When it comes to choosing a versatile and capable vehicle that can handle both urban environments and off-road adventures, the Subaru Outback Vs Volkswagen Passat Alltrack often come to mind.
For this blog, we’ll be looking at the 2024 Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT and the 2023 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium, two of the latest models from these respected brands.
This comparison will showcase the differences between these two vehicles, specifically their design, performance, technology, safety, and value for money. Hopefully by the end of the blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of which model best suits your lifestyle and driving needs.
Exterior Design and Features
Design & Aesthetics: Subaru Outback Vs Volkswagen Passat Alltrack
The 2024 Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT and the 2023 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium both bring unique design elements to the table, catering to different aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
The Subaru Outback continues to embody its rugged, adventure-ready persona with a robust exterior design. It features muscular lines and a high ground clearance that enhance its off-road appeal. The distinctive front grille, integrated roof rails, and protective cladding around the wheel arches give it a tough yet stylish look that is both functional and visually appealing.
In contrast, the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack leans more towards a refined and sophisticated design. It combines sleek lines with a slightly lower stance, which contributes to its elegant appearance. The Passat Alltrack’s design includes chrome accents, a prominent front grille, and sporty alloy wheels, highlighting its blend of luxury and practicality. This vehicle is designed to appeal to those who want a touch of class without sacrificing utility.
Length, Width, & Height: Outback vs Passat Alltrack
When comparing the dimensions of these two vehicles, the Subaru Outback is slightly larger, which contributes to its spacious interior and commanding road presence.
Subaru Outback: |
Volkswagen Passat Alltrack: |
| Length: 4870 mm | Length: 4788 mm |
| Width: 1875 mm | Width: 1853 mm |
| Height: 1675 mm | Height: 1529 mm |
Boot Size, Luggage Capacity, & Cargo Space: Outback vs Passat Alltrack
Cargo space is a critical factor for many buyers, especially those who need their vehicle for family outings or long trips. Both vehicles offer ample cargo space, but with some differences.
| Subaru Outback: | Volkswagen Passat Alltrack: |
| Boot Space with Rear Seats Up: 522 litres | Boot Space with Rear Seats Up: 650 litres |
| Boot Space with Rear Seats Down: 1711 litres to the ceiling | Boot Space with Rear Seats Down: 1780 litres to the ceiling |
In summary, the Subaru Outback excels in providing a rugged design with substantial cargo capacity, making it ideal for adventurous families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, on the other hand, offers a sophisticated design with excellent boot space, catering to those who seek a blend of luxury and practicality.
Performance, Fuel Economy, & Drivetrain: Outback vs Passat Alltrack
Engine Types, Drivetrains, & Fuel Consumption
| Feature | Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT | Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium |
| Engine Type | 2.4L Direct injected, turbocharged horizontally-opposed Boxer 4-cylinder, petrol engine | 2.0L 4-cylinder inline turbo petrol with engine Start/Stop system and brake energy recuperation |
| Fuel Type | 95 RON | 95 ROM |
| Max Power | 183 kW | 162 kW |
| Max Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Combined Fuel Consumption | 9L / 100 km | 8.1L / 100 km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63L | 66L |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive) | AWD (4MOTION All-Wheel Drive) |
In summary, both vehicles offer robust performance with advanced AWD systems. The Subaru Outback boasts a powerful 2.4L Boxer engine, providing more power but with slightly higher fuel consumption. The Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, while offering slightly less power, is more fuel-efficient and includes advanced energy recuperation technologies.
Technology & Safety: Which Car is More Safe?
Infotainment Systems and Connectivity Features
The 2024 Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT features an 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen that operates much like a tablet, offering an intuitive interface. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and communication. Additionally, it comes with a premium Harman Kardon audio system, delivering superior sound through multiple speakers. Other notable features include built-in satellite navigation, voice command capabilities, and a wireless smartphone charging pad for enhanced convenience.
In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium is equipped with a 9.2-inch colour touchscreen display featuring a smartphone-style human-machine interface (HMI). This system offers a configurable home screen, proximity sensor, gesture control, voice control, DAB+, AM/FM radio, and both 2D and 3D map views. It also includes a security-coded car menu with convenience and service settings. The Passat Alltrack’s infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is paired with a premium Harman Kardon sound system that boasts a 10-speaker setup with a 700W total power output and a digital 16-channel amplifier. USB-C ports are available in the front centre console and the rear for charging.
Safety Features
Both the 2024 Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT and the 2023 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium prioritise safety with a comprehensive array of advanced features designed to protect passengers and enhance driving confidence.
The Subaru Outback is renowned for its robust safety features. The 2024 model continues this tradition with the following key features:
EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology: This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. EyeSight® helps to monitor traffic movement, optimise cruise control, and warn drivers if they stray outside their lane, enhancing overall driving safety.
ANCAP Safety Rating: The Outback boasts a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, tested in 2021, which confirms its high level of crash protection and safety performance.
Airbags: The vehicle is equipped with 8 SRS airbags, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants.
For a full list of safety features, refer to the Subaru Outback specification brochure.
The 2023 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack also offers a suite of advanced safety features, ensuring it remains competitive in the market:
- Safety Systems: The Passat Alltrack is equipped with essential safety systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), and traction control. These systems work together to maintain stability and control in various driving conditions.
- Driver Assistance: Features include adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and autonomous emergency braking. The Passat also provides blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and park assist, enhancing driver awareness and convenience.
- Airbags: It includes multiple airbags for driver and passenger protection, ensuring safety in the event of a collision.
For a full list of safety features, refer to the Volkswagen Passat specification brochure available from Volkswagen Australia.
Price Comparison: Outback vs Passat Alltrack
The Subaru Outback AWD Touring XT offers exceptional value at $64,162 driveaway, providing advanced safety features, a luxurious interior, and superior off-road capabilities. Despite being more affordable than the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 162TSI Premium, which is priced at $70,502 driveaway, the Outback delivers a comprehensive package that excels in both performance and practicality, making it a smarter choice for those seeking a well-rounded and cost-effective vehicle.
See the Subaru Outback for Yourself Today
For those looking for a vehicle that seamlessly blends performance, safety, and practicality, the Subaru Outback is the clear winner. Experience the unparalleled features and drive quality of the Subaru Outback for yourself.
Test drive the Subaru Outback today and explore the range of Subaru Outbacks for sale in Perth. Your next adventure awaits with the Subaru Outback.