2026 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2026 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: 190 vs 180 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The CR-V EX-L leads on 2 MPG better. The Outback Premium leads on $1,905 less. 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2026 Subaru Outback Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $34,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 18.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,741 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 108.1" |
| Length | 184.8" | 191.7" |
| Width | 73.5" | 74.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 67.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 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 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium starts at $34,995, $1,905 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $34/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,905 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium covers your needs; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L produces 190 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium at 180 hp. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L also leads in torque at 179 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium is 6.9″ longer at 191.7″ vs 184.8″. The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium has a 1.8″ 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
CR-V 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 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L ($36,900) and 2026 Subaru Outback Premium ($34,995) solve different problems at similar price points. The $-1,905 gap is about $34/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 10 hp difference (190 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs Outback
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2026 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 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium when you want to keep $1,905 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Outback Premium 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.