Honda Passport Vs. Subaru Outback: Full Comparison With Charts
2026 Subaru Outback vs. 2026 Honda Passport at a Glance
- While the Passport makes more horsepower, the Outback delivers a higher available torque rating.
- With a higher ground clearance, more available torque, a shorter wheelbase, and superior trail equipment, the Outback outclasses the Passport in off-road capability.
- The Outback SUV's narrower frame is better suited to crowded city streets and tight trails than the Passport.
- For additional front-row comfort while still having plenty of cargo room for camping gear, choose the Subaru Outback.
Honda Passport Compared to Subaru Outback: Which Is the Better Performer and Off-Roader?
When it comes to performance, the Subaru Outback vs. Honda Passport SUV debate can become heated. For instance, the Passport uses a larger V-6 engine that makes more horsepower, but the Outback strikes back with a more efficient standard engine and an available turbo powertrain that generates additional torque.
The Passport has a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity,1 while the Subaru Outback towing capacity tops out at 3,500 pounds.2 However, if you're comparing these two midsize SUVs with the team Muller Subaru, chances are you like to venture off the beaten path, which is where the Outback deals the winning blow. It has a higher ground clearance, ranging from 8.7 to 9.5 inches, compared to 8.3 inches for the Passport. The Outback also boasts a shorter wheelbase for a superior breakover angle and the automaker's Symmetrical AWD system, which is designed for off-road excursions.
The Passport offers more horsepower and towing strength, but the Outback delivers higher MPG ratings and superior off-road potential via a shorter wheelbase and additional torque and ground clearance.
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Honda Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine |
|
3.5L V-6 |
| Horsepower |
|
285 |
| Torque |
|
262 lb-ft |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs2 | 5,000 lbs1 |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD | AWD |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | 25 / 313 | 19 / 254 |
Is the Honda Passport Bigger Than the Subaru Outback?
Combining wagon and SUV aesthetics, the Outback is narrower and shorter than the Passport – both models are nearly identical in length. This gives the Outback some unique advantages. For starters, its size is better suited to city driving. Perhaps more importantly, it's designed to take on tight trails, easily being maneuvered out of tough spots.
Whether heading into the city or off on your next overlanding adventure, the Outback has more appealing exterior measurements.
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Honda Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 108.1 in | 113.6 in |
| Length | 191.7 in | 191.5 in |
| Width | 74 in | 79.4 in |
| Height | 67.5 - 68.3 in | 73.1 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 - 9.5 in | 8.3 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Max. Cargo Volume | 80.5 cu ft | 83.2 - 83.8 cu ft |
Does the Honda Passport or Subaru Outback Have More Comfortable Interior Space?
SUVs are as much about comfort as they are anything else, and you'll find it in the front row of the Subaru Outback:
- Maximum Outback Headroom (Front): 41 inches
- Maximum Passport Headroom (Front): 40.5 inches
- Outback Legroom (Front): 43 inches
- Passport Legroom (Front): 41.1 inches
The Subaru Outback provides larger first-row interior dimensions, while remaining competitive or excelling in second-row space, depending on the category.
Which SUV Has More Cargo Space: Passport or Outback?
The trade-off with the Outback having more room for front-seat passengers is that the Passport has a slightly larger cargo hold. That being said, with a 3.3-cubic-foot difference, there's still plenty of space in the Subaru SUV for all of your camping and adventure gear. We think it's worth it to shop new Subaru inventory for an Outback with more indulgent first-row measurements plus 80.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume.
The Honda Passport has a touch more cargo space at the cost of driver and front passenger comfort, but either can store plenty of equipment.
Honda Passport vs. Subaru Outback Resale Value: Which Is the Better Investment?
Admittedly, the Subaru Outback and Honda Passport are evenly matched in the resale category. J.D. Power ranks both as "Great" for Resale,5 making them solid investments for when it comes time to value your trade down the line. The two also share "Great" marks in Quality and Reliability,5 so you won't need to worry about longevity.
Safety is also a close call – both SUVs are recipients of the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award this year,6 for example.
The Honda Passport and Subaru Outback are each strong contenders for resale value and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better in snow: the Honda Passport or Subaru Outback?
Both the Honda Passport and Subaru Outback offer standard AWD and driving modes that make tackling snow a breeze, especially the Honda Passport TrailSport vs. Subaru Outback Wilderness editions.
Which is better for camping: the Honda Passport or Subaru Outback?
While the Honda Passport has slightly more cargo space for your gear – up to 3.3 cubic feet – the Subaru Outback will get you there with greater ease and comfort, thanks to its higher ground clearance and increased front-seat dimensions.
Honda Passport vs. Subaru Outback: which is better for road trips?
When embarking on a road trip, the Subaru Outback is a better fit. It has more appealing front-row headroom and legroom. The second-row dimensions between the two SUVs are comparable, but the Passport may be a better fit for families with teens.
Honda Passport vs. Subaru Outback: which is better for families?
Although both vehicles in our Subaru Outback vs. Honda Passport comparison are great for families, the Subaru Outback can be a better fit for families who long to explore nature, hit the trails, or bring a kayak to the local watering hole. The Passport might be a great fit for more on-pavement family trips, but the Outback is also well-versed in this area.
1Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
2Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
4Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org