Subaru Outback 2007 or 2008 vs. Toyota RAV4

agsmagsm Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Subaru
Debating between Ouback 2007 or 2008 and Toyota RAV 4.

Need to put 2 car seats in the back seat, live in snow country and will drive the car 80+ miles a day for work.

I assme the Outack does better in snow, but having a hard time determining the real MPG difference and reliability/maintenance issues with each vehicle.

Any opinions?

Also, any major differences between Outback 2007 and 2008?

Many thanks.

Comments

  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    The 08s got a face lift, but otherwise only minor differences. The Outback sedan is discontinued but sounds like you want a wagon anyway.

    Do you want a sport/cute or a capable wagon? That's the bottom line.

    RAV4 has more space, offers a V6 that runs on regular fuel, and even offers a 3rd row. They're all automatics now. The rear gate swings open the wrong way and blocks curb side loading.

    Outback handles better, should be much easier to park, offers a turbo with a manual transmission. The AWD is more sophisticated but no 3rd row and less cargo space. The liftgate shields you from the rain.

    For me, I like the 2GR Toyota V6 but the rear gate and poor visibility crossed it off my list. I actually ended up with a Sienna minivan, which has more room and better visibility for less money, plus I got power doors as a bonus.

    If I wanted something sportier and more nimble it would be Outback all the way. The RAV4 falls in between but just makes many compromises - it isn't small and sporty and it's not really roomy and practical the way a van is.
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