2019 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2019 Volvo XC40, rated 9 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, boasts standout styling with an upright appearance, providing ample head- and legroom. It comes in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription, each offering unique design elements and features. The XC40's interior is well-equipped, with a large 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment display and luxurious materials.

The 2020 Subaru Outback, rated 8 out of 10, offers a handsome profile and incremental improvements over its predecessor. It features a wealth of utility, safety, and performance, with a spacious interior and a low load height for trunk and roof storage.

The 2019 Volvo XC40, rated 7 out of 10, is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It provides brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and responsive turn-in, offering various drive modes for different driving experiences.

The 2020 Subaru Outback, also rated 7 out of 10, offers a 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's active all-wheel-drive system, providing capable performance on and off the road.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 maximizes its space with a well-designed interior, featuring smart storage solutions, ample legroom, and a versatile cargo area. It offers practical features such as a removable trash bin in the center console and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2020 Subaru Outback provides impressive cargo space, with 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. It offers substantial rear-seat legroom and excellent visibility, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 features a large, portrait-oriented touchscreen with a user-friendly interface, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also offers optional advanced tech packages, including a 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2020 Subaru Outback comes with a tablet-style, 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering a modern and intuitive interface. However, it may suffer from lag in certain functions, and the camera resolution may not meet some consumers' expectations.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 prioritizes safety, offering a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features, including automatic braking, blind-spot detection, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. However, it has some inherent safety issues related to its design, such as significant blind spots.

The 2020 Subaru Outback comes standard with a robust safety suite, including Subaru's EyeSight system and DriverFocus. However, some users may experience issues with the system's functionality, which could impact its effectiveness.