Subaru Outback vs Porsche Cayenne

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard model with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level, which was the focus of our review, featured distinctive high gloss black trim and a unique front fascia with larger air intakes to cool its V8 engine. Tinted headlights and red brake calipers visible through 21-inch anthracite grey wheels added to its sporty appeal. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from the vibrant Carmine Red interior to various trim and seat belt choices. While the base model had smaller wheels and satin black trim, it still maintained an attractive appearance. The cabin was thoughtfully designed, with mechanical controls for essential features and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle for added storage space.

The 2026 Subaru Outback, after 30 years as a wagon, transformed into a more SUV-like vehicle with a blockier and more upright design. Despite only marginally larger dimensions, it appeared more substantial due to its rectangular grille, horizontal accent lights, and boxy headlights. The rugged appearance was enhanced by faceted plastic trim around the body and wheel arches, creating an illusion of a taller ride height. Inside, the Outback featured a flatter dashboard with a digital instrument panel and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen. Physical climate control buttons returned, improving usability. The interior materials were commendable, with attractive woven textile coverings in the base trim and smoother materials in higher trims. The top Premier XT trim's saddle brown palette added warmth and ruggedness to the cabin.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, all capable of impressive performance. The base 3.0-litre V6 delivered 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, while the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp. The Turbo GT, available only as a coupe, boasted 650 hp. Plug-in hybrid options provided up to 729 hp for peak performance. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 producing 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, struck a balance between sporty and comfortable driving. It could accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h. The GTS featured precise steering, a low centre of gravity, and an active suspension for agile handling. Optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power. In Normal mode, the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter, showcasing its versatility.

The 2026 Subaru Outback offered two engine choices: a 2.5-litre boxer-four with 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-litre boxer-four with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The base engine surprised with its performance, providing adequate power for most drivers. The Outback felt composed and confident on various terrains, with comfortable front seats and a relatively quiet cabin. The CVT featured eight simulated gears controlled via steering wheel paddles, enhancing control on descents. The Outback's off-road capability was impressive, with 22 cm of ground clearance and X-Mode for improved traction. The forthcoming Wilderness model offered even more off-road prowess with increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with limited standard features. The base model included eight-way power-adjustable seats, heated but not cooled or massaging. Higher trims added features like a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for personalization of interior elements. However, the Cayenne lacked a third row, accommodating only five passengers. It could tow up to 3,500 kg and had a payload capacity of over 635 kg. Cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row and 1,708 litres with seats folded. The coupe version had reduced cargo space, and plug-in hybrids further limited utility.

The 2026 Subaru Outback's interior space improved, with a total volume of 3,146 litres. Rear seats accommodated taller adults comfortably, with ample legroom and larger windows enhancing spaciousness. Cupholders and door pockets were designed for practicality, holding larger items securely. Cargo capacity increased to 980 litres behind the rear seats and 2,280 litres with seats folded. A multifunction cargo cover and Molle grid added versatility. The roof rack was robust, supporting up to 100 kg while driving and 363 kg when parked, suitable for overlanding tents. These improvements catered to the active lifestyle of Outback owners.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Porsche Communication Management, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The system was user-friendly, with quick response times and voice control options. A head-up display provided essential information, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four high-speed USB-C ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2026 Subaru Outback advanced in technology with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system was responsive, with customizable layouts and an anti-reflective coating for improved visibility. The infotainment interface was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad was available, though its hard plastic surface allowed phones to slide. Climate controls were separate from the touchscreen, enhancing usability. The Outback's tech features prioritized ease of use over complexity.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested. The Cayenne lacked ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2026 Subaru Outback included Subaru's EyeSight suite with features like frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and more. The Premium XT trim added a surround-view camera system. While crash test results were unavailable, Subaru's safety reputation suggested high ratings.