Subaru Outback vs Jaecoo J8
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 Subaru Outback starts from $48,990 before on-road costs, while the Jaecoo J8 opens at $49,990. That makes the Subaru Outback the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
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 $53,889 and $54,989 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 Subaru Outback features a 12.1-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Jaecoo J8 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Subaru Outback stands out with panoramic roof and heated front seats that you will not find on the Jaecoo J8. The Jaecoo J8 counters with head-up display, wireless charging, Sony audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Subaru Outback gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Jaecoo J8 offers leather.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Outback uses a Petrol producing 137kW and 254Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a AWD layout.
The Jaecoo J8 responds with a Petrol making 183kW and 385Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Jaecoo J8 has the clear power advantage at 183kW vs 137kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Outback measures 4,880mm long on a 2,745mm wheelbase, 60mm longer than the Jaecoo J8 at 4,820mm (2,820mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Jaecoo J8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 530L in the Subaru Outback and 520L in the Jaecoo J8, giving the Subaru Outback a 10L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.1m to 11.8m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m 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 $2,309/year for the Subaru Outback and $2,366/year for the Jaecoo J8. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the Subaru Outback.
Estimated annual total: $2,309 (Subaru Outback) vs $2,366 (Jaecoo J8). The Subaru Outback saves you roughly $57 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Outback) vs 8 years / 999,999km (Jaecoo J8). The Jaecoo J8 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
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.
Buy the Jaecoo J8 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Jaecoo's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Outback takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Subaru Outback will save you roughly $57 a year in fuel. The Jaecoo J8 adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Subaru Outback and Jaecoo J8?
The Subaru Outback is the cheapest at $48,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Jaecoo J8 by $1,000.
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 Subaru Outback has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Jaecoo J8 has the longest warranty at 8 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Jaecoo J8 makes the most power at 183kW.
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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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