The 2021 Subaru Outback Beat the Ford Edge and Toyota Venza
The 2021 Subaru Outback is an all-around solid choice for a midsize SUV. The Ford Edge and Toyota Venza might not seem like comparable choices at first glance, but these SUVs are all fairly similar.
What makes the Outback the best choice? The safety features and safety ratings are top-notch. If the style isn’t your favorite, it has some new interior trim options that upgrade the overall looks.
Why is the 2021 Subaru Outback a good choice?
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It is no secret that Subaru has been rocking it this year with the 2021 lineup. MotorTrend has a list of the best midsize SUVs to buy for 2021, and the Outback is at number one.
The Outback was recently redesigned and got some upgrades, such as the new 8.7-inch ground clearance. That makes it pretty competitive for being a midsize SUV.
The 2.4L direct-injection turbo Subaru boxer engine got an estimated 260 hp. This one is capable of towing 3,500 pounds.
The price is $27,845 for the base and $40,995 for the upgraded version. This is a little expensive for some, but the included safety features make it worth the extra cash up front.
The Ford Edge and Toyota Venza are comparable options
The Toyota Venza has been off the market since 2015. Coming back for 2021, the Venza is now available only as a hybrid and gets around 40 miles to the gallon. The 2.5L hybrid in-line four gets 219 hp.
The Venza is similar to the smaller Toyota RAV4 and the bigger Toyota Highlander, but an in-between option. MotorTrend gave it an 8.5 out of 10 and the number two spot. With the MSRP around $33,645 to $40,975, it is a bit more expensive than the Subaru.
The Venza interior and design is a little more grown-up than the Subaru, but that isn’t what everyone wants.
The Ford Edge isn’t quite as stylish as the Subaru or the Toyota. It looks fairly similar to how it has always looked. With the last refreshed design in 2019, there isn’t much that sets the Edge apart, looks-wise.
The price sits around $32,345 to $44,510. It offers a 2.0L turbo in-line four with 250 hp or the 2.7L twin-turbo V6 with 335 hp. With an 8.2 out of 10, it is a solid choice for midsize SUVs.
What is the difference between 2020 and 2021 Subaru Outback?
The 2020 Outback got a fresh new look, so the 2021 version looks fairly similar. It did get some new safety features which were appreciated.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2021 Outback was the top safety pick. From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it received five stars out of five.
There is only one open recall related to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) having a loose lug nut. This was remedied by tightening the nut if the issue was present.
Overall, all three of these make great picks for your next SUV. The Subaru came first for a good reason and seemed to be a solid choice if you are looking for a safe SUV for your family.
