Hicks Family Subaru
Caught between the Hyundai Tucson and Subaru Outback? Let this SUV face-off steer you right. Your next adventure-ready ride might be closer than you think.
When comparing two of the most popular crossover SUVs on the market—the Hyundai Tucson vs Subaru Outback—you’ll find each offers a unique blend of comfort, technology, and versatility. Whether you’re looking for all-weather confidence, family-friendly features, or a smooth daily drive, both the Tucson and Outback bring a lot to the table.
In this side-by-side comparison, we’ll explore key factors like tech features, fuel efficiency, AWD systems, cargo capacity, reliability, and overall value to help you make the most informed decision.
If all-weather performance is a priority, both the Tucson and Outback offer strong AWD options.
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims of the Subaru Outback, a long-standing highlight of Subaru engineering. This system provides consistent traction and stability, ideal for varying types of weather and light off-road excursions.
The Hyundai Tucson offers AWD as an available upgrade across most trims, paired with its HTRAC system. This setup actively adjusts power between the front and rear wheels to enhance grip and responsiveness on varying road conditions. While AWD is not standard on every Tucson model, the option allows buyers more flexibility depending on driving needs and budget.
Both SUVs deliver a smart, connected driving experience with the kinds of in-demand features today’s drivers expect.
The Subaru Outback features the intuitive STARLINK® Multimedia system, available with a large 11.6-inch touchscreen display. It offers standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Bluetooth® connectivity, voice command capability, and available built-in navigation. The system is known for being responsive and easy to use, which is something families and multitaskers alike can appreciate.
The Hyundai Tucson keeps pace with its own tech-forward layout, offering an available 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument display. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are available on most trims, and drivers can take advantage of Hyundai’s Bluelink® connected services for remote start, climate control, and vehicle monitoring from a smartphone.
Whether you prioritize a large screen, customizable display, or seamless smartphone integration, both vehicles offer modern, user-friendly setups that help you stay informed and connected on the go.
When comparing Tucson vs. Outback, both have earned top marks for safety, making them great choices for families or anyone who puts a premium on peace of mind.
The 2024 Subaru Outback received a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), thanks in large part to its standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. This suite includes features designed to help reduce driver fatigue and prevent accidents, like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning.
The 2024 Hyundai Tucson also earned Top Safety Pick honors (with specific headlights) and comes equipped with Hyundai SmartSense. This system includes forward collision avoidance with pedestrian detection, driver attention warning, lane-following assist, and more. These tools work in the background to keep you and your passengers protected, whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or cruising on the highway.
From crash-test scores to real-world driver assistance, both SUVs offer high levels of protection and modern safety technologies, helping you drive with confidence no matter where the road takes you.
From weekend getaways to weekly grocery runs, both the Outback and Tucson are designed to make loading up and stretching out easy.
The Subaru Outback offers up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded. Its wide, flat load floor and low lift-over height make stowing gear effortless. Standard raised roof rails with integrated crossbars add even more utility for bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes—ideal for active families or adventurers on the go.
Inside, the Outback’s cabin is spacious and thoughtfully laid out. Available features like heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings, and dual-zone climate control bring an extra level of comfort to longer drives. Rear-seat passengers enjoy generous legroom and a reclining seatback, making the ride comfortable for everyone on board.
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson isn’t far behind, offering 74.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. While the lift-over height is a bit taller than the Outback’s, the Tucson makes good use of its interior space with flexible seating configurations, underfloor storage compartments, and available hands-free smart liftgate access. That’s especially handy when your hands are full with groceries or gear.
The Tucson’s interior design also leans modern and refined, with available leather-trimmed seats, ambient lighting, and an available panoramic sunroof that gives the cabin an airy, open feel. Rear passengers get plenty of room to stretch out, and thoughtful touches like rear USB ports and adjustable air vents help keep everyone comfortable and connected.
Both models offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers, with comfortable seating in both rows, making them great choices for families or road trip enthusiasts.
Fuel efficiency plays a big role for many SUV buyers, especially commuters or families always on the go. Fortunately, both the Tucson and Outback offer solid MPG ratings, with some differences worth noting depending on how and where you drive.
The 2025 Subaru Outback holds its own with up to 32 MPG highway from its standard engine. While it doesn’t have a hybrid variant, the Outback’s fuel economy is competitive, especially given that all-wheel drive comes standard on every model.
The Hyundai Tucson has several powertrain options. The standard gas model delivers up to 33 MPG on the highway, while the Tucson Hybrid offers an impressive 35 MPG combined. There’s also a plug-in hybrid version that can travel an estimated 32 miles on electric power alone—ideal for short daily commutes with minimal gas usage.
When it comes to cost and overall value, both the Tucson and Outback offer great options across a range of trims, but they take slightly different approaches.
The Subaru Outback starts at a slightly higher base price, but for good reason. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, offers more ground clearance, and brings a rugged readiness that’s perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, and all-season confidence. Higher trims also introduce premium materials and additional tech features for drivers who like a little more luxury.
The Hyundai Tucson typically has a lower starting price, which makes it a great option for buyers who want strong features, a modern design, and available hybrid options without stretching the budget. Its mix of efficiency, comfort, and tech makes it especially appealing for city drivers or small families looking for a smart, economical ride.
In the end, both models offer excellent bang for your buck—it just depends on whether you lean toward high-efficiency hybrids or all-terrain confidence with AWD from the start.
Still comparing Subaru Outback vs Hyundai Tucson? The best way to choose is to experience both in person. At Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, you can test drive the latest Outback models or explore pre-owned Tucson options right on our lot.
Our team is here to answer your questions, walk you through each vehicle’s features, and help you find the perfect fit for your family. Stop by today and see how these two standout crossovers compare—because at Hicks, we’re here to help you drive home happy.
