Performance

A comparison of the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek and the Outback begins behind the wheel. Across the Crosstrek’s four trims, two powertrains are available. These include a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter, 152-horsepower system and a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 182-horsepower system. All trims have all-wheel drive and a CVT, but manual transmission is optional for the first powertrain. Two powertrains are offered with the 2023 Outback’s nine possible trims. The 182-horsepower system in the Crosstrek is also standard for most Outback trims. However, the Wilderness and XT trims receive 260 horsepower from a turbo 2.4-liter, four-cylinder system. Across the board, the Outback has a CVT and all-wheel drive.

Appearance

While these Subaru crossovers are easy on the eyes, they are styled differently. Angles across the roof and hood define the profile of the Crosstrek. The side panels have an athletic, angled accent with prominent fenders. On the nose, a contrasting, L-shaped bar rises near the foglights. These foglights flank a muscular bumper. Across the trapezoid-like grille, a chrome bar runs horizontally. A forked LED bar enhances the triangular headlights. The taller Outback has an upright look thanks to its almost-level roof. At the bottom of the smooth side panels, thick molding adds functionality. While the grille is trapezoidal, it is larger than the Crosstrek’s grille. The same forked LED bar runs through the headlights, but the bar is more pronounced. At the front and rear, the molded, black bumpers create an athletic look.

Features

The appeal of these Subaru models grows when you check out their many features. Across both the Crosstrek and the Outback, select or all trims may offer leather upholstery, heated front seats, a digital rear mirror, a Harman Kardon audio system, a sunroof, rear auto braking, rear cross-traffic detection, and a navigation system. The Outback has a few additional available features, including driver’s memory settings, rear heated seats, and pedestrian detection.

Which of these Subaru crossovers is an excellent fit for you? Our associates at Bob Wade Subaru are standing by to help you answer this question through a showroom tour and a few test drives. Visit our convenient location soon to wrap up your search for a new vehicle.