4Runner vs Outback: Which Has Better Storage Space?

Looking for a vehicle with the best storage space for your adventures? Here's the quick answer:

Toyota 4Runner: Offers 48.4 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats and expands to 90.2 cu. ft. with the seats folded down. It's ideal for heavy-duty hauling with a 5,000-pound towing capacity and rugged outdoor features.

Subaru Outback: Provides 32.6 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 75.6 cu. ft. when folded. It balances storage with better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride, plus a 3,500-pound towing limit.

Both vehicles have unique strengths. The 4Runner excels in raw storage and off-road utility, while the Outback offers practical design and comfort for everyday use.

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Quick Comparison

Feature	Toyota 4Runner	Subaru Outback
Cargo Space (Seats Up)	48.4 cu. ft.	32.6 cu. ft.
Cargo Space (Seats Down)	90.2 cu. ft.	75.6 cu. ft.
Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs	3,500 lbs
Roof Load Capacity	165 lbs (dynamic)	150 lbs (dynamic)
Ground Clearance	9 in.	Not specified

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the storage features, roof options, and aftermarket upgrades for both vehicles to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.

2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness vs. Toyota 4Runner Comparison

Toyota 4Runner Storage Features and Capacity

The Toyota 4Runner is designed with versatile storage solutions to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, its thoughtful features and configurations make organizing your gear a breeze.

Interior Cargo Space

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is available in both two-row and three-row configurations, offering different cargo capacities depending on your needs. For the two-row, non-hybrid models, you’ll find 48.4 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 90.2 cubic feet when the seats are folded flat.

If you opt for the hybrid i-FORCE MAX version, the battery placement slightly reduces cargo space. These models provide 42.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 82.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The battery pack raises the load floor by about four inches, which impacts overall storage capacity.

For those needing extra passenger seating, the three-row models are a great option. They offer 12.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which increases to 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row and 84.4 cubic feet behind the first row when all seats are folded.

The 4Runner's boxy cargo area ensures that every inch of space is usable. The second-row seats fold forward to create a flat loading surface, offering 72 inches of length from the tailgate to the front seats in their normal position, and up to 84 inches if the front seats are pushed forward.

One standout feature is the rear window that opens independently of the tailgate. This allows you to load longer items, like fishing rods or lumber, without needing to open the entire hatch. These thoughtful touches make the 4Runner an excellent companion for all kinds of adventures.

Roof Storage Options

In addition to its roomy interior, the 4Runner is well-suited for roof storage. Most roof rack systems can support up to 165 pounds of cargo, with the active roof-loading limit ranging between 75 and 160 pounds.

Popular aftermarket roof rack options include:

Prinsu Roof Rack Full Non-Drill – $899.00

Prinsu Pro Full Roof Rack – $1,255.00

Sherpa The Capitol Roof Rack (2025) – $1,499.00

Victory 4x4 Evolution Series Roof Rack – $999.00 (4.68/5 stars from 87 reviews)

"This roof rack system allows for mounting almost anything, freeing up valuable interior space for other trip essentials." - Victory 4x4

For additional storage, cargo carriers offer options for every budget. The Rightline Gear Range Cargo Bags start at $89.99, while the Yakima RocketBox Pro 14 Cargo Box is priced from $699.00. If you prefer open-air hauling, the Yakima LoadWarrior Roof Cargo Basket starts at just $65.00.

When using roof storage, it’s important to consider vehicle height for parking and to use paint protection film under mounting points to prevent scratches. Make sure any cargo box is securely locked to the crossbars for added safety.

Outdoor Gear Compatibility

The 4Runner also shines when it comes to storing outdoor gear, thanks to a variety of aftermarket solutions that enhance its functionality.

MOLLE panel systems are a great way to organize interior surfaces. The Cali Raised Interior Rear Molle Panel is available for $209.99, and the Rear Hatch Molle Panel is priced at $149.99.

For those looking for structured storage, drawer systems are an excellent choice. The Advanced Storage & Camping System costs $990 and replaces multiple containers with organized compartments. Smaller items can be neatly stored with products like the 4Runner Lifestyle Center Console Cubby Drawers, available for $29.74.

If you need weatherproof storage, Roam Adventure Co offers rugged cases in various sizes. The 66L Rugged Case starts at $329.00, while the larger 160L Rugged Case is priced at $524.00.

Camping enthusiasts will appreciate specialized gear like the Overland Vehicle Systems Tent & Awning Organizer Storage, priced at $62.99, which helps keep accessories tidy. For keeping food and drinks cool, the Roam 20QT Rugged Cooler starts at $229.00.

With its thoughtful design, durable build, and ample storage options, the 4Runner is perfectly equipped to handle all your adventure gear.

Subaru Outback Storage Features and Capacity

The Subaru Outback offers a smart and efficient approach to storage, favoring practicality within its sleek wagon design. While it doesn't match the sheer cargo volume of larger SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, the Outback's design focuses on making the most of its space, making it a solid choice for adventure enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at how the Outback’s interior layout and storage options make it a versatile companion for outdoor trips.

Interior Cargo Space

The 2025 Subaru Outback provides 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 75.6 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. While this is more compact than the 4Runner, the Outback’s wagon-style design creates a longer and lower cargo area. This layout is especially handy for carrying longer items like skis, fishing rods, or even lumber.

Its low load height and flat-folding rear seats make loading heavy or bulky items much easier. With a maximum passenger volume of 109 cubic feet, it strikes a great balance between passenger comfort and cargo capacity. When compared to other wagons, such as the Audi A6 Allroad and Volvo V60 Cross Country, the Outback offers more interior cargo space.

Roof Storage Options

The 2025 Subaru Outback comes equipped with standard swing-out crossbars integrated into the roof rails, making it easy to carry lighter gear like cargo boxes, snowboards, or duffel bags. These factory-installed crossbars have a dynamic load rating of 150 pounds and can handle a static load of up to 700 pounds.

"The Outback's roof system is built for flexibility. With the right gear, it becomes more than just a car - it becomes your reliable partner for whatever trails, trips, or treks lie ahead." - Subaru of Dayton Staff

For those needing additional capacity, aftermarket crossbars can boost the dynamic load rating to 165–220 pounds. The Wilderness model takes it a step further with upgraded rails and heavy-duty crossbars designed for more demanding loads. Flat platform racks are also an option, offering a dynamic weight capacity of around 220 pounds and static limits exceeding 600 pounds. These racks are ideal for carrying oddly shaped items or directly mounting accessories, though they can add wind resistance and increase the vehicle’s height.

When using the roof for storage, it’s best to center heavy items near the crossbar junctions and secure them with cam buckle tie-down straps to prevent over-tightening and potential damage. Keep in mind that larger roof cargo, like boxes or tents, might interfere with the sunroof function if your Outback is equipped with one. However, all 2025 Outback trims share the same roof rail design, ensuring compatibility with most rack systems.

Outdoor Gear Compatibility

The Outback’s storage versatility goes beyond everyday hauling. With a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, it can easily pull trailers loaded with bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor equipment when the roof or interior space isn’t enough. Its raised roof rails, complete with tie-down points, make it simple to secure items like kayaks, skis, bikes, or additional cargo carriers.

Thanks to its accessible cargo height, extended interior length, and flexible roof storage options, the Outback is well-suited for outdoor activities like camping, cycling, and water sports. While larger SUVs may offer more raw space, the Outback’s thoughtful design and lower profile deliver practical solutions for a wide range of adventures.

For added customization, trusted brands like Yakima and Thule provide aluminum aero bars that reduce wind noise, while Rhino-Rack’s Heavy Duty line is perfect for overlanding or rooftop camping with its higher weight limits. The key is finding the right mix of interior organization and roof-mounted storage to meet your specific needs.

Storage Solutions Comparison Table

When you're choosing between the Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Outback as your adventure companion, having a side-by-side comparison of their storage features can make the decision-making process much easier. By examining the specs, their differences become clear.

Comparison Table

Storage Feature	Toyota 4Runner	Subaru Outback
Interior Cargo Space (Rear Seats Up)	48.4 cu. ft.	32.6 cu. ft.
Interior Cargo Space (Rear Seats Down)	90.2 cu. ft.	75.6 cu. ft.
Front Leg Room	41.8 in.	42.8 in.
Rear Leg Room	34.8 in.	39.5 in.
EPA Interior Volume	Not specified	141.5 ft³
Standard Roof Load Capacity (Dynamic)	165 lbs	176 lbs
Standard Roof Load Capacity (Static)	770 lbs	Not specified
Wilderness/Upgraded Roof Capacity	N/A	700 lbs (Wilderness trim)
Aftermarket Roof Capacity (Dynamic)	Up to 700 lbs (Prinsu Pro)	Up to 220 lbs
Aftermarket Roof Capacity (Static)	Up to 1,200 lbs (Prinsu Pro)	Over 600 lbs
Towing Capacity	5,000 lbs	3,500 lbs
Ground Clearance	9 inches	Not specified
Seat Configuration Options	2-row or 3-row available	2-row only
Solid Wood Worx Kit Compatibility	Yes – PreCut storage kits available	Yes – PreCut storage kits available

The 4Runner stands out with its cargo capacity, offering about 48% more space behind the rear seats and 19% more with the seats folded down. Meanwhile, the Outback shines in passenger comfort, boasting an extra 4.7 inches of rear legroom.

For rooftop storage, the 4Runner supports up to 700 lbs dynamic load with aftermarket racks like Prinsu Pro, while the Outback's aftermarket crossbars handle up to 220 lbs. On towing, the 4Runner pulls ahead with a 5,000 lb capacity compared to the Outback's 3,500 lbs. The 4Runner also brings a 9-inch ground clearance, making it better suited for rugged terrains.

These numbers give a clear picture of each vehicle's strengths, paving the way to explore how aftermarket options can further refine their storage capabilities. Up next, we'll dive into those customizable storage solutions for your adventures.

Customization and Aftermarket Storage Solutions

Both the 4Runner and Outback come with solid factory storage options, but aftermarket upgrades can take your vehicle's organization to a whole new level. These solutions turn cluttered gear into neatly arranged, easy-to-access storage, making your outdoor adventures smoother and more enjoyable. Building on the factory setups, these upgrades enhance your vehicle’s functionality and efficiency.

Solid Wood Worx PreCut Storage Kits

Solid Wood Worx offers precision-engineered storage kits for both the 4Runner and Outback, designed to make the most of your cargo space. For 4Runner models from 1995–2023, the kit includes dual 38-inch slide-out drawers (37″ x 16.5″ x 6.5″) mounted on 250-pound rated slides. It also features a removable bed extension, with the entire setup weighing about 125 pounds.

Outback owners aren’t left out either. The Subaru Outback 2015+ Dual Drawer Storage PreCut Kit is tailored to fit the wagon’s cargo area, offering similar organizational benefits. At $1,390, it's slightly more affordable than the 4Runner version, saving buyers $105. Both kits are designed for quick assembly, typically taking 1–2 hours, and are available as precut pieces for DIY assembly or as fully assembled units for local pickup. The 4Runner kit has received glowing reviews, earning a 4.8 out of 5 rating from 19 verified buyers who appreciate its sturdy construction and precise fit.

Customizable Moto Box Stands

For smaller gear containers, the Moto Box Stand is a practical solution. Priced at $70, this stand is designed with input from off-road enthusiasts and has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from customers. Users praise its durability, ease of assembly, and sleek appearance. One reviewer shared that it "looks great and will be used for years to come", while another highlighted its excellent support, which even inspired friends to order custom boxes.

These stands are versatile enough to work in both the 4Runner’s spacious cargo area and the Outback’s more compact setup. They keep gear boxes secure during transit and can be further customized to meet unique storage needs through CNC cutting services.

CNC Cutting Services for Custom Designs

For adventurers with specialized storage requirements, Solid Wood Worx provides CNC cutting services. This option allows for custom designs tailored to your vehicle’s specific dimensions and your unique gear needs. Their CNC machines can handle a variety of materials - plastics, solid surfaces, plywood, and hardwoods - up to 5 feet by 10 feet and 5 inches thick.

This service is perfect for creating custom organizers to protect items like photography equipment, fishing tackle, climbing gear, or tools. In the 4Runner, for example, you could design panels that integrate with the rear window or accommodate the spare tire. In the Outback, custom solutions can maximize the lower cargo area without obstructing access to the rear seats.

Since Sandy Vans acquired Solid Wood Worx in 2025, the company has expanded its modular storage offerings while maintaining its reputation for precision and quality.

These aftermarket additions transform the 4Runner’s rugged cargo capacity and the Outback’s family-friendly design into highly organized adventure vehicles. With the right storage setup, your gear stays secure, accessible, and ready for whatever challenges the road - or trail - throws your way.

Conclusion

The 4Runner offers 48.4 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the rear seats and 90.2 cu. ft. with the seats folded down, significantly surpassing the Outback's 32.6 cu. ft. and 75.6 cu. ft., respectively. Its larger cargo capacity and 5,000-pound towing limit make it a solid choice for off-road trips and heavy-duty hauling. On the other hand, the Outback's more balanced design delivers better fuel efficiency and smoother day-to-day driving, making it a great fit for weekend camping or family outings where cargo space isn't the main focus.

To get even more out of your vehicle, consider adding Solid Wood Worx PreCut Storage Kits - priced at $1,495 for the 4Runner and $1,390 for the Outback. These kits help keep your gear organized and make your adventures even more convenient.

Both vehicles bring their own strengths to the table, and with the right upgrades, they can handle just about any journey. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle best and customize it to make the most of your adventures.

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