Subaru Outback vs Volvo XC40
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 Volvo XC40 opens at $52,900. That makes the Subaru Outback the more affordable entry point by $3,910.
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 $58,190 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Volvo XC40 by roughly $1,850 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Subaru Outback and Volvo XC40 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the Subaru Outback and 97% for the Volvo XC40.
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 0 in the Volvo XC40.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
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 Volvo XC40. The Volvo XC40 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 Volvo XC40 responds with a Petrol making 145kW and 300Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The Volvo XC40 has the clear power advantage at 145kW vs 137kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Subaru Outback measures 4,870mm long on a 2,745mm wheelbase, 430mm longer than the Volvo XC40 at 4,440mm (2,702mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Outback generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 975L in the Subaru Outback and 452L in the Volvo XC40, giving the Subaru Outback a 523L advantage.
For towing, the Subaru Outback leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 200kg 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 $2,451/year for the Subaru Outback and $2,081/year for the Volvo XC40. That is a $370 annual difference in favour of the Volvo XC40.
Estimated annual total: $2,451 (Subaru Outback) vs $2,081 (Volvo XC40). The Volvo XC40 saves you roughly $370 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 (Volvo XC40). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Subaru Outback if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volvo XC40 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Volvo'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 Volvo XC40 will save you roughly $370 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Subaru Outback and Volvo XC40?
The Subaru Outback is the cheapest at $48,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Volvo XC40 by $3,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Volvo XC40 uses the least fuel at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Subaru Outback and Volvo XC40 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 Subaru Outback has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Volvo XC40 makes the most power at 145kW.
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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