2021 Audi Q3 vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a design that fit well within the era of "postmodern automotive styling." Its massive corporate grille paired seamlessly with its stout, chunky styling, presenting an idea of utility and dynamic handling, while primarily delivering on the latter. Inside, the Q3's cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen prominently. When this interior debuted in 2019, it was a standout, but by 2021, Volkswagen's similar designs had somewhat diminished its uniqueness. Nonetheless, the Q3's interior remained modern and refined.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for 2020, retained a familiar and comfortable feel reminiscent of older models. The analog gauges, steering wheel design, and seat forms were consistent with past Subarus. However, the Outback's interior was fresher than the smaller Crosstrek, especially in trims above the base, which featured an 11.6-inch portrait display. This display, standard on Premium and above trims, was bright and sharp, surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim. The Outback's quality was evident, with substantial-feeling materials and comfortable, supportive seats, especially in the Limited and Touring trims.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD). The S-Line trim offered a more potent version of the same engine, delivering 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a lively performance, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3's handling was nimble and engaging, offering a comfortable ride without compromising on dynamic driving.

The 2021 Subaru Outback, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This powertrain struggled with the Outback's weight, making it slow and noisy under load. However, the XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance. The Outback's handling was more about comfort and long-distance cruising, with its high ground clearance and long-travel springs providing a smooth ride on rough roads. Subaru's AWD system was proactive and effective, especially with the X-Mode for tougher conditions.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the space behind the seats was decent for a subcompact luxury SUV, the total cargo space was subpar for the class. However, the Q3 made up for this with ample passenger space, comfortable front seats, and impressive rear headroom and legroom, making it suitable for four passengers on a road trip.

The 2021 Subaru Outback excelled in cargo space, offering 76 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cargo area was wide, flat, and free of intrusive elements. The Outback also provided ample headroom and legroom in all seating positions, with superb outward visibility. Storage options were plentiful, with large map pockets, bottle holders, and handy pockets in the front center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims.

The 2021 Audi Q3 featured an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Audi's MMI system, with standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. The upgraded system included a 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation. Other available features were wireless device charging, satellite radio, and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker premium audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit, an optional digital instrument cluster, offered customizable displays, including a full-screen navigation map.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system, while functional, looked dated with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. The central screen in the instrument panel was particularly outdated. However, the system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation that looked more modern. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system's functionality was impressive but relied solely on cameras, which could be impeded in certain conditions.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Lane-departure warning was also standard. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, a 360-degree camera system, front-and-rear parking sensors, and self-parking assist.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard driver’s knee and passenger seat-cushion airbags. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was optional on Premium and standard on higher trims. Rear emergency braking was optional on the Onyx Edition XT and standard on the Limited 2.5 and Touring trims. The Outback earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with the 2020 model, identical to the 2021, being a "Top Safety Pick+."