Subaru Outback vs Toyota RAV4
The 2022 Subaru Outback and 2022 Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular crossover SUVs in America, frequently landing on the same shortlist for buyers who want all-weather capability, reliability, and long-term value. Both offer standard AWD, spacious cabins, and strong safety ratings — but their true 5-year ownership costs differ in ways that go well beyond the sticker price. Understanding fuel economy, insurance rates, depreciation curves, and maintenance costs can save shoppers thousands.
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 edges out the Outback on a 5-year total cost basis thanks to slightly better fuel economy on the base engine, superior resale value retention, and lower average repair costs driven by Toyota's legendary reliability record.
2022 Subaru Outback
- Standard AWD on every trim adds no cost premium
- Symmetrical AWD system has low long-term drivetrain repair costs
- Strong brand loyalty keeps certified pre-owned resale relatively stable
- CVT transmission can be costly to replace outside warranty (~$3,500–$5,000)
- Infotainment and electrical gremlins increase dealership visit frequency
- Depreciation steeper than RAV4 at the 3-5 year mark in used market data
2022 Toyota RAV4
Winner- Top-tier resale value — RAV4 retains ~55% after 5 years vs ~50% for Outback
- Lower fuel cost due to slightly better real-world MPG (28 combined vs 26)
- Toyota's reliability record keeps unscheduled repair frequency below segment average
- Higher demand means less negotiating room on used purchase price
- Maintenance costs tick slightly higher due to more complex hybrid-adjacent electronics on some trims
- Road noise and ride quality issues can accelerate cabin wear complaints
Category by category
The verdict
Over five years, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 saves the average buyer roughly $1,600 in total ownership costs compared to the Subaru Outback, driven primarily by better fuel economy, stronger resale value, and fewer unscheduled repairs. The Outback is not a bad choice — its standard AWD, ground clearance, and cargo versatility make it genuinely compelling for the right buyer — but the numbers favor the RAV4 for most mainstream shoppers. If you drive heavily or plan to resell within 5 years, the RAV4's financial case is hard to ignore.
Subaru Outback: The 2022 Subaru Outback is best for outdoor enthusiasts and buyers in snow-heavy regions who want the lowest all-in AWD cost, superior ground clearance (8.7 inches), and a wagon-style layout optimized for gear hauling and camping trips.
Toyota RAV4: The 2022 Toyota RAV4 is best for value-focused buyers and high-mileage commuters who prioritize long-term reliability data, stronger resale protection, and lower fuel costs over a 5-year ownership horizon.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the 2022 Subaru Outback or 2022 Toyota RAV4?
The 2022 Toyota RAV4 ranks higher in J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Studies and Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores; the Outback is still above average but trails Toyota's exceptional track record, particularly regarding transmission and infotainment reliability.
Does the Subaru Outback or Toyota RAV4 hold its value better?
The Toyota RAV4 holds its value better, retaining roughly 54–56% of its original value after 5 years compared to approximately 49–51% for the Subaru Outback, based on current used market pricing trends on Edmunds and CarGurus.
Is the Subaru Outback cheaper to insure than the Toyota RAV4?
The RAV4 is marginally cheaper to insure on average — roughly $1,650/year vs $1,700/year for the Outback — though individual rates vary significantly based on driver age, location, and coverage level.
How do the fuel costs compare between the Outback and RAV4 over 5 years?
Driving 12,000 miles per year at $3.50/gallon, the RAV4 (28 MPG combined) costs approximately $7,500 in fuel over 5 years versus roughly $8,077 for the Outback (26 MPG), a savings of about $575 for the RAV4.
Which SUV is better for snowy or off-road conditions, the Outback or RAV4?
The Subaru Outback has a slight edge in snowy and light off-road conditions due to its superior ground clearance (8.7 inches vs 8.4 inches for the RAV4) and Subaru's highly regarded Symmetrical AWD system with X-Mode, though the RAV4's optional Trail trim with Multi-Terrain Select narrows the gap significantly.