2025 Hyundai Santa Fe 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: 277 vs 182 hp, 23 vs 28 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 95 more hp, 135 more lb-ft torque. The Outback Base leads on $6,105 less, 5 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Santa Fe SE | 2025 Subaru Outback Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,100 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,641 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 108.1" |
| Length | 190.2" | 191.1" |
| Width | 74.8" | 73.0" |
| Height | 67.7" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 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 Santa Fe SE and 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base starts at $29,995, $6,105 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $108/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 95 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 $6,105 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $326/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base rates 28 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 95 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base at 182 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is 0.9″ longer at 191.1″ vs 190.2″. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 2.7″ 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
The Santa Fe–Outback Decision
Comparing a midsize SUV to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE ($36,100) and 2025 Subaru Outback Base ($29,995) answer that question differently. The $-6,105 gap adds up to $108/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 Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Outback Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 95 more hp (277 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 135 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 176), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base saves roughly $326/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,630.
Living With the Santa Fe vs the Outback
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe SE weighs 845 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 Santa Fe SE when the extra 95 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base when you want to keep $6,105 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.