In more-than-mild snowy conditions, the Outback should have an edge, thanks to its always engaged all-wheel-drive system, plus its additional ground clearance.
The CR-V’s all-wheel drive sends power to the rear wheels only when front-wheel slippage is detected. All-wheel drive not being engaged all the time is great for fuel economy, but when you need traction, the system can be slow to respond. And it also can be clunky, like when trying to drive out of street parking after being plowed in, as one Cars.com editor experienced.
Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive always has power going to all four wheels, providing instantaneous traction. And with the Outback’s generous ground clearance of 8.6 inches, you’ll have a height advantage in deeper snow over the CR-V’s 6.7 inches of ground clearance.
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The forester is a more natural comparison, both being more compact SUV cross overs, though the answer would still apply. The only reason I can think of for x-shopping the CRV & Outback is cabin comfort level. The new Outback is a much larger car, but the higher end trim comes closer to approximating the CR-V's good sense of creature comforts.
Just sold the '07 CR-V.
Loved it in all aspects except highway snow driving.
Just purchased '11 Outback (2.5i CVT)
Put Blizaks on everything ! Bang for the buck top tire.
(George is correct about the center dif - VTD is better - but the price premium pointed me toward a loaded 2.5 rather than the 3.6 - I'm happy)
I have a 2007 Crv driving in New England with all the snow we have been getting and I try and get it stuck in snow piles.. The AWD gets me out every time..
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I'd recommend the Blizzak WS-70 tires and front drive over an 'awd' vehicle with no-season tires.
Also, it also depends on what powertrain you get in the Subaru Outback.
The boxing 6 with the 5 speed automatic has a center differential.
The boxing 4 with the 6 speed manual has a center differential.
The boxing 4 with a CVT does NOT have a center differential. (operates much like the CR-V)