How Does the 2023 Subaru Outback Stand Up Against Its Competitors?

On the hunt for a Subaru Outback for sale? If you’re familiar with Subaru, then you know they are reliable and durable vehicles, and once you join team Subaru, you typically never go back. But maybe you’ve seen a few other eye-catching models on the market lately and wonder what they are all about. We get it; the Midsize crossover market is huge these days, so it can be difficult to make the right choice. Even a model as iconic as the Subaru Outback is bound to rack up more than a few competitors. But we feel, because of the Outback’s track record of high reliability and performance combined with value, it’s more than up to the task of tackling its competition head-on.

Still on the fence about jumping over to a crossover SUV? Check what the Subaru Outback has versus the competition. Seeing what the Outback offers against its competitors is a great way to feel confident about your buying options. Because buying a new vehicle is a large investment of both your time and money, you want to ensure you get it right. Don’t be swayed by the latest gadget or flashy color; getting into a vehicle you can rely on from a brand you can trust is what Subaru is all about. Find out what the Outback offers, and you can thank us later.

The Outback vs. The Ford Escape

Both Subaru and Ford are big names in the automotive world, and Ford’s midsize SUV is a popular model for drivers who want the convenience of a 5-seat SUV. However, how does the Escape stack up against the Outback? Both 2023 models start around the $28k mark, which isn’t much of a factor. If your budget falls below the 30k level, then both are in the running. So what do drivers get for their money?

The good news is that the Outback delivers when it comes to performance. It was designed to hold up when nature rears its head. Drivers will enjoy the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on the Outback, while drivers who opt for the Ford Escape will have to pay extra for available all-wheel drive. When dealing with slippery roads or winter storms, having all-wheel drive can be a real confidence booster. The fact that the Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive gives it an edge.

Subaru also appeals to drivers because their cars are a great investment. The Outback is noted as having a high resale value. Whereas with Ford, it’s mostly their trucks that are known to hold the best value. In a saturated SUV market, investing in a vehicle you know will depreciate slower than average is always a smart move. As for fuel economy, the Ford Escape gets slightly better mileage, but that is only on the front-wheel drive models. If you add all-wheel drive, its efficiency decreases. This closes the gap and makes both SUVs nearly the same regarding fuel economy.

The Outback vs. The Acura RDX

Both the Outback and the RDX are midsize SUVs that offer drivers plenty of interior cargo space plus seating for five. So we know the SUVs are comfortable and can fit a family of five; so what about the price? Drivers will immediately notice the Acura RDX price point is way above the Outback. The Outback is just over $28k for the entry-level trim; the Acura RDX begins at $41,750. And again, we notice the Acura RDX does not come standard with all-wheel drive. So if you want that extra traction and control, you’ll have to add that onto the already high starting price.

As for powertrains, the 2023 Outback offers two choices of a base level 2.5L BOXER engine or a 2.4L turbo BOXER engine that is available for higher trim choices. For the RDX, there is only the sole turbocharged 2.0L engine, so those looking for an array of performance choices may be disappointed. Whereas Subaru drivers can level up with the turbo engine, the Acura offers drivers the same level of horsepower and torque just with the addition of an all-wheel drive option.

The Acura might be a luxury brand, so it offers plenty of bells and whistles, but when it comes down to it, you want a vehicle you can count on. It’s good to know that both the RDX and the Outback were awarded Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety; however, Subaru has a stronger reputation when it comes to a practical, everyday SUV that holds value and gives drivers a lot without breaking their budget.

The Outback Vs. The Honda Passport

Honda is a big name when it comes to great vehicles, so can the Outback somehow manage to outshine its midsize Passport SUV? We have to say it’s a close call, but we’re confident the Outback will prove itself. Just by looking at the entry-level prices, a 2023 Passport begins at a whopping $41k, whereas the Outback manages to keep it below the $30k mark, coming in at just over 28k. If you’re shopping on a budget and need a reliable car, it’s tough to beat the value the Outback has to offer.

However, while the Outback was designed to give you the space of a midsize SUV, it also drives like a car. The Passport is more rugged and offers drivers the power of a V6 engine. This is something to keep in mind when you’re thinking about your power and performance needs. Both the Outback and the Passport offer drivers standard all-wheel drive for increased performance. Both models also come with many driver-assist features and a safety seat to ensure that drivers are covered from all sides. A forward collision alert system, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control are all features included with the Outback and the Passport.

Both the Outback and the Passport have much to offer drivers; however, many of those features are the same. The Passport might offer more power, but if you’re a driver with no plans to take your trip off-road or does much towing, paying for the extra performance of a V6 engine might not be worth it. It’s also worth noting both Subaru and Honda have strong reputations for producing safe and dependable vehicles. It just all depends on where you want to put your money. If spending $40k-plus is in your budget, the Subaru Outback offers several trim options, including the off-roading Wilderness model, that help give you more of what Subaru offers without hurting your wallet.

For Unbeatable Value, Consider the Subaru Outback Your Next Faithful Travel Companion

The Subaru Outback is not afraid to meet its competitors head-on. While it might not offer as many luxury features as the midsize Acura RDX or the power of the Honda Passport, it balances itself out and offers a well-rounded package of dependability, power, and convenience. This makes it a great, practical ride for drivers looking to invest their dollars wisely. The Outback holds its value better than many other SUV brands. Maybe this is because of its stellar reputation as a long-lasting vehicle or because it’s one of the few vehicles offering standard all-wheel drive.

If you don’t want to waste time or are on the fence about your next SUV model, the Outback is ready and waiting for you. Take it for a test spin and experience all this outstanding midsize model has to offer. From a roomy and flexible cabin that is capable of everyone and everything you need to its modern good looks to its unbeatable price, the Subaru Outback gives drivers a valuable SUV that is tough to beat.