MG QS 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.
Price Breakdown
The MG QS starts from $46,990 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Outback opens at $48,990. That makes the MG QS the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
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 $51,689 and $53,889 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the MG QS and Subaru Outback hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the MG QS and 88% for the Subaru Outback.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG QS packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the Subaru Outback.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the MG QS and 9 in the Subaru Outback. The MG QS adds a 360-degree camera that the Subaru Outback misses.
Feature Showdown
The MG QS features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Outback gets a 12.1-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG QS stands out with ambient lighting that you will not find on the Subaru Outback. The Subaru Outback counters with heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG QS uses a 2.0L Turbo Petrol producing 153kW and 360Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The Subaru Outback responds with a Petrol making 137kW and 254Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds.
The MG QS has the clear power advantage at 153kW vs 137kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG QS measures 4,983mm long on a 2,915mm wheelbase, 113mm longer than the Subaru Outback at 4,870mm (2,745mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG QS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 203L in the MG QS and 975L in the Subaru Outback, giving the Subaru Outback a 772L advantage. The MG QS seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Subaru Outback leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,394/year for the MG QS and $2,451/year for the Subaru Outback. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the MG QS.
Estimated annual total: $2,394 (MG QS) vs $2,451 (Subaru Outback). The MG QS saves you roughly $57 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG QS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Outback). The MG QS has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG QS if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Outback if: You need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG QS takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The MG QS will save you roughly $57 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru Outback has a clear edge. The MG QS adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, MG QS and Subaru Outback?
The MG QS is the cheapest at $46,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Outback by $2,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG QS uses the least fuel at 8.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — MG QS and 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 975L.
Which can tow the most?
The MG QS has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG QS has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG QS makes the most power at 153kW.
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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