Thinking of buying a new sedan? Our comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Legacy and Honda Accord covers everything from engine performance to reliability and maintenance.
Engine Performance
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the engine is the heart of the operation. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or carving up mountain roads, a capable powerplant can make all the difference. But what sets the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V apart in terms of engine performance?
Horsepower and Torque Comparison
Let’s get down to the numbers. The Subaru Forester’s 2.5-liter boxer engine puts out 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the Honda CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. On paper, it looks like the CR-V has a slight edge, but how do these figures translate to real-world driving?
In practice, the Forester’s boxer engine provides a more linear power delivery, making it feel more responsive and agile in everyday driving. The CR-V’s turbocharged engine, on the other hand, takes a moment to spool up before delivering its full potential. While both engines are certainly capable, the Forester’s more immediate power delivery makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
Transmission Options and Fuel Economy
Transmission choices are an important consideration for many buyers. The Subaru Forester offers a smooth-shifting CVT (continuously variable transmission) as its sole transmission option, which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, offers a CVT as well, but also provides an available six-speed automatic transmission on higher trims.
In terms of fuel economy, the Forester and CR-V are closely matched. The Forester achieves an estimated 24/32 mpg (city/highway) with AWD, while the CR-V returns an estimated 25/31 mpg with AWD. While the CR-V has a slight edge in city driving, the Forester’s improved highway fuel economy makes it a better choice for road trippers.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior and comfort, a car can make or break the driving experience. After all, you’ll likely be spending a significant amount of time in your vehicle, so it’s essential to feel comfortable and relaxed. So, what can you expect from the latest models?
Seating Capacity and Legroom
One of the first things to consider is the seating capacity and legroom. Will you be driving solo, or will you need to accommodate passengers regularly? The latest models offer a range of seating options, from cozy two-seaters to spacious sedans that can comfortably fit five adults. When it comes to legroom, you’ll want to ensure there’s ample space for everyone to stretch out and get comfortable. Some models even offer adjustable seats, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your unique needs.
Imagine being stuck in traffic, feeling cramped and uncomfortable, and then imagine the opposite – having plenty of room to move around, adjust your seat, and settle in for the long haul. That’s what you can expect from cars that prioritize interior space. But what about entertainment and technology? That’s where infotainment systems come in.
Infotainment Systems and Features
Infotainment systems have come a long way in recent years, and the latest models are no exception. With advanced displays, intuitive interfaces, and seamless connectivity, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Want to sync your smartphone and access your favorite music, podcasts, and navigation apps? No problem. Need to keep your passengers entertained on a long road trip? You’ll find a range of options, from Touchscreens to voice-controlled assistants.
Some models even offer premium audio systems, complete with surround sound and noise-cancelling technology. It’s like having your own private concert hall on wheels! But infotainment systems aren’t just about entertainment – they can also provide valuable information, from real-time traffic updates to alerts and notifications. The key is finding a system that integrates seamlessly with your lifestyle, so you can focus on the road ahead.
Safety Features
When it comes to safeguarding you and your loved ones on the road, both Subaru and Honda take safety very seriously. In this section, we’ll delve into the airbag systems and crash test ratings of these two popular models, as well as explore their advanced safety technologies.
Airbag Systems and Crash Test Ratings
Airbags are a crucial safety feature in any vehicle, and both Subaru and Honda offer comprehensive airbag systems to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Subaru Outback, for instance, features a total of seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and side curtain airbags that deploy from the roof rails to protect both front and rear passengers. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V boasts a similar arrangement, with front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags all working in tandem to provide maximum protection.
But what about crash test ratings? Here, both models have impressed, with the Subaru Outback earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Honda CR-V scoring a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These impressive ratings are a testament to the rigorous testing and safety protocols in place at both manufacturers.
Honda CR-VAdvanced Safety Tech: Subaru EyeSight vs Honda Sensing
In recent years, advanced safety technologies have become an essential component of any new vehicle. Two of the most prominent systems in this arena are Subaru’s EyeSight and Honda’s Sensing suite. So, how do they compare? Subaru’s EyeSight is a comprehensive system that includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning, as well as pre-collision braking and throttle management. This system is designed to detect and respond to potential hazards on the road, providing an additional layer of protection for drivers and passengers alike.
Meanwhile, Honda’s Sensing suite offers a similar range of features, including collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, Honda’s system also incorporates more advanced features, such as a traffic sign recognition system and a driver attention monitor. This latter feature uses a camera to track the driver’s eye movements, alerting them if they appear distracted or drowsy.
Which system comes out on top? Ultimately, both Subaru’s EyeSight and Honda’s Sensing are highly advanced safety systems that offer a range of benefits for drivers. However, Subaru’s system has been praised for its more intuitive interface and seamless integration into the driving experience. That said, Honda’s system has been lauded for its more advanced features and cutting-edge technology. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Exterior Design
When it comes to exterior design, the real question is: what sets these two vehicles apart? The answer lies in their unique body styles and dimensions, as well as their attention-grabbing LED lighting and sleek alloy wheels.
Body Styles and Dimensions
The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V offer distinct body styles that cater to different needs and preferences. The Outback boasts a more rugged, wagon-like design, with a longer overall length and wheelbase than the CR-V. This translates to more interior space and better cargo capacity. On the other hand, the CR-V has a more traditional SUV shape, with a slightly shorter length and wheelbase. However, it makes up for this with its impressive ground clearance and approach/departure angles, making it more suitable for off-road adventures.
LED Lighting and Alloy Wheels
But what about the finer details? Both vehicles feature LED lighting, which not only enhances their visual appeal but also provides better illumination on the road. The Outback’s LED headlights are designed to reduce glare and improve visibility, while the CR-V’s LED daytime running lights add a touch of sophistication to its exterior. When it comes to alloy wheels, the Outback offers a range of options, including 17-inch and 18-inch wheels, depending on the trim level. The CR-V, on the other hand, features 17-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 18-inch wheels available on higher trims. These stylish wheels not only enhance the vehicles’ appearance but also provide better handling and performance.
Handling and Suspension
When it comes to handling and suspension, the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V are both designed to provide a responsive and comfortable driving experience. But how do they stack up against each other?
All-Wheel Drive Systems
Both vehicles come equipped with advanced all-wheel drive systems that are designed to provide traction and control on a variety of terrain. The Subaru Forester features the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which uses a combination of sensors and hydraulic pumps to distribute power to the wheels that need it most. This system is able to adapt to changing road conditions in real-time, providing improved traction and stability.
In contrast, the Honda CR-V features the Real Time AWD system, which uses a similar approach to distribute power to the wheels. However, the CR-V’s system is more focused on providing additional traction in low-traction situations, such as snow or sand. While both systems are effective, the Forester’s system is more advanced and provides more nuanced control over the vehicle’s power distribution.
Suspension Tuning and Ride Quality
When it comes to suspension tuning and ride quality, both vehicles are designed to provide a comfortable and responsive driving experience. The Subaru Forester features a double-wishbone rear suspension and a MacPherson strut front suspension, which work together to provide a smooth ride and responsive handling. The Forester’s suspension is also tuned to be more agile and responsive, making it a great choice for drivers who enjoy taking on twisty roads.
In contrast, the Honda CR-V features a more comfort-oriented suspension tuning, with a focus on providing a smooth ride and absorbing bumps and potholes. While the CR-V’s suspension is still responsive and capable, it’s not quite as agile as the Forester’s system. However, the CR-V’s suspension does provide a more comfortable ride, making it a great choice for drivers who prioritize comfort over handling prowess. Ultimately, the choice between the Forester and CR-V’s suspension tuning will depend on your personal driving style and priorities. Do you want a more agile and responsive driving experience, or a smoother and more comfortable ride?
Trims and Pricing
When buying a new car, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right trim level. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, understanding the different trims and their corresponding prices can help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive into the world of trims and pricing to explore what’s available and what you can expect.
Base Model Pricing and Features
The base model is often the most affordable option, but that doesn’t mean it’s bare bones. In fact, many base models come equipped with a surprising number of standard features. For instance, you might find amenities like automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen infotainment system, all at a price that won’t break the bank. But what’s the real cost of going base? Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Expect to pay around $20,000 to $25,000 for a base model, depending on the make and model. While that might seem like a lot, it’s essential to remember that you’re getting a brand-new car with the latest safety features, a warranty, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re driving a reliable vehicle. And, let’s be real, who doesn’t love the new car smell?
Top-Trim Luxury Features and Cost
Now, let’s talk about the opposite end of the spectrum – the top-trim luxury models. These vehicles are designed to pamper you with premium materials, advanced technology, and a level of sophistication that’s hard to resist. But, as you’d expect, all this luxury comes at a cost.
Top-trim models can range from $35,000 to over $50,000, depending on the brand and features. So, what do you get for your money? Expect to find premium materials like leather, wood trim, and metal accents, as well as advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot detection. You might even find perks like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system. The question is, are these features worth the extra cost?
Reliability and Maintenance
When it comes to owning a car, one of the most important considerations is reliability and maintenance. You want a vehicle that will get you where you need to go, without breaking the bank or leaving you stranded on the side of the road. So, how do the Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V stack up in this department?
Warranty Coverage and Maintenance Schedules
Both Subaru and Honda offer comprehensive warranty packages that provide peace of mind for new car owners. The Subaru Outback comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, as well as a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, along with a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
But what about maintenance schedules? Both vehicles require regular check-ups to keep them running smoothly. The Subaru Outback recommends maintenance every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, including oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, suggests maintenance every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, including oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements.
Repair Costs and Frequency of Repairs
So, what happens when something goes wrong? According to RepairPal, the Subaru Outback has an average annual repair cost of around $350, with a frequency of repairs that’s 24% below average. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V has an average annual repair cost of around $300, with a frequency of repairs that’s 16% below average. While both vehicles have lower-than-average repair frequencies, the Honda CR-V edges out the Subaru Outback in terms of overall repair costs. But, as the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” By staying on top of regular maintenance, you can help reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line.