stlgrym3

iTrader: (4)

which one would you prefer as a grocery getter/toddler hauling third car in a household? 2015 CRV has the new Earth Dream engine, CVT and other visual refreshes and is Motor Trend 2015 SUV of the Year winner. while the 2015 Outlook is getting a lot, i mean a lot of raving reviews, and is considerably better looking than CRV and a better AWD system. both are very fuel efficient for their class, and prices are within 2000 of each other. which one do you prefer?

pbm317

That's a tough choice, both are pretty rock solid. I've driven both 2015's and I'd lean slightly to the CR-V just because I personally like the shape a little better.

Outback though, you can get some safety tech on the Limited, would need to step up to the CR-V Touring for that.

I would think that height wise to load a toddler in and out, the CR-V might have a slight edge... but maybe not.

CR-V is ~10 inches shorter in overall length, which could help for parking, maneuverability.

Can't go wrong with either!

stlgrym3

iTrader: (4)

^^^ thanks for the reply, other factors would be reliability and resale values. i know Honda has a rock solid reputation in those two areas, but not really familiar with Subaru.

pbm317

Subaru's reliability has been pretty strong. I think the new Earth Dreams powertrains from Honda are pretty impressive though.

Resale value wise, the Outback is a strong car, but the CR-V is significantly stronger.

Allen K

iTrader: (4)

I'd agree with this especially since the OP is in SoCal which doesn't value AWD as much as other parts of the country

blacksc400

iTrader: (4)

CRV gets my vote, it's little more powerful, higher seating position, and of course better resale value.

But you really can't go wrong with both.

mmarshall

If you want something that drives more car-like, go with the Outback.....it is, of course, a sedan-based Legacy Wagon riding on a slightly higher suspension. The CR-V is more of a traditional crossover small SUV (and drives like one despite the smooth ride), but is better-built than the Outback and will likely be somewhat more reliable in the long run. The CR-V is not available with a V6 like the Outback's 3.6R flat-6, if that is going to be an issue for you, though you seem to be primarily interested in the 2.5L. (which can somewhat sluggish despite the CVT)

spwolf

well, try them both and let us know... I really would not think too much of reviews, once you sit in them you will know your answer.

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

Respect for the Subaru, but I'd take the CR-V if given the choice between the two

LexusChris

iTrader: (1)

I own a 2014 CR-V, and I must say the CR-V of course! Not saying the Outback is a bad car but, I live in New York City, and in a city where parking is an issue often, it's smaller than the Outback which helps alot, but it does offer plenty of room for a car it size, the rear seats offer plently of room for even 3 adults in my opinion, and trunk size is pretty good too, no problem on our trips to big warehouse stores like Costco.

MikeP

I own a '15 Outback and looked at the CRV before buying, although the '15 CRV was not out yet. I chose the Outback for reasons of safety, ride and because I don't see them on every street corner. Don't just look at the MSRP when factoring in cost because '15 Outbacks are selling, without much haggling for dealer's invoice and under, even though they are flying off dealers' lots. Whereas it is tough to get Honda dealers to consider anything less than MSRP on the '15 CRV. Both are worthy of consideration, but the Outback fit me better.

SLegacy99

Subaru is the only company who has a whole lineup that is 5 star crash test rated and IIHS Top Pick Gold. Consider that.

Hoovey689

iTrader: (16)

Including the tiny BRZ?

MikeP

Not exactly 5 star, but pretty darn good:

http://www.iihs.org/iihs/ratings/veh...brz?print-view