Skip advert
Advertisement

Subaru Outback vs Saab 9-3X

Jacked-up estates from Subaru and Saab promise rugged ability and lots of space. Which is the better buy?

Subaru Outback Vs Saab 9-3X

The young pretender versus the established pro... it’s a familiar plotline, but not one usually applied to the crossover sector. In such a modern niche of the new car market, you might think old-timers are hard to find.

Yet Subaru has been making estates that think they’re SUVs since the Nineties, when its Legacy Outback became an underground hit.

Its success inspired a raft of imitators, and when Subaru unveiled its first diesel engine last year, the Outback could finally compete with its younger rivals. Now, the model has been heavily revised, and the latest version should make the most of its new powerplant.

Up against the Subaru is a car from another alternative brand with a loyal following. Saab has no real off-road heritage, yet that hasn’t stopped it developing a beefed-up version of its 9-3 Sport Wagon. The petrol 9-3X has 4WD, but this diesel sends power to the front.

Will its lower price be enough to compensate, or will the Subaru trample on the Saab’s crossover credentials?

Verdict

The Saab 9-3X is cheaper, more economical and has lower emissions than its rival. For some buyers, that will be enough. However, if you want your crossover model to work for a living, the reality is different.

With four-wheel drive and extra ground clearance, the Outback can tackle truly challenging conditions without breaking sweat. As a result, it’s the perfect car for outdoor families and, when you consider its generous equipment, the Subaru looks much better value for money.

While it’s not as fast or stylish as the Saab, it’s a mature, well rounded package that makes great use of the boxer diesel. Challenging looks are the price you pay for its greater personality and practicality.

Advertisement - Article continues below

1st:
Subaru Outback

With sales of Subaru’s fiery turbocharged models in the doldrums, the Outback should be a real tonic. The newcomer majors on the firm’s traditional virtues of practicality and robustness. We just wish the styling was more appealing.

2nd:
Saab 9-3X

The 9-3X is attractive, but isn’t a much more versatile package than the regular estate car on which it’s based. And if you want a crossover model to stand out from the crowd, the low-riding Saab misses a trick.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £25,235Avg. savings £1,824 off RRP*Used from £24,000
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £27,795Avg. savings £2,400 off RRP*Used from £18,203
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £1,676 off RRP*
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,155Avg. savings £1,844 off RRP*Used from £8,199
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: Nissan Leaf for under £140 a month is bargain electric motoring
Nissan Leaf - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Nissan Leaf for under £140 a month is bargain electric motoring

It may be getting on a bit, but the Leaf still represents simple – and cheap – electric motoring. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 February
News
3 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: new Ford Capri looks a lot less controversial at this price
Ford Capri - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: new Ford Capri looks a lot less controversial at this price

Rebooted Seventies classic is now an electric SUV for a low monthly outlay. It’s our Deal of the Day for 5 February
News
5 Feb 2025
Vauxhall Corsa Yes Edition gets a price hike, but it’s still cheap-as-chips
Vauxhall Corsa Yes Edition - front

Vauxhall Corsa Yes Edition gets a price hike, but it’s still cheap-as-chips

The petrol Vauxhall Corsa Yes Edition now starts from £18,995, while the electric version comes in at £27,495
News
5 Feb 2025