Toyota Matrix vs. Subaru Outback Review

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Subaru packs quite a punch and will knock the Toyota down a few rungs. On the other hand, remember that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums. The Toyota Matrix is likely to feel a little sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio compared to the Subaru Outback.

Handling
The Outback and the Toyota Matrix have roughly comparable tires. With their comparable turning radiuses, the Subaru Outback and the Toyota Matrix very likely handle approximately the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Outback has a more sizeable engine than the Toyota Matrix. Keep in mind that smaller engines are often cheaper to fix, but a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Outback is tremendously more powerful than the Toyota Matrix. The Toyota Matrix could learn a lesson or two from the Outback with respect to torque.

Utility
The Subaru Outback's more sizeable trunk will accommodate more big things than the Toyota Matrix. Neither the Toyota nor the Subaru has a marked advantage with respect to seating capacity.

Convenience
The Subaru's fuel tank will need to be replenished a bit more often than the unit in the Toyota Matrix.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Toyota Matrix offers a bit more head room than the Subaru, there really isn't much of a difference. The ampler interior dimensions of the Toyota Matrix make it considerably more spacious for your passengers than the Subaru.

Dimensions
The Subaru Outback is substantially more ponderous than the Toyota. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Subaru Outback than the Toyota Matrix because of its bigger tank. The Subaru Outback rides lower than the Toyota Matrix, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Toyota Matrix and the Subaru Outback compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Matrix to the dealership as the Subaru Outback. Producing an accurate fuel economy evaluation is so tricky that some think not even the federal government can do it, but it looks as though the Matrix is the winner when it comes to gas mileage. The Subaru Outback will tax your gas budget markedly more than the Toyota Matrix will. The Subaru Outback is tremendously more expensive than the Toyota Matrix regarding MSRP. The Toyota Matrix is tremendously less costly than the Subaru Outback as far as final price. The Toyota will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Subaru Outback.

Overview
The Subaru Outback and the Toyota have the same basic after-sale protection.