2021 BMW X3 vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received significant updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a critical refinement, offering the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while the interior featured the same cold, mechanical styling found across the BMW lineup. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dash was more functional.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, a new version of the popular model, offered 9.5 inches of ground clearance, a 0.8-inch increase over other Outbacks. It featured aggressive all-terrain tires, oversized fender protection trim, and improved approach and departure angles due to restyled bumpers. Additional design features included a unique grille, black 17-inch wheels, blacked-out exterior trim with Anodized Copper accents, and a matte black hood decal. The interior was a sea of dark gray and black, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery and various rugged design elements.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i had rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i featured all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and had a 17-mile electric-only range, recharging in about 3.5 hours with a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking extreme performance, the X3 M offered 473 horsepower.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate power for the 3,896-pound vehicle, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. The EPA estimated 24 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing showed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The Wilderness trim featured a taller stance, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and all-terrain tires for off-road capability. It also included a dual function X-Mode traction system and revised final-drive ratios for improved off-road performance.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a commanding driving position. The interior featured real buttons and dials to complement the main touchscreen, making it user-friendly.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats were heated, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 8-way for the front passenger. The rear seat offered generous space for two adults or three kids, with heated seats and dual USB charging ports. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the seat folded flat. The Wilderness also had a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating for rooftop camping.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly. It included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Other available features were wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. Gesture control was also an option, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system. While it had physical knobs for volume and tuning, most functions required the touchscreen. The voice recognition technology was less responsive, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium sound system, which was available in other trims. However, it included PIN code entry technology, allowing the key fob to be left inside the vehicle during outdoor activities.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured the EyeSight advanced driving assistance system, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, and a driver monitoring system. It also had steering-responsive headlights, blind-spot warning, lane-change assistance, and rear cross-traffic warning. The Outback Wilderness lacked the DriverFocus distraction mitigation technology available in higher trims. The 2021 Outback earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.