Jeep Cherokee vs Subaru Outback
What's the difference?

Jeep Cherokee

—

2020 price

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Subaru Outback

$48,990 - $62,690

2026 price

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Summary

2020 Jeep Cherokee

2026 Subaru Outback

By Tom White

By Byron Mathioudakis

Safety Rating

Engine Type

V6, 3.2L

Flat 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

10.2L/100km (combined)

8.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Impressive equipment
Some genuine off-road ability
Comfort

Brilliant packaging
Dynamic sophistication
Ease, comfort and fun

Dislikes

Thirsty V6
Boot could be bigger
Pricey servicing

Average warranty
Divisive design
No manual option

2020 Jeep Cherokee Summary

So, you’ve seen the mainstream mid-size SUV players, and you’re looking for something… a little different.

Maybe you’re even looking for something with some off-road ability, and that’s maybe caused you to steer away from segment heavyweights like the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, or Mazda CX-5.

Am I right so far? Maybe you’re just curious to find out what one of Jeep’s main models offers in 2020. Either way, I spent a week in this top-spec Trailhawk to find out if it’s the semi-off-roader it looks to be, or if it stands a chance against the mainstream players.

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2026 Subaru Outback Summary

It’s 2026 and over 30 years and through six generations the Subaru Outback as we knew it… is gone.

Gone is the defiantly wagon-esque crossover style that was one of the first, as well as likely the most-successful, for the boxy beast you see here.

RIP, original Subaru Outback.

But, don’t worry, folks, because, except for a couple of issues, things only get better by and large, with the big new seventh-gen model.

And, in the most important ways, the 2026 Outback is a true Subaru at heart, so let’s dive straight in!

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Deep dive comparison

2020 Jeep Cherokee 2026 Subaru Outback

Verdict

The Cherokee is perhaps not going to tempt anyone set on a mainstream mid-size family SUV. But, to those on the periphery who are genuinely looking for something different, there’s a lot on offer here.

The proposition is boosted by the Cherokee’s unique off-road equipment and compelling price tag, but just keep in mind it’s old-fashioned in more than just one way…

Verdict

Over 30 years and seven generations of Outback in Australia, the latest might just be the best.

It's great to drive, even better to sit in, very easy to live and willing to go further than most equivalent large SUVs at its price point.

The styling is definitely divisive, with purists unhappy that the long, crossover wagon silhouette is now gone, but what we have instead is a family-friendly vehicle that pleases on so many fronts.

We’d go as far as saying the latest Outback might be the most-rounded Subaru currently available, and great value to boot. And the base AWD is all the SUV most people will ever need.

That’s not bad for something this square!

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Jeep Cherokee vs Subaru Outback What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Jeep Cherokee vs Subaru Outback
What's the difference?