2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2023 Subaru Outback | Interior, Specs, Towing

Enjoy a life of outdoorsy adventures in the new 2023 Subaru Crosstrek or 2023 Subaru Outback. The team at Grand Subaru in Bensenville, IL, put together this comparison review to help you decide which SUV is right for you. For additional model information, visit our Crosstrek review or Outback review pages.

Search our Crosstrek inventory or Outback inventory to locate a model and trim that interests you, then stop by Grand Subaru to check it out in person and take it for a test drive. Have questions? Contact us at (888) 840-3934 or send us a chat message.

Exterior Design & Dimensions

The 2023 Crosstrek is a compact crossover ― with a 104.9-inch wheelbase ― while the 2023 Outback is a mid-size crossover with a slightly larger 108.1-inch wheelbase. The Outback is also taller than the Crosstrek, measuring 66.4 inches in height versus 63.6 inches. Ground clearance on both models is 8.7 inches; however, the 2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness trim increases clearance for more rugged off-roading to 9.5 inches.

Among the similar features you’ll find are:

• Windshield wiper de-icer and heated side mirrors
• Rear window wiper
• 17- or 18-in. aluminum alloy or alloy wheels
• LED steering-responsive headlights
• LED fog lights
• Black folding side mirrors
• Raised roof rails

Unique to the 2023 Subaru Crossover are multi-reflector halogen headlights, fog lights, and low-profile roof rails on the entry-level trim, as well as a roof spoiler and body-color folding side mirrors or gunmetal finish folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals on select trims. The 2023 Outback adds crystal black silica finish and satin chrome finish folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals on select trims.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Interior Features

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and 2023 Subaru Outback both offer a wide range of interior amenities and tech features. Among the features these two models share:

• Keyless entry/access 
• Push-button start
• USB charging ports and input ports
• Cloth, StarTex®, or leather-trimmed upholstery
• Heated front seats
• 60/40 split flat-folding rear seatbacks
• Power tilt/sliding moonroof (standard on Outback)
• Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel (standard on Outback)
• Automatic climate control
• SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia or Multimedia Plus systems featuring Bluetooth®, in-vehicle Wi-Fi®, HD Radio™, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (wireless on Outback), and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio capability
• Four-speaker (Crosstrek) or six-speaker (Outback) sound system or premium Harman Kardon® audio system

The 2023 Crosstrek adds a STARLINK safety and security system and offers a black and red interior color scheme, while the 2023 Outback adds the STARLINK Multimedia Navigation system and also features larger display screens on all multimedia systems ― dual 7-inch or 11.6 inches versus 6.5 or 8 inches on the Crosstrek.

With the Outback, you’ll also find a hands-free power rear liftgate, Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, auto-dimming or smart auto-dimming rear view compass mirror with HomeLink®, and an 180-degree front view monitor. The rear seats on the Outback also recline.

Cargo Space & Seating Available

Both the 2023 Crosstrek and 2023 Outback comfortably seat up to five passengers, with similar amounts of passenger volume ― 100 cubic feet in the Crosstrek versus 109 cubic feet in the Outback.

When it comes to cargo space, the 2023 Outback offers more space ― 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat and up to 75.6 cubic feet when rear seats are down. The 2023 Crosstrek features 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seat that expands to 55.3 cubic feet when rear seats fold down. 

Looking for helpful storage solutions? The Crosstrek offers a rear cargo tray, retractable/removable cargo area cover, and cargo organizing hooks in the cargo area, while the Outback also features underfloor storage.

Engine Specs & Towing Capacity

All powertrains come equipped with Subaru symmetrical all-wheel drive. X-MODE® software with hill descent control can be found on select Crosstrek trims and across the Outback lineup, to assist the AWD system when you’re climbing or descending steep hills.

The 2023 Crosstrek Hybrid model pairs the standard four-cylinder gas engine with a permanent magnet AC synchronous motor, Lineartronic CVT with adaptive control and incline start assist, and a Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE®) engine management system with drive modes you select for the ride or fuel economy-optimizing performance you seek.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek			Model	2023 Subaru Outback
2.0L I4	2.5L I4	2.0L I4 plug-in hybrid	Engine	2.5L I4	2.4L turbocharged I4
152 HP	176 HP	118 HP	Horsepower	182 HP	260 HP
145 lb.-ft.	176 lb.-ft.	149 lb.-ft.	Torque	176 lb.-ft.	277 lb.-ft.
1,500 lbs.	1,500 lbs.	1,000 lbs.	Max. Towing	2,700 lbs.	3,500 lbs.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback MPG

Both the 2023 Crosstrek and 2023 Outback deliver solid fuel economy ratings. Compare the models and EPA-estimated MPG by engine option:

2023 Subaru Crosstrek

• 28 city/33 hwy (2.0L)
• 27 city/34 hwy (2.5L)
• 35 MPG/90 MPGe (hybrid)

2023 Subaru Outback

• 26 city/32 hwy (2.5L)
• 22 city/29 hwy (2.4L)

Exterior Colors Offered

Both models offer a range of pleasing exterior colors. Note: not all trims offer all colors.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek

• Pure Red
• Crystal Black Silica
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Crystal White Pearl
• Horizon Blue Pearl
• Magnetite Gray Metallic
• Plasma Yellow Pearl
• Lagoon Blue Pearl
• Cool-Gray Khaki
• Desert Khaki

2023 Subaru Outback

• Geyser Blue
• Crystal Black Silica
• Ice Silver Metallic
• Magnetite Gray Metallic
• Cosmic Blue Pearl
• Dark Mahogany Pearl
• Crystal White Pearl
• Crimson Red Pearl
• Autumn Green Metallic
• Brilliant Bronze Metallic

2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Outback Price

Starting MSRP on the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is $23,645, while the 2023 Subaru Outback has a starting MSRP of $28,395.

2022 Subaru Outback vs. Subaru Crosstrek Comparison

For any adventure life takes you on, there’s a Subaru SUV with the features and design you need. The 2022 Subaru Outback SUV and 2022 Subaru Crosstrek compact SUV are both popular and capable vehicles, but which one is right for you? The team at Grand Subaru has assembled this comparison of the 2022 Subaru Outback vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek to help you decide.

Once you’ve perused our overview of the differences between the Outback and the Crosstrek, you can learn more about each model with our Subaru Outback review and Subaru Crosstrek review. Make sure to check out our Subaru Outback inventory and Subaru Crosstrek inventory to find your preferred model in stock, then see if we have a Subaru Outback offer or a Subaru Crosstrek offer that will help put one of these SUVs in your driveway. Have any questions? We’d love to hear from you! Reach us on our website or call us at (888) 840-3934.

Overview Features

The 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Crosstrek both come with multiple powertrain options, symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) on all models, and a host of modern technological features to keep you engaged and connected on the road. Both vehicles seat five people comfortably, while the larger Outback boasts greater cargo capacity and is offered with a more powerful engine. A specs chart can be found here.

2022 Subaru Outback	Model	2022 Subaru Crosstrek
$26,945	Starting MSRP	$22,445
260 HP	Max. Horsepower	182 HP
26 city/33 hwy MPG	Starting Fuel Economy	28 city/33 hwy MPG
75.7 cu.-ft.	Max. Cargo Volume	55.3 cu.-ft.
3,500 lbs.	Max. Towing Capacity	1,500 lbs.
Five	Seating Capacity	Five

Interior Features & Cargo Space Compared

The larger 2022 Outback edges out the 2022 Crosstrek when it comes to interior volume and cargo capacity, with 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats compared with 20.8 cubic feet on the Crosstrek. But both models offer a host of available interior features, including these:

• Heated front and outboard rear seats
• Cloth, StarTex®, or leather upholstery
• Automatic climate control
• Harman Kardon® premium audio system (optional on Crosstrek)
• Ventilated, power-adjustable front seats (Outback only)
• Hands-free power rear gate with height memory function (Outback only)

Engine Options Available

You’ll have your choice of powertrain options with both the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Crosstrek. The Outback is offered with two powerful SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder gas engine options, while the Crosstrek has three available powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option. Details and engine specs are in the chart.

Model	2022 Subaru Outback	2022 Subaru Crosstrek
Standard Gas Powertrain	2.5L four-cylinder  182 HP 176 lb.-ft. of torque 26 city/33 hwy MPG	2.0L four-cylinder 152 HP 145 lb.-ft. of torque 28 city/33 hwy MPG
Available Gas Powertrain	2.4L four-cylinder 260 HP 277 lb.-ft. of torque 22 city/26 hwy MPG	2.5L four-cylinder 182 HP 176 lb.-ft. of torque 27 city/34 hwy MPG
Available Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain	N/A	2.0L four-cylinder 148 total system HP 149 lb.-ft. of torque 90 combined MPGe
Max. Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs.	1,500 lbs.

Technology Features Available

Enjoy cutting-edge, intuitive technology to keep you informed and entertained on the go with the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Crosstrek. Both models offer the following available tech features: 

• STARLINK® Multimedia Navigation with 8-in. or 11.6-in. display
• Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ / Bluetooth® integration
• SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with Traffic® and Travel Link® capability
• HD Radio™ capability
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot capability
• USB input and charging ports
• Keyless entry with push-button start and PIN-code access

Safety & Driver Assistance Features Offered

You’ll find EyeSight® driver assistance technology, engineered to make every drive more safe and confident, featured on both the 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Subaru Crosstrek. The Outback also exclusively features the DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system, blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert, and lane keep assist. Additional high-tech safety features available on both models include:

• Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Pre-collision braking
• Lane departure and sway warning
• Reverse automatic braking
• STARLINK® safety and security system

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek | Bensenville, IL

No matter where life takes you, you’ll be ready for it behind the wheel of the 2021 Subaru Outback or 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. If you’re considering driving home in one of these adventurous vehicles, let Grand Subaru help you find the right one for you. We’ve highlighted both models in the following 2021 Outback vs. 2021 Crosstrek comparison guide. 

To find 2021 Subaru Outback and Crosstrek models for sale in Bensenville, IL, browse our online inventory. We also encourage you to take a look at our monthly lease and finance offers. To learn more or take the next steps, get in touch with the Grand Subaru team online or at (888) 840-3934.

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Specs Overview

2021 Subaru Outback	Model	2021 Subaru Crosstrek
$26,795	Starting MSRP	$22,245 MSRP
260 HP	Max. Horsepower	182 HP
26 city / 33 hwy MPG	Fuel Economy	35 combined MPG
75.7 cu.-ft.	Cargo Capacity	55.3 cu.-ft.
Five	Seating Capacity	Five

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Exterior Design

The best way to decide which of these SUVs best matches your personal style is to check them out for yourself. While both offer features like sideview mirror-integrated turn signals and windshield wiper de-icers, there are several exterior differences between the Outback and Crosstrek that you should be aware of. Those include:

• LED steering responsive headlights are standard on the 2021 Outback, but only found on higher Crosstrek models
• To match its sportier appearance, only the 2021 Crosstrek is available with a roof spoiler
• High beam assist is standardly equipped on all Outback models, a feature not available on the Crosstrek

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Interior Design & Technology

Whether you’re driving across town or across the country, you and your passengers will enjoy everything found in the cabins of the Outback and Crosstrek. Both SUVs can be equipped with a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, and smartphone integration. More Outback and Crosstrek interior and tech details can be found in the following chart:

2021 Subaru Outback	Model	2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Cloth StarTex® water-repellent Leather-trimmed Nappa leather-trimmed	Upholstery	Cloth Cloth with orange contrast stitching StarTex® water-repellent with yellow contrast stitching Leather-trimmed with orange contrast stitching Leather-trimmed with blue contrast stitching
Dual 7-in. 11.6-in.	Touchscreen Display	6.5-in. 8-in.
4-speaker 6-speaker Harman Kardon® 12-speaker	Audio System	4-speaker 6-speaker Harman Kardon 8-speaker
Power tilting/sliding glass	Moonroof Options	Power tilting/sliding glass
Heated and ventilated	Front Seat Upgrades	Heated
Dual-zone automatic	Climate Control	Single-zone automatic

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Engine & Performance

No matter which SUV you prefer, you’ll have several powertrain options. The Outback offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged options, both offering an intriguing mix of power and efficiency. The Crosstrek is available with two traditional engines, as well as a hybrid option. Every Outback and Crosstrek are paired with Subaru’s expert designed symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Performance specs for each Outback and Crosstrek engines are as follows:

Model	Engine	Performance Specs
2021 Subaru Outback	2.5L BOXER® 4-cylinder	182 HP 176 lb.-ft. of torque 26 city / 33 hwy MPG 2,700-lb. max. towing capacity
	2.4L turbocharged BOXER 4-cylinder	260 HP 277 lb.-ft. of torque 23 city / 30 hwy MPG 3,500-lb. max. towing capacity
2021 Subaru Crosstrek	2.0L BOXER 4-cylinder	152 HP 145 lb.-ft. of torque 28 city / 33 hwy MPG 1,500-lb. max. towing capacity
	2.5L BOXER® 4-cylinder	182 HP 176 lb.-ft. of torque 27 city / 34 hwy MPG 1,500-lb. max. towing capacity
	2.0L BOXER 4-cylinder and AC synchronous motor	148 net HP 149 lb.-ft. of torque 35 combined MPG 1,000-lb. max towing capacity

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Capacity & Seating

The Outback and Crosstrek provide you the room necessary to bring everything you need on your next adventure. Both SUVs will seat five passengers comfortably, and can be configured to meet your current passenger or cargo space needs. With the rear seats folded down, the 2021 Outback can offer up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Alternatively, the smaller Crosstrek measures in at 55.3 cubic feet. Smart storage solutions like underfloor storage and a removable tray make loading and unloading easier than ever. 

2021 Subaru Outback vs. Crosstrek Safety Options & Features

Standard on the Outback and available on the Crosstrek, Subaru EyeSight® technology backs drivers up with a suite of driver-assist technologies. While only the Outback is available with features like lane keep assist and a 180-degree front-view camera, these family SUVs share many safety offerings. Features found in both models include:

• Rear vision camera
• Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
• Reverse automatic braking
• Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Pre-collision braking
• Lane departure and sway warning