The 2021 Audi A4 Allroad is a wagon, while the 2021 Subaru Outback is a crossover. Both have compelling reasons to buy them. But which is better?
Quick Facts
- Mild hybrid boosts Audi Allroad fuel economy and power.
- All-wheel drive is a given on the affordable Subaru Outback.
2021 Audi A4 Allroad
Base Price: $46,590 / Read our Audi A4 Allroad Review
What we like: Standard Quattro all-wheel-drive, mild hybrid boosts both fuel economy and power, adaptive suspension brings extra ground clearance
What we would change: Add a sporty S4 variant, smoother shifts from the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, add more standard safety and driver assists at the entry-level price
Overview: Luxuriously elegant and capable at the same time, the Audi Allroad is a raised station wagon that combines a plush ride with the utility of an off-road capable crossover SUV. The fact Audi is an all-wheel-drive expert only enhances the deal. The Quattro drive train is well known for its grippy demeanor which makes the Allroad a good handler on the tarmac and a capable off-road machine.
What’s new for 2021: The A4 and Allroad lines were refreshed for 2020. For this year, the 12-volt belt-drive mild hybrid debuts along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Changes include adding the belt-driven mild hybrid system.
Features and Technology: Audi offers three trim levels, Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Lower trims come with 17-in wheels, 18-in on upper models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard in all trim levels, along with a lane departure system. Features on the Allroad mirror offerings found on A4 sedans but now include a power liftgate.
What does the future hold: Rumor pages suggest a redesigned Audi Allroad will be on tap for the 2022 model year. Find a 2021 Audi A4 Allroad for sale near you
2021 Subaru Outback
Base Price: $27,845 / Read our Subaru Outback Review.
What we like: Standard AWD, optional 2.5-liter turbo flat-4, off-road capability thanks to more than 8.7 inches of ground clearance
What we would change: Improve the feel of the CVT, smooth out the start/stop system, offer a manual gearbox
Overview: Good looking and totally capable, the Subaru Outback returns immediately following its 2020 makeover. A practical and smarter alternative to traditional SUVs, it features the cargo-hauling capabilities of a crossover without the skyscraper feeling of a tall sport-utility. We appreciate the off-road capability and that it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
What’s new for 2021: Following its 2020 refresh, the Subaru continues with a few minor enhancements. Among them are active headlines that track the steering angle of the front wheels. Also new is a rear seat check reminder and unfastened seatbelt chimes for both front and rear passengers.
Features and Technology: Each level is very well-equipped but the Outback Limited really brings it, with leather-trimmed upholstery, machine-finished black 18-in alloy wheels, power front seats, 2-position driver’s seat memory, heated back seats, a hands-free power rear liftgate pushbutton start, Harman Kardon premium audio, blind-spot detection (with lane change assist) and rear cross-traffic alert (with reverse automatic braking).
What does the future hold: This model was just refreshed in 2020, so expect just minor tweaks for the next few years. Find a 2021 Subaru Outback for sale near you
A4 Allroad vs Outback: Strengths Comparison
Audi Allroad Benefits: Full-time Quattro all-wheel-drive, luxurious cabin, good handling and ride quality.
Subaru Outback Benefits: Less expensive price of entry than the Audi; more cargo space, good off-road capabilities with more ground clearance.
2021 Audi A4 Allroad vs. 2021 Subaru Outback: Which is better?
If style and luxury are more important than off-road trail-busting, the Audi A4 Allroad is your choice. Otherwise, we suggest giving the Subaru Outback a go for a very capable crossover with more cargo holding room and a lower price of entry. Find a 2021 Audi A4 Allroad or Find a 2021 Subaru Outback
| 2021 Audi A4 Allroad | 2021 Subaru Outback | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbo I4 | 2.5-liter flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 261 hp @ 5,000 rpm | 182 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm | 176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-spd DCT automatic | CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 26 mpg (24 city/30 hwy) | 29 mpg (26 city/33 hwy) |
| Also Available | 2.5-liter turbo flat-4 | |
| Specs | ||
| Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | 5-star | 5-star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 110.9 inches | 108.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 187.5 inches | 191.3 inches |
| Width | 72.7inches | 73 inches |
| Height | 58.8 inches | 66.4 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.4 feet | 36.1 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 37.4 inches | 40.1 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.4 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.3 inches | 42.8 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 35.7 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.9 inches | 58.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 54.5 inches | 57.4 inches |
| EPA Passenger Volume | n/a | 109 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Volume | 24.2/58.8 cu. ft. | 32.5/75.7 cu. ft. |
