Have you been torn between choosing the versatile Toyota Tacoma or the adventurous Subaru Outback? In this exciting comparison, we will explore the unique features and capabilities of these two exceptional vehicles. Whether you crave a rugged off-road experience or desire a comfortable and spacious ride for your everyday adventures, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the perfect vehicle that suits your lifestyle as we pit the Toyota Tacoma against the Subaru Outback!
Design and Styling
Exterior Design
The Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback both boast attractive and distinctive exterior designs. The Tacoma, with its rugged and muscular appearance, exudes a sense of adventure and capability. Its high ground clearance, prominent front grille, and bold lines make it instantly recognizable on the road. On the other hand, the Subaru Outback flaunts a sleek and refined exterior, combining elegant curves with a hint of sportiness. Its well-proportioned body, stylish front fascia, and unique roof rails give it a distinctive presence that appeals to those seeking a more versatile and modern look.
Interior Design
Step inside the Toyota Tacoma, and you’ll find a well-appointed cabin that perfectly blends functionality and comfort. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The Tacoma offers plenty of storage spaces and a user-friendly infotainment system, ensuring that you have everything you need within arm’s reach during your adventures.
Likewise, the Subaru Outback’s interior is a testament to Subaru’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The cabin is spacious and inviting, with premium materials and a well-thought-out layout. The Outback boasts impressive cargo capacity, allowing you to bring along all your gear for any outdoor excursion. Additionally, the Outback offers a modern and user-friendly infotainment system, keeping you connected and entertained on your journeys.
Overall Styling
In terms of overall styling, both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback have their unique strengths. The Tacoma radiates a rugged and bold aesthetic that caters to off-road enthusiasts and those who appreciate a truck’s commanding presence. Its muscular physique and aggressive stance make it a head-turner on the road, while the Outback’s refined and versatile design appeals to those who seek a more sophisticated and practical vehicle. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preferences and the specific lifestyle and needs of the individual.
Performance and Power
Engine Options
When it comes to performance, the Toyota Tacoma offers a range of engine options to suit various driving preferences. The base model comes equipped with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering adequate power for everyday driving. For those seeking more robust performance, the Tacoma also offers a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing a notable increase in horsepower and torque.
On the other hand, the Subaru Outback offers a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Additionally, an available upgrade is the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing enhanced performance and acceleration for those who crave a more spirited driving experience.
Transmission Options
Both the Tacoma and Outback offer multiple transmission options to cater to different driving preferences. The Toyota Tacoma provides a choice between a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring that drivers have the flexibility to select their preferred transmission setup. Similarly, the Subaru Outback comes equipped with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling a smooth and efficient driving experience.
Power and Torque
The Toyota Tacoma’s V6 engine delivers impressive power and torque, making it well-suited for tackling challenging terrains and hauling heavy loads. With up to 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, the Tacoma ensures that you have the necessary muscle to conquer any off-road adventure or towing task with confidence.
In comparison, the Subaru Outback’s engines provide ample power for daily driving. The standard 2.5-liter engine generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the available turbocharged engine takes performance up a notch with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Although not as robust as the Tacoma, the Outback’s powertrain options offer a smooth and responsive driving experience for both city commutes and weekend getaways.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Subaru Outback takes the lead. Its lightweight construction, efficient engines, and advanced technologies contribute to impressive fuel economy ratings. With the standard 2.5-liter engine, the Outback achieves an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The turbocharged engine maintains respectable fuel efficiency ratings, offering an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway.
On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma, being a truck designed for off-road and towing capabilities, understandably consumes more fuel. With the base four-cylinder engine, the Tacoma achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The V6 engine, while delivering more power, has slightly lower fuel efficiency ratings, averaging around 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway.
Off-Road Capabilities
Ground Clearance
One key factor that sets the Toyota Tacoma apart from the Subaru Outback is its impressive ground clearance. The Tacoma boasts a ground clearance of up to 9.4 inches, making it well-suited for traversing challenging terrains and conquering off-road trails. This generous ground clearance allows the Tacoma to navigate over obstacles with ease, ensuring that you can explore even the most rugged landscapes without worries.
In contrast, while the Subaru Outback offers a respectable ground clearance for a crossover SUV, it doesn’t match the Tacoma’s off-road prowess. With a ground clearance ranging from 8.7 to 9.5 inches depending on the trim level, the Outback provides sufficient capability to handle light off-roading and rough roads, but it may struggle with more demanding off-road conditions.
Suspension
Another crucial aspect of off-road capabilities is the suspension system. The Toyota Tacoma features a robust suspension setup designed specifically for tackling rough terrains. Its reinforced off-road suspension provides excellent wheel articulation and shock absorption, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride over uneven surfaces. This suspension setup enhances the Tacoma’s off-road performance and delivers a confident driving experience on and off the pavement.
The Subaru Outback, while not primarily marketed as an off-road vehicle, still benefits from a well-tuned suspension system. Its refined suspension offers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing most bumps and imperfections on the road with ease. While the Outback may not have the same level of off-road suspension components as the Tacoma, it still provides a comfortable and capable ride for your outdoor adventures.
All-Wheel Drive System
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback feature advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, enhancing their off-road capabilities and providing improved traction on various surfaces. The Tacoma offers an available part-time 4WD system with an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes according to the driving conditions. This versatile system ensures that power is distributed to the wheels with the most grip, maximizing traction and control.
The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, comes standard with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This system continuously adjusts power distribution to maintain optimum traction and stability in all driving situations. With its active torque vectoring and X-MODE for enhanced off-road performance, the Outback’s AWD system ensures confident handling on various terrains, making it a capable companion for outdoor adventures.
Off-Road Features
When it comes to off-road features, the Toyota Tacoma offers a plethora of options to enhance its performance and capability. Available features, depending on the trim level, include an off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select. These features allow the Tacoma to conquer challenging terrains and overcome obstacles with ease, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking thrilling off-road experiences.
Although not specifically designed for off-roading, the Subaru Outback still offers a range of features to ensure you can explore beyond the beaten path. With its X-MODE, which optimizes traction and control on slippery surfaces, and Hill Descent Control, the Outback provides added confidence when venturing off-road. Additionally, the Outback’s generous ground clearance and durable body construction enable it to handle mild off-road adventures with ease.
Driving Experience
Ride Quality
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback offer comfortable rides that cater to different driving preferences. The Tacoma’s ride quality is firm yet compliant, striking a balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort. Its robust suspension system absorbs most bumps and road imperfections, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride in various conditions. While the Tacoma may exhibit some truck-like behavior due to its body-on-frame construction, it still provides a comfortable experience for daily commuting and long-distance drives.
The Subaru Outback excels in ride quality, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience. Its well-tuned suspension system provides a smooth and plush ride, effectively dampening road imperfections and minimizing cabin disturbance. The Outback’s excellent ride quality makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable and composed ride during their travels.
Handling and Control
When it comes to handling and control, the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback offer distinct characteristics tailored to different driving needs. The Tacoma’s truck DNA lends itself to confident and capable handling, particularly off-road. Its sturdy construction, responsive steering, and robust suspension system allow for precise maneuvering and control, ensuring that the Tacoma handles various terrains and challenging driving scenarios with ease.
On the other hand, the Subaru Outback’s handling is optimized for smooth and agile performance on paved roads. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, lightweight construction, and advanced chassis technologies contribute to responsive and nimble handling. The Outback maintains stability and control, allowing you to confidently navigate winding roads and urban environments.
Cabin Noise
Cabin noise is an important factor to consider when evaluating the overall driving experience. The Toyota Tacoma, being a truck with a body-on-frame construction, may exhibit more road and wind noise compared to a crossover like the Subaru Outback. While the Tacoma’s cabin is adequately insulated, some noise intrusion is expected due to its rugged nature and off-road capabilities.
Conversely, the Subaru Outback boasts a well-insulated cabin, providing a serene and quiet environment for driver and passengers. Its noise-canceling features and sound-absorbing materials minimize road and wind noise, creating a tranquil driving experience. Whether you’re cruising on highways or navigating city streets, the Outback ensures that unwanted noises are kept at bay, enhancing overall comfort and enjoyment.
Safety Features
Active Safety Features
The Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback are equipped with an array of active safety features designed to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. Both vehicles come standard with advanced safety technologies such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. These features work together to provide an extra layer of protection, alerting you to potential hazards and assisting in mitigating collisions.
Additionally, the Subaru Outback offers Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard equipment. This comprehensive suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and sway warning, further enhancing safety and convenience during your journeys. The Tacoma, while not equipped with a specific driver-assistance package like the Outback, still offers a range of safety features and has achieved commendable safety ratings.
Passive Safety Features
In terms of passive safety features, both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback prioritize occupant protection in the event of a collision. Both vehicles feature advanced airbag systems, anti-lock brakes, and stability control as standard equipment. The Tacoma also comes equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which incorporates additional safety technologies such as traction control and brake assist.
The Subaru Outback goes above and beyond in terms of passive safety with its robust safety structure and advanced safety features. Its body construction is designed to absorb and redirect crash energy away from the occupants, minimizing the risk of injury. The Outback also features Subaru’s Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame for exceptional crash protection. Overall, both the Tacoma and Outback prioritize occupant safety, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Crash Test Ratings
The safety of a vehicle is often assessed through crash test ratings from reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback have performed well in these evaluations, receiving favorable ratings.
In NHTSA testing, the Toyota Tacoma received an overall rating of four out of five stars, highlighting its commendable safety performance. Similarly, the Subaru Outback received a five-star overall rating, demonstrating its excellent crashworthiness and occupant protection.
In IIHS testing, both the Tacoma and Outback earned the highest rating of “Good” in most crashworthiness categories, including moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength tests. Additionally, both vehicles received advanced or superior ratings for their available front crash prevention systems, further emphasizing their commitment to safety.
Interior Space and Comfort
Passenger Room
The Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback both offer generous passenger room, ensuring that you and your passengers can travel comfortably. The Tacoma accommodates up to five passengers in its spacious double cab configuration, providing ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear occupants. The Outback, in its wagon-like design, boasts even more space, with seating for up to five adults. Its clever interior packaging maximizes passenger comfort, offering a roomy cabin that allows everyone to stretch out and relax during long journeys.
Cargo Space
When it comes to cargo space, the Subaru Outback takes the lead. Its wagon design and versatile rear hatch offer an impressive 32.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded down, the Outback provides an astounding 75.7 cubic feet, allowing you to transport larger items or gear for your outdoor adventures with ease.
Although the Toyota Tacoma features a truck bed rather than a traditional cargo area, it still offers substantial room for hauling gear and equipment. The Tacoma’s bed varies in length depending on the cab configuration, providing up to 73.7 inches in the longest configuration. With its durable under-rail bed liner and tie-down cleats, the Tacoma ensures secure and organized transportation of cargo and supplies.
Seating Comfort
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback prioritize seating comfort for driver and passengers. The Tacoma’s seats are supportive and well-cushioned, ensuring a comfortable seating position even during long drives. Its available power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support further enhance comfort and reduce fatigue.
The Subaru Outback offers equally comfortable seating, with well-designed front seats providing ample support and cushioning. The Outback also offers available upgrades such as heated and ventilated seats, allowing you to customize your comfort level according to the weather and personal preference. Rear seat passengers in both vehicles also benefit from ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone on board.
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment System
The infotainment systems in the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback provide a wide range of features and connectivity options to keep you entertained and connected during your journeys.
The Tacoma features a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system, with available options ranging from a 7-inch to an impressive 8-inch display. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone for access to navigation, music, and hands-free calling. Additionally, the Tacoma offers available features such as a premium JBL audio system and a built-in navigation system to enhance your driving experience further.
The Subaru Outback comes equipped with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Subaru’s STARLINK multimedia interface. The system offers similar connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. For those seeking an upgraded experience, the Outback also offers an available 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, providing a visually stunning and immersive infotainment experience.
Connectivity Options
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback offer various connectivity options to keep you connected on the go. The Tacoma provides multiple USB ports and auxiliary audio input, ensuring that you can conveniently charge your devices and connect external devices for music playback. Additionally, the Tacoma offers an available Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, allowing you to charge compatible devices without the need for cables.
The Subaru Outback also offers multiple USB ports, ensuring that you and your passengers have access to device charging. Furthermore, the Outback features available Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling seamless internet access during your journeys. With this connectivity, you can stay connected to your favorite apps, stream music or videos, and remain productive on the road.
Driver-Assistance Features
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback come equipped with a range of driver-assistance features designed to enhance safety and convenience on the road. These features utilize advanced technologies to assist in various driving scenarios and provide an additional layer of protection.
The Tacoma offers available features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system, ensuring that you have full visibility of your surroundings at all times. The Tacoma also offers Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams.
Similarly, the Subaru Outback offers a host of advanced safety features as standard equipment. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, included on all Outback models, incorporates adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure and sway warning with lane keep assist. These features work harmoniously to provide added confidence and assist the driver in various driving scenarios.
Reliability and Resale Value
Reliability Ratings
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback have established reputations for reliability and durability.
The Toyota Tacoma has long been recognized as a reliable and capable truck, built to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures and heavy-duty tasks. It consistently receives high reliability ratings from reputable sources such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Tacoma’s strong reliability record is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to engineering and manufacturing vehicles that stand the test of time.
Similarly, the Subaru Outback has earned a reputation for reliability and longevity. Subaru consistently ranks well in reliability surveys, and the Outback is no exception. Its solid build quality, dependable powertrains, and durable components contribute to its excellent reliability ratings. Subaru’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship is evident in the long-lasting value of their vehicles.
Resale Value
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback hold their value well, making them great choices for those looking for a vehicle with strong resale potential.
The Toyota Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and durability significantly contributes to its excellent resale value. According to industry experts, the Tacoma consistently retains a significant portion of its initial purchase price over time, outpacing many of its competitors in the midsize truck segment. This makes the Tacoma a wise investment for those looking to minimize depreciation and maximize long-term value.
Similarly, the Subaru Outback has a strong resale value, thanks to its overall reliability and desirability among buyers. Subaru vehicles, in general, tend to maintain their value well due to their loyal customer base and reputation for build quality. The Outback’s versatility, capable performance, and established track record contribute to its high resale value, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term value.
Pricing and Trims
Toyota Tacoma Trims
The Toyota Tacoma offers a range of trims to cater to various needs and preferences. The base SR trim sets the foundation with essential features and capable performance. As you move up the trim levels, you’ll find additional comfort and convenience features, as well as advanced safety technologies. Notable trims include the off-road-oriented TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro, offering enhanced off-road capabilities and a rugged aesthetic.
Subaru Outback Trims
The Subaru Outback also offers a diverse lineup of trims, ensuring that there is an option for every buyer. The base Outback trim provides a solid foundation with essential features, while higher trims add luxurious appointments and advanced technologies. The Outback Onyx Edition XT stands out with its turbocharged engine and unique styling cues, while the top-of-the-line Outback Touring offers a luxurious and refined driving experience.
Price Comparison
When comparing the pricing of the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback, it’s important to consider the differences in vehicle type, capabilities, and features. The Toyota Tacoma, being a truck, generally carries a higher base price compared to the Subaru Outback, which is a crossover SUV.
The Tacoma’s starting price typically falls within the mid to high $20,000 range, depending on the selected trim level and options. As you move up the trim ladder and choose additional features, the price can increase to the mid to high $40,000 range for the range-topping TRD Pro trim.
The Subaru Outback, with its crossover SUV design, typically has a lower starting price compared to the Tacoma. Prices for the Outback generally start in the low to mid $20,000 range for the base trim and can increase to the mid to high $30,000 range for higher trims with added features.
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback comes down to your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget. Both vehicles offer excellent value for their respective segments and provide robust features and capabilities for their price points.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
Toyota Tacoma Reviews
Customer reviews of the Toyota Tacoma highlight its exceptional off-road capability, durability, and overall reliability. Owners praise its powerful engines, comfortable ride, and spacious cabin. The Tacoma’s towing and hauling capabilities are also highly regarded by those who require a truck for work or recreational purposes. While some customers note that the fuel efficiency could be improved, the majority of Tacoma owners are satisfied with their purchase and continue to choose Tacoma models for their ruggedness and dependability.
Subaru Outback Reviews
Customer reviews of the Subaru Outback emphasize its foray into various terrains and its smooth and comfortable ride. Owners appreciate the Outback’s spacious interior, cargo capacity, and all-weather capabilities. The Outback’s fuel efficiency and safety features are also praised, with many highlighting the peace of mind that comes with Subaru’s reputation for safety. Although some customers mention that the infotainment system could be more intuitive, the majority of Outback owners find the vehicle to be reliable, versatile, and well-suited for their everyday needs.
Customer Satisfaction
Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback owners generally express high levels of satisfaction with their vehicles. Both models have established loyal customer bases, with many owners choosing the same brand and model for subsequent purchases. The Tacoma’s reliability, off-road prowess, and durability contribute to its high customer satisfaction ratings, while the Outback’s reliability, spaciousness, and versatility make it a popular choice among buyers.
In terms of after-sales service, both Toyota and Subaru have strong dealer networks and customer support systems to ensure that owners are well taken care of. Additionally, both brands have established reputations for their commitment to customer satisfaction, further enhancing the ownership experience.
Conclusion
In the battle of the Toyota Tacoma versus the Subaru Outback, there is no clear winner. Both vehicles offer unique strengths and excel in different areas to cater to various needs and preferences. The Tacoma’s rugged off-road capabilities, powerful engines, and truck-like versatility make it an ideal choice for adventurers and those requiring heavy-duty capabilities. On the other hand, the Outback’s refined design, spacious interior, and all-weather capabilities make it a versatile and comfortable choice for everyday driving and outdoor adventures.
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Outback comes down to personal preferences, lifestyle, and the specific needs of the individual. Both vehicles deliver on their promises and offer excellent value for the price. Whether you prioritize off-road capability, cargo space, fuel efficiency, or luxurious amenities, the Tacoma and Outback are sure to meet your expectations and provide you with a reliable and enjoyable driving experience.