2020 Subaru Outback VS Honda CR-V
October 19 2020,
The Subaru Outback and the Honda CR-V are two leading players in the compact SUV segment, and although they share many superficial similarities, in other ways they're very different beasts indeed.
For 2020, the Subaru has been re-released with a complete design overhaul, while the Honda has received several tweaks and refinements over previous models. Which would be the best choice as your next SUV? Read our head-to-head review to find out.
First Impressions
Both cars follow the traditional compact SUV shape, but give a subtly different impression at first glance. The Honda is rectangular and straightforward, with little to make it stand out from the crowd. The Subaru looks much more like the outdoors-oriented vehicle it is, with its wagon-like shape and go-getting attitude.
In terms of dimensions, the two vehicles measure almost identically, although the Subaru is around 20cm longer bumper to bumper.
Under the Hood
The SUVs come with two engine options each. Starting with the Honda, the standard issue is a 1.5L turbo model producing 190 horsepower and 179lb-ft of torque. The soon-to-be-released second option will be a hybrid, although the details aren't yet finalized.
The Outback's standard engine is larger at 2.5L, but the lack of turbocharging means it produces a slightly lower 182 horsepower and 176lb-ft of torque.
Things become much more interesting with the upgraded 2.4L turbo flat-four mill, which cranks out a healthy 260 horsepower and 277lb-ft of torque.
These figures make the Subaru the clear choice if you're looking for great off-road or highway performance, particularly when the all-wheel drive is taken into account.
The option of front-wheel drive on the Honda produces marginally better fuel economy figures than the Outback, although the difference is narrowed when the drive is upgraded to all-wheel. For the record, both SUVs feature a continuously variable transmission across the entire range.
Driver Assist Technology
Both cars have extensive driver assist features as standard, including:
- Automatic emergency braking.
- Lane keep assist.
- Adaptive cruise control.
The main difference is that the Honda offers a road departure warning, while the Subaru swaps that for a lane-centring assist function. But there's not really anything to choose between them: both the Subaru EyeSight and Honda Sensing systems are excellent choices.
Infotainment Technology and Interior
As far as infotainment is concerned, the Subaru Outback is a clear winner. As standard it features dual 7" inch screens which are upgradeable to 11.6", and equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In the Honda, as standard you'll find a meagre 5" screen, although this can be upgraded to a single 7" option including Apple and Android connectivity.
However, the comparison is much more equal when it comes to interior space and comfort. Both cars are roomy, with the Subaru prioritizing passenger space over cargo, and the Honda taking the opposite approach.
Test Drive the Subaru Outback in Toronto
Want to see more? Contact us now to arrange a test drive of the Subaru Outback from our Toronto showroom. If you're looking for a SUV that mixes rugged character with excellent performance, the 2020 Subaru Outback is the ideal fit.
