Subaru Outback Wilderness vs Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

Subaru Outback Wilderness vs Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk


There's nothing quite like a tough, capable crossover SUV. The Subaru Outback Wilderness and Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk are two rugged options that can help you conquer the toughest driving conditions, but which one is right for you? Paul Miller Subaru put this Subaru Outback Wilderness vs. Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk comparison together to show drivers in Parsippany, Wayne, and Morristown, NJ, how they stack up.

Subaru Outback Wilderness vs Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Specs & Capability

Right out of the gate, the Subaru Outback Wilderness hits the road running with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It's prepared for anything that lies in your path with a 9.5-inch ground clearance and features that help you maintain traction, like X-MODE®. The base trim also features a 2,700-pound towing capacity.

Under the hood, an available 2.4L turbocharged engine gets up to 277 lb-ft of torque and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. That's enough power to tow a trailer or a couple of recreational vehicles. You can also stay on the trails longer without having to stop and fill up thanks to its EPA-estimated 23 city/30 highway MPG.1

The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is also prepared for tough terrain, but it sits slightly lower to the ground. While it features a 4x4 system and a powerful engine, it doesn't deliver as much torque or the same kind of towing capacity either. Plus, with an EPA-estimated 18 city/24 highway MPG, you'll have to cut your next adventure short to fill up more frequently.

Subaru Outback WildernessJeep Cherokee Trailhawk
Towing Capacity3,500 pounds2,000 pounds
Torque277 lb-ft171 lb-ft
Maximum Ground Clearance9.58.7

Outback Wilderness vs Cherokee Trailhawk: Interior Space & Amenities

Inside the Subaru Outback Wilderness, you'll find space for all your bags and comfortable seating for five. The trunk is prepared for everything from groceries to camping gear, while standard folding seats can help you load more.

The Outback Wilderness is also equipped with power-adjustable front seats and water-repellent StarTex® upholstery. Together, they give you lots of ways to relax and make it easy to keep the cabin clean.

The Jeep Cherokee also includes seating for five and power-adjustable front seats, but it doesn't offer water-repellent upholstery. While it definitely sports a stylish interior, it doesn't offer nearly as much storage space.

Subaru Outback WildernessJeep Cherokee Trailhawk
Total Cargo Room75.7 cubic feet54.7 cubic feet
Trunk Space32.5 cubic feet25.8 cubic feet

Outback Wilderness vs Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Cutting-Edge Tech

Both the Subaru Outback Wilderness and Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk feature the latest technology. Each one comes with a Bluetooth® compatible infotainment system that'll help you stream music, safely make hands-free calls, and find the fastest way home. Some of the features that are available in both SUVs include:

  • Apple CarPlay®
  • Android Auto™
  • SiriusXM®
  • Navigation

While the navigation system provides you with turn-by-turn directions, the dashboard monitor will help you see where to turn with a real-time map of your route. The Outback Wilderness makes it easy to see where you're going with an 11.6-inch touchscreen. Not only does it offer excellent visibility, but it also makes it easy to find what you're looking for and use the system while you drive. The Cherokee Trailhawk only offers an 8.4-inch screen, so it's a little more challenging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which one is more capable off-road?

The Subaru Outback Wilderness offers higher ground clearance at 9.5 inches, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE®, and up to 277 lb-ft of torque, giving it better traction, power, and stability on challenging terrain compared to the Cherokee Trailhawk’s lower ground clearance and reduced torque.

Which SUV provides more cargo space and comfort?

The Outback Wilderness delivers significantly more cargo capacity with up to 75.7 cubic feet of total storage versus the Cherokee Trailhawk’s 54.7 cubic feet. It also features water-repellent StarTex® upholstery and power-adjustable seating, ideal for both comfort and durability during outdoor adventures.

How do the technology features compare between the two models?

Both SUVs include Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and navigation, but the Subaru Outback Wilderness stands out with its larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering easier access to maps, entertainment, and vehicle settings than the Trailhawk’s smaller 8.4-inch display.

Test Drive a Tough Crossover SUV


From helping you tow and pack more to offering more user-friendly technology, the Subaru Outback Wilderness is the clear choice for adventure seekers in Parsippany, Wayne, and Morristown, New Jersey. Contact us to schedule a test drive or visit Paul Miller Subaru to learn more about the Subaru Outback Wilderness vs. the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk.

*EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary. For Crosstrek Hybrid, EPA-estimated MPG equivalent on a full battery charge. Actual mileage will vary.

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