The Hyundai Santa Cruz and Subaru Outback cater to distinct yet overlapping audiences, offering unique features that appeal to different lifestyles. The Santa Cruz combines the versatility of a compact pickup with SUV-like comfort, while the Outback is a rugged crossover wagon designed for adventurous families. This comparison will explore their key differences in performance, design, utility, and pricing to help you decide which vehicle suits your needs best.

FeatureHyundai Santa CruzSubaru Outback
Base MSRP$26,900$28,895
Engine2.5L Inline-4 Gas2.5L Flat-4 Gas
DrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive (AWD optional)All-Wheel Drive (Standard)
Horsepower191 hp182 hp
Fuel Economy (Combined)23 MPG28 MPG
Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (5,000 lbs optional)2,700 lbs
Cargo Bed Length4.3 feetN/A (wagon-style cargo area)
Warranty10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty

Performance

The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a more dynamic driving experience with its 8-speed automatic transmission and optional turbocharged engine delivering up to 281 horsepower. Its sportier handling and responsive steering make it enjoyable for urban driving or light off-roading. The Santa Cruz also has a higher towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for hauling trailers or boats.

The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, excels in versatility and off-road capability. Its standard all-wheel-drive system and 8.7-inch ground clearance provide superior traction on rough terrain. The Outback's available turbocharged engine produces 260 horsepower, offering sufficient power for most driving conditions. However, its towing capacity is limited to 2,700 pounds, which may not suffice for heavier loads.

Design and Comfort

The Hyundai Santa Cruz features a sleek and modern design that blends SUV styling with the practicality of an open cargo bed. Its interior is well-appointed with digital instrumentation, an available 10.25-inch touchscreen, and premium materials. The cabin feels spacious and airy, though rear-seat legroom may be tight for taller passengers.

The Subaru Outback adopts a more rugged aesthetic with its wagon-like profile and raised stance. Inside, it offers a roomy cabin with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Outback also boasts a larger cargo area with up to 75.6 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded down, making it perfect for family road trips or outdoor adventures.

Utility

The Hyundai Santa Cruz stands out with its 4.3-foot composite cargo bed equipped with innovative features like under-bed storage, adjustable tie-downs, and a lockable tonneau cover. These features enhance its utility for carrying tools or outdoor gear.

The Subaru Outback compensates for its lack of an open bed with a spacious interior cargo area and roof rails that can accommodate additional storage solutions like bike racks or rooftop tents. Its wagon-style design makes loading and unloading items easier compared to taller SUVs or trucks.

Technology and Safety

Both vehicles come equipped with advanced technology and safety features:

  • The Santa Cruz offers wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and optional features like a Surround View Monitor.
  • The Outback includes Subaru's EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which provides adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking as standard.

While both models have earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, the Outback edges ahead with more standard safety features across all trims.

Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Outback is more fuel-efficient than the Hyundai Santa Cruz:

  • Outback: 26 MPG city / 32 MPG highway / 28 MPG combined
  • Santa Cruz: 22 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined

This makes the Outback a better choice for long-distance travel or daily commuting.

Pricing and Value

The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at a lower base price of $26,900, making it more affordable upfront than the Subaru Outback's starting price of $28,895. Additionally, the Santa Cruz has better resale value over five years due to lower depreciation rates.

However, the Outback justifies its higher price with standard all-wheel drive and additional safety features. For those prioritizing rugged capability over cost savings, the Outback offers excellent value.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Subaru Outback depends on your lifestyle and priorities:

  • Choose the Hyundai Santa Cruz if you need a versatile vehicle with truck-like utility, higher towing capacity, and modern styling.
  • Opt for the Subaru Outback if you prioritize off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior comfort.

Both models offer compelling advantages, so consider your specific needs before making a decision.

FAQs About Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Subaru Outback

    • Which vehicle has better towing capacity?
      The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity compared to the Subaru Outback's 2,700 pounds.
    • Which is more fuel-efficient?
      The Subaru Outback is more fuel-efficient with 28 MPG combined versus the Hyundai Santa Cruz's 23 MPG combined.
    • Which is better for off-road driving?
      The Subaru Outback is better suited for off-road driving due to its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance.
    • Which has more cargo space?
      The Subaru Outback provides more interior cargo space at 75.6 cubic feet compared to the Hyundai Santa Cruz's open bed.
    • Which vehicle is more affordable?
      The Hyundai Santa Cruz has a lower starting price of $26,900 compared to the Subaru Outback's $28,895.