2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL vs 2025 Subaru Outback Premium
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a compact SUV or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: $995 price gap, 187 vs 182 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Tucson SEL leads on $995 less. The Outback Premium leads on 2 MPG better, 8.4″ longer. 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 Tucson SEL | 2025 Subaru Outback Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,065 | $33,060 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,640 lbs | 3,661 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 108.1" |
| Length | 182.7" | 191.1" |
| Width | 73.4" | 73.0" |
| Height | 66.3" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 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 Tucson SEL and 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,065, $995 less than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium at $33,060. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $17/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $995 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL or 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL or 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL produces 187 hp, 5 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium at 182 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL bigger than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is 8.4″ longer at 191.1″ vs 182.7″. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (compact SUV vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a compact SUV against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A compact 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 Tucson 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 Tucson trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
Tucson vs Outback: What This Matchup Is Really About
A compact SUV against a midsize sedan is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL ($32,065) and 2025 Subaru Outback Premium ($33,060) solve different problems at similar price points. The $995 gap is about $17/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 5 hp difference (187 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Tucson vs Outback
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium 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.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $995 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. At $17/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.