2025 Subaru Outback Base vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize sedan or a midsize SUV. Key numbers: $11,925 price gap, 182 vs 265 hp, 28 vs 24 MPG.
The Outback Base leads on $11,925 less, 4 MPG better. The Highlander LE leads on 83 more hp, 134 more lb-ft torque. 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 Subaru Outback Base | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,641 lbs | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.1" | 112.2" |
| Length | 191.1" | 194.9" |
| Width | 73.0" | 76.0" |
| Height | 66.1" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Outback Base and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base starts at $29,995, $11,925 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $210/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,925 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 83 hp matters for your commute or driving style; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Outback Base or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base rates 28 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Outback Base or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 83 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Base at 182 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Outback Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Outback Base bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 3.8″ longer at 194.9″ vs 191.1″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 4.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize sedan vs midsize SUV), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize sedan against a midsize SUV?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize sedan and a midsize SUV 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
How the Outback and Highlander Stack Up
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is a midsize sedan; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is a midsize SUV. They share a price range but not a purpose, which makes this comparison about lifestyle priorities, not trim-level features. The $11,925 gap adds up to $210/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Outback vs Highlander
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 83 more hp (265 vs 182). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 134 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 176), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250. The 2025 Subaru Outback Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Subaru Outback Base is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE weighs 691 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Base when you want to keep $11,925 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Outback Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 83 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $210/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Subaru or Toyota or any dealership.