Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Outback
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek is the cheaper one to own — roughly $9,521 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The Subaru Outback counters with more cargo room (34.6 vs 20 cu ft).
Go with the Subaru Crosstrek for the better long-term value; consider the Subaru Outback if you prioritize more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Subaru Outback
| Metric | Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| MotiveGrid Score | 75 | 86 |
| Cost of Ownership | 91 | 85 |
| Powertrain | 63 | 62 |
| Driver Assistance | 32 | 32 |
| Livability | 61 | 69 |
| Safety | 72 | 100 |
| 5-Year Cost to Own | $38,949 | $48,470 |
| Depreciation (5-yr) | $9,502 | $15,678 |
| Fuel / Energy (5-yr) | $11,610 | $12,187 |
| Insurance (5-yr) | $9,195 | $10,100 |
| Maintenance (5-yr) | $2,095 | $2,095 |
| Tires (5-yr) | $1,650 | $2,150 |
| Financing (5-yr) | $4,062 | $5,265 |
| Registration (5-yr) | $835 | $995 |
| Starting Price | $26,995 | $34,995 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 180 hp |
| MPG (combined) | 29 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Cargo volume | 20 cu ft | 34.6 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Towing capacity | — | 2,700 lbs |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 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
Subaru Crosstrek is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $9,521 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
- Subaru Crosstrek ranks #2 of 3 in Easiest Compact SUV to Park and #2 of 5 in Best Compact SUV for Tall Drivers.
- 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 Coloradowhat a car costs to own there
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- Tax, title and license in South Carolinawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Louisianawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Kentuckywhat a car costs to own there
Compare tax, title and license across all 22 states we cover →