Honda
Crosstour
Owner report available
Subaru
Outback
Owner report available
Honda Crosstour vs Subaru Outback
The short answer
Based on available data, the Honda Crosstour comes out ahead of the Subaru Outback on fuel economy and 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
Crosstour
Overall
Sentiment is predominantly positive among long-term owners, who frequently describe the vehicle as a practical, reliable, and surprisingly enjoyable "unicorn" or "perfect car" that was ahead of its time. It is praised for its versatile cargo space (capable of fitting full sheets of plywood), comfortable ride, robust V6 engine power, and the availability of AWD. Owner satisfaction is often tied to securing a well-maintained example, as the vehicle is noted to be increasingly hard to find in good condition.
Best version to buy
2013-2015 EX-L V6 AWD (Facelift Models). The facelifted models (2013-2015) are specifically sought after.
Known issues
- VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) System Problems: Causes excessive oil consumption, fouled spark plugs, oil leaks from the VCM actuator solenoid onto the alternator (leading to alternator/battery failure), and excessive vibration that we…
- Oil Consumption: Significant oil usage, particularly in earlier V6 models (e.g., 2010), often linked directly to the VCM system. Frequency: very frequent.
- Intermittent No-Start Condition: Push-button start models may fail to crank, displaying a "starter system fault" light, often related to electrical gremlins or a failing brake switch. Frequency: recurrent.
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 Honda Crosstour is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Subaru Outback, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Honda Crosstour are a dealbreaker, the Subaru Outback is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Honda Crosstour or the Subaru Outback?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Honda Crosstour than the Subaru Outback. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Honda Crosstour or the Subaru Outback?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Honda Crosstour is classed as a Coupe, the Subaru Outback as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Honda Crosstour or the Subaru Outback?
The EPA rates the 2015 Honda Crosstour at 22–25 mpg combined and the 2027 Subaru Outback at 23–27 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Honda Crosstour 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 Honda Crosstour. See the known issues comparison above.