VS
At a Glance
Power
260hp @ 5600
226hp @ 6000
Torque
277lb-ft @ 2000
172lb-ft
Fuel
25 mpg est.
45 mpg est.
Towing
3500lbs
1750lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146ci
2.5 L/152ci
Choosing between the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Rav4 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru Outback delivers 260hp @ 5600 while the Toyota Rav4 produces 226hp @ 6000. On fuel, the Outback returns 25 mpg est. while the Rav4 uses 45 mpg est. — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at $44,365 for the Outback and $31,900 for the Rav4. 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.
Specification
Subaru OutbackLimited XT AWD 2026 - From $44,365
Toyota Rav4LE FWD (Natl) 2026 - From $31,900
Performance
Power Output (hp)
260hp @ 5600
226hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
277lb-ft @ 2000
172lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146ci
2.5 L/152ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Hybrid
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
CVT w/OD
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
25 mpg est.
45 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
48 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
42 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18gal
14.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
191.7in
181in
Width (in)
74in
73in
Height (in)
67.5in
67in
Wheelbase (in)
108.1in
105.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3968lbs
3594lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
1750lbs
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
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
—
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Outback
Fuel Economy
Rav4
Value
Rav4
Practicality
Outback
Pros & Cons
Subaru Outback
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Higher fuel consumption (25 mpg est.)
Higher starting price
Toyota Rav4
Better fuel economy (45 mpg est.)
Lower starting price ($31,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel efficient, the Outback or Rav4?
The Outback gets 25 mpg est. and the Rav4 gets 45 mpg est. on the combined cycle. The Rav4 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 Outback or Rav4?
The Outback produces 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque while the Rav4 delivers 226hp @ 6000 and 172lb-ft of torque. The Outback is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the Outback and Rav4?
The Outback starts from $44,365 and the Rav4 from $31,900. The Rav4 is cheaper by $12,465 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Outback or Rav4?
The Outback has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Rav4 can tow 1750lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Outback or the Rav4?
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.