2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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: 291 vs 182 hp, 21 vs 28 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on 109 more hp, 86 more lb-ft torque. The Outback Base leads on $9,205 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 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2025 Subaru Outback Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-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 | 18.8 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | 3,641 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 108.1" |
| Length | 196.7" | 191.1" |
| Width | 77.8" | 73.0" |
| Height | 68.9" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base starts at $29,995, $9,205 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at $39,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $162/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when the extra 109 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 $9,205 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 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base rates 28 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 109 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base at 182 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 5.6″ longer at 196.7″ vs 191.1″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 6.1″ 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?
The Hyundai Palisade comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Subaru Outback offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
The Palisade–Outback Decision
Comparing a midsize SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE ($39,200) and 2025 Subaru Outback Base ($29,995) answer that question differently. The $-9,205 gap adds up to $162/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 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has 109 more hp (291 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 Palisade vs the Outback
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE weighs 715 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 Hyundai Palisade SE when the extra 109 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base when you want to keep $9,205 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 Hyundai or Subaru or any dealership.