Subaru Outback vs Lexus LBX
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 Subaru Outback starts from $48,990 before on-road costs, while the Lexus LBX opens at $47,550. That makes the Lexus LBX the more affordable entry point by $1,440.
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 $52,305 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus LBX by roughly $5,700 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Subaru Outback and Lexus LBX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Subaru Outback and 82% for the Lexus LBX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Subaru Outback packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus LBX.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Subaru Outback stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Lexus LBX. The Lexus LBX counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Subaru Outback uses a Petrol producing 137kW and 254Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.9 seconds.
The Lexus LBX responds with a Hybrid making 100kW and 185Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.2 seconds.
The Subaru Outback has the clear power advantage at 137kW vs 100kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus LBX is 0.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Outback measures 4,870mm long on a 2,745mm wheelbase, 680mm longer than the Lexus LBX at 4,190mm (2,580mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Outback generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 975L in the Subaru Outback and 332L in the Lexus LBX, giving the Subaru Outback a 643L advantage.
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 $2,451/year for the Subaru Outback and $1,311/year for the Lexus LBX. That is a $1,140 annual difference in favour of the Lexus LBX.
Estimated annual total: $2,451 (Subaru Outback) vs $1,311 (Lexus LBX). The Lexus LBX saves you roughly $1,140 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 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus LBX). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Outback if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus LBX if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus LBX takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus LBX will save you roughly $1,140 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru Outback has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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