Fuel efficiency vs. adventure: subaru outback vs. ford fusion for the perfect balance
What To Know
- The Outback delivers an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Fusion offers slightly better fuel economy with 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- While the Fusion offers a lower starting price, the Outback’s standard all-wheel-drive system and superior fuel economy make it a better value for money in the long run.
- While the Ford Fusion offers a compelling option with its lower starting price and advanced technology features, the Outback’s all-wheel-drive capability, spacious interior, and superior reliability make it the more well-rounded and desirable choice.
In the realm of midsize cars, the Subaru Outback and Ford Fusion stand out as two formidable contenders. Both offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, catering to discerning drivers who seek a well-rounded vehicle. But when it comes to choosing between these two exceptional cars, which one emerges as the superior choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the core aspects of the Subaru Outback and Ford Fusion to determine their strengths, weaknesses, and the ultimate winner.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Outback boasts a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Fusion, on the other hand, offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with 175 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of handling, the Outback excels with its all-wheel-drive system, which provides superior traction and stability in various driving conditions. The Fusion, with its front-wheel-drive configuration, offers a more traditional driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many buyers. The Outback delivers an impressive 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Fusion offers slightly better fuel economy with 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, the Outback’s standard all-wheel-drive system contributes to its slightly lower fuel economy compared to the Fusion.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Outback and Fusion offer spacious and comfortable cabins. The Outback boasts a roomy interior with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Fusion, while slightly smaller, still provides comfortable seating and a well-appointed interior.
In terms of cargo space, the Outback has a clear advantage with its 35.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Fusion offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 42.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Technology and Features
Both the Outback and Fusion come equipped with a range of advanced technology features. The Outback features a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Fusion offers a similar infotainment system with SYNC 3 connectivity and a host of driver-assist technologies.
Reliability and Safety
When it comes to reliability, the Outback has a slight edge over the Fusion. J.D. Power has consistently rated the Outback highly for its reliability, while the Fusion has received mixed reviews.
In terms of safety, both the Outback and Fusion have earned top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Value for Money
The Subaru Outback starts at around $27,000, while the Ford Fusion starts at around $23,000. While the Fusion offers a lower starting price, the Outback’s standard all-wheel-drive system and superior fuel economy make it a better value for money in the long run.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
After a thorough comparison, the Subaru Outback emerges as the superior choice between the two. Its combination of performance, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for money make it an exceptional midsize car. While the Ford Fusion offers a compelling option with its lower starting price and advanced technology features, the Outback’s all-wheel-drive capability, spacious interior, and superior reliability make it the more well-rounded and desirable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which car has a better towing capacity?
The Subaru Outback has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, while the Ford Fusion can tow up to 1,600 pounds.
2. Which car has more horsepower?
The Ford Fusion with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has more horsepower than the Outback, with 245 horsepower compared to 182 horsepower.
3. Which car comes with a hybrid option?
The Ford Fusion offers a hybrid option, while the Subaru Outback does not.