Jeep
Compass
Subaru
Outback
Jeep Compass vs Subaru Outback: 2025 Comparison
The short answer
The Jeep Compass offers fuel economy, while the Subaru Outback excels at power instead. Choose the Jeep Compass if you prioritize fuel economy in daily driving, or the Subaru Outback if power matters more for your needs. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Compass
Overall
Owner sentiment is predominantly negative, with widespread criticism focused on poor reliability, subpar build quality, and weak performance. The vehicle is frequently described as a poor value proposition, especially when purchased new at or near MSRP, due to high ownership costs and rapid depreciation. Positive remarks are isolated and typically reference specific attributes like the uConnect infotainment system, the Trailhawk trim's light off-road capability, or the vehicle's styling.
Best version to buy
Trailhawk Trim: This trim is mentioned as providing acceptable light off-road capability for snow and basic trails, which is seen as justifying its existence within the Jeep lineup more than other trims. The Limited trim is also referenced as a higher-feature option.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor reliability and build quality: Very frequent reports of major mechanical issues (transmission, engine) and numerous electrical problems, often requiring expensive repairs well before 100,000 miles.
- ⚠Transmission problems: CVT transmissions (including Jatco units shared with Nissan) are notorious for failure, overheating, and sluggish performance. Conventional automatic transmissions also cited for being slow to respond and laggy.
- ⚠Underpowered engine: Described as dangerously slow, with sluggish acceleration and lack of passing power, making the vehicle feel unsafe. The 4-cylinder engine is specifically called out for lacking power. Frequency: very frequent.
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 Jeep Compass is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Subaru Outback, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Subaru Outback is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Jeep Compass or the Subaru Outback?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Jeep Compass and the Subaru Outback. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Jeep Compass or the Subaru Outback?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Jeep Compass is classed as a SUV, the Subaru Outback as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Jeep Compass or the Subaru Outback?
The Jeep Compass is more fuel-efficient on paper: 1.9-2.1 L/100km combined versus 9.8 L/100km for the Subaru Outback, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Jeep Compass or the Subaru Outback?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.