Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Outback: Which to Buy
Toyota 4Runner starts at $41,570; the Subaru Outback starts at $34,995. Before taxes and fees, the Subaru Outback is $6,605 less. Toyota 4Runner makes more power, 278 - 326 hp against 180 hp. The Toyota 4Runner seats 7, the Subaru Outback seats 5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toyota 4Runner or the Subaru Outback cheaper?
The Subaru Outback costs less to start. Toyota 4Runner: $41,570 plus $1,450 destination. Subaru Outback: $34,995 plus $1,420 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.
Which gets better fuel economy, the Toyota 4Runner or the Subaru Outback?
The Toyota 4Runner is rated 20/26 city/hwy, and the Subaru Outback is rated 25/31 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.
How many people does each seat?
The Toyota 4Runner seats 7. The Subaru Outback seats 5.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Toyota 4Runner: Retains the iconic power-down rear window, though starting price has moved significantly upmarket. Subaru Outback: Unmatched all-weather confidence with Symmetrical AWD, though base engine performance is modest for its size.
Toyota 4Runner is best for
Toyota 4Runner is the better fit for off-road suv buyers who leave the pavement. Its standout: retains the iconic power-down rear window.
Subaru Outback is best for
Subaru Outback is the better fit for off-road suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: unmatched all-weather confidence with Symmetrical AWD.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Attribute | Toyota 4Runner | Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $41,570 | $34,995 |
| MSRP + destination | $43,020 | $36,415 |
| Fuel economy / range | 20/26 city/hwy | 25/31 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 278 - 326 hp | 180 hp |
| Seating | 7 | 5 |
| Body type | Off-Road SUV | Off-Road SUV |
| Powertrains | 2.4L Turbo 4-Cyl, i-FORCE MAX Hybrid | 2.5L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder, 2.4L Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder |