Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Outback

Longing to venture past Leesville, Lake Charles, and DeRidder, LA? Then the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Outback are here to take you on an unforgettable adventure. Which road tripper will you choose? Allow your friends at Hixon Toyota to help you decide and learn why everyone is saying Hixson Has It: Has a new culture, new attitude, and an easier way.

Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Outback: Built for Exploration

If you're trying to decide between the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Outback, then you probably have a heart for adventure. Both models answer the call, but one SUV goes the extra mile.

In the Outback, you'll be treated to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which sends power to the wheels that need it the most when tackling difficult terrains. If you want more traction for off-road trails, the 4Runner will meet your needs with an available 4-wheel drive system. This system is more rugged and helps you tackle rocks, sand, and mud with ease.

Encountering particularly tricky terrain? No problem. Switch on available Crawl Control (CRAWL) on the 4Runner. It maintains a safe, low speed so you can devote your full attention to navigating around obstacles in your path. Without this system on the Outback, you may have a harder time with your off-road treks.

Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Outback: Upgrade Your Adventures

In addition to brawny construction, you need a commanding blend of power under the hood to tackle your expeditions. The 2021 Toyota 4Runner answers the call with a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.

The baseline motor in the Subaru Outback only delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, so you'll notice a difference in performance. An available turbocharged engine is also available, but it falls short of the 4Runner with only 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

The extra power in the 4Runner allows you to haul a maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, so you can bring your small hard-sided camper on your next road trip. Leave it at home with the Outback since it can only handle a maximum tow of 3,500 pounds when properly configured.

Toyota 4Runner vs Subaru Outback: Space for All Your Explorations

One of the biggest differences between the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Outback is interior space. The 4Runner offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers to come along for the ride. The Outback, on the other hand, has two rows of seating so only five passengers can make the journey.

More rows of seating leads to more cargo space configurations in the 4Runner as well:

• Behind Third Row: 9.0 cubic feet
• Behind Second Row: 46.3 cubic feet
• Behind First Row: 88.8 cubic feet

You may not be able to pack as much camping gear in the Subaru Outback with 32.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row and a maximum of 75.7 cubic feet of cargo room.