Subaru Crosstrek vs Outback Comparison

2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Outback: Two Subaru Icons, One Tough Choice

Comparing design, performance, space, and value for your next adventure in Yakima

Choosing between the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Outback comes down to how much space you want and how you prefer your adventures, compact and agile or long-legged and road-trip ready.

Exterior Design

The Crosstrek and Outback share Subaru DNA, yet they project very different personalities in the parking lot. The Crosstrek presents itself as a lifted hatchback with a ready-for-anything stance, while the Outback leans into its role as a rugged, long-roof wagon.

• Subaru Crosstrek: Short overall length, tight overhangs, and pronounced body cladding create a compact profile that fits easily into city spaces and tight trailhead lots.
• Subaru Crosstrek: Standard roof rails and generous ground clearance signal that it is ready for dirt roads, snow, and light off-road use without extra modification.
• Subaru Outback: A longer body, wide cargo opening, and taller roofline give it a more substantial look and more visual presence on the road.
• Subaru Outback: Raised roof rails with integrated crossbars make it simple to mount bikes, kayaks, or a cargo box for extended trips around Ellensburg.

Performance and Efficiency

Both models come standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Subaru's Lineartronic CVT, so traction and smooth power delivery are built in from the start. The difference lies in engine choices and overall driving character.

• Crosstrek: Offers a 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with 152 horsepower and an available 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with 182 horsepower, giving shoppers a clear choice between maximum efficiency and extra punch.
• Crosstrek: Light curb weight and compact size give it quick responses in town and a playful feel on winding roads.
• Outback: Uses a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with 182 horsepower as standard and offers a 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with 260 horsepower for stronger passing power and towing confidence.
• Outback: Longer wheelbase and wider stance create a very stable highway ride, especially with the available turbo engine pulling steep grades with ease.

Interior Design

Inside, both models deliver the straightforward ergonomics and visibility that Subaru owners expect, yet each cabin serves a slightly different mission.

• Subaru Crosstrek: Front seats offer firm, supportive bolsters, and the elevated driving position gives a commanding view without feeling tall or top-heavy.
• Subaru Crosstrek: The rear bench comfortably accommodates adults on shorter trips and kids on longer drives around Sunnyside, and durable seat fabrics stand up to pets, gear, and everyday use.
• Subaru Outback: Cabin width and legroom increase noticeably, especially in the second row, where passengers enjoy generous space for knees and shoulders.
• Subaru Outback: Available upscale touches such as leather-trimmed upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a large tablet-style center display create a near-luxury atmosphere.

Versatility

Subaru builds both the Crosstrek and Outback for Moses Lake drivers who do more than commute. Camping gear, dogs, bikes, and home-improvement runs all factor into the design.

• Subaru Crosstrek: Fold-flat rear seats and a wide hatch opening create impressive space for a vehicle this size, perfect for weekend gear, skis, or a mountain bike with the front wheel removed.
• Subaru Crosstrek: Ground clearance and compact length make it comfortable on narrow forest roads and tight trailheads where full-size SUVs feel cumbersome.
• Subaru Outback: Larger cargo volume behind the second row allows you to load full-size coolers, strollers, or camping bins without stacking items precariously.
• Subaru Outback: With seats folded, the long, flat load floor handles lumber, surfboards, and bulky adventure gear with ease.

Price

Budget plays a major role in any side-by-side comparison, and Subaru prices these two models to reflect their missions and size.

• Subaru Crosstrek: $26,995 starting MSRP
• Subaru Outback: $36,445 starting MSRP

Shop at McCurley Subaru of Yakima

If you are deciding between the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and the Subaru Outback, the best approach is to experience both on familiar streets and highways. At McCurley Subaru of Yakima near Union Gap, you can sit in each cabin, compare cargo space in person, and take back-to-back test drives to feel the difference in size, power, and ride quality today.