2024 Subaru Outback Vs 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, Bigger Isn’t Always Better

The 2024 Subaru Outback vs. the 2024 Crosstrek: What are the differences? Check out the two all-wheel-drive models. Is bigger always better?

The 2024 Subaru Outback and the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are two of our most popular models, but which is best for you? I will discuss the similarities and differences.

But what makes these two SUVs different? Let's find out.

Body Style, Size And Shape

The Crosstrek is a compact SUV, meaning that its right-sized body shape is ideal for tight trails and small parking garages. And because of its longer wheelbase, the Outback has a smoother ride and more controlled handling.

Subaru Boxer Engine And All-Wheel-Drive

The Outback and Crosstrek have Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and are powered by Subaru's Boxer engines. 

Related Content: Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Vs. Outback Wilderness - 3 Features Will Convince You

While both models offer two engine options, the Outback offers the extra muscle of a 260-horsepower turbocharged engine. Customers can also get a 2.5-liter Boxer engine producing 182 horsepower.

The 2024 Crosstrek has two engine options, the 2.0 liter engine producing 152 horsepower and the 2.5 liter Boxer with 182 horsepower. 

Towing Capacity

The Outback's 2.4-liter turbo engine can tow up to 3,500 pounds. On all Crosstrek trims besides Wilderness, you'll have a standard towing capacity of 1,500 pounds. But if you plan on bringing more gear or a trailer on your next excursion, the Crosstrek Wilderness edition can also tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Ground Clearance And X-Mode

Both vehicles have ground clearance starting at 8.7 inches and an available dual-function X-Mode. The Wilderness trims have even more ground clearance: Outback Wilderness has 9.4 inches, and Crosstrek Wilderness comes with 9.3 inches.  

Fuel Mileage

While both models achieve excellent fuel economy, the Crosstrek gets slightly better gas mileage because it's smaller and lighter than the Outback.

The Subaru Crosstrek 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine gets 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg. The 2.0-liter engine gets 27/34 mpg and 29 combined mpg with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic, contributing to better mileage.

The Crosstrek Wilderness trim gets an EPA-estimated 25/29 city/highway mpg and 27 combined mpg.

The 2024 Outback XT 2.4-liter turbo's EPA fuel mileage rating is 22/29 city/highway mpg and 25 combined mpg. The standard 2.5-liter engine's estimated fuel economy is 26/32 city/highway mpg and 28 combined mpg.

The EPA says the 2023 Outback Wilderness gets an estimated 21/26 city/highway mpg and 23 combined mpg.

Seating Capacity And Leg Room

Both models can accommodate up to five passengers, but the Outback offers more overall space and a bit more elbow and legroom in the second row. 

Cargo Space And Versatility

However, being a compact SUV, the Crosstrek is still spacious and versatile. However, for carrying more cargo, the Outback has more room for longer and taller items, and when the seats are up, you'll also have more room behind the rear seats in the Outback. The Outback offers a power rear gate to simplify loading and unloading.

An LED light illuminates the ground below on select Outback trims and the Crosstrek Wilderness for better nighttime visibility. When it's time to load in your cargo, Outback has a slightly wider rear gate opening and cargo floor.

Roof Rails

When you throw gear up top, the Crosstrek roof rails are standard on most trims, but crossbars are an added accessory. On Outback, they are standard. 

Interior Comforts And Conveniences

Depending on your trim, both models offer durable cloth, perforated leather, or water-repellent StarTex upholstery. In the Outback, you can also opt for an upgraded Nappa leather.

The Crosstrek offers a 10-way power driver seat for more comfort and support when you're behind the wheel. In the Outback, you can opt for a 12-way power driver seat with adjustable thigh support. Your co-pilot can also have eight-way adjustability in the Outback.

While both models have heated front seats, the Outback also offers front-seat ventilation. A heated steering wheel is also available in the Outback for extra warmth in the colder months. Crosstrek does not have a heated steering wheel. 

And while both the Outback and Crosstrek offer rear-seat USB charge ports, only the Outback offers A/C vents and heated rear seats.

Tech And Connectivity

Regarding tech and connectivity, the Outback and Crosstrek include many of the same features.

Both have dual 7-inch or 11.6-inch touchscreens and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless access to your music, apps, and navigation.

On the Crosstrek, Qi wireless charging is standard on most trims. And on the Outback, it's offered as an accessory.

The Outback offers integrated GPS navigation on most trims, and in the Crosstrek, it's available on the Limited trim.

Related Subaru Model Comparison: The Subaru Crosstrek Vs Outback Vs Forester SUVs - iSeeCars Says One Is The Best

A front-view monitor, only available on the Outback, gives 180-degree visibility from the front grille for enhanced awareness in tight spaces.

Both models offer Harman Kardon premium audio systems, with the Outback giving you a few extra speakers, including a subwoofer.

The Outback has an available smart rearview mirror, which allows you to see more of what's behind you when your back seat is full.

EyeSight Driver Assist Technologies

The Outback and Crosstrek have active safety technologies, like standard Steering Responsive Headlights that move in the direction you're turning.

Both models are also equipped with standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

All Crosstrek trims and the Outback Touring trims include an updated version of EyeSight, with an extra camera that provides an even wider field of vision for enhanced pedestrian and cyclist detection.

Safety Rating

The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, while the Crosstrek did not meet the more demanding IIHS safety qualifications. 

Outback Vs. Crosstrek Pricing

Here's how the price breaks down for these two models:

For the 2024 model year, the Outback is available in nine trim levels. The Base is priced at $30,190, Premium ($32,490), Onyx Edition ($37,400), Limited ($37,090), Touring ($41,640), Onyx Edition XT ($40,655), Wilderness ($41,255), Limited XT ($41,490), and Touring XT ($44,090). In addition, destination and delivery fees are included in the price above ($1,295).

For 2024, the Crosstrek Base has a starting price of $26,290. The Crosstrek Premium has a starting price of $27,440, Sport ($30,290), and Limited ($32,190). Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,225). The all-new Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees ($1,295).

Warch: 2024 Subaru Outback vs 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | What Are The Differences?

Recap And Key Differences

Let's do a quick recap of the main differences between the Outback and Crosstrek:

The Outback is a midsize SUV, so it's longer, taller, and wider than the Crosstrek compact SUV. Regarding cargo and passenger space, the Outback also has more room. However, the size of the Crosstrek will give you better maneuverability and fuel economy.

The Outback comes standard with a more powerful Boxer engine, and you can have a turbocharged engine. It also has a higher standard towing capacity.

But the Crosstrek and Outback Wilderness trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

With the Outback, you can get more upgrades and tech items, like a smart rearview mirror, Nappa leather, and ventilated seats.

The Outback is top-rated regarding safety, but the Crosstrek comes standard with an upgraded EyeSight system.

Both Subaru Outback and Crosstrek are built for customers with active lifestyles. Is the bigger 2024 Subaru Outback better than the smaller Crosstrek? I would say bigger isn't always better. 

Your Turn

Which Subaru model would you choose? Let us know in the comments below. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru