Looking for a vehicle that can take you off the beaten path? You’re not alone. The popularity of SUVs and crossovers has skyrocketed in recent years.
Drivers are increasingly looking for vehicles that offer more space, versatility, and capability than a traditional sedan or wagon.
While the Subaru Outback is one of the most popular options in this category, it’s not the only one.
Several other cars similar to Subaru Outback offer similar features, capabilities, and, in some cases, even more.
In our blog post, we’ll take a look at the best alternatives to the Subaru Outback.
From compact crossovers to full-size SUVs, there’s something for everyone on our list of cars similar to Subaru Outback.
What Is The Subaru Outback?
The Subaru Outback is the brand’s flagship SUV for a good reason. This vehicle offers a blend of comfort, capability, and value that is hard to beat.
The Outback has rugged good looks, a comfortable and spacious interior, and efficient powertrains.
It also offers a healthy dose of off-road capability, making it a great choice for drivers who like to explore the outdoor side of life.
Cars Similar to Subaru Outback
When it comes to alternatives to the Subaru Outback, plenty of options exist. Here are a few of the best options.
1. Audi A4 Allroad
The Audi A4 Allroad is first on our list of cars similar to Subaru Outback. It is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by German automaker Audi since 2009.
It is based on the A4 Avant station wagon, with added ground clearance and a modified suspension system.
Stainless steel underbody protection panels and rugged plastic body cladding characterize Allroad’s body style.
These cars similar to Subaru Outback, are designed for off-road driving, with standard four-wheel drive, hill-descent control, and an off-road mode.
The Allroad is powered by either a petrol or diesel engine, and the standard choice is Audi’s turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI petrol engine, which produces 190PS (140kW; 187hp) and 320N⋅m (236 lb-ft) of torque.
The Allroad has a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission.
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, MMI Radio Plus with a ten-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a hill-start.
2. Mini Clubman
Mini Clubman is also on our list of cars similar to Subaru Outback. If you’re looking for a smaller alternative to the Outback, then the Mini Clubman could be the perfect option.
This roomy wagon offers all the style and fun that Mini is known for, with a spacious interior and plenty of performance and tech.
The Clubman cars similar to Subaru Outback, also offer AWD, giving you added confidence in slippery conditions.
The Mini Clubman S is a high-performance version of the Mini Clubman.
It features a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 189bhp and 192 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0–60mph in 7.2 seconds.
It has sports suspension, bigger brakes, and 17” alloy wheels. Inside, the Clubman S gains a sports steering wheel, sports seats with more lateral support, and interior trim upgrades, such as Piano Black dash panels and leather trim.
Other features of the S include an upgraded sound system, navigation system, and rear parking sensors.
3. Volkswagen Golf SportWagen
The Golf SportWagen is another great option for those looking for practical and affordable cars similar to Subaru Outback.
This roomy wagon has a stylish exterior and a well-crafted interior. It also offers the latest in technology and safety features.
The added bonus? It’s available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
The Volkswagen Golf SportWagen is a wagon-style version of the iconic and popular Volkswagen Golf hatchback.
It offers many of the features, such as excellent fuel economy, handling, styling, and safety, that you’ll find in the Golf, with the added benefit of a more spacious interior.
The SportWagen cars similar to Subaru Outback, also provide a higher driving position and greater cargo space than the regular Golf.
Buyers can also choose four different engines and get a manual or automatic transmission. Regarding fuel economy, the SportWagen is rated up to 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.
4. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by the Japanese manufacturer Toyota and sold throughout the world from 1984 to the present.
The 4Runner is a compact, midsize SUV that is part of the Toyota family.
It has a traditional body-on-frame construction, solid rear axles, and independent front suspension.
It was specifically designed for off-road exploration and can navigate more rugged terrain than many other midsize SUVs.
It comes in various trim levels, including limited and other specialized packages.
As of 2021, it is still in production and is available in two- and four-wheel-drive configurations.
If you’re looking for cars similar to Subaru Outbacks that can really tackle the trails, then the Toyota 4Runner is worth a look.
This SUV offers an impressive amount of off-roading capability thanks to its powerful V6 engine and selectable all-wheel drive system.
It also has a ruggedly stylish exterior, making it an eye-catching choice for those who like to take the road less traveled.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since 1992. It is a luxurious off-roader with various trims and tech features.
It has a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, allowing for power and fuel efficiency.
It is known for its ruggedness and can traverse off-road terrain easily. It has ample room for passengers and luggage, making it a great family vehicle.
The Grand Cherokee is a full-size SUV that is sure to turn heads. This vehicle offers an impressive blend of style, luxury, and capability.
It has a refined interior, an efficient powertrain, and plenty of advanced safety features. It’s also available in two all-wheel-drive systems, giving it excellent traction in slippery conditions.
6. Volvo V60 Cross Country
If you’re looking for a more luxurious alternative to the Outback, then the V60 Cross Country could be just what you’re looking for.
This upscale wagon offers all the luxury and performance of a Volvo but with added off-road capability.
It has a stylish exterior and a well-equipped interior, as well as a robust all-wheel-drive system.
The Volvo V60 Cross Country cars similar to Subaru Outback, are midsize luxury station wagons manufactured by Volvo since the 2014 model year.
The V60 Cross Country is based on the standard V60 but has increased ground clearance and a rugged exterior styling with plastic cladding, allowing it to better cope with off-road driving.
It comes standard with all-wheel drive and offers a range of petrol and diesel engines.
The V60 Cross Country cars similar to Subaru Outback also have several additional features over the standard V60, such as Hill Descent Control, All-Terrain Traction Control, and a unique X-Mode for maximum traction on low-grip surfaces.
The V60 Cross Country is ideal for those looking for stylish and versatile solutions for off-roading and city driving.
7. Hyundai Santa Cruz
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup truck that is expected to be released sometime in 2021.
It will be powered by a choice of four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines and includes a unique suspension system with a rear multilink setup instead of the usual leaf-spring setup used on traditional pickup trucks.
It will feature an 8-speed automatic transmission and offer two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.
Inside, the Santa Cruz will feature a seven-inch infotainment system, wireless charging, and a variety of other tech features.
Expected safety features will include lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking, among others.
The Santa Cruz is a hybrid between a crossover and a pickup truck. It has a rugged exterior and a comfortable interior.
These cars similar to Subaru Outback, also offer an efficient powertrain, plenty of features, and a selectable all-wheel-drive system for added control in slippery conditions.
8. Ford Bronco
Lastly, the Ford Bronco is a rugged, four-wheel drive sport utility vehicle that was introduced in 1966.
Ford manufactured the Bronco for nearly 30 years before it was discontinued in 1996.
The Bronco has a very loyal following that still holds Bronco rallies, attends car shows, and celebrates the beloved Ford model.
The Bronco is a capable mid-size SUV that offers a ruggedly stylish exterior and a comfortable interior.
It has a powerful engine, responsive handling, and a robust all-wheel-drive system for added traction in off-road conditions.
These cars, similar to Subaru Outback, also have a long list of features, making it a great choice for those who are looking for something that stands out from the crowd.
Conclusion
The Subaru Outback is a great vehicle but is not the only option. Several other cars similar to Subaru Outback offer similar features and capabilities, and in some cases, even More.
There’s something for everyone on our list of the best alternatives to the Subaru Outback.
No matter your needs, you will find cars similar to Subaru Outbacks that meet them.
The Subaru Outback is a well-rounded vehicle with a feature-packed interior, a reliable powertrain, good off-road capabilities, and modern technology features.
If you’re looking for a similar car offering the same performance, safety, and comfort level, then the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V have decent offerings.
The Ford Escape is also popular, and the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5 are solid picks.
Ultimately, the cars similar to Subaru Outback you choose will depend on your personal needs and preferences.