VS
At a Glance
Power
260hp @ 5600
269hp @ 5500
Torque
277lb-ft @ 2000
273lb-ft @ 1600
Towing
3500lbs
5000lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the Subaru Outback and the Volkswagen Atlas is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru Outback delivers 260hp @ 5600 while the Volkswagen Atlas produces 269hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $44,365 for the Outback and $48,060 for the Atlas. 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)
260hp @ 5600
269hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
277lb-ft @ 2000
273lb-ft @ 1600
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
18 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
29mpg
25 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18gal
18.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
191.7in
200.7in
Width (in)
74in
78.3in
Height (in)
67.5in
70.4in
Wheelbase (in)
108.1in
117.3in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3968lbs
4594lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
3500lbs
5000lbs
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
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Outback
Practicality
Atlas
Pros & Cons
Subaru Outback
Lower starting price ($44,365)
Few notable weaknesses
Volkswagen Atlas
Higher towing capacity (5000lbs)
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Outback or Atlas?
The Outback produces 260hp @ 5600 and 277lb-ft @ 2000 of torque while the Atlas delivers 269hp @ 5500 and 273lb-ft @ 1600 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Outback and Atlas?
The Outback starts from $44,365 and the Atlas from $48,060. The Outback is cheaper by $3,695 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Outback or Atlas?
The Outback has a braked towing capacity of 3500lbs and the Atlas can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Outback or the Atlas?
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.