Compare performance (169 HP vs 309 HP), boot space and price (40,000 £ vs 37,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Subaru Outback or Toyota RAV4?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
The automotive market is teeming with versatile vehicles tailored for different lifestyles; among them, the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 stand out as popular choices for those seeking practicality, reliability, and adventure. Both models offer unique features and innovations, making this a comparison worth exploring for prospective buyers.
When examining the technical specifications of the Subaru Outback and the Toyota RAV4, several key differences emerge. The Subaru Outback is a wagon that relies on a petrol engine with a capacity of 2498 cm3. It harnesses the power of 169 HP and produces a torque of 252 Nm. Its all-wheel-drive system enhances its handling in diverse terrains, catering to adventurous drivers. The Outback's CVT transmission provides a smooth driving experience, with a fuel consumption of 8.6 L/100 km.
On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 is classified as an SUV and offers a wider array of powertrains, including full hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The RAV4 boasts a more powerful engine lineup, yielding between 218 and 306 HP, depending on the specific variant. With a fuel consumption as low as 5.6 L/100 km, the RAV4 is significantly more economical than its Subaru counterpart, especially in its hybrid forms.
Performance metrics reveal intriguing differences between the two models. The Subaru Outback achieves acceleration from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 10.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 193 km/h. The RAV4, however, boasts quicker acceleration with variants achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 6 seconds, depending on the engine choice. Despite this, the RAV4’s top speed is capped at 180 km/h, slightly lower than the Outback.
Space and comfort are critical factors for families and travelers. The Subaru Outback offers a trunk capacity of 561 liters, making it suitable for carrying gear and luggage. Its overall dimensions (4870 mm in length, 1875 mm in width, and 1675 mm in height) contribute to a roomy interior for five passengers.
Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4 provides a slightly larger trunk capacity of 580 liters. Its dimensions (4600 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1685 mm in height) offer a cozy, secure cabin space, making it family-friendly while still compact enough for city driving.
Both Subaru and Toyota have integrated advanced technology into their vehicles. The Outback features the Subaru EyeSight suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. These innovations emphasize safety and enhance the driver’s experience during long hauls or daily commutes.
The RAV4, in contrast, has implemented Toyota’s innovative hybrid technology, offering an impressive electric range of 75 km in its hybrid variants. It is designed with an eye on sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious consumers. Additionally, the RAV4 integrates the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes features like pre-collision systems, lane tracing assist, and adaptive high beams.
Choosing between the Subaru Outback and the Toyota RAV4 ultimately boils down to preference and priorities. If you seek a reliable and adventurous vehicle with traditional petrol power, the Outback may be the right choice for you. However, if fuel efficiency and innovative hybrid technology are your main focus, the RAV4 stands out as a compelling option. Both vehicles boast remarkable qualities that cater to different lifestyles and driving needs, ensuring they remain at the forefront of today’s automotive landscape.
Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.
Toyota RAV4 is very slightly cheaper – starting at 37,700 £ , while the Subaru Outback costs 40,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 2,315 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota RAV4 uses 1.3 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the Subaru Outback with 8.6 L/100km. The difference is about 7.3 L/100km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 offers clearly more power – delivering 309 HP compared to 169 HP. That’s roughly 140 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota RAV4 is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.8 s, while the Subaru Outback takes 10.2 s. That’s about 4.4 s quicker.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Subaru Outback is marginally lighter – 1,643 kg compared to 1,655 kg. The difference is around 12 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Subaru Outback offers very slightly more boot space – 561 L compared to 514 L. That’s a difference of about 47 L.
When it comes to payload, the Toyota RAV4 carries marginally more – 610 kg compared to 557 kg. That’s a difference of about 53 kg.
The Toyota RAV4 stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Subaru Outback is the do-it-all wagon for buyers who want SUV capability without the SUV bulk, blending rugged confidence with everyday civility. It's practical, dependable, and built to shrug off rough gravel tracks or rainy commutes with a grin — ideal for buyers who actually use their vehicles, not just park them for show.
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The Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that pairs everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed ride and generous cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families and active lifestyles. Its strong reputation for reliability, efficient drivetrains, and straightforward technology gives it wide appeal whether you value economy, comfort, or capability.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
40,000 - 44,400 £
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Price
37,700 - 54,200 £
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Consumption L/100km
8.6 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
133 - 137 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
193 g/km
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co2
30 - 121 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Estate
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,643 - 1,676 kg
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Curb weight
1,655 - 1,960 kg
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Trunk capacity
561 L
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Trunk capacity
446 - 514 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,875 mm
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Width
1,880 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
524 - 557 kg
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Payload
515 - 610 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
169 HP
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Power HP
185 - 309 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 8 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
252 Nm
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Torque
-
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
124 kW
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Power kW
136 - 227 kW
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Engine capacity
2,498 cm3
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Engine capacity
2,487 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024
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Model Year
2026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
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Brand
Subaru
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Brand
Toyota
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España