2020 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a few subtle yet significant updates. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine, though seemingly unchanged, featured 90% new parts, while higher trims offered a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine for more power. Externally, changes were minimal, with slight updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims, with the base model receiving dual 7-inch screens. The innovative DriverFocus system, using infrared monitoring and facial recognition, was a standout feature, enhancing safety and convenience. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at an MSRP of $26,645, with a range of features and options that catered to various preferences and needs.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner retained its timeless, utilitarian design, characterized by tall slab sides, a high beltline, and short overhangs. Its trim lineup included SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, TRD Pro, and Limited, with the Nightshade and Venture Special Editions adding unique aesthetics and off-road capabilities. The Limited trim, tested for comfort, featured leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite its chrome and leather, the 4Runner's utilitarian roots were evident, with a design focused more on off-road prowess than luxury. The 4Runner's interior was practical, with large knobs and buttons for easy control, though the steering-wheel controls lacked illumination, posing a challenge in low-light conditions.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The base engine improved fuel efficiency with 26 mpg city and 33 highway, while the turbocharged engine provided a more spirited drive, reaching 60 mph in around 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system ensured consistent power delivery and enhanced safety, with a low center of gravity reducing wear and improving handling. The Outback's off-road capabilities were notable, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and upgraded X-Mode on the Onyx XT trim, though it wasn't designed for extreme off-roading.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine prioritized durability and off-road capability over fuel efficiency, achieving 16 mpg city and 19 highway. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like CRAWL control and Multi-Terrain Select. While the 4Runner's on-road performance was less refined, with significant body roll and vague steering, its off-road prowess was unmatched, especially with the part-time 4WD system in TRD models.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered the functional benefits of a station wagon, with 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior was spacious, accommodating taller passengers comfortably, with excellent headroom and visibility. Subaru prioritized visibility in its design, though the rear quarters presented a blind spot challenge. The Outback's proportions contributed to its stability and handling, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner emphasized off-road capability, with a tall seating position and impressive ground clearance. The interior featured large, easy-to-use controls, though the steering-wheel buttons lacked illumination. The 4Runner offered an optional third row of seats, though they were best suited for short, occasional use due to limited legroom and comfort. The 4Runner's design prioritized durability and practicality, appealing to those seeking a rugged, off-road-ready vehicle.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, offering a modern interface with some usability challenges. While the screen was large and visually appealing, it suffered from lag across various functions, including navigation and audio controls. The camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the system showed potential, with hopes for future improvements.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received a technology update with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. While Toyota's proprietary system was functional, it struggled with navigation accuracy compared to smartphone apps. The 4Runner also offered Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and various subscription services. Despite these advancements, the 4Runner lagged behind competitors in terms of screen size and overall technology integration, with its strengths lying in off-road capabilities rather than dashboard features.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety features were a mixed bag. While the standard safety suite impressed, the DriverFocus system was problematic, issuing frequent alerts even when the driver was attentive. Subaru's EyeSight system, though standard, had limitations in adverse conditions. Despite these issues, the Outback maintained a strong safety reputation, with standard AWD enhancing stability and control.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner benefited from Toyota Safety Sense P, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. The 4Runner also featured eight standard airbags, enhancing occupant protection. NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars overall, with a three-star rating in the rollover test. IIHS gave it a Good rating in most crash tests, though it scored Marginal in the small overlap front: driver-side test. The 4Runner's safety features provided reassurance, though its high center of gravity and imprecise steering posed challenges.