2025 Honda CR-V Vs. Subaru Outback: Performance, Dimensions & More
Are you trying to decide between the Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback? Take a look at our comprehensive comparison that details the performance, dimensions, and size of these compact SUVs. The 2025 Subaru Outback versus Honda CR-V rivalry is fierce, but the Honda CR-V comes out ahead in more ways than one.
Learn about the differences between the Honda CR-V and the Subaru Outback on this page. When you're ready for an in-person tour of the CR-V, visit us at Muller Honda Highland Park.
Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback at a Glance
- The Honda CR-V offers better fuel economy than the Subaru Outback
- Hybrid power is available in the CR-V but not in the Outback
- The Honda CR-V boasts more cargo room than the Subaru Outback
- Additional features come standard in the CR-V than the Outback
Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback Performance & Specs
The first stop in our 2025 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback comparison is looking at how each model measures up in power and performance. The Honda CR-V packs a heftier punch with its standard turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Subaru Outback runs on a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine worth 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, falling a bit short of the Honda CR-V.
Both SUVs offer an available powertrain, with the CR-V prioritizing efficiency and the Outback power. The available Honda CR-V engine is a 2.0-liter two-motor hybrid four-cylinder powertrain that boasts 204 combined horsepower. Meanwhile, the Outback SUV's optional turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine churns out 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.
The SUVs in today's Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback matchup can tow a hefty amount. The 2025 Honda CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, while the 2025 Subaru Outback can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
However, this extra power comes at a cost in the Outback. As we see below, the Honda CR-V offers overall better fuel economy values across the board:
- Turbo 1.5-liter engine with 2WD: EPA-estimated 28/34/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1
- Turbo 1.5-liter engine with AWD: EPA-estimated 26/31/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1
- 2.0-liter hybrid engine with 2WD: EPA-estimated 43/36/40 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1
- 2.0-liter hybrid engine with AWD: EPA-estimated 40/34/37 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1
The Subaru Outback also has different values for each of its engine options, with some variation in the Wilderness trim:
- 2.5-liter engine with AWD: EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2
- Turbo 2.4-liter engine with AWD: EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2
- Turbo 2.4-liter engine with AWD in Wilderness: EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2
Another key difference we discover from these ratings between the 2025 Honda CR-V vs. 2025 Subaru Outback is that the Outback comes standard with Symmetrical AWD. The CR-V is available with 2WD or AWD. And while the Subaru Outback Wilderness misses out on fuel economy, it excels in off-road prowess with 9.5 inches of ground clearance and all-terrain tires. If that isn't an important factor to you, the Honda CR-V is an excellent call. Choose one of the three available hybrid trims, and you can get even more impressive values – something the Subaru Outback fails to offer entirely.
| 2025 Honda CR-V | 2025 Subaru Outback | |
| Engine |
|
|
| Horsepower |
|
|
| Max Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs3 | 3,500 lbs4 |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or AWD | AWD |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy) |
|
|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Max Passenger Volume | 106 cu ft | 109 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind Second Row | Up to 39.3 cu ft | 32.6 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind First Row | 76.5 cu ft | 75.6 cu ft |
If you're interested in seeing how else the gasoline-powered and hybrid Honda CR-V SUVs compare, read our Honda CR-V vs. Honda CR-V Hybrid guide for more details.
Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback Dimensions & Size
Our 2025 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback matchup shows that, without a doubt, the Honda CR-V offers more room overall. Enjoy these spacious values inside the Honda CR-V:
- Max passenger volume: 106 cubic feet
- Max cargo space behind the second row: 39.3 cubic feet
- Max cargo space behind the first row: 76.5 cubic feet
Meanwhile, the 2025 Subaru Outback does not fully measure up, as it offers the following measurements:
- Max passenger volume: 109 cubic feet
- Max cargo space behind the second row: 32.6 cubic feet
- Max cargo space behind the first row: 75.6 cubic feet
In terms of passenger dimensions, the Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback feature similar measurements. For example, the CR-V has 40 inches of front headroom without a sunroof and the Outback has 40.1 inches. The Subaru Outback, however, offers a longer exterior length (191.9 inches vs. 184.8 inches in the CR-V), which may make some road maneuvers more difficult. The two have comparable widths and heights.
Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback Interior & Safety Features
As we continue to compare Honda CR-V to Subaru Outback SUVs, we see how well-equipped each model is. However, the new Honda CR-V for sale has a bit more to offer. For instance, it comes standard with push button start, a feature only available in higher trims of the Outback. The CR-V also has two 12-volt power outlets and ambient lighting as standard equipment, while the Outback fails to offer outlets or ambient lighting in any trim level.
When it comes to safety and driver assist systems, the 2025 CR-V has the upper hand. While both SUV models have a suite of advanced safety technologies, the Outback doesn't offer a few features the CR-V does. These include Traffic Jam Assist, the Traffic Sign Recognition System, the Driver Attention Monitor, and Rear Seat Reminder. Not to mention, all these features come standard in the Honda CR-V.
2025 Honda CR-V: What's New?
With the 2025 Subaru Outback compared to the Honda CR-V, the Honda model is clearly the victor. This also rings true for the 2024 iterations of these SUVs. Not to mention, the 2024 Honda CR-V carried over nearly all its features and perks to 2025, which means this SUV remains as modern and loaded as ever.
Interestingly, the 2025 Subaru Outback has a decent amount of upgrades for the new model year, but it still struggled to keep up with the CR-V in many areas.
Plus, you'll be happy to know that the 2025 Honda CR-V follows in its 2024 predecessor's footsteps with a five-star NHTSA safety rating.5
Test-Drive the 2025 Honda CR-V Near Chicago, IL, Today
The 2025 Honda CR-V is an SUV titan that grades better in performance, fuel efficiency, and features than the 2025 Subaru Outback. This road- and trail-ready champion can help you tackle small towing tasks while bringing cozy interior space to you and your passengers. Plus, you can take advantage of excellent comforts and conveniences that'll have you eager for soccer practice pickup, the morning work commute, or a cross-country trek.
Now that you've seen how the CR-V blows its competitor out of the water in our 2025 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback guide, it's time to visit our Honda dealer near Chicago, IL, for an in-person look and test drive. Ask our talented staff in Highland, IL, for a thorough explanation of the CR-V key features and differences from the Outback so you can decide whether the model suits your needs and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2025 Honda CR-V have better mileage than the Subaru Outback?
The 2025 Honda CR-V offers better mileage than the 2025 Subaru Outback. Although both models are comparable, the Honda CR-V takes you farther, with up to an EPA-estimated 28/34/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback offers a maximum EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 The CR-V also has a hybrid variation with even higher fuel ratings.
Which has more cargo space: the new 2025 Honda CR-V or the Subaru Outback?
While the 2025 Subaru Outback offers more passenger volume than the 2025 Honda CR-V, the CR-V wins in cargo space. It boasts up to 39.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 76.5 cubic feet behind the first row. The Outback only has 32.6 cubic feet and 75.6 cubic feet, respectively. Explore the impressive flexibility of the CR-V today.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V more reliable than the Subaru Outback?
The Honda CR-V is considered more reliable than the Subaru Outback. While the 2025 models have yet to be evaluated, RepairPal rated the 2024 Honda CR-V a 4.5/5 for reliability;6 the 2024 Subaru Outback received a 3.5/5 for reliability.7 Learn more about how the Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Outback compare in terms of reliability and safety today.
Continue Your Honda CR-V Research
1Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
2EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
3Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
4Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit www.nhtsa.gov.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/honda/cr-v.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/outback.