Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Outback
The 2026 Honda HR-V is the cheaper one to own — roughly $10,548 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The Subaru Outback counters with more cargo room (34.6 vs 24.4 cu ft).
Go with the Honda HR-V for the better long-term value; consider the Subaru Outback if you prioritize more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Outback
| Metric | Honda HR-V | Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| MotiveGrid Score | 78 | 86 |
| Cost of Ownership | 91 | 85 |
| Powertrain | 62 | 62 |
| Driver Assistance | 43 | 32 |
| Livability | 54 | 69 |
| Safety | 79 | 100 |
| 5-Year Cost to Own | $37,922 | $48,470 |
| Depreciation (5-yr) | $8,533 | $15,678 |
| Fuel / Energy (5-yr) | $12,027 | $12,187 |
| Insurance (5-yr) | $9,135 | $10,100 |
| Maintenance (5-yr) | $1,915 | $2,095 |
| Tires (5-yr) | $1,500 | $2,150 |
| Financing (5-yr) | $3,987 | $5,265 |
| Registration (5-yr) | $825 | $995 |
| Starting Price | $26,500 | $34,995 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 180 hp |
| MPG (combined) | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Cargo volume | 24.4 cu ft | 34.6 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Towing capacity | — | 2,700 lbs |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Subaru Outback scores higher overall.
Which vehicle is right for you
Honda HR-V is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $10,548 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Subaru Outback still wins if your priority is best for families.
Cost of Ownership
State
Frequently asked questions
Where these rank
- Honda HR-V ranks #1 of 3 in Best Compact SUV and #1 of 3 in Cheapest Compact SUV to Own.
- Subaru Outback ranks #1 of 3 in Safest Midsize SUVs and #1 of 3 in Best Midsize SUV for Families.
What each one costs at the counter
Both five-year totals above count yearly registration. Neither counts what the state takes on the day you sign — sales tax and the title fee. Those are one-time, they are not the dealer’s to negotiate, and on a car at this price they run to four figures in most states. Work out yours:
- Tax, title and license in North Carolinawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Michiganwhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Arizonawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Tennesseewhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Massachusettswhat a car costs to own there
Compare tax, title and license across all 22 states we cover →