VS
At a Glance
Power
210hp @ 5500
180hp @ 5800
Torque
230lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4400
Towing
3500lbs
2700lbs
Engine
1.6 L/98cc
2.5 L/152cc
Choosing between the Jeep Cherokee and the Subaru Outback is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Jeep Cherokee delivers 210hp @ 5500 while the Subaru Outback produces 180hp @ 5800. Pricing starts at $38,000 for the Cherokee and $41,715 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)
210hp @ 5500
180hp @ 5800
Torque (lb-ft)
230lb-ft
178lb-ft @ 4400
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
1.6 L/98cc
2.5 L/152cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Drive Wheels
Four Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
39mpg
25mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
35mpg
31mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
13.7gal
18gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
188.1in
191.7in
Width (in)
74.7in
74in
Height (in)
67.5in
67.5in
Wheelbase (in)
113in
108.1in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4295lbs
3799lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
2700lbs
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
✓ 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
Jeep Cherokee
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Cherokee
Practicality
Cherokee
Pros & Cons
Jeep Cherokee
Lower starting price ($38,000)
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Subaru Outback
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Cherokee or Outback?
The Cherokee produces 210hp @ 5500 and 230lb-ft of torque while the Outback delivers 180hp @ 5800 and 178lb-ft @ 4400 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Cherokee and Outback?
The Cherokee starts from $38,000 and the Outback from $41,715. The Cherokee is cheaper by $3,715 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Cherokee or Outback?
The Cherokee has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Outback can tow 2700lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Cherokee 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.