which is why the larger Subaru Outback gets very similar gas mileage compared to the Toyota RAV4. While you won’t have the same feeling or sound of gears shifting, CVTs offer an equally fun driving experience. With standard paddle shifters, your weekend getaways to Mt. Baker will be a breeze for the Subaru Outback. For even more power, upgrade to the Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, or Touring XT trim levels, for a turbocharged engine. Experience the CVT and Subaru AWD difference today at Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru.

Vehicle Safety & Technology Features

If safety is your main concern when selecting a new car, you can trust that the Subaru Outback has you covered in that department too. With standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology on every model. Included are adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, and land keep assist & sway warning, all with the goal to keep you safer on every excursion. The Toyota RAV4 also offers a suite of safety features with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0. Both systems offer similar features, but Toyota Safety Sense™ lacks pre-collision throttle management. This feature detects objects that you’re likely to hit and adjusts engine power to help your brakes out and further reduce potential impact. Learn more about all the Subaru safety features available, including Subaru DriverFocus™ Distraction Mitigation System, at Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru. You’ll also find the latest vehicle technology and entertainment options in the Subaru Outback. Standard SUBARU STARLINK® with a dual 7.0-inch multimedia system comes equipped on the base model, with options to upgrade screen size to a massive 11.6” screen. Integrated Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ ensure safe driving practices while staying connected at all time. You’ll also find a variety of other cloud-based applications available, so you never miss a podcast, always have navigation handy, and more. You can even download a guide to Olympic National Park with Chimani, your resource for all your national park adventures. The Toyota RAV4 similarly provides an infotainment system including smartphone compatibility and other apps, like Amazon Alexa, but has a maximum screen size of 8”. If you’re concerned about visibility and ease of access, the Subaru Outback might be a better option for you. Call or visit our dealership near Mount Vernon, WA to learn more about all the features available on a new Subaru Outback. Our team will gladly guide you through the differences in trim levels and packages to help you find your ideal configuration.

Comfort? Utility? You Got It

While advanced safety features and engine specs are nice to know when looking for a new car, sometimes it just comes down to what’s most comfortable. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter vehicle or want a vehicle that’s great for family road trips, our team at Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru can help. Both the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 were designed with comfort and convenience in mind. You’ll find automatic climate control, available push-button start, a power liftgate, and more in both SUVs. The Subaru Outback provides more legroom for both front and rear passengers to ensure your precious cargo stays comfortable no matter where you go. Standard roof rails and a cargo tray makes packing all your gear a breeze, which you won’t find included in the Toyota RAV4. With a variety of other options and upgrades available, you can customize your Subaru Outback exactly to your needs. Call our team or visit us near Oak Harbor, WA to learn more about the differences between the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4. We look forward to helping you find a vehicle that you’ll love to drive home.
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