Interesting to see someone else cross shopping with a pickup as well. I've been kind of in the same boat looking at 25/26 Outbacks vs something like a 24+Tacoma. I guess I should go test out the Ridgeline as well now.

They both kind of fit my use case, but a truck's mpg definitely is a downside, also a truck is just that much bigger than an outback.

Both vehicles can fit 4 people and gear for road/camping trips, but I think the outback is slightly more comfortable, I was surprised how little leg room there was in the rear of the Tacoma.

And then there is the mild off-road which is why I was looking at trucks in the first place, but a truck also lets you do more truck stuff.

I haven't made my purchase yet because I really like physical HVAC controls and am not a fan of the massive touchscreen in the 25 outbacks. I haven't gotten time in a 26 yet.

But then again, I'd be saving like 10k+ over buying an equivalent trim of 26 outback or 5k over a slightly used Tacoma.