Manufactured by Subaru, the Outback is a crossover that blends the best elements of a station wagon and an SUV. With a design reminiscent of wagons and off-roading capabilities like an SUV, there are many reasons Subaru’s Outback has remained a popular choice for drivers!
For the 2021 Subaru Outback, there are two powertrain options for buyers to choose from. Buyers can opt for the 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower or the turbocharged 2.4L engine that produces 260 horsepower. The 2021 Outback comes standard as an all-wheel drive. Overall, there are eight trim levels offered by Subaru.
In this article, we’ll be breaking down the best alternatives to Subaru’s dynamic Outback. From Audi to Volvo and all the manufacturers in-between, these are the best picks for those looking for a vehicle similar to the Outback!
1. Audi A4 Allroad
Audi’s 2021 A4 Allroad is a rugged and compact wagon that’s ready for adventure! Audi offers buyers three trim levels to choose from: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. All-wheel drive is standard for the 2021 A4 Allroad models. There is only one powertrain offered: a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0L engine with 261 horsepower.
For the 2021 models, potential buyers are looking at a combined city and highway MPG of 27. With a sleek interior cabin, the 2021 A4 Allroad can seat five adults in two rows. This wagon offers more than just a WIFI-hotspot, it also features Audi’s latest infotainment system. Depending on the selected trim, the price will range between $45,000 and $56,000.
You can find more information here, on Audi’s official website.
2. Audi A6 Allroad
Like the A4 Allroad discussed above, Audi’s 2021 A6 Allroad features a well-designed wagon body with a dynamic V6 engine. For this vehicle, there are only two trim levels available: Premium Plus and Prestige. Both models utilize a turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine with 335 horsepower. All-wheel drive is also standard.
With a powerful engine, the 2021 A6 Allroad has a combined city and highway MPG of 23. The interior cabin is well-thought-out and features a design that is on par with competitors. Like the A4 Allroad, this wagon can seat five people in two rows and Audi’s world-class infotainment system.
You can find more information here, on Audi’s official website.
3. Buick Regal TourX
Buick’s 2020 Regal TourX is a modernly stylish wagon with the cargo capacity of a crossover SUV! For the 2020 Regal TourX, Buick offers three trim levels: Base, Preferred, and Essence. Regardless of trim, all 2020 Regal TourX models are powered by a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0L engine that produces 250 horsepower. All-wheel drive is also standard.
Prospective buyers are looking at a combined city and highway MPG of 25. Buick is, of course, known for its luxurious design style, and this is reflected in the interior cabin. The 2020 Regal TourX can seat five people across two rows. All models are fitted with a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Depending on the selected trim level, prices range between $26,000 and $37,000.
You can find more information here, on Buick’s official website.
4. Chevrolet Equinox
A stylish crossover for the whole family, the Chevrolet Equinox 2021 is a smart choice for those looking to buy a compact SUV. The 2021 Equinox is available in four trim levels: L, LS, LT, and Premier. Although front-wheel drive is standard, buyers can opt for an all-wheel-drive system as well. It is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5L engine that delivers 170 horsepower.
The all-wheel-drive Equinox will achieve a combined highway and city MPG of 28 mpg. Both front and backseat passengers will find the Equinox’s cabin to be highly spacious and comfortable. Each model comes with an infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch screen, depending on the selected trim. Depending on the model, the 2021 Equinox is priced between $25,000 and $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
5. Ford Edge ST
The 2021 Ford ST is a great mid-size SUV with a traditional SUV design and a spacious interior. The Ford Edge ST base model has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. There is the option, however, to upgrade to a twin-turbo V6 engine that can produce 335 horsepower. It’s estimated that your combined MPG will be 23.
Unlike other SUVs that focus on fitting in more passengers, Ford’s 2021 Edge ST prioritizes your comfort and space. The SUV isn’t for those looking for a three-row vehicle. The SUV from Ford, however, is spacious enough for four adults to sit comfortably. Prices range from $33,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level chosen.
You can find more information here, on Ford’s official website.
6. Ford Escape
No matter where you drive, the 2021 Ford Escape is a compact SUV that’s up for any challenge! The 2021 Escape offers buyers four different powertrain options. Models with hybrid drives are also included! A total of ten trim levels are available. The vehicle comes with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.
The combined city and highway MPG will range between 26 and 30 for the 2021 Escape models. Up to five people can sit in two rows within the Escape’s elegant cabin. Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system is standard on the vast majority of 2021 Escape models. For the Ford 2021 Escape, the price will range from $26,000 to $41,000.
You can find more information here, on Ford’s official website.
7. Honda CR-V
The 2022 Honda CR-V is a fuel-efficient and spacious compact crossover. The 2022 Honda CR-V is available in seven trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, EX Hybrid, EX-L Hybrid, Touring, and Touring Hybrid. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options are available. Whatever model you choose, you’ll have smooth a smooth ride, whether you opt for the hybrid model or the 1.5L turbocharged engine.
The combined city and highway fuel economy of the all-wheel-drive CR-V is 29.5. From seating to cargo space, the sleek interior of the cabin has everything you need! It comfortably seats up to five adults. Apart from the LX base models, all trim levels feature a touchscreen infotainment system. For the 2022 models, prices range from $26,000 to $38,000.
You can find more information here, on Honda’s official website.
8. Hyundai Tucson
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that features a sleek design. Potential buyers are provided with a wide array of trim options: SE, Value, SEL, Sport, Limited, and Ultimate. There are two different four-cylinder engines for potential buyers to choose from: the 2.0-liter with 164 horsepower, or the 2.4-liter with 181 horsepower.
The 2021 Tucson is available as both front-wheel or all-wheel drive. There’s an estimated highway MPG of 33 for this SUV. A 2021 Tucson can accommodate up to five adults in two rows. A full infotainment system is included across all trim levels. For the 2021 models, the price will range between $24,000 and $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Hyundai’s official website.
9. Jaguar E-Pace
With Jaguar’s E-Pace line for 2021, you’ll be able to find an excellent compact crossover. There are three trim levels to choose from: P250, P250 SE, and P300 Sport. All-wheel drive is standard across all three trim levels. There are different four-cylinder turbocharged engines to choose from, ranging between 246 to 296 in horsepower.
The combined MPG for the 2021 E-Pace is 23. Up to five adults can be comfortably seated in the E-Pace. The cargo space is also more than generous! All trim levels feature a state-of-the-art curved infotainment system. For the 2021 Jaguar E-Pace, prices range from $42,000 to $51,000.
You can find more information here, on Jaguar’s official website.
10. Kia Telluride
If you’re looking for a highly capable mid-size SUV crossover, Kia’s 2021 Telluride may be the one for you! There are four trim levels to choose from: LX, S, EX, and SX. The standard Telluride is powered by a 291 horsepower V6 engine. Front-wheel and all-wheel drive options are available for the Telluride.
The Telluride has a combined city and highway MPG of 23. Featuring three rows of seats, the Telluride can either seat seven or eight passengers, depending on the selected trim. Despite its compact size, this crossover offers ample cargo space. All models are equipped with advanced infotainment systems. Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $33,000 to $44,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
11. Lexus GX
The 2021 Lexus GX is a luxury SUV in the truest sense – but what else can one expect from Lexus? For the 2021 GX, there are three trim levels offered: Base, Premium, and Luxury. All models come standard with a 4.6L V8 engine that produces a horsepower of 301. All-wheel drive is also standard across trim levels.
The dynamic V8 engine has a combined city and highway MPG of 17. The interior cabin is styled similarly to previous GX year models. Depending on the trim level you decide to get, the 2021 GX is capable of seating six to seven people. All models are equipped with a robust infotainment system. Prices for the 2021 model range between $54,000 and $66,000.
You can find more information here, on Lexus’ official website.
12. MINI Cooper Countryman
In essence, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman is a larger version of MINI’s classic lineup. For the 2021 Countryman, MINI offers buyers four trims: Cooper Countryman Oxford Edition, Cooper Countryman, Cooper S Countryman, and Cooper S E Countryman. A turbocharged 134-horsepower engine is included in the base trim level.
Up to five people can be seated in the Countryman, which is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The MPG for the Countryman will range between 27 and 30, depending on the trim level. All Models of the 2021 Countryman will come with an onboard entertainment system. Pricing for this compact MINI crossover ranges from $27,000 to $43,000.
You can find more information here, on MINI Cooper’s official website.
13. Mazda CX-5
Mazda’s 2021 CX-5 is a stylish and compact crossover SUV. Mazda offers seven trim levels for the 2021 line: Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature. It is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The standard CX-5 is powered by a four-cylinder engine rated at 187 horsepower.
The combined city and highway MPG for non-turbocharged, front-wheel CX-5 models is 28. Mazda’s CX-5 easily stands out among competitors thanks to its stylish design, spacious cabin, and generous cargo space. All models include a 10.3-inch infotainment system. Prospective buyers will pay between $26,000 and $39,000 for the 2021 Mazda CX-5.
You can find more information here, on Mazda’s official website.
14. Mazda CX-9
If the Mazda CX-5 sounded appealing, but you’re looking for more power, then Mazda’s 2021 CX-9 could be the perfect crossover SUV for you. There are five trim levels offered by Mazda: Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, and Signature. The CX-9 features a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.5L engine that generates 227 horsepower.
The 2021 CX-9 has a combined city and highway MPG of 25. All-wheel drive is standard across all trim levels. Though the cargo space is somewhat limited, the interior cabin is well-designed and can seat up to six people. All models include an intuitive infotainment system. Mazda’s 2021 CX-9 is priced between $35 400 and $49,000.
You can find more information here, on Mazda’s official website.
15. Nissan Kicks
If you’re looking for a compact SUV that’s practical for modern life, then Nissan’s 2021 Kicks is a great option! Nissan offers three trim levels for buyers to choose from: S, SV, and SR. The four-cylinder engine that powers the 2021 Nissan Kicks makes 122 horsepower. Furthermore, the 2021 Kicks comes standard with an all-wheel drive.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks has a combined city and highway MPG of 33.5. Up to five people can sit comfortably in the Kicks’ cabin – with enough cargo space for everyone’s baggage. All trim levels feature a touchscreen infotainment system. The 2021 line is priced between $20,000 and $24,000, depending on your choice of trim.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
16. Nissan Rogue Sport
Nissan’s 2021 Rogue Sport is a great option for those looking for an SUV that is both compact and fuel-efficient! There are three trim levels to choose from: S, SV, and SL. The Rogue Sport is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. A 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower is the standard on all 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport models.
The combined MPG for Nissan’s 2021 Rogue Sports is 29. The 2021 Rogue Sport has a highly spacious interior cabin that can comfortably accommodate up to five people. A terrific infotainment system and heaps of safety features make the Rogue Sport a desirable SUV. The price ranges between $25,001 and $30,001, depending on the trim level.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
17. Porsche Macan
For those looking for a stunning SUV that’s both subcompact and luxurious, the 2021 Porsche Macan is a perfect choice. With the Macan, all-wheel drive is standard. There are three different turbocharged engines available to buyers. Ultimately, depending on the engine you choose, you’ll have between 348 and 375 horsepower.
The 2021 Macan has an average combined MPG of 21. Families might find the cargo space rather limited in this compact SUV. A total of five people can be seated in the Macan’s two rows. All models feature Porsche’s groundbreaking infotainment system. You can expect the 2021 Macan to be priced between $53,000 and $74,000.
You can find more information here, on Porsche’s official website.
18. Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek 2021 is a stylish and compact SUV. There are five trim levels available to customers: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Hybrid. Subaru’s 2021 Crosstrek also includes standard all-wheel drive, just like other Subaru models. The 2021 Crosstrek’s base trim level comes with a 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a combined city/highway MPG of 30.
The Crosstrek’s durable two-row cabin provides enough space for five people to be seated comfortably. Cargo space is also generous for those who like getting away! Subaru’s StarLink system is standard in all 2021 models. Prices will range from $23,000 to $37,000, depending on the selected trim level.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
19. Subaru Forrester
Subaru’s 2021 Forster expertly combines versatility and compactness to create a great SUV. Customers will be able to choose from five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring. All-wheel drive is standard on the Forester, as it is on other Subaru vehicles. A 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower powers the 2021 Forster, regardless of the selected trim.
This compact SUV is equipped with a cabin that prioritizes functionality. Two rows of seating can comfortably accommodate five adults. This SUV has ample cargo space and an intuitive infotainment system. It will cost between $25,000 and $36,000 to purchase the 2021 Forester.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
20. Toyota RAV4
The 2021 RAV4 from Toyota is a great choice for those looking for a compact SUV. A total of six trims are offered by Toyota for the 2021 line: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, Limited, and TRD Off-Road. With an all-wheel-drive option now available, the RAV4 has become more versatile. The standard 2021 RAV4 comes with a 203 horsepower, 4-cylinder, 2.5L engine.
The combined MPG for RAV4 models in 2021 will range between 28 and 35. Although compact, this SUV prioritizes interior space. Higher trims come with an 8-inch infotainment screen, while lower trims are equipped with a 7-inch display. The 2021 RAV4 will cost between $27,000 and $38,000.
You can find more information here, on Toyota’s official website.
21. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Volkswagen’s 2021 Atlas Cross Sport is a stylish vehicle that offers dynamic performance. There are six trims offered: S, SE, SEL, SEL R-Line, SEL Premium, and SEL Premium R-Line. You can choose between two different powertrains. In addition to a 2.0L turbocharged engine that produces 235 horsepower, there is also a 3.6L V6 engine that is capable of 276 horsepower.
This vehicle is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. You’re looking at a combined MPG range of 20 to 25, depending on the engine you choose. Five adults can sit comfortably in the Atlas Cross’ two rows. All models are fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system. This SUV will cost you between $32,000 and $52,000.
You can find more information here, on Volkswagen’s official website.
22. Volkswagen Taos
Volkswagen’s 2022 Taos is a compact SUV from the manufacturer’s impressive lineup. Three trim levels are available for the 2022 Taos. They are S, SE, and SEL. As a standard, all 2022 models are powered by a four-cylinder 1.5L turbocharged engine that produces 158 horsepower. It is available as an all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive model.
According to Volkswagen, the 2022 Taos will achieve a combined MPG of 32. This compact vehicle features Volkswagen’s signature design style. With its spacious cabin, the 2022 Taos can accommodate up to five people. All trim levels provide WIFI connectivity and a robust infotainment system. Buyers should expect to pay between $24,000 and $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Volkswagen’s official website.
23. Volvo XC-60
Volvo’s 2021 CX-60 is a compact and luxurious SUV from the manufacturer’s current lineup. There are five trim levels offered by Volvo: Momentum, R-Design, Inscription, Inscription Expression, and Polestar. Overall, there are three different four-cylinder powertrains to choose from. The base model is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L engine with 250 horsepower.
For the base engine, front-wheel drive is standard. However, the remaining powertrain options offer all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive models with the base engine have a combined MPG of 25.5. Five people can be seated within the luxurious interior cabin. All models feature a 9-inch infotainment system. The price for the 2021 CX-60 will range between $42,000 and $71,000.
You can find more information here, on Volvo’s official website.
24. Volvo V-60
Volvo’s 2021 V-60 is a powerful line of station wagons from one of the world’s leading car manufacturers! Volvo offers five trim levels to customers: Momentum, V60 Cross Country, R-Design, Inscription, and Recharge T8 Polestar. Overall, there are two powertrain choices: the T5 turbocharged engine with 250 horsepower, or the T8 engine with 415 horsepower for the top trim level.
All trim levels are standard front-wheel drives, except for the Cross Country trim, which is an all-wheel drive. Front-wheel-drive models with the T5 engine have a combined MPG of 28.5. The spacious and well-designed cabin can seat up to five people. All models feature Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system. Prices range from $42,000 to $69,000.
You can find more information here, on Volvo’s official website.
25. Volvo V-90
From the two Volvo vehicles discussed above, it’s clear that Volvo knows how to design a brilliant wagon. Volvo’s 2021 V-90 is a wagon that is essentially a larger version of the V-60 and features standard all-wheel drive. Only one trim is offered: the T6 AWD. The turbocharged 2.0L engine has 316 horsepower. Volvo estimates a highway MPG of 30 for the 2021 models.
With a beautifully styled interior, the V-90 can also seat five people in two rows like the V-60. This wagon also features a fantastic infotainment system that will keep you on track, no matter where the road takes you. For the 2021 V-90, potential buyers are looking at a price tag of $56,000.
You can find more information here, on Volvo’s official website.
Sources:
Audi USA: A4 Allroad
Audi USA: A6 Allroad
Buick: Buick Regal
Chevrolet: Equinox
Ford: Edge ST
Ford: Escape
Honda Automobiles: CR-V
Hyundai USA: Tucson
Jaguar USA: E-Pace
KIA: Telluride
Lexus: GX
Mazda USA: CX-5
Mazda USA: CX-9
Mini USA: Countryman
Nissan USA: Rogue Sport
Nissan USA: Kicks
Porsche: Macan
Subaru: Crosstrek
Subaru: Forester
Toyota: Rav 4
Volvo Cars: V90 Cross Country
Volvo Cars: V60 Cross Country
Volvo Cars: XC60
Volkswagen: Atlas Cross Sport
Volkswagen: Taos
