VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
260hp @ 5600
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
277lb-ft @ 2000
Fuel
24 mpg est.
24 mpg est.
Towing
1500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the Acura Rdx and the Subaru Outback is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Rdx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the Subaru Outback produces 260hp @ 5600. On fuel, the Rdx returns 24 mpg est. while the Outback uses 24 mpg est. — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at $44,350 for the Rdx and $44,995 for the Outback. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
272hp @ 6500
260hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
277lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
24 mpg est.
24 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
21mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27mpg
27mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.1gal
18gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.4in
191.7in
Width (in)
74.8in
74in
Height (in)
65.7in
67.5in
Wheelbase (in)
108.3in
108.1in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4014lbs
3973lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
3500lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Acura Rdx
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Rdx
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Rdx
Practicality
Outback
Pros & Cons
Acura Rdx
Lower starting price ($44,350)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Outback
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel efficient, the Rdx or Outback?
The Rdx gets 24 mpg est. and the Outback gets 24 mpg est. on the combined cycle. The Outback is the more fuel-efficient choice. In real-world conditions with a mix of highway and urban driving, actual figures will be slightly higher.
Which has more power, the Rdx or Outback?
The Rdx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Outback delivers 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. The Rdx is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the Rdx and Outback?
The Rdx starts from $44,350 and the Outback from $44,995. The Rdx is cheaper by $645 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rdx or Outback?
The Rdx has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Outback can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rdx or the Outback?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.