Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT
Connecticut drivers face unique challenges when choosing the perfect SUV. From snowy winters to varied terrain, the right vehicle can make all the difference. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the 2024 Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT to determine which SUV is best suited for life in the Constitution State.
The Contenders: Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V
The Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT are both popular choices for Connecticut drivers, but they offer different strengths. To get an insider’s perspective, we spoke with Buddy Blichfeldt of Quality Subaru in Wallingford, CT, who shared valuable insights on what makes the Outback stand out.
Performance and Capability
When it comes to performance, the Subaru Outback offers something unique in its class. Blichfeldt explains, “We are the only vehicle right now in this category that has the engine, which is a horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, which means the engine pistons oppose each other. It’s like the motor lays sideways.”
This design has several advantages:
- Better handling due to lower weight distribution
- True all-wheel drive capability
- Improved power delivery
Blichfeldt adds, “Because the way the engine is laid out, it allows for equal shafts in the front. And what it does for the all-wheel drive system by having equal shafts is it allows the vehicle to operate in a true all-wheel drive mode.”
While the Honda CR-V offers all-wheel drive as an option, it doesn’t come standard like in the Outback. This could be a crucial factor for Connecticut drivers facing challenging winter conditions.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Outback impresses. Blichfeldt notes, “The Outback standard engine, you get 26 miles per gallon in the city and you get 33 miles per gallon on the highway.” This competitive fuel economy ensures Connecticut drivers can save at the pump without sacrificing performance.
Off-Road Capability
For those Connecticut drivers who enjoy venturing off the beaten path, the Subaru Outback offers superior ground clearance. Blichfeldt points out, “Our ground clearance is 8.7 inches, where the ground clearance on the CRV is only 7.8 inches. So, we have .9 inches more.”
He further adds, “And then if you chose the Subaru Outback Wilderness model, now you’re getting a vehicle that has 9.5 inches of ground clearance.”
This additional clearance is particularly beneficial for Connecticut’s snowy winters. As Blichfeldt explains, “Why ground clearance is important to the vehicle in Connecticut is because we get snowy winters and that additional ground clearance keeps your vehicle, you know, riding over that snow.”
Interior Comfort and Design
While both the Outback and CR-V offer spacious interiors, Blichfeldt emphasizes the importance of personal experience: “You really need to sit in the vehicles to really get a true appreciation for them. I think that comparisons for these two vehicles are gonna be pretty much identical, but it comes down to your body type and how you overall how you feel that when you fit into it.”
However, he does highlight a unique aspect of the Outback’s design: “I really like the Subaru design versus our competitors. It seems that the competitors are all going toward a system where they have, they place all of the infotainment much higher up on the dashboard. It’s almost like a tablet, you know, that’s sticking up out of the dash. Whereas the Subaru is in a much better position so that you have a much broader view of the road.”
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT prioritize safety, but Blichfeldt points out a key difference: “With the Subaru, everything that we have is pretty much standard in the vehicle. All of the safety features that you have, they’re not optional, they’re standard.”
He elaborates, “So when you look at the Subaru EyeSight technology and what it does in terms of keeping you from getting into an accident, that’s all standard. The way we have our cruise control system designed, in the way we have the rear cross traffic alert system and the automatic braking for when you back up so that you wouldn’t hit something. All those features that Subaru has, it just is a testament to their commitment to safety.”
Value Proposition
When it comes to value, Blichfeldt believes the Subaru Outback has a clear advantage. He states, “I think our vehicle compares superior to everything in its class because we offer such a broad range. You have the choice of which motor that you would want to get in the vehicle. You have the choice of which trim level, starting from a more basic trim level all the way up to our top of the line touring level.”
He adds, “I think with the competition, the way they keep raising their prices higher, Subaru has the best value proposition in the market right now. And they kind of understand their market and Subaru hasn’t raised prices the way the competition has, they’re not greedy, they’re not just raising prices because the market is so strong for Subaru, they’re keeping their prices very, very low.”
Resale Value
For budget-conscious Connecticut drivers, resale value is an important consideration. Blichfeldt explains how Subaru’s pricing strategy impacts this: “That’s the big thing, keeping their prices in a great place from the beginning really helps the resale value because the demand is so strong for the vehicle new. It makes the demand strong for a used. There’s not an oversupply of the vehicles.”
The Driving Experience
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT comes down to the driving experience. Blichfeldt shares his perspective: “So my feeling on driving an Outback versus our competition, for example, if you look at the CRV, they’re both nice vehicles, but there’s something that’s unique about a Subaru and just the way that it feels. And when you drive them side by side, you immediately know the difference. Just the way the suspension works, the way the power delivery and the seat comfort and visibility.”
He emphasizes the comfort factor: “The Outback, I will say, is just so incredibly comfortable. I’ve taken multi-hour trips in the vehicle and never am I complaining about pain in my body. It’s just a very, very comfortable seat and a very comfortable ride.”
Conclusion
While both the 2024 Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT offer compelling features for Connecticut drivers, the Outback’s standard all-wheel drive, superior ground clearance, and unique engine design give it an edge for tackling New England’s diverse conditions. Its competitive fuel economy, comprehensive safety features, and strong value proposition further strengthen its case.
However, as Blichfeldt wisely advises, the best way to determine which SUV is right for you is to experience them firsthand. Visit your local dealerships, take test drives, and see which vehicle best fits your lifestyle and preferences.
FAQ
Is the Subaru Outback vs Honda CR-V CT better for winter driving in Connecticut?
The Subaru Outback’s standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance make it better equipped for Connecticut winters.
Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Outback or CR-V?
The Subaru Outback offers competitive fuel economy, with 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for the standard engine.
Does the Subaru Outback have more cargo space than the Honda CR-V?
Both SUVs offer ample cargo space, they are almost identical with the rear seats folded (75 vs 76 cubic feet.)
Are safety features standard on the Subaru Outback?
Yes, Subaru includes most safety features as standard on the Outback, including EyeSight technology and various driver assistance systems.
Which SUV has a better resale value in Connecticut, the Outback or CR-V?
While both hold their value well, Subaru’s pricing strategy and high demand contribute to strong resale values for the Outback in Connecticut.
