2025 Honda Passport EX-L vs 2025 Subaru Outback Base
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize SUV or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 280 vs 182 hp, 21 vs 28 MPG.
The Passport EX-L leads on 98 more hp, 86 more lb-ft torque. The Outback Base leads on $12,405 less, 7 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L | 2025 Subaru Outback Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,400 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.5 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,236 lbs | 3,641 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.9" | 108.1" |
| Length | 189.1" | 191.1" |
| Width | 78.6" | 73.0" |
| Height | 72.2" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base starts at $29,995, $12,405 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $219/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when the extra 98 hp matters for your commute or driving style; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $12,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $500/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base rates 28 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 98 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base at 182 hp. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L bigger than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is 2.0″ longer at 191.1″ vs 189.1″. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 2.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize SUV vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize SUV against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize SUV and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Passport trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
The Passport–Outback Decision
Comparing a midsize SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L ($42,400) and 2025 Subaru Outback Base ($29,995) answer that question differently. The $-12,405 gap adds up to $219/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has 98 more hp (280 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L adds 86 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 176), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base saves roughly $500/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,500.
Living With the Passport vs the Outback
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L weighs 595 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when the extra 98 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base when you want to keep $12,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Base covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Subaru or any dealership.