Comparing the 2019 Subaru Outback Against its Competitors

With its winter-ready performance and flexible interior, the 2019 Subaru Outback is the perfect SUV for many New England drivers. From Lowell, MA to Londonderry, NH, new Outback models are all over the roads of the region. It's not the only impressive small SUV on the market today, though.

Chelmsford, MA drivers are also likely to consider models like the Audi A4 Allroad, Toyota RAV4, and Honda CR-V. These models certainly hold their own in the segment and are worthy of investigation. To help streamline the process, we've put together brief comparisons between the 2019 Outback and its top competitors.

2019 Subaru Outback vs. 2019 Audi A4 Allroad

• Value: The Outback and A4 Allroad are similar in size, capability, and style. However, the Audi has a far higher starting price than the Subaru. With the Outback, you'll get a very similar overall experience to the A4 Allroad while making a much more value-conscious investment. In short, the Subaru offers more bang for your buck.
• Cargo: The two models look similar in size, but appearances can be deceiving. With its rear seats folded down, the A4 Allroad offers up to 58.5 cubic feet of cargo space. In the same scenario, the Outback offers 73.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The Subaru simply has more space for your gear and supplies than the Audi.
• Power: The 2019 A4 Allroad offers more standard power than the Outback, but the Outback has a higher maximum power potential. Upgrade to the available six-cylinder BOXER engine and you'll get 256 horsepower under the hood. The Audi maxes out at 248 horsepower with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

2019 Subaru Outback vs. 2019 Toyota RAV4

• Cargo: Cargo capacity is a typical priority for anyone shopping for an SUV near Hudson or Nashua, NH, and the Outback has plenty of it. With folding rear seats, the Outback offers 73.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The RAV4 holds its own with 69.8 feet, but lags behind the Subaru.
• Drivetrain: If you're looking for the excellent grip and handling from the start, the Outback may be for you. Its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system is a proven to provide great traction and planted handling. The RAV4 offers standard front-wheel drive -- you'll have to pay extra for all-wheel drive.
• Power: The new Outback has more max horsepower than the RAV4. While its base four-cylinder isn't as powerful as the Toyota's, the Outback does offer a six-cylinder BOXER engine with 256 horsepower. That's a good deal more than the maximum 219 horsepower found in the RAV4 Hybrid.

2019 Subaru Outback vs 2019 Honda CR-V

• Engine Design: While the 2019 CR-V depends on conventional, inline-four engine design, the new Outback takes advantage of Subaru BOXER engine design. Boxer engines use horizontally-opposed cylinders provide a lower center of gravity and smooth power delivery. The 2019 Outback currently offers an efficient 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine or a powerful 3.6-liter V6 BOXER engine with 256 horsepower.
• Capability: The Outback is better equipped for adventure than the CR-V. While the Outback gets standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, the CR-V is relegated to standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is only an optional feature in the Honda. The Outback also has all-terrain options like X-MODE.
• Towing: The Outback offers some commendable towing capability. It's rated at a maximum tow rating of 2,700 pounds. The CR-V falls behind with 1,500-pound maximum tow rating.