
Compare Subaru Outback Against the Competition

Compare the Subaru Outback vs the Competition
The versatile Subaru Outback stands out compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee with its comfortable interior, intuitive, advanced technology, excellent driving performances, and the latest safety features. Let's explore what makes Cortland, NY, area car buyers who want a reliable and practical SUV that can handle everything from paved roads to rugged trails choose the Subaru Outback.
Subaru Outback vs. Hyundai Santa Fe


Subaru Outback
Hyundai Santa Fe
Subaru Outback | Hyundai Santa Fe | |
---|---|---|
Starting MSRP | $31,195 | $40,600 |
Engine Power | 182 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 277 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
Engine torque | 176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | 311 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 26 / 32 / 28 MPG | 19 / 26 / 22 MPG |
Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal. | 17.7 gal. |
*Comparison source: Edmunds (https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/).

Interior
The Subaru Outback has an inviting and spacious interior focused on comfort and functionality. Passengers enjoy plenty of leg and headroom during long drives and everyday commutes. High-quality materials and intuitive design choices improve the driving experience. The Outback also has a wide cargo area, adding to its appeal with active families throughout Cortland, NY.
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a well-equipped, modern interior but falls short in overall space. Rear passengers get less legroom, and the layout feels less accommodating. While the materials are acceptable, they lack the premium touch and durability in the more detailed and practical Outback interior.
Technology
The Subaru Outback has an intuitive STARLINK® multimedia system, with seamless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Its large, responsive touchscreen display provides easy navigation, entertainment, and app access. The user-friendly system lets drivers stay connected without distractions during commutes through Ithaca, NY.
Although the Hyundai Santa Fe has a competitive infotainment system, its interface is less intuitive, and the touchscreen is less responsive, making it harder to navigate. The seamless technology integration in the Outback provides smoother, more convenient experiences for tech-savvy drivers.


Performance
The Subaru Outback leads in performance, thanks to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Powered by a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, the Outback offers 182 horsepower and delivers a smooth, responsive ride, ideal for city streets and off-road excursions. This system provides enhanced stability and traction, making it a dependable vehicle in various weather conditions, from wet pavement to rugged terrain.
In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Fe only offers all-wheel drive on its higher trims, and its handling doesn't match the confidence and control you'll get in the Outback. Though the Santa Fe offers decent power, it lacks the precise handling and overall balance of the superior-performance Subaru Outback.
Safety
The Outback reflects a strong focus on safety with its standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology suite. Its features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking, and it comes standard across all models for greater peace of mind.
The Hyundai Santa Fe includes its own set of safety technologies, but many of the advanced features are only available on higher trims. Subaru's decision to make these critical features standard across all models lives up to the Outback model's long reputation as a safe, reliable choice.

Subaru Outback vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee


Subaru Outback
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Subaru Outback | Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
---|---|---|
Starting MSRP | $31,195 | $50,230 |
Engine Power | 182 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
Engine torque | 176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | 260 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined) | 26 / 32 / 28 MPG | 19 / 26 / 22 MPG |
Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal. | 23.0 gal. |
*Comparison source: Edmunds (https://www.edmunds.com/car-comparisons/).

Interior
The Subaru Outback continues to impress compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, offering a well-rounded, spacious interior that balances comfort with practicality. The Outback's design focuses on convenience and accessibility, with a larger cargo area and more flexible seating, ensuring drivers and passengers can effortlessly navigate its features.
In contrast, the Jeep Grand Cherokee emphasizes luxury but sacrifices some of the practicality needed for everyday driving. Though the materials feel upscale, the Grand Cherokee's interior can feel confined, especially in the rear seats. Drivers near Syracuse also appreciate the more adaptable Outback and its ability to provide comfort, convenience, and ample space.
Technology
When comparing technology, the Subaru Outback offers a more streamlined and user-friendly setup than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The STARLINK® system stands out with its high-resolution touchscreen, providing effortless access to key functions, including navigation and media. Voice commands and features like real-time traffic updates let drivers focus on the road instead of complicated menus.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a tech package aimed at luxury buyers, but its infotainment system can feel more complex. The controls are not as intuitive, and some functions may require more attention than drivers prefer to give while on the road. The Subaru Outback's simplicity and intuitive technology make it the ideal model for customers who prefer an efficient and straightforward technology system.


Performance
The Subaru Outback outshines the competition in the performance arena with its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which delivers exceptional traction and stability on various terrains. It gives drivers more confidence on smoothly paved highways and uneven surfaces near construction areas. The Outback provides a smoother ride, making it more suitable for daily use while still capable of handling off-road adventures.
While the Jeep Grand Cherokee focuses heavily on off-road capability, it often sacrifices ride comfort. Its bulkier design makes driving feel less refined, and its handling is not as agile as the Outback SUV's smooth performance and comfortable ride.
Safety
The Subaru Outback continues its lead in safety when compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Subaru's EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is regarded as one of the market's most effective driver assistance systems, offering features that enhance safety and driver awareness. The standard safety suite with the Outback means you get more safeguards on the road without the costly upgrades.
While the Jeep Grand Cherokee includes competitive safety features, many are costly options or reserved for its higher trims. The Outback includes most of its safety features in every model, making it the smarter choice for busy families who want the most reliable protection in any situation.

Test Drive the Subaru Outback Today
Discover what makes the Subaru Outback a better choice over the Hyundai Santa Fe and Jeep Grand Cherokee at Royal Subaru. Compare trims and take your favorite Subaru Outback model for a test drive through Cortland, NY, today.
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Royal Subaru
3901 Route 281
Cortland, NY 13045
- Sales: (607) 753-9774