When it comes to safety on the road, Subaru is a brand that consistently stands out for its commitment to protecting drivers and passengers. Two of its most popular models, the Subaru Crosstrek and the Subaru Outback, are often compared for their safety features, performance, and overall value. But the question remains: is the Subaru Crosstrek as safe as the Outback? In this article, we will delve into the safety aspects of both vehicles, exploring their design, features, and performance in various safety tests to provide a comprehensive comparison.
Introduction to Subaru Crosstrek and Outback
The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are both part of Subaru’s lineup of vehicles known for their all-wheel-drive capability and boxer engines. The Crosstrek is a subcompact crossover SUV, designed for those who want a vehicle that is easy to maneuver in the city but still capable of handling off-road adventures. On the other hand, the Outback is a mid-size crossover SUV, offering more space and comfort, making it ideal for families or those who need extra cargo room.
Safety Features Comparison
Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback come equipped with a range of safety features that are designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Some of the key safety features found in both models include:
- EyeSight Driver Assist System: This is Subaru’s advanced driver-assist system that includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning. It is available on most trims of both the Crosstrek and Outback.
- All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on both models, providing improved traction and control on various road surfaces.
- Airbags: Both vehicles are equipped with a comprehensive system of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide protection from all angles in the event of a crash.
Unique Safety Features of Each Model
While both vehicles share many safety features, there are some unique aspects to each. The Subaru Outback, for example, offers a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System on certain trims, which is designed to help reduce distracted driving by monitoring the driver’s attention and alertness. The Crosstrek, on the other hand, may not offer this feature on its base models but provides an excellent balance of safety and affordability.
Safety Ratings and Performance
Safety ratings from reputable organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are crucial in determining the safety of a vehicle.
The Subaru Outback has consistently received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA and has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, indicating its superior safety performance. The Subaru Crosstrek also boasts an impressive safety record, with a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, although it may not always achieve the “+” rating due to variations in headlight performance across different trims.
Crash Test Performance
In crash tests conducted by both the NHTSA and IIHS, both vehicles have shown excellent performance. The Outback’s larger size and more extensive safety features contribute to its high ratings, while the Crosstrek’s smaller size and lighter weight do not detract from its ability to protect occupants in a crash. The key to both vehicles’ safety success lies in their robust body structures, designed to absorb and distribute the forces of an impact, and their comprehensive airbag systems.
Real-World Safety Data
Real-world safety data also supports the notion that both the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are very safe vehicles. Studies have shown that Subaru vehicles, in general, have lower rates of injury and fatality in crashes compared to other brands. This is attributed not only to their safety features but also to the all-wheel-drive system, which helps prevent accidents by improving vehicle control and stability.
Conclusion on Safety Comparison
In conclusion, while the Subaru Outback may have a slight edge in terms of safety features and ratings, the Subaru Crosstrek is by no means less safe. Both vehicles are designed with safety as a top priority, and their performance in safety tests and real-world data reflects this commitment. The choice between the Crosstrek and Outback should be based on individual needs and preferences, including considerations of size, budget, and the specific safety features that are most important to the buyer.
For those prioritizing space and comfort, the Outback may be the better choice, offering more room for passengers and cargo, along with some unique safety features not found on the Crosstrek. However, for those looking for a more affordable, compact vehicle that still offers excellent safety and capability, the Crosstrek is an outstanding option.
Ultimately, both the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are safe vehicles that provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, embodying Subaru’s dedication to safety and performance. Whether you choose the Crosstrek or the Outback, you can drive away knowing you are in a vehicle designed to protect and serve you well on all your journeys.
What safety features do the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback have in common?
The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback share a range of standard safety features, including all-wheel drive, which provides improved traction and control on various road surfaces. Both vehicles also come equipped with a rearview camera, which helps to reduce the risk of accidents when reversing. Additionally, they feature seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, to provide enhanced protection for occupants in the event of a collision. The Crosstrek and Outback also offer a range of optional safety features, such as blind-spot detection and lane departure warning, to further enhance safety.
These shared safety features demonstrate Subaru’s commitment to providing a safe driving experience across its model range. The combination of all-wheel drive, advanced airbags, and optional safety features like blind-spot detection and lane departure warning helps to reduce the risk of accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. By offering these features as standard or optional equipment, Subaru aims to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers, whether they choose the Crosstrek or Outback. This focus on safety is a key factor in Subaru’s reputation for building reliable and secure vehicles.
How do the safety ratings of the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback compare?
The safety ratings of the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback are impressive, with both vehicles earning top marks from reputable testing organizations. The Crosstrek has been awarded a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Outback has also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, demonstrating its exceptional safety credentials. These ratings reflect the vehicles’ ability to withstand various types of collisions and protect occupants.
The similar safety ratings of the Crosstrek and Outback are a testament to Subaru’s dedication to building safe vehicles. Both models have undergone rigorous testing to evaluate their performance in frontal, side, and rollover crashes, as well as their ability to prevent accidents through features like electronic stability control. The fact that both vehicles have achieved top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS provides reassurance for potential buyers, who can trust that their Subaru will provide a safe and secure driving experience. Whether choosing the Crosstrek or Outback, drivers can have confidence in their vehicle’s ability to protect them and their passengers.
What are the key differences in safety features between the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback?
While the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback share many safety features, there are some key differences between the two models. The Outback offers a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control and sway warning, which are optional on the Crosstrek. The Outback also features a more advanced driver attention monitoring system, which can detect signs of fatigue or distraction and provide alerts to the driver. Additionally, the Outback has a more extensive range of optional safety features, such as reverse automatic braking and a 180-degree front-view camera.
These differences in safety features reflect the different design priorities and target markets for the Crosstrek and Outback. The Outback is positioned as a more premium vehicle, with a greater emphasis on advanced safety features and technologies. In contrast, the Crosstrek is aimed at a more budget-conscious audience, with a focus on providing a balance of safety, affordability, and versatility. While both vehicles offer an impressive range of safety features, the Outback’s more comprehensive suite of standard and optional features may make it a more appealing choice for drivers who prioritize advanced safety technologies.
How does the size and weight of the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback impact their safety?
The size and weight of the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback can have an impact on their safety performance. The Outback is larger and heavier than the Crosstrek, which can provide an advantage in terms of crashworthiness. The Outback’s greater size and weight can help to absorb and distribute the forces of a collision, reducing the risk of injury to occupants. Additionally, the Outback’s larger size can provide a more stable platform for safety features like electronic stability control, which can help to prevent accidents.
However, the Crosstrek’s smaller size and lighter weight can also have safety benefits. The Crosstrek is more agile and easier to maneuver, which can make it less likely to be involved in an accident in the first place. Additionally, the Crosstrek’s smaller size can make it easier to park and navigate in tight spaces, reducing the risk of accidents caused by poor visibility or tight clearance. While the Outback’s larger size may provide some safety advantages, the Crosstrek’s smaller size and lighter weight can also contribute to a safe and secure driving experience.
Can the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback be equipped with advanced safety features like lane centering and adaptive cruise control?
Yes, both the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback can be equipped with advanced safety features like lane centering and adaptive cruise control. These features are available as part of Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system, which uses a combination of cameras and sensors to monitor the road and provide alerts and interventions to the driver. The EyeSight system can help to prevent accidents by providing features like lane departure warning, sway warning, and pre-collision braking. Additionally, the system can enhance driver convenience and comfort through features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering.
The availability of advanced safety features like lane centering and adaptive cruise control can enhance the safety and appeal of both the Crosstrek and Outback. These features can provide an added layer of protection and convenience, helping to reduce the risk of accidents and make long road trips more comfortable and enjoyable. By offering these features as optional equipment, Subaru can provide drivers with a range of choices to suit their needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing safety, convenience, or a combination of both, drivers can trust that their Subaru will provide a secure and enjoyable driving experience.
How do the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback perform in crash tests, such as the small overlap front test?
The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback have both performed well in crash tests, including the small overlap front test. The small overlap front test is a challenging evaluation that simulates a collision where the front corner of the vehicle strikes an object, such as a tree or pole. In this test, the Crosstrek and Outback have both earned good ratings (the highest rating) from the IIHS, demonstrating their ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicles’ strong performance in this test is due in part to their robust body structures and advanced airbag systems.
The strong performance of the Crosstrek and Outback in crash tests like the small overlap front test provides reassurance for drivers and passengers. These tests are designed to simulate real-world collision scenarios, and the vehicles’ ability to withstand these impacts is a testament to their safety credentials. By performing well in these tests, the Crosstrek and Outback can help to reduce the risk of injury or fatality in the event of a collision. Whether driving on the highway or navigating city streets, occupants of the Crosstrek and Outback can trust that their vehicle will provide a safe and secure environment.
Are there any safety concerns or recalls associated with the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback?
Like all vehicles, the Subaru Crosstrek and Outback have been subject to safety concerns and recalls. However, Subaru has a reputation for building reliable and safe vehicles, and the company has taken prompt action to address any safety issues that have arisen. In some cases, Subaru has issued recalls to address specific safety concerns, such as issues with the vehicles’ airbag systems or brake components. In other cases, the company has provided technical service bulletins to dealers and owners, outlining procedures for inspecting and repairing potential safety issues.
It is essential for owners and potential buyers to stay informed about any safety concerns or recalls associated with the Crosstrek and Outback. Subaru provides information on recalls and safety notices through its website and other channels, and owners can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for information on recalls and safety campaigns. By staying informed and taking prompt action to address any safety concerns, owners can help to ensure that their Crosstrek or Outback remains a safe and reliable vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help to identify and address potential safety issues before they become major concerns.