Volvo XC60 vs Subaru Outback

There are so many good vehicles out there, it can be hard to figure out just which one to choose. Drivers in the Summit, Plainfield, and Westfield areas looking for a new SUV that holds five passengers may want to consider a 2017 Volvo XC60 or Subaru Outback. 

In this 2017 Volvo XC60 vs. 2017 Subaru Outback comparison, we'll go over performance, safety, and other features. After reading this side-by-side review, you should know for sure which vehicle is best for your needs. Be sure to then reach out to us at Smythe Volvo to schedule a test drive.

Volvo XC60 vs Subaru Outback: Performance Specs

Both the 2017 Volvo XC60 and 2017 Subaru Outback are reliable vehicles with impressive performance. The base level of the Volvo XC60 comes with a 2.0L inline-4 engine, while the base Outback has a 2.5L flat-4 engine. The XC60 has an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission, and the Outback has a continuously variable transmission.

To really feel the power of your vehicle on long stretches of highway, you'll want to go with the Volvo XC60, as its base engine produces 240 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Subaru Outback's base engine, unfortunately, can only produce 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque.

Volvo XC60 vs Subaru Outback: Safety

When looking for an SUV, safety should be one of the top things on your mind. With the 2017 Volvo XC60 vs. 2017 Subaru Outback, the safety ratings are very similar. They each got Good ratings in all five of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's tests, as well as earned Top Safety Pick+ ratings.

They also each received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with 5 stars in the front and side crash tests and 4 stars in the rollover test. However, the Outback only got 4 stars on the overall frontal barrier crash rating and the passenger frontal barrier crash rating, compared to 5 stars for the XC60.

Other Features

The Volvo can haul a maximum of 3,500 pounds, while the Subaru can haul a maximum of 2,700 pounds, so the Volvo is a better option for those who need to be able to tow a substantial weight.  

The Volvo XC60 is particularly comfortable and luxurious feeling, as it comes with leather seats that are 8-way power adjustable in the front as standard, and these can be upgraded to heated seats if desired. On the other hand, the Subaru Outback comes with cloth seating standard with a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated seats, and leather seats all being optional upgrades.

Test Drive the 2017 Volvo XC60 Today!

While both the 2017 Volvo XC60 and 2017 Subaru Outback are great SUVs, it's clear that the Volvo XC60 is the better option, as it has a more powerful performance, better safety ratings, and more impressive standard features.

Those living in the Summit, Plainfield, and Westfield areas should come to Smythe Volvo to test drive the 2017 Volvo XC60. This will give you a better idea of how great this vehicle is for your needs and lifestyle.