Comparison - Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 R-Design 2017 - vs - Subaru Outback 2017

General

Other Names:

Also called:

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Also called:

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Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine Plug-in Hybrid Walk-Around Tour
2017 Volvo XC90 T8 - Review and walkaround
2017 Volvo XC90 T8 Review, test drive
Volvo XC90 SUV 2018 in-depth review | Mat Watson Reviews
Is the 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 Still the Most Elegant Luxury SUV?
2020 Volvo XC90 B6 Mild-Hybrid AWD R-Design
2017 Volvo XC90 T8 Review, test drive
2017 Volvo XC90 T8 Hybrid Review and Road Test - 4K UHD!
2017 Subaru Outback - Walk-around
Ultimate Comparison: 2017 Subaru Outback vs Forester
2017 Subaru Outback 3.6R Touring Mountain test drive
2017 Subaru Outback: Review, test drive, Features
2020 Subaru Outback Review | Not Just For Golden Retrievers
2022 Subaru Outback Review - Is this the SUV that offers everything?
All-new Subaru Outback review // The turbo is back and new trim.
2017 Subaru Outback - Walk-around
Average Price: 
71,800
Updated: 
02 Dec 2016
28,298
Updated: 
01 Dec 2016
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Year: 
2017
2017
Total Seating: 
7
5
Transmission: 
8-speed Automatic
Continuously Variable-speed Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
yes
no
Navigation: 
yes
yes
Doors: 
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
13.20gals
18.50gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Bright Silver Metallic
#ABABB6
Bursting Blue Metallic
#315785
Ice White
#DEDEDE
Luminous Sand Metallic
#7B706F
Passion Red
#971715
Onyx Black Metallic
#010101
Savile Grey Metallic
#494850
Color: 
Carbide Gray Metallic
#505666
Crystal Black Silica
#000000
Crystal Black Silica
#000000
Crystal White Pearl
#E7E7E7
Crystal White Pearl
#E7E7E7
Ice Silver Metallic
#B7B8C5
Lapis Blue Pearl
#294989
Tungsten Metallic
#BAB690
Twilight Blue Metallic
#566B99
Venetian Red Pearl
#8D1111
Wilderness Green Metallic
#97A497

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

The XC90 is a handsome, square-jawed Swede striving to offer more efficiency and safety than its rivals, while adding a dose of Scandinavian flair. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder uses turbocharging and supercharging to create 316 hp and drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic. An 80-hp electric motor joins the party in plug-in hybrid models. There’s room for seven in the elegantly appointed interior, with deeply comfortable seats as well as Sensus, Volvo’s new infotainment system.

After extended product doldrums due to changing overlords, Volvo has emerged as strong as ever with the launch of the XC90 SUV for 2016, the impressive start of an all-new lineup developed under Chinese owner Geely. With an upright and bold countenance, the XC90 exudes confidence, and its nearly Range Rover–rivaling presence, along with a full complement of features and technology, comfortably earns its way further upmarket than previous XC90s

A gorgeously compelling new entry that is upending the luxury-SUV oligarchy.

Pros
The decadently detailed and gorgeous interior including open-pore walnut wood trim, which also adorns the sliding cupholder cover, in the elevated Inscription-trim T6 and test cars we evaluated

Cons
We’re not convinced that four-cylinder-only power is the way to go, not so much for performance reasons—although, by a narrow margin, the XC90 was the slowest in its last comparison-test appearance—but mostly because the engine sounds gravelly in its upper reaches, which is discordant with the luxury mission

By: 
caranddriver.com

Among three-row luxury SUVs, the 2017 Volvo XC90 has outstanding cargo capacity, style and safety features. The cabin is particularly elegant and offers many options for personalization. Its engine power and ride quality aren’t segment-leading, but this is still a midsize SUV that deserves consideration

The 2017 Volvo XC90 receives updates to its driver assistance system and more apps for its infotainment system, plus the addition of a range-topping new trim level.

lthough Volvo's latest four-cylinder engine has considerable power, the heavy weight of the XC90 makes it feel unimpressive. Its numbers are promising, but in real-world, day-to-day use, acceleration and refinement are lacking. Other rival crossovers feel notably snappier and more responsive when accelerating up to freeway speeds or passing a slow-moving vehicle. We haven't driven the XC90 with the base turbocharged engine, but we expect to find its 250 hp a bit meager for a vehicle of this size.

Pros
Elegant styling inside and out; spacious second- and third-row seating for a midsize SUV; many standard safety technology features; precise handling that inspires confidence; available plug-in hybrid model.

Cons
Overly busy ride quality for a vehicle in its class; comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some of its standard touchscreen controls can be hard to use.

By: 
www.edmunds.com

It’s the greatest continuity travesty since Sully’s Porsche Targa repair in Commando. A flip-flop more obvious than Bond’s flop flipping Mustang in Diamonds Are Forever. Jump on the internet. Get those hashtags burning!

And while you would be correct, there is a good reason why our Crystal White 2017 Volvo XC90 T8 R-Design is not the Bursting Blue XC90 T6 of previous updates

Volvo noted that upwards of 70 per cent of XC90 buyers wanted this technology, so it makes sense to include it as baseline equipment

What is cool, is with the air package, you can raise the car for an off-road setting, but also lower the rear to make loading luggage easier

That excellent interior, those lovely materials and of course, the amazing stereo, make the XC90 a classy and so far, dependable option in the luxury SUV space.

Pros
Very clever driveline which works smoothly within its range
Punchy when charged
No loss of space or interior packaging due to hybrid platform

Cons
T8 is an expensive option and comes with compromised driving range
Fuel economy claims are impossible to meet
Cheeky option price increases

By: 
caradvice.com.au

As a technological, efficiency and style tour-de-force, the Volvo XC90 takes some beating as a premium 4x4

The Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV that rivals models such as the Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Sport. Volvo has created a refreshing SUV by using Scandinavian design influences, and it feels like a premium product that delivers design-led looks and a raft of advanced safety kit.

The XC90 boasts a distinctive exterior and plenty of equipment, and delivers a far more upmarket package than its practical but ageing predecessor. Add the advanced fuel efficiency and safety technologies, and you have a class-leading SUV on your hands.

The XC90 is a great performer on the road, and with seven proper seats as standard plus a big boot, it's a strong candidate for family car buyers. Underpinning the Volvo XC90’s fresh-thinking approach is a bold strategy to offer only 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, a compromise that will inspire some drivers, but may deter the those attracted to the lazy grunt of a traditional six or eight-cylinder SUV.

Pros
Quality interior, safety and luxury kit, comfy ride

Cons
Busy touchscreen, noisy petrol engine, hybrid efficiency

By: 
autoexpress.co.uk

There are vehicles roughly in the same ballpark as the 2017 Subaru Outback, but nothing plays the same position. The Outback is a midsize wagon with standard all-wheel drive and about the same ground clearance as a Jeep Grand Cherokee. It's definitely an alternative choice but also checks so many practical boxes that it's a must-drive for anyone looking for a reasonably priced crossover SUV.

The Outback has the interior space of midsize models such as the Ford Edge and Kia Sorento, but its lower roof makes it easier to load gear, and its higher ground clearance gets it over rocks and through deep snow without a snag. The Outback holds similar advantages over smaller SUVs including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Subaru's own Forester, with the further benefit of greater comfort and refinement. And with fuel economy rated at 28 mpg combined (with the four-cylinder) and 22 mpg combined (six-cylinder), the Outback offers good efficiency for its size and purpose. If you like wagons, the 2017 Outback offers a just-right mix of attributes that could make your vehicle search a one-stop affair.

For 2017, the Subaru Outback gets a new, snazzier Touring model that trades some utility for added style. The Outback's excellent safety credentials are further burnished with the addition of reverse automatic braking and automatic high beams to the well-regarded Eyesight suite of accident avoidance tech.

Pros
More spacious and comfortable cabin than many of its competitors
Roof and cargo loading heights are lower than those of most SUVs
Excellent visibility in all directions
Off-road ability is above average

Cons
Acceleration is lackluster, especially with four-cylinder engine
Gas and brake pedal feel make it hard to drive four-cylinder smoothly

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2017 Subaru Outback two-row midsize crossover features exclusive all-wheel drive, two engine options, and six trim levels.

The 2017 Subaru Outback features a new, top-of-the-line trim Touring Trim model, adding exterior and interior enhancements, as well as an updated EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite.

The Subaru Outback crossover adds a new range-topping model to the lineup, featuring a dark gray grille, 18-inch alloy wheels with a machined finish with dark gray accents, along with silver-finish roof rails, lower body side cladding, and Outback badges in a chrome finish. Subaru has also adds Brilliant Brown to its list of exterior color options.

Inside, the new Touring model adds a new Java Brown perforated leather trim with contrasting ivory stitching on the seats, door panels, and armrests. It also features a unique woodgrain trim with piano-black panel accents. Standard features on the newest edition to the Outback lineup include a heated steering wheel and the automaker’s StarLink infotainment system on a 7.0-inch touchscreen with navigation.

Power for all 2017 Subaru Outback models comes from a 175-hp 2.5-liter flat-four that delivers 174 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.6-liter six-cylinder that pumps out 256 hp and 247 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with a CVT with a manual mode and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Pros
New Touring trim level
Comfortable, high-quality interior
Good fuel economy

Cons
Engine computer takes time to shift from using paddle shifters to Drive
Navigation screen subject to glare
2.5 models could be quicker

By: 
motortrend.com

Subaru enjoys a reputation for off road-capable cars, but I still managed to get the 2017 Outback stuck in the snow. Although its crossover SUVs still come standard with all-wheel-drive, Subaru made some changes to its drivetrains over the past couple of years, such as replacing gearboxes with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and adding what it calls X-Mode, a traction control and throttle program designed for slippery surfaces.

Amongst five-passenger crossover SUVs, the 2017 Subaru Outback stands out for its standard all-wheel drive and unique culture around the brand. Advanced safety is on par with competitors, but dashboard electronics lag the market a little. The new Touring trim gives the Outback premium style.

The Outback vies with the Forester for the top sales spot in Subaru's line-up, achieving success with its crossover functionality, giving it a high riding position, seating for five and useful cargo space. Subaru reliability and standard all-wheel drive are points in its favor. This practical car serves well as a family vehicle.

Pros
Standard all-wheel drive and good ground clearance make the 2017 Subaru Outback more capable than the typical crossover SUV, and its EyeSight system adds collision prevention. The new Touring trim brings premium cabin appointments.

Cons
Buyers will have to wait another model year or two for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The adaptive cruise control feature, enabled by the EyeSight system, brakes a little too abruptly when approaching stopped traffic.

By: 
cnet.com

The 2017 Subaru Outback ranking is based on its score within the Wagons category. Currently the Subaru Outback has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 33 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

The 2017 Subaru Outback has class-leading cargo capacity, excellent passenger space, and a well-built, durable cabin that makes it a good fit for families on the go

The Outback’s intuitive standard features, like an easy-to-use infotainment system and a rearview camera, make it an attractive choice. You can also opt for all the latest advanced safety technologies so you can feel confident and protected every time you go for a drive.

The Subaru Outback combines the comfortable cabin and composed handling of a car with the country-road readiness of an SUV. It will be a great wagon to take you to your next camp site, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and generous cargo room. Still, if you spend most of your time around town, you might be better off with the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen. The Honda CR-V is another option worth a look since it has more features and an even larger cargo area than the Outback

Pros
Roomy interior and back seat
Best-in-class cargo capacity
Good capability on slippery roads

Cons
Underpowered base engine

By: 
cars.usnews.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Electric
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
25.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
32.00mpg
Engine type: 
Hybrid
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
16
16
Cylinders: 
4
Inline
4
Flat
Engine Size/Displacement: 
2.00L
2.50L
Torque: 
472ft-lbs
at 2 200rpm
174ft-lbs
at 4 000rpm
Horsepower: 
400hp
at 6 000rpm
175hp
at 5 800rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
36.10Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
yes
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
no
yes
Seatback Storage: 
yes
yes
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
yes
yes
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
no
no
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
More in Convenience: 
Manual rear seat easy entry
Keyless Ignition
Leather And Alloy Steering Wheel
Electric power steering

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
194.90in
189.60in
Width: 
79.10in
72.40in
Height: 
69.90in
66.50in
Ground Clearance: 
10.50in
8.70in
Front Track: 
65.70in
Rear Track: 
65.80in
Wheel Base: 
117.50in
108.10in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
38.90
40.80
Rear Head Room: 
38.50
38.90
Front Leg Room: 
40.90in
42.90in
Rear leg room: 
37.00in
38.10in
Front Hip Room: 
55.50in
Front Shoulder Room: 
57.70in
58.10in
Rear Hip Room: 
55.00in
Rear Shoulder room: 
56.50in
57.30in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
85.70cu.ft
73.30cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
5000lbs
2700lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
15.80cu.ft
35.50cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
23.80degrees
Angle of Departure: 
23.30degrees
Curb Weight: 
5059.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
no
no

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
4 one-touch power windows
Heated Mirrors
Heated mirrors

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
Multi-level heating passenger seat
8-way power driver seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Height adjustable driver seat
Leather
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8-way power passenger seat
Driver Seat Thigh Extension
Premium Leather/Sueded Microfiber
Bucket front seats
Cloth
Height adjustable driver seat
Rear Seats Features: 
Split-folding rear seatback
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts with fan control
Reclining rear seats
Manual folding split-bench third row seats
Folding center armrest
Split-folding rear seatback
Reclining rear seats

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front independent suspension
Front stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension: 
rear independent suspenstion
Rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Four-wheel independent suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
no
More Comfort Features: 
Turn signal in mirrors
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
Leather and alloy steering wheel
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Air conditioning

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
yes
yes
Video monitor: 
no
no
More Entertainment: 
USB connection
6 Months of provided satellite radio service
330 watts stereo output
10 total speakers
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
USB With External Media Control
12 total speakers
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
STARLINK Multimedia
7-inch high-resolution touch screen
576-watt-equivalent amplifier

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
yes
yes
Rear defogger: 
no
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Privacy glass
Speed sensitive wipers
Power glass sunroof
Fixed glass rear sunroof
Speed sensitive wipers
Roof rack
Intermittent rear wiper
Roof rack
Variable intermittent wipers
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
20 X 9.0 In
17 x 7.0
Wheels more: 
All season tires
All season tires
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
275.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
45
Diameter: 
R20
Width: 
225.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
65

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Front ventilated disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
rear ventilated disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
no
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
no
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
no
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Stolen Vehicle Tracking/Assistance*
Emergency Service*
Emergency braking preparation
Airbag Deployment Notification*
Post-collision safety system
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
High Pressure Washers Headlamps
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Lane Departure Warning Accident Avoidance System
Rear height adjustable headrests
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation

Options

Packages: 
Vision Package
Climate Package
Convenience Package
Momentum Plus Package
Standard Model - 2.5i
Exterior Options: 
22" X 9.0" 5-Double Spoke Alloy Wheels In Matte Black Diamond Cut
Interior Options: 
Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System
Graphical Head Up Display
Integrated Center Booster Cushion 2nd Row

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Amber/Charcoal, leather
#84634D
Blond/Charcoal, leather
#C1C0BE
Charcoal, leather
#464648
Color: 
Slate Black Cloth, cloth
#29292B
Warm Ivory Cloth, cloth
#8C867E