The 2022 Toyota RAV4 and 2022 Subaru Outback represent two distinct philosophies in the world of compact SUVs. The RAV4 is a definitive modern SUV, with rugged styling, hybrid powertrains and ample practicality. The Subaru meanwhile is more of a cross between an SUV and a jacked-up station wagon. It's a rugged vehicle, particularly in the Wilderness trim featured in this comparison, which is designed for families who might also happen to be off-road enthusiasts. In this guide we see how these two vehicles compare, with scores and insights from our team of expert reviewers.
2022 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness
Look and Feel
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at an impressive 9 out of 10 for its look and feel. The RAV4's journey began as a compact alternative to large SUVs and has evolved over five generations into a mature crossover SUV. While its exterior may not stand out at first glance, closer inspection reveals some good detailing, including plenty of angles and creases at the front and rear that contrast with softer, more organic shapes at the side of the car. The interior boasts quality materials and a well-organized layout, with a touchscreen interface that's easily accessible to the driver. The design details, like the circuit-board-inspired pattern, add character to the cabin, making the RAV4 both functional and stylish.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, rated 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts for its look and feel, takes a different approach. The Outback Wilderness stands taller than the standard Outback and offers a rugged, off-road-ready design. It features impressive ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers. Unique design elements, like a distinctive grille, blacked-out exterior trim, and roof rack, set it apart. Inside, the cabin is characterized by dark gray StarTex upholstery, which is water-repellant but not ideal for hot and muggy conditions. The seats are heated but lack ventilation, which can be a drawback in warm weather.
Performance
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 with an 8 out of 10 for performance. The RAV4 offers a choice of three powertrains to cater to diverse preferences. The gasoline-only model comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It delivers commendable fuel efficiency, especially in the hybrid variant, which offers 41 mpg in the city. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid stands out with its 302 hp and an electric-only range of 42 miles. Overall, the RAV4 provides smooth power delivery, ample acceleration, and car-like handling, making it suitable for daily driving and adventure-seeking. It can also tow up to 3,500 pounds in Adventure and TRD Off-Road models.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, also rated 8 out of 10 for performance, is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This robust engine allows the Outback Wilderness to tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it a capable companion for outdoor enthusiasts. However, its continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be less satisfying during aggressive acceleration due to droning and soft gear changes. Off-road, the Outback Wilderness shines with its 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and advanced traction systems, providing excellent capability for challenging terrain.
Form and Function
Despite its compact SUV classification, the RAV4 offers generous cargo space, with up to 69.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat, and 37.5 cubic feet with the rear seats in place. It also boasts an impressive payload capacity ranging from 1,050 to 1,230 pounds, depending on the configuration. Inside, it provides ample room and comfort for four adults, with well-designed storage compartments throughout the cabin. Overall, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 scores 9 out of 10 for form and function.
The 2022 Subaru Outback, while rated slightly lower at 7 out of 10 for form and function, still provides a spacious and comfortable interior, especially for rear-seat passengers, with generous legroom and dual-zone climate control. The cargo area offers 32.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The Outback Wilderness adds a more robust roof rack capable of supporting a 700-pound static load, perfect for adventurous travelers. However, the StarTex upholstery may not be ideal for hot and humid weather conditions.
Technology
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 8 out of 10 for technology. Standard offerings include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio and Wi-Fi Connect via subscription.
Upgrade to the RAV4 XLE models and above, and you'll enjoy the Audio Plus system with a larger 9-inch touchscreen. Premium Audio with an 11-speaker JBL audio system and navigation is available on Limited models and the RAV4 Prime XSE. The RAV4 Prime stands out with its available technology, offering numerous USB ports, power outlets, ambient illumination, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a bird’s-eye view camera system, and a 10-inch color head-up display.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness lags behind, with a score of 6 out of 10 for its technology. The Outback Wilderness features an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system that dominates the dashboard.
While Subaru provides physical knobs and buttons for some functions, most interactions require the touchscreen. Unfortunately, the voice recognition technology lacks natural language processing, making it less intuitive. However, you can easily bypass these limitations by utilizing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which offer superior voice assistant functionality.
Subaru offers a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system with Limited XT and Touring XT trims, but it's notably absent in the Outback Wilderness.
One standout tech feature in the Outback Wilderness is its PIN code entry technology, ideal for those with an active lifestyle. It allows you to leave the key fob inside the vehicle while you engage in outdoor activities, providing secure access upon your return.
Safety
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at 9 out of 10 for safety. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, standard across all RAV4 models, includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, lane-tracing assist, and road sign assist. Higher trims come with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assist with automatic braking.
The RAV4 earns high safety ratings, with IIHS recognizing it as a Top Safety Pick and the RAV4 Prime as a Top Safety Pick+.
The Outback also scores at 9 out of 10 for safety. Subaru's EyeSight advanced driving assistance system is a standout feature, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, and driver monitoring.
Additionally, the Outback Wilderness includes steering-responsive headlights, a blind-spot warning system with lane-change assistance, and rear cross-traffic warning.
Standard Outbacks earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS in 2021.
Cost Effectiveness
CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Toyota RAV4 at 7 out of 10 for cost effectiveness. When new, the RAV4 range started at $26,975 and went up to $43,625, excluding delivery fees and options. One of the RAV4's greatest strengths is that the lineup encompasses gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants, helping it to cater to diverse preferences. The RAV4 also offers a reputation for long-term dependability and durability.
The 2022 Subaru Outback received a score of 8 out of 10 for cost effectiveness. With a starting MSRP from new of $28,070, the Outback offered a compelling value proposition. The 2022 Outback Wilderness, priced new at $38,120, strikes a balance between everyday comfort and off-road capability.
The Subaru's versatility, capable performance in adverse weather conditions, and good cargo space make it an excellent choice for those seeking adventure on the weekends while maintaining practicality during the week.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Toyota RAV4 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness scores 7.5 out of 10. It's a close contest, but unless you need the off-road abilities of the Wilderness we think the Toyota's extra space and wider range of powertrains give it the edge.
Choose the Toyota RAV4 if:
- You value lots of cargo space in a compact SUV.
- The availability of hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains is important to you.
- You seek a dependable and versatile SUV with various trim options to suit your needs.
Search for a Toyota RAV4 on CarGurus
Choose the Subaru Outback if:
- You appreciate the versatility of a crossover that excels in various weather conditions.
- Off-road capability is important, and you're intrigued by the Outback Wilderness model.
- A competitive price and a comfortable daily driver are key considerations.
Search for a Subaru Outback on CarGurus
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