2020 Subaru Outback vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed to offer a sedan-like driving experience despite its 5,000-pound weight and tall stature. BMW focused on providing a smooth ride on pavement rather than off-road capabilities, which was a forward-thinking move. The X5 could seat five passengers, with an optional third row that was quite cramped. It featured two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700 and included a suite of features like AWD, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. Various packages allowed for further customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced safety systems.

The 2020 Subaru Outback aimed for incremental improvements while maintaining its winning formula of utility, safety, and performance. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine was updated with 90% new parts, while higher trims featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. The exterior changes were subtle, but the interior saw significant upgrades, including an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims. The Outback also introduced DriverFocus, a system that used facial recognition to adjust settings and alert distracted drivers. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at $26,645, with features like LED headlights, keyless entry, and a comprehensive safety suite.

The 2019 BMW X5 excelled in performance, thanks to its turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i, which produced 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission was smooth and efficient, contributing to an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 delivered 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, enabling it to reach 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The X5's Cluster Architecture platform, combining steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber, provided a strong yet lightweight structure. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and improved bump absorption, making the X5's ride both smooth and sporty.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower. The turbo engine allowed the Outback to reach 60 mph in about 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that mimicked a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and better handling, thanks to the boxer engine's low center of gravity. The Outback also featured 8.7 inches of ground clearance and an upgraded X-Mode with hill-descent control for off-road capability.

The 2019 BMW X5's interior featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. However, the materials could feel cheap compared to competitors unless upgraded. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited thigh support and no ventilation, making the $1,600 Luxury Seating package a worthwhile addition. The X5 offered ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of trunk space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The air suspension made loading easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The interior was spacious enough for a 6’4” driver to sit comfortably in both the front and rear seats. The Outback's design prioritized visibility, although the rear quarters had a significant blind spot. The low load height and ground clearance made it practical for both on-road and off-road use.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were often unresponsive, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, took time to master. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving but struggled with high-speed operation. The Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. Optional features included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen that was visually appealing but suffered from lag and buried climate-control functions. The camera resolution was also subpar. Despite these issues, the system was generally easy to navigate. Subaru's DriverFocus system, designed to alert distracted drivers, was overly sensitive and often triggered false alerts. The standard safety suite included features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some unfamiliar feedback during the final moments of braking. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety suite was impressive for its price, but the DriverFocus system was a disappointment due to its sensitivity. Subaru's EyeSight system, while standard, could be obstructed by weather conditions. Despite these issues, the Outback's AWD system and safety features provided a reliable and safe driving experience.