Subaru Outback Turbo vs Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Which is Best for Family Adventures?
The Subaru Outback Turbo and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are two of the most popular family adventure vehicles available today. These two cars have been at the forefront of their respective segments for many years and have consistently been able to adapt to changing buyer demands. In this article, we will compare the performance, features, and fuel efficiency of the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT and the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid.
Subaru Outback Turbo
The 2023 Subaru Outback Touring XT is equipped with the new 2.4-litre turbocharged flat-four engine, the same engine found in the Subaru WRX. This engine platform, known as FA, is versatile and is used in various formats. The non-turbocharged Outback models feature the FB25 engine, which is naturally aspirated and designed with a stronger focus on fuel economy.
The turbocharged Outback XT makes 32 per cent more power and 42 per cent more torque than the non-turbo version, resulting in a three-figure power to weight ratio. The price premium for stepping up into the turbocharged Outback is $5,000, with the test model coming in at $55,990 before on-road costs. With a towbar, the total cost is over $62,000.
The 2023 Outback Touring XT includes top-of-the-line features, such as nappa leather-accented upholstery with heating for front and rear outboard seats, front ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Other features include LED headlights, an electric sunroof, a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a 360-degree camera system, and an 11.6-inch infotainment system.
The Outback’s classic wagon silhouette offers plenty of interior space, making it perfect for family use. There is sufficient space for adults and kids in the back, and seats can be folded flat to provide a maximum storage capacity of 1276L.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid, priced from $56,650 plus on-road costs, boasts unique styling and features. The chunkier, funkier model comes with a combination of unique grille, wheel arch, and bumper styling, larger 19-inch matte-black alloy wheels, and an exclusive Jungle Green colour option with an orange-accented interior.
The RAV4’s interior is spacious and very well-built, with soft-texture faux leather trim and orange highlights adding a touch of vibrancy and character. Starting at the back, the Edge features a powered tailgate and a 542L boot, with 40:60-split rear seats and a flat-loading floor that opens up 1690L of cargo space. Rear passengers have air vents, charge points, a central armrest with cupholders, and a pair of ISOFIX mounting points.
Up front, the interior is functional and well laid-out, with plenty of storage and switchgear that is easy to reach and operate. The adventure vibe is enhanced by rubberised dials that fit in well with Toyota’s rugged image. The Edge helps drivers in tough conditions with a rear torque-vectoring differential, hill descent control, and Toyota’s multi-terrain select drive mode.
Fuel Efficiency
The RAV4 Hybrid’s fuel savings make it a worthy opponent for the Outback Turbo, even though the latter boasts stronger performance capabilities. The RAV4 Hybrid has an official fuel consumption rating of 4.7L/100km, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market. Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback Turbo has an official rating of 9.3L/100km, which is significantly better than other high-performance SUVs on the market.
Verdict
Both the Subaru Outback Turbo and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are excellent family adventure vehicles with unique features. While the Outback Turbo offers superior performance and space, the RAV4 Hybrid is more fuel-efficient and offers unique styling options. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on an individual’s budget, driving preferences, and desired features.
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