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The Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 matchup pits two popular crossover SUV models against each other. There are advantages to purchasing each vehicle, but once you get to know them, it's clear that the Outback stands out. Both models have been redesigned for the 2026 model year, and this guide from Tom Wood Subaru dives into the similarities and differences between each option. Which is best for you between the Toyota RAV4 vs. Subaru Outback?
We'll discuss the Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 performance specs, cabins, mileage, and more. Here's an in-depth look at what these dynamic SUVs have to offer.
The 2026 Subaru Outback is available with your choice of two engines. The entry-level Subaru Outback engine option is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that delivers 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Iterations with this engine come standard with the iconic Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The upgraded choice is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. While it has a little less volume than the base engine, this setup provides 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, thanks to the turbocharger. A 2026 Subaru Outback with this engine also enjoys Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The 2026 Subaru Outback Base model can also tow up to 2,700 pounds,1 but if you need a little more, the turbocharged trims boost that value to a whopping 3,500 pounds.1
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 has a single engine option, and all models are hybrid for the new model year. The engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes a combined 236 horsepower with the help of the electric motor. This setup makes 163 pound-feet of torque, and all models come with a CVT. Front-wheel drive is standard, so you'd have to pay extra to get the available all-wheel drive.
There is also a Toyota RAV4 PHEV model, but this plug-in hybrid is considered a different vehicle, so it falls outside the scope of our Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 review. These two SUVs are evenly matched in this category – the baseline Subaru Outback has less horsepower than the entry-level Toyota RAV4, but it has standard all-wheel drive and a more powerful upgraded engine available.
It's also worth mentioning the standard Toyota RAV4 towing capacity: 1,750 pounds, when properly equipped. This doesn't measure up to the 2,700-pound Subaru Outback towing capacity,1 but it can be enough for a bit of adventure. The RAV4 towing limit can also be raised to 3,500 when properly equipped with a higher trim level.
 |  | |
| 2026 Subaru Outback Premium | 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 180 | 226 |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs1 | 1,750 lbs2 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 25 / 31 / 273 | 47 / 40 / 434 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Volume (Standard / Maximum) | 34.6 / 80.5 cu ft | 37.8 / 70.4 cu ft (2025 model) |
| Length | 191.7 in | 181 in |
| Width | 74.0 in | 73 in |
| Height | 67.5 in | 66.5 in |
| Key Features |
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The new Subaru Outback scores excellent fuel economy ratings. Models equipped with the entry-level engine score an EPA-estimated 25/31/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 This is quite competitive for the car's size class and allows you to save at the pump while still enjoying a bold, off-road-ready ride.
Subaru Outback models with the turbocharged engine get an EPA-estimated 21/29/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 Drivers get to choose between power and efficiency when selecting a new Subaru Outback.
The third rating is specifically for the Subaru Outback Wilderness. This model is designed for adventures far off the beaten path – it comes with extra ground clearance, skid plates, and two additional X-MODE functions for Snow/Dirt and Mud/Deep Snow. When you activate the X-MODE driving system, it uses advanced control of the Vehicle Dynamics Control system to decrease individual wheel spin, thereby increasing your traction. Every model has X-MODE, but the Wilderness trim offers additional functionality and gets an EPA-estimated 21/27/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3
The new Toyota RAV4 has more fuel economy ratings because it does not come standard with all-wheel drive; consequently, there are front- and all-wheel-drive scores to consider. This model is more efficient due to its hybrid powertrain, earning an EPA-estimated 47/40/43 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 in front-wheel drive, and 46/39/42 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 with all-wheel drive in select models.
Due to its hybrid powertrain, the Toyota RAV4 has a notable advantage over the Subaru Outback in fuel economy. As we shall see, however, the Subaru SUV more than makes up for this fact with its spacious and well-equipped interior.
The cabin of the 2026 Subaru Outback is roomy and outfitted with creature comforts and conveniences. With a five-passenger Subaru Outback seating capacity, the vehicle is perfect for adventuring with the whole family – and in comfort, too. The Subaru Outback interior dimensions provide 41 inches of front headroom, 43 inches of front legroom, and 57.9 inches of front shoulder room. Your back-seat passengers will enjoy 40.5 inches of headroom (40.2 inches without the moonroof), 39.5 inches of legroom, and 57.4 inches of shoulder room.
As we will see below, these dimensions are more spacious overall than those of the Toyota RAV4. The Subaru Outback cargo space also has a much more impressive capacity, with a maximum of 80.5 cubic feet of space with the back seats folded down.
Drivers of all stripes will find the Subaru Outback to have compelling standard features. The Subaru Outback Premium has automatic wiper-linked headlights, heated front seats, steering wheel buttons, illuminated front and rear USB-C and USB-A ports, cargo-area bag hooks and tie-downs, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 12.1-inch touchscreen.
If you upgrade to a mid- or top-tier model, you'll find that the Subaru Outback interior gets downright luxurious. The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring, for example, boasts Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, a powered moonroof, ventilated and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. Subaru vehicles are ready for tough weather – inside and out.
Like its Subaru rival, the Toyota RAV4 seating capacity has enough for five passengers, but the interior dimensions are less appealing. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 interior dimensions measure 37.9 inches of front headroom, 41 inches of front legroom, and 57 inches of shoulder room. All three of these measurements fall short of the 2026 Subaru Outback. The back row offers 39.5 inches of headroom, 37.8 inches of legroom, and 56.4 inches of shoulder room. The Subaru Outback goes five for six overall.
Toyota hasn't published the maximum cargo space for the RAV4 yet, but the 2025 model boasts just 70.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down, losing out to the 80.5 cubic feet in the Subaru SUV. Adventure-seekers know that gear and space to move are both important parts of car camping or cross-country driving; the Subaru Outback is the better fit for these active lifestyles.
The Toyota RAV4 comes standard with three USB ports, remote keyless entry, and a 10.5-inch touchscreen. This vehicle's mid- and top-tier offerings are nice but less impressive than those of the Subaru Outback. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium, in the middle of the trim lineup (like the Subaru Outback Touring), does not have ventilated seats or a heated steering wheel. It does have a moonroof and heated front seats, however, like the Touring model.
This round of the Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 matchup tilts decisively toward the Subaru vehicle. Not only are the Subaru Outback dimensions more enjoyable with greater space than the Toyota RAV4, but it also has a more compelling standard feature lineup. If you're now considering purchasing a sleek Subaru Outback, please contact us to arrange a test drive.
Thank you for reading our Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4 comparison page. This has been a well-fought battle, but the Subaru vehicle is the clear winner with a better lineup of features, more dynamic engine options, standard all-wheel drive, and a more spacious interior. Whether you're looking for serious off-road performance in the Wilderness trim or a roomy back seat for your kids, the Subaru Outback is a compelling choice.
We have other Subaru Outback research available on our website. For example, you can read about the different Subaru Outback colors that include nine hues, from bold choices like Geyser Blue and Crimson Red Pearl to more neutral tones like Magnetite Gray Metallic and Ice Silver Metallic. Our friendly team is also well-versed in the ins and outs of our vehicles – please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries about the 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4.
Our Subaru incentives make it easier for motorists to get into the front seat of a rugged new Subaru vehicle, and our finance team can assist you in securing your new ride, whether you decide to lease or finance. We believe that these adventure-ready cars are some of the best on the market and will work hard to help you start driving the vehicle of your dreams.
Please visit our Subaru dealer today to take the refined and powerful Subaru Outback out for a spin. You'll fall in love with its modern style, roomy cabin, and muscular engine.
10/16/2024
The staff at Tom Wood Subaru were extremely welcoming and professional. Austin helped me find the perfect Outback to suit my needs. He made the experience very easy and stress free. I feel confident in the staff to help me keep my vehicle in top shape. I recommend Austin at Tom Wood Subaru to anyone interested in buys a car.
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1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
4Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
