2020 Subaru Outback

The base price for the Outback starts from $26,645 for the base model, before destination fees, taxes, and other charges. Moving up to the Premium will cost $28,895, $33,445 for the Limited, and $37,345 for the Touring. The new Onyx Edition XT has an MSRP of $34,895. The other XT models in the lineup, the Limited XT and Touring XT, start at $37,745 and $39,695, respectively. Fully loaded, the Touring XT will cost $42,745, including the $1,010 destination charge - but you can add to this with lifestyle add-ons like ski racks, roof box, or even surfboard straps. The Subaru Outback's cost is relative to the competition.

The Outback is proud of its off-road prowess, with media launches and test drives typically consisting of driving on rough, rocky terrain with sections including muddy, rutted trails and paths that take one through small bodies of water or streams. The Outback typically excels here, and although not an off-roader through-and-through, there's probably someone you know who has heard a tale from a Subaru owner who regaled all who would listen on the Outback's ability to embarrass or at least compete with more purpose-built machinery. However, most of this crossover's time with the wheels turning will be spent on regular tarmac. Although not a differently-shaped rally hero, the Outback is extremely capable, always finding grip even in snow and on other slippery surfaces. It is sold to people who desire practicality, reliability, and a smooth ride - all of which it delivers, but at the cost of fun. The steering is good, but like almost all electrically-assisted setups, has no feel in the straight-ahead position. The ride is supremely comfortable and will remain composed over bumps small and large alike, while the chassis will manage turn-in fairly well. Braking, too, is reassuringly good and easy to modulate. Sadly, the aforementioned rally-heritage is not evident here, so look elsewhere for a fun drive. This car does commuting and off-roading exceptionally well, but lacks fizz.

The new Subaru Outback may at first seem like a car that caters to a specific set of buyers - people who enjoy the outdoors and need the all-wheel capability ground clearance that this vehicle offers. But, this is more than just a one-trick pony that you buy because you need to. The Outback is bought over and over by a certain niche - yes - but it is not just the wilderness-braving adventurers and campers who buy it. It makes a lot of sense for American families, too. Competitive pricing and great resale values have contributed to making this the best-selling AWD crossover in its segment for the past ten years, because it does everything, and does it well. It is supremely comfortable, silkily smooth, and subtly styled. It offers magnificent space, decent fuel economy, and almost unrivaled reliability. Thanks to its new turbocharged power plant, it also accelerates with purpose. Laden with tech and safety features too, the real conundrum is not whether you should buy this car. The question is, why wouldn't you?

For outdoor excursions, the Onyx Edition XT is the most capable of the bunch, featuring a unique X-mode for deeper mud or snow. It also features the more powerful 260 hp and 277 lb-ft turbocharged Boxer engine, which allows you to tow up to 3,500 lbs. Its synthetic leather interior upholstery is also surprisingly comfortable, and gains the added benefit of being resistant to hosing down, should you get muddy. If you're not looking to do too much off-road stuff, the Limited is also capable, but costs less- and will get better gas mileage. You can also spec it with optional packages that add navigation, round off all the available safety tech, and include some additional convenience features, making it the best buy in the range.

The Forester hails from the same manufacturing company and shares much with the Outback, making it a worthwhile option to consider, particularly when one notes the Subaru Outback's price is higher. It shares the same 182 hp non-turbocharged engine with the base Outback and offers similar cargo space (although the Outback has more volume with the seats folded flat). The same driver-assist technology and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system are also standard on the Forester. However, the Forester is not available with a turbo engine anymore, it does not offer heated rear seats except on the top trim, and it's driving position allows minimal adjustment. Fewer cup holders and an older, much smaller, 6.5-inch (eight-inch optional) infotainment display also adds up to the conclusion that the Forester is less comfortable to live with every day. In this case, the Outback is a far better car - unless you desperately desire a more SUV-like appearance from your crossover.

The newly redesigned Honda CR-V is similar to the Outback, in that its styling is mildly updated for the new model year. However, it does have a few aces up its sleeve that Subaru's station wagon can't match - standard wireless charging for one. It also offers a better-packaged interior with more storage solutions and a hybrid option. That said, the Outback's 11.6-inch infotainment system is unrivaled for sheer size, with the unit in the Honda feeling considerably behind the times nowadays. On the plus side, it's base engine is more powerful than the Scooby's, with the 1.5-liter four-cylinder producing 190 hp. The Honda makes you pay extra for four-wheel-drive, but not everyone is looking for all-weather capability, all the time. At the time of writing, pricing for the 2020 CR-V had not been released, but it will have to remain competitive to beat the likes of the Outback. If you need sheer volume, the CR-V will be a better bet, but as an all-rounder, the Subaru is still a better crossover for all purposes.