Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Vs. Outback Wilderness - 3 Features Will Convince You

Which Outdoor-themed Wilderness model is the best, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness or the 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness? Three significant upgrades set one apart. Check out the differences here. 

If you are ready to get further off the grid, the 2024 Outback and the 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness trims are significantly different. It's not just the size difference; three upgrades sets the Outback Wilderness apart.  

The rugged SUVs are attracting new customers to the brand who seek to go deeper into the woods, mountains, or desert. So now, Subaru has the Crosstrek Wilderness, arriving this fall for outdoor enthusiasts.

Related Story: The All-New 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Trim, Pricing, And Model Guide

Which Wilderness model is the best for you, Outback or Crosstrek?

The Outback Wilderness will handle more challenging trails with 9.5 inches of ground clearance, a nearly one-inch increase over the standard model's 8.7 inches. The Crosstrek Wilderness is close to the Outback, with 9.3 inches of rock-clearing ground clearance. Advantage Outback Wilderness. 

They offer additional body cladding and under-armor protection with front skid plates, an anti-glare hood decal, and hex-design LED fog lights. In addition, they are available in Geyser Blue exterior paint. They also have Yokohama Geoplander all-terrain tires for optimal mud, gravel, or snow performance, and they come wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels in a matte-black finish.

Also, Check Out This Related Story: Subaru's 3 Hot Wilderness Trims Are Far From Equal And Which Is The Best For You

They all feature the advanced dual-function X-Mode that allows the outdoor-themed SUVs to switch automatically from low-speed managed driving to speeds over 25 mph without interruption of power or performance. The X-Mode display also features a new roll-angle indicator to help drivers navigate off-road terrain.

Wilderness towing capacity

The Outback Wilderness will tow up to 3,500 lbs. vs. 2,700 lbs for the Outback with the 2.5-liter engine. Maximum towing capacity for the Crosstrek Wilderness more than doubles from the standard model to 3,500 lb. "thanks to the addition of a transmission oil cooler," says Subaru.

Fuel mileage

What is the Outback Wilderness fuel mileage?

The EPA says the new 2024 Outback Wilderness gets an estimated 21/26 city/highway mpg and 23 combined mpg.

The remodeled 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport and Limited trims with the 2.5-liter gets an EPA-estimated 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg.

The EPA has not released fuel mileage for the Crosstrek Wilderness, but it will likely be slightly less than the Sport and Limited models. Advantage Crosstrek Wilderness. 

A significant difference is in the powertrains.

A significant difference between Outback Wilderness and Crosstrek Wilderness trims is their engines. Outback Wilderness is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

The Crosstrek Wilderness gets the re-tuned 2.5-liter normally-aspirated Boxer engine producing 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. If you carry additional cargo, the Outback has a distinct advantage when going over a steep mountain pass. 

Related Story: The New Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Is Missing One Important Upgrade You Want

Do you want a heated steering wheel?

If you want a 360-degree heated steering wheel, buy the 2024 Outback Wilderness. The outdoor-themed Crosstrek Wilderness trim does not offer a heated steering wheel option.

What is the price of the 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness?

The 2024 Outback Wilderness costs $41,255, including destination and delivery fees. That's $6,010 more than Forester Wilderness and $7,965 more than Crosstrek Wilderness, but its upgrades are worth the extra cost if you need more power.

What is the price of the 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness?

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness will be the most expensive Crosstrek trim level. The all-new Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees.

Which Subaru Wilderness is the best?

The 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness and Crosstrek trim levels are capable all-terrain vehicles for getting further off the grid. The 2024 Outback Wilderness offers more power, additional ground clearance, and a heated steering wheel. The Outback Wilderness wins the family battle. 

Also, Check Out This Related Story: The All-New Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Vs. Forester Wilderness - Why One Wins Easily

Denis Flierl brings over thirty years of combined auto industry and automotive journalism experience to Torque News readers. He is an accredited Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) member. The last twelve years have been spent with Torque News, covering Subaru vehicles and the latest news. Check back daily for his expert Subaru analysis. You'll find the latest stories on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

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