2021 Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V Comparison

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subaru outback vs honda cr v

In 2021, we all want a more reliable, best family SUV. And your choice could end up with two of the most reliable SUVs, Subaru Outback vs Honda CR V. Today we are going to compare these two vehicles head-to-head. 

One of the leading SUVs you can buy is the Honda CR-V. The CR-V is a practical and efficient vehicle with a powerful gas pedal and good fuel economy. The CR-V also receives points for its first-class safety equipment, which is included in generous quantities in all equipment variants. Another SUV that gives competition to Honda is the 2021 Subaru Outback. 

However, Honda offers more entry-level performance than the Subaru. The interior is more spacious and comfortable overall, offering more amenities and technology. 

There is no question, both are excellent options worth considering. But which one is more worthy? 

Today in Locar Deals we’ll look at the pros and cons of both SUVs and then how you choose between Subaru outback vs honda cr v vehicles stack up on each tier so you can choose the most appreciated SUV.

2021 Honda CR-V

honda cr-v vs subaru outback

The 2021 Honda CR V offers the best in performance, capacity, and efficiency. There is something for everyone, whether you like to stroll through the city or conquer nature.

It is one of the best gas mileage SUVs, which means you won’t be spending all of your money on gasoline every month. 

Each model can be built with a two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. And there is an exciting new special edition that sits right between the LX and EX. 

The CR-V is small enough to navigate through tight parking spaces, yet spacious enough to comfortably seat five adults. The space in the rear is particularly generous.

Full Specification of Honda CR V

  • MSRP: $25,350 – $35,150
  • MPG: 27 City / 32 Hwy / 29 Combined
  • Horsepower: 190 HP
  • Engine: 1.5 L 4-cylinder
  • Drivetrain: FWD, AWD
  • Seating: 5

What is New In 2021 Honda CR V?

Honda 2021 offers top-class features and versatility. The 1.5-liter turbo engine develops 190 hp and 181 lb.-ft. of the pair. It comes with Honda’s efficient CVT. 

The available Real Time AWD system gives you the power you need to conquer almost any terrain. Send torque to the rear wheels whenever they need it.

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In the 2021 model, Honda also updated a spacious cabin and cargo area, a conservative design that appeals to a wide range of demographics, and a generous list of features.

Different Trim Levels Of Honda CR V

The Honda CR-V 2021 offers five seats and is available in five equipment variants: LX, Special Edition, EX, EX-L, and Touring. 

There are three hybrid versions of EX, EX-L, and Touring for a total of seven configurations. The basic version of the LX offers a lot, especially in terms of space and cargo space.

How Much Does the 2021 Honda CR V?

The 2021 Honda CR-V starts at $ 25,350 for the base LX plus a target rate of $ 1,120. The best-equipped EX is priced at $ 27,860. 

With leather and other features, the EX-L will cost you $ 30,450, while a top variant of the CR-V Touring edition starts at $ 33,650. These are the prices of the different equipment: –

  • LX: Starting From $25,350
  • Special Edition: From 26,950
  • EX: Starting From $27,860
  • EX-L: Starting From $30,450
  • Touring Edition: Starting From $33,650
  • EX Hybrid: Starting From $30,560
  • EX-L Hybrid: Starting From $33,150
  • Touring Hybrid: Starting From $36,350

Honda CR V Engine Performance and Power

As standard, the Honda CR-V 2021 is equipped with an impressive 1.5-liter turbo engine capable of delivering up to 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. 

This versatile engine is standard on all Honda CR-Vs and trims levels. The 2021 CR-V Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter engine to produce up to 143 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor can deliver up to 181 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque.

Fuel Economy of Honda CR V

The 2021 Honda CR-V has a 2WD gas-powered transmission, the CR-V achieves around 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined. 

On the other hand, when the crossover is equipped with the AWD gas-powered transmission, it gets about 27 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined.

Interior Design & Cargo Space Of Honda CR V

honda cr-v vs subaru outback comparison

The Honda CR-V offers two body styles, one of which can accommodate five people. The passengers in the second row enjoy a similar level of comfort as the driver and front passenger. The CR-V offers more space than most compact SUVs. 

Depending on the equipment, there are between 37.6 and 39.2 cubic meters of cargo space behind the rear seats. Flip these seats down and you have 75.8 cubic feet of space behind the front seats.

Advance Features Of Honda CR V

The 2021 Honda CR-V leads the way in safety with a range of advanced standard safety aids. The first of the four configurations is the LX.

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The LX offers comfort in the form of soft cloth seats and automatic climate control. Its technology includes a central five-inch infotainment screen with access to apps, music, directions, and more. Some of the wells know features of the 2021 Honda CR V:-

  • 7-Inch Display Audio 
  • High-Resolution Electrostatic Touch-Screen 
  • Bluetooth Streaming Audio
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration 
  • Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation (SVC)
  • Wireless Phone Charger

How Safe is the Honda CR V?

The CR-V received a five-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

2021 Subaru Outback

subaru outback vs honda cr-v reliability

Part truck and part SUV, the 2021 Subaru Outback remains a unique option in the field of more traditional SUVs. 

Its clarity on the ground and all-wheel-drive feature make it more powerful than some of its rivals, while a fun ride and a spacious, well-placed cabin make it a great choice for families. 

The 2021 Outback gives you standard all-weather, anywhere symmetric all-wheel drive capability while being efficient.

Full Specification of Subaru Outback

  • MSRP: $26,795 – $39,945
  • MPG: 26 City / 33 Hwy / 29 Combined
  • Horsepower: 182 HP
  • Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
  • Drivetrain: FWD, AWD
  • Seating: 5

What is New In 2021 Subaru Outback?

The new standard features of the 2021 model include adaptive LED headlights, a rear-seat reminder, and seat belt reminders for the front and rear passengers.

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Buyers have the choice between a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 hp or a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder with 260 hp and high torque.

Different Trim Levels Of Subaru Outback

The 2021 Subaru Outback comes in seven variants named Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT. 

Although features vary, Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology is standard on all 2021 Outback trim levels.

How Much Does the 2021 Subaru Outback Cost?

MSRP for the 2021 Subaru Outback starts at $ 27,845 for the entry-level Base, with the target price and popular options. Prices increase as you add options or select a setting with more features.

  • Base: Starting From $26,795
  • Premium: Starting From $30,095
  • Limited: Starting From $34,645
  • Onyx Edition XT: Starting From $36,195
  • Wilderness: Starting From $38,000
  • Touring: Starting From $40,995

Outback Engine Performance and Power

The Base Outback comes with a horizontally opposite 2.5-liter. Higher trim levels come with the 2.4-liter turbo boxer engine making 260 hp and 277 lb-ft. of the pair. 

The turbo engine performs 23 cities, 30 highways, and a combined mpg of 30. On the other hand, like everyone else, you’ll appreciate the refined driving experience, the enthusiastic steering, and the powerful brakes.

Fuel Economy of Subaru Outback

According to the EPA, the 2021 outback will get an estimated 26/33 mpg city/highway and 24 \ 9 mpg combined. 

The 2021 Outback XT with the 2.4-liter turbo engine receives an EPA-estimated 23/30 city/highway mpg and 26 combined mpg city/highway. That’s a difference of four miles per gallon on the highway and two mpg less combined.

Interior Design & Cargo Space of Subaru Outback

subaru outback vs honda cr-v

The Subaru family of Sport Utility Wagons offers drivers vehicles with lightweight off-road capabilities combined with comfortable interiors. The interior has five seats. Fabric upholstery is standard. It drives like a limousine, but can still master smooth off-road routes. 

The cargo area is 42 inches from the power liftgate to the second row of seats. Measures 45.2 inches wide.

Advance Features Of Subaru Outback

Outback SUVs starting at $ 27,845 have power features, cloth upholstery, 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, and two 7.0-inch infotainment touch screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. 

It’s clear and crisp, but it places some vehicle functionality in a low band on the screen and squashes CarPlay and Android services into a narrow part of the screen.

How Safe is the Subaru Outback?

The Outback received a five-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V Comparison – Which Family SUV You Should Buy?

While the Subaru Outback is famous for its look, it’s clear that the Honda CR-V is a best seller vehicle in the USA for good reason. As compact SUVs with great looks, the Subaru Outback 2021 and the Honda CR-V 2020 have some common features.

For starters, these vehicles have four doors, five seats, and impressive standard infotainment systems.

The Subaru Outback 2021 and the Honda CR-V 2020 offer the perfect combination of performance, interior space, and advanced safety features. How do you select between these great SUVs? Please read the detailed honda cr-v vs Subaru outback comparison below in advance.

1. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR V: Price

When we see the price of both the honda cr-v vs Subaru outback, CR-V is cheaper than the Outback. The Honda has an MSRP of $ 25,350 and the Subaru starts at $ 26,795. 

At the higher end, the top variant of the CR-V is in the mid-range of $ 35,000, while the turbocharged Outback in the top Touring XT kit can top the $ 40,000 mark. So it’s clear that the Honda CR V is way ahead of the Outback in this price range.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

2. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR V: Interior Space

Both the Honda CR-V and Subaru Outback have seats up to five passengers, and each vehicle also comes with 60/40 split-folding rear seats so you can configure the interior space to maximize seating space. 

The cargo volume of the CR-V LX is 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Outback only offers 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. 

The new LX variant CR-V gives you 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Subaru Outback offers a less generous 32.5 cubic feet. In the debate of honda cr v vs Subaru outback, Honda CR V wins.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

3. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR V: Engine Performance

The Honda CR-V comes with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the Subaru Outback has a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. 

Each vehicle’s engine is coupled to the continuously variable transmission, which helps improve fuel economy. 

When it comes to performance, the Honda CR-V leads the way with 184 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque. The Subaru Outback lags a bit behind at 175 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

4. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V Reliability

The Honda CR-V’s reliability rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, ranking it second out of 26 for compact SUVs. 

The average annual repair cost is $ 407, which means you have a great cost of ownership. The Subaru Outback received a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, which makes it above average for reliability. 

The average annual repair and maintenance cost for the Subaru Outback is $ 607. Therefore, the Honda CR-V wins the race in the area of ​​Subaru outback vs honda cr-v reliability.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

5. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Suspension and Handling

The Honda CR-V is at the top of its class when it comes to dealing with people and things. Convenience is more than just space, and the CR-V excels there, too. 

The flexible suspension provides a relaxed ride, and noise from the road and wind has developed, as well as from inside the cab. For a smooth and quiet run over long distances, buyers will have to spend significantly more to outperform the CR-V.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

6. Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V: Safety

In order to complement the traditional security functions, the Outback and the CR-V 2021 are equipped with different security systems. 

The Outback features Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology, while the CR-V features the Honda Sensing Feature Set. Outback offers the available Subaru DriverFocus distraction reduction system. This advanced system can monitor your driving and see if you are getting distracted or tired. 

You can adjust the air conditioning, the seating position, and the exterior mirrors according to your personal preferences. So this is the first parameter where Outback is ahead in the honda cr v awd vs Subaru outback comparison.

Winner: 2021 Subaru Outback

7. 2021 Honda CR V vs 2021 Subaru Outback: Gas Mileage

For the Honda CR-V, you’ll get a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with it, putting out massive power in the form of 190 hp and 179 pound-feet of torque. 

And 28 city / 34 highway mpg with CVT. On the other hand, the Subaru finds its power in a standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. And enter 26 city / 33 highway mpg with CVT.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

8. 2021 Honda CR V vs 2021 Subaru Outback: Towing Capacity

With the right towbar, the Honda CR-V 2021 can tow up to 1,500 pounds and is backed up by the impressive engineering of this SUV. 

The trailer load of the fully equipped Subaru Outback 2021 is 3,500 pounds, which is enough to get a trailer or small boat. Depending on the size of your trailer or other equipment you are towing, the Outback may be the only one of these two SUVs that can safely tow you.

Winner: 2021 Subaru Outback

9. Honda CR V vs Subaru Outback: Tech And Features

With a variety of networked and comfort technologies, you and your passengers will enjoy every mile inside and on the CR-V. 

Both SUVs are equipped with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and SiriusXM satellite radio. 

The Honda comes with wireless charging, which is not offered on the Subaru Outback, and it has a nine-speaker sound system on top. The CR-V has another small advantage with its technical characteristics.

Winner: 2021 Honda CR V

10. Honda CR V vs Subaru Outback: Exterior Design

While both exteriors are distinct, they share several features like side view mirror-integrated turn signals and LED fog lights and daytime running lights. 

The following exterior features are only found on the 2021 Outback 18-in. black aluminum-alloy wheels with a machine finish and LED steering responsive headlights.

Making Outback better in the race of 2021 honda cr v vs 2021 Subaru outback.

Winner: 2021 Subaru Outback

11. Honda CR-V vs Subaru Outback: Verdict

Both the CR-V and Outback are powerful SUVs that could be the home of your next adventure. 

However, if you’re looking for a vehicle with a little more power, improved fuel efficiency, additional cargo space, and all the infotainment technology you need behind the wheel, the 2021 Honda CR-V is the SUV for you. 

And the Subaru Outback is good for those looking for exterior style, towing capacity, and safety. Ultimately, Honda CR-V wins the battle against Subaru Outback.

Top FAQs About Honda CR-V vs Subaru Outback

Is the Honda CR V more reliable than the Subaru outback?

The Honda CR-V comes with the 5-year unlimited mileage guarantee that is customary in this segment. And the average annual repair cost is $ 407, which is less than many competitors and good for any SUV.

While Subaru Outback models over the past decade are generally considered to be more reliable than the average vehicle. And the average annual maintenance cost is $ 607, which is more than the CR V. Therefore, the Honda CR V is more reliable than the Subaru interior.

Which is better between honda cr-v vs Subaru outback?

It’s a close match when you look at the 2021 Honda CR-V and Subaru Outback. With that said, we have to say that the Honda CR-V is our SUV of choice with its spacious cargo space and comfortable interior.

For example, only the CR-V offers more aesthetic features, such as ambient lighting and dual chrome exhaust trims.

What should I buy instead of a Subaru Outback?

The Subaru Outback’s best competitor is the Honda CR V. As competitive compact SUVs, the Subaru Outback 2021 and the Honda CR-V 2021 have a lot in common. There is sufficient cargo space in both vehicles.

Will there be any changes to the 2021 Subaru Outback?

The 2021 Subaru Outback Soldiers are on the move with some minor enhancements, including new safety features like LED headlights that respond to direction, passenger seat belt reminder, and rear seat reminder. Anyone who buys an Outback will enjoy the ride height of an SUV along with the long roof design of a pickup.

Is the 2021 Outback a good car?

The Outback is a stock, raised, all-wheel-drive station wagon that serves as a smart alternative to more traditional SUVs. It is a comfortable and functional vehicle ideal for day trips and weekend adventures. Its size and capabilities allow the Outback to compare to small and medium-sized SUVs.

Is the 2021 Honda CRV worth it?

Yes, the Honda CR-V is a good SUV. It offers vigorous acceleration and a comfortable ride and has good fuel economy. The interior looks and feels exclusive. Both rows of seats are spacious and comfortable, and the cargo space is one of the largest in the compact SUV class. 

Is the 2021 Honda CRV bigger?

No, the Honda CR-V 2021 is the same size as the previous model with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. A touring model instead changes these specs to 37.6 cubic feet. If you fold the rear seats down, you will see 75.8 cubic feet of space.

Final Thought

Both are crossovers worth buying; It’s no wonder both vehicles top our compact SUV rankings. The Outback offers a slight margin of safety with excellent standard nighttime driving lights, and its infotainment systems have larger easier-to-use touchscreens. 

The Honda has more room, which is one of the main reasons someone should buy an SUV. It offers an exceptional driving experience with nimble handling and faster acceleration and is just as comfortable as the Outback. Overall, the CR-V remains the best vehicle in comparison to Subaru Outback vs Honda CR V.

Ritambra

Ritambra is an absolute car fanatic who loves to drive and write about cars. Explore new car launches, automobile technologies, best car deals and more with entertaining, informative and delightful reading that will surely quench your thirst for automobiles.

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