Hicks Family Subaru
Compare the 2025 Subaru Outback vs. Hyundai Santa Fe. See how these midsize SUVs stack up in performance, tech, space, price, and off-road trim highlights.
Shopping for a midsize SUV? If you’ve narrowed the search down to the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Subaru Outback, you’re looking at two standout vehicles. Both deliver comfort, capability, and tech-savvy features, but they go about it in different ways.
The Hyundai Santa Fe boasts a bold design and a tech-forward interior, while the Subaru Outback offers legendary reliability, standard all-wheel drive, and the confidence to go anywhere. Whether you’re navigating city streets, back roads, or South Texas highways, your choice will depend on what matters most to you: space, power, efficiency, or off-road ability.
Let’s break it all down and help you decide which SUV fits your lifestyle.
| 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Subaru Outback: Side-by-Side Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2025 Subaru Outback |
| Starting MSRP | $34,300 | $29,995 |
| Engine (Base) | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.5L BOXER® 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower / Torque | 277 hp / 311 lb-ft | 182 hp / 176 lb-ft (base), 260 hp / 277 lb-ft (turbo) |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Fuel Economy (Base) | Approx. 20 city / 28–29 highway mpg | 26 city / 32 highway mpg |
| All-Wheel Drive | Optional AWD (standard on XRT) | Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on all trims |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs (turbo engine) | 2,700 lbs (base engine), up to 3,500 lbs (turbo) |
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 passengers (three rows standard) | 5 passengers (two rows) |
| Legroom (Front / 2nd row) | 44.4 inches / 42.3 inches | 42.8 inches / 39.5 inches |
| Cargo Capacity (Max) | 79.6 cu. ft. with all rear seats folded | 75.6 cu. ft. with second row folded |
| Cargo with All Seats Up | 14.6 cu. ft. (with third row up) | 32.6 cu. ft. (behind second row) |
Under the hood, each SUV offers different strengths depending on your driving priorities, whether it’s horsepower, acceleration, or fuel economy.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Subaru Outback
If fuel economy and price are top priorities, the base Outback is more efficient and affordable. If you want standard turbo power, the Santa Fe delivers that, but at a higher starting MSRP.
When it comes to traction and off-road ability, the Subaru Outback sets itself apart with standard AWD and trail-ready features.
Subaru Outback
Hyundai Santa Fe
If off-road capability and weather versatility matter, the Outback—especially the Wilderness trim—has the edge. Santa Fe’s XRT adds confidence for light trails but doesn’t match the Outback’s proven trail performance.
Inside, both SUVs aim to provide space, flexibility, and convenience, but their layouts are very different.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Subaru Outback
For larger families or those needing occasional third-row seating, Santa Fe offers flexibility. But the Outback’s wide cargo area, spacious second row, and easy loading make it ideal for gear-heavy trips and everyday errands.
Both vehicles come well-equipped with the latest tech, but their dashboards and available features offer slightly different experiences.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Subaru Outback
Santa Fe stands out with advanced tech options, but the Outback’s system is intuitive and focused on usability, especially for drivers who value function over flash.
Both SUVs offer extensive driver-assist features and high safety ratings, making them smart choices for families.
Subaru Outback
Hyundai Santa Fe
Both vehicles are built with safety in mind, but Subaru’s standard safety tech across all trim levels and strong real-world reputation are hard to beat.
Your budget is a significant determining factor when exploring new SUVs. Let’s compare the prices of these two vehicles at their base trims.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Subaru Outback
For drivers who want rugged looks and trail-readiness, these trims stand out.
Subaru Outback Wilderness
Hyundai Santa Fe XRT
If you’re planning to head off pavement often, the Wilderness is built for it. The XRT is a good upgrade for rougher roads, but it doesn’t quite match the Outback’s all-terrain readiness.
The best choice depends on how you plan to use your SUV.
Choose the Hyundai Santa Fe if you:
Choose the Subaru Outback if you:
Still deciding between the 2025 Subaru Outback vs. Hyundai Santa Fe? The best way to know for sure is to get behind the wheel.
Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi to experience the Outback’s capability, comfort, and versatility firsthand. With standard AWD, advanced safety features, and adventure-ready trims like the Wilderness, it’s built for South Texas roads and everything beyond.
