The Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Outback stand out in the competitive SUV market. In this article, our team at Ciocca Subaru of York provides a comprehensive comparison of the key differences between the Subaru Outback and the Toyota RAV4. We explore their performance capabilities, safety features, and overall value to help you determine which vehicle best matches your needs.
A Brief Overview of the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4
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The 2024 Subaru Outback starts at $30,240 and comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, making it an attractive option if you're looking for capability in various weather conditions. Its wagon-like design offers ample cargo space and passenger comfort, while the optional turbocharged engine provides robust performance on challenging terrains.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 begins at $28,675 and offers standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the RAV4 provides multiple powertrain options, including a fuel-efficient hybrid variant that'll appeal to you if you're environmentally conscious.
Comprehensive Comparison: Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4
The Outback offers 108 cubic feet of passenger volume, which surpasses the RAV4's 101 cubic feet. The Outback's 8.7-inch ground clearance slightly edges out the RAV4's 8.4 inches, providing additional confidence for off-road adventures. In terms of interior comfort, the Outback offers superior front and rear legroom, with 42.8 inches in the front compared to the RAV4's 41 inches.
The Outback gives you 75.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, surpassing the RAV4's 69.8 cubic feet. Although both vehicles provide a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity when properly equipped, the RAV4's front-wheel-drive models are limited to 1,500 pounds. These vehicles are often evaluated based on their all-weather capability, fuel efficiency, and safety features. The Outback's standard all-wheel-drive system is ideal for areas with frequent snow or rain, while the RAV4's hybrid option is perfect if you prioritize fuel economy.
Starting MSRP and Trim Levels
The Subaru Outback offers eight trim levels: the Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Touring, and Touring XT. Starting MSRPs range between $30,240 and $44,140, depending on the trim and features. The RAV4 is available in 13 trim levels: the LE, XLE, Hybrid LE, XLE Premium, Hybrid XLE, Hybrid SE, Adventure, Hybrid Woodland, Hybrid XLE Premium, Limited, Hybrid XSE, TRD Off Road, and Hybrid Limited. MSRPs begin at $28,675 for the LE and reach $44,030 for the Hybrid Limited.
Standard Features Across Different Trims
Both vehicles offer several standard safety features. The Outback includes EyeSight driver-assistance technology, automatic climate control, and LED headlights. The RAV4 features Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which offers similar driver-assistance technologies. The Outback distinguishes itself with standard heated seats and all-wheel drive across all trims, while these features are optional on most RAV4 models.
Value for Money
The Subaru Outback's base model includes standard all-wheel drive. The Toyota RAV4 starts its lineup with a front-wheel-drive model, with all-wheel drive costing extra, making it more expensive than the Outback when similarly equipped. When considering long-term value, both vehicles maintain strong resale values and come with comparable warranty coverage of three years/36,000 miles basic and five years/60,000 miles for the drivetrain.
Engine Performance and Efficiency
The Subaru Outback offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque and an optional turbocharged 2.4-liter engine that generates 260 horsepower and a whopping 277 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota RAV4's standard 2.5-liter engine delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, with a hybrid option that produces a combined 219 horsepower.
The Outback's base engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The RAV4's standard engine delivers slightly better efficiency at 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The RAV4 Hybrid significantly improves these numbers to 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Both vehicles offer excellent reliability, with the RAV4 Hybrid providing the best fuel economy in the lineup.
The Outback's optional turbocharged engine provides superior acceleration and passing power compared to both the base engine and the RAV4's powerplant. The RAV4's standard engine delivers adequate performance for daily driving, while the hybrid variant offers a good combination of power and efficiency. The Outback's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent stability and handling in various weather conditions.
Safety and Technology Features
The 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 are equipped with comprehensive safety suites that include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Both vehicles offer advanced driver-assistance features designed to prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers.
Safety Ratings and Advanced Safety Technology
Both SUVs earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award, demonstrating their commitment to passenger protection. The Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 received Good ratings in IIHS crash tests. The Outback's EyeSight technology and the RAV4's Safety Sense 2.0 provide similar levels of protection. The Outback includes a front-view monitor and DriverFocus distraction mitigation system on higher trims.
Entertainment and Connectivity Features
The Outback offers a 7-inch touch display on the Base trim and an 11.6-inch vertical touch screen in higher trims, while the RAV4 features a 10.5-inch touch screen. The Outback's larger screen provides easier access to the vehicle controls and entertainment features. Both vehicles support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Subaru Outback offers a premium Harman Kardon sound system while the RAV4 features a JBL audio system.
Which Is Better: Subaru Outback vs. Toyota RAV4
The comparison between the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 reveals two highly capable SUVs with distinct advantages. The Outback excels with standard all-wheel drive, superior cargo space, and powerful engine options, while the RAV4 impresses with better fuel economy and hybrid availability. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you're looking for all-weather capability or fuel efficiency and whether you value the Outback's additional cargo space over the RAV4's slightly more compact dimensions.
Schedule a Test-Drive Today
If you're in the York, Pennsylvania, area, visit Ciocca Subaru of York to experience the Subaru Outback firsthand. Our knowledgeable team will walk you through its exceptional features, answer any questions you may have, and help you explore your financing options. You can also contact us to schedule a test-drive to help you decide whether the Subaru Outback fits your lifestyle.
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