Ford
Bronco
Subaru
Outback
Ford Bronco vs Subaru Outback: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Bronco comes out ahead of the Subaru Outback on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Bronco
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on the specific generation and model discussed. For the modern sixth-generation (2021+) Bronco, owner feedback is polarized. Many express strong enthusiasm for its unique character, off-road capability, convertible nature, and cool factor.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" trim. The Badlands trim is mentioned favorably for its off-road hardware.
Known issues
- ⚠Quality control / reliability concerns: Reports of various issues including bad clock springs, leaking shocks, axle breather tube seepage, hood latch failures, non-working signal lights, and persistent interior rattles.
- ⚠Hard top problems: Concerns about longevity and issues with early production hard tops (2021-2022), cited as a COVID-era supply chain problem. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Engine and fuel pump issues: A batch of 2021-2022 models had problems; stated to have been identified and resolved. Frequency: isolated.
Outback
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide. Long-term reliability is a core positive, with many owners reporting vehicles reaching 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance, particularly for non-turbo models. The Outback is consistently praised for its practicality, spacious cargo area (especially as a wagon), comfortable ride, and proven all-wheel-drive system for all-weather and light off-road use.
Best version to buy
Consensus is not clear on a single "best" version due to differing powertrain preferences. The 3.6R (H6) engine in older generations (pre-2020) is highlighted as particularly solid and avoids the head gasket issues of older 4-cylinder engines.
Known issues
- ⚠Infotainment system failures (6th gen: 2020-2025): Buggy, laggy, unresponsive touchscreen, frequent crashes, screen delamination, connectivity problems with CarPlay/Android Auto. Requires dealership updates or unit replacement.
- ⚠CVT transmission concerns: Long-term reliability doubts, specific reports of torque converter and clutch pack failures requiring replacement under warranty, fluid migration issues in turbo models (TR690 transmission).
- ⚠Driver's side window regulator failure: Window sticks open, especially in cold/wet weather, fails to close. Known service bulletin for warped channels/regulators. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Ford Bronco is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Subaru Outback, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Subaru Outback is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Bronco or the Subaru Outback?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Bronco and the Subaru Outback. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Bronco or the Subaru Outback?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ford Bronco is classed as a Off-road vehicle, the Subaru Outback as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Bronco or the Subaru Outback?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Bronco or the Subaru Outback?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Subaru Outback than the Ford Bronco. See the known issues comparison above.