KGM Rexton vs Subaru Outback
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
The KGM Rexton starts from $50,000 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Outback opens at $48,990. That makes the Subaru Outback the more affordable entry point by $1,010.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $55,000 and $53,889 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The KGM Rexton features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Outback gets a 12.1-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Rexton stands out with ambient lighting that you will not find on the Subaru Outback. The Subaru Outback counters with panoramic roof and heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the KGM Rexton gets leather upholstery while the Subaru Outback offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The KGM Rexton uses a Turbo DDi Diesel producing 149kW and 441Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 11.5 seconds.
The Subaru Outback responds with a Petrol making 137kW and 254Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels.
The KGM Rexton has the clear power advantage at 149kW vs 137kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The KGM Rexton measures 4,850mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 30mm shorter than the Subaru Outback at 4,880mm (2,745mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Rexton generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 236L in the KGM Rexton and 530L in the Subaru Outback, giving the Subaru Outback a 294L advantage. The KGM Rexton seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the KGM Rexton leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m to 11.6m
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,480/year for the KGM Rexton and $2,309/year for the Subaru Outback. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Subaru Outback.
Estimated annual total: $2,480 (KGM Rexton) vs $2,309 (Subaru Outback). The Subaru Outback saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Rexton) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Outback). The KGM Rexton has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the KGM Rexton if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Outback if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The KGM Rexton and Subaru Outback trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Subaru Outback will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru Outback has a clear edge. The KGM Rexton adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, KGM Rexton and Subaru Outback?
The Subaru Outback is the cheapest at $48,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the KGM Rexton by $1,010.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Outback uses the least fuel at 8.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Subaru Outback all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Subaru Outback has the largest boot at 530L.
Which can tow the most?
The KGM Rexton has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The KGM Rexton has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The KGM Rexton makes the most power at 149kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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