2021 Honda CR-V vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a few subtle enhancements. Subaru's Global Platform provided a 70% increase in structural rigidity, and the base 2.5-liter engine was updated with 90% new parts. The exterior changes were minimal, focusing on head- and taillights, while the interior saw the introduction of an 11.6-inch touchscreen in most trims. The innovative DriverFocus technology aimed to enhance safety by monitoring driver alertness, although it faced some criticism for its functionality. The Outback was available in seven trims, with the XT versions featuring a turbocharged engine, and prices starting at $26,645.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more about blending in with the compact crossover crowd. Its exterior styling was similar to many competitors, with minor distinctions like the grille and chrome accents. The CR-V offered eight color options, though many were variations of gray, black, and white. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern look with angular seat designs and optional wood and chrome accents. While not a standout in terms of aesthetics, the CR-V focused on practicality and comfort, offering a spacious interior and a range of features across its trims.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured a 182-horsepower 2.5-liter engine, offering a modest improvement over the previous year. It achieved 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. For those seeking more power, the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the XT trims delivered 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in about 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a CVT, which Subaru tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. The Outback's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced stability, making it capable on various terrains with 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.8 seconds. While not the fastest in its class, it offered smooth acceleration and predictable handling. The CR-V's CVT maintained engine revs consistently, though it lacked the engagement of traditional automatic transmissions found in some competitors. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup provided decent ride quality and handling, typical of vehicles in its class.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Its station wagon design provided ample room for passengers and cargo, with a low load height and excellent visibility. The interior was spacious enough for taller passengers, and the Outback's design prioritized visibility, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized practicality, with 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with options for manual, power, and hands-free tailgates. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, accommodating five passengers and their gear with ease.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen in most trims, offering a visually appealing interface. However, users experienced lag in navigation and other functions, which detracted from the overall experience. The camera resolution was also criticized for being outdated, despite the large screen.

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a basic 5-inch screen, while other trims offered a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim featuring a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant in all but the base trim, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety features were a mixed bag. While it included a comprehensive suite of standard safety features and AWD, the DriverFocus system was criticized for frequent false alerts. Subaru's EyeSight system, though standard, could be affected by obstructions like snow or fog.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Its Honda Sensing system included a range of standard safety features across all trims, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring, which was included from the EX trim onward.