2024 Subaru Outback vs. Toyota Rav4

Rugged Versatility Meets Urban Agility: 2024 Subaru Outback vs. 2024 Toyota RAV4 

When you're looking for an SUV that balances off-road toughness with city-friendly agility, the 2024 Subaru Outback and the 2024 Toyota RAV4 stand out as top choices. Both are designed to make your drive more enjoyable, offering a blend of performance, safety, and interior comfort. At McGrath Evanston Subaru, we know how important it is to find the right vehicle for your lifestyle. This guide will help you compare these two standout SUVs so you can confidently choose the one that best fits your needs.

Performance and Capability

Image by RJA1988 is licensed with Pixabay License

Both the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 offer strong performance options, but they're tailored for different driving experiences.

The Outback comes with a powerful 2.4L turbo SUBARU BOXER engine that delivers 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, combined with a Lineartronic CVT and standard symmetrical AWD. Meanwhile, the RAV4's standard engine is less powerful and comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, but its hybrid model does offer AWD for those who want that option.

If towing is on your list of must-haves, the Outback has an edge with a towing capacity of 2,700 for the standard engine and up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The RAV4 can tow between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds, depending on the engine and drivetrain, but the Outback's higher towing capacity makes it a strong choice for those who frequently haul trailers or gear.

Interior Comfort and Technology

When it comes to interior comfort and technology, the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 each bring their own strengths.

The Outback gives you a bit more space to stretch out, offering 40.1 inches of headroom and 42.8 inches of legroom. The RAV4 isn't far behind, with 37.7 inches of headroom and 41 inches of legroom. Both SUVs provide ample shoulder room, but the Outback edges out the RAV4 slightly in this area too.

For seating, the Outback's higher trims offer a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with four-way lumbar support and memory settings, giving you more customization than the RAV4's 8-way power seat. Both vehicles include a heated steering wheel and heated, ventilated front seats, but the Outback goes a step further by offering heated rear seats as well.

In terms of cargo space, the Outback stands out with 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet when the seats are down. The RAV4 provides a bit more space behind the rear seats at 37.6 cubic feet but maxes out at 69.8 cubic feet. The Outback's boxier design and underfloor storage make it easier to pack larger items and keep everything organized.

For tech lovers, the Outback's higher trims feature an 11.6-inch touch screen, while the RAV4 offers a 10.5-inch display. Both SUVs include wireless smartphone connectivity, making it easy to stay connected on the go. If you're into premium sound, the Outback's 12-speaker Harman Kardon system provides rich audio, while the RAV4's JBL speakers deliver excellent sound quality throughout the cabin.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is another area where the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 shine, though they cater to slightly different needs.

The Outback offers solid fuel economy with ratings of 26 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and a combined 28 mpg. Even with the turbocharged engine, the Outback remains efficient without sacrificing power. The RAV4, on the other hand, really shines with its hybrid option, offering 27 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and a combined 30 mpg. 

Both SUVs include features that support environmental sustainability. The Outback's standard all-wheel drive is designed to optimize fuel efficiency, while the RAV4's hybrid model focuses on reducing emissions. While both vehicles are eco-friendly, the RAV4 hybrid sticks out for its advanced hybrid technology and lower emissions.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a top priority in both the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4, and both models are packed with features to protect you and your passengers.

The Outback comes equipped with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology, which includes pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and lane departure warning. It also features the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system and high beam assist. The RAV4 includes Toyota Safety Sense, offering similar features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. Both SUVs come with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert to keep you safe on the road.

Also, both models have earned five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and were named Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Outback has slightly higher ratings in some categories, but both vehicles provide excellent safety and driver assistance features.

Pricing and Value

Pricing for the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 is closely matched, so your choice will likely come down to the features that matter most to you.

The Outback starts at $30,240 for the base model and can go up to $44,090 for the top-tier Touring XT trim. With a variety of trims, including the rugged Wilderness and sporty Onyx Edition XT, Subaru has trim levels that cater to different tastes and needs.

On the other hand, the RAV4 starts at $28,675, with trims ranging up to $40,030 for the Limited trim. Toyota's lineup includes the adventurous TRD Off-Road and the upscale Limited, both designed for those who value comfort and capability.

In addition to their appealing pricing, both SUVs also come with similar warranties—three years or 36,000 miles for the limited warranty and five years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain warranty. However, the RAV4 offers an extra perk with two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, covering up to 25,000 miles.

Test-Drive a Subaru Outback at McGrath Evanston Subaru

Deciding between the 2024 Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 really comes down to what you need in an SUV. If the Outback's rugged capability and advanced features feel like the right match for you, why not experience it firsthand? Contact us today to schedule a test-drive and explore our inventory to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.