2022 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Honda Odyssey had a familiar look that was slightly modernized with a new grille and front bumper, standard LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation, and a new gloss black spear with a chrome insert stretching the width of the taillights. New wheel designs debuted for the top three trim levels, reducing brightwork and giving the Odyssey a more contemporary appearance. Buyers could choose from five trim levels, with base prices ranging from $31,790 to $47,820, and certain paint colors required an additional $395. The test vehicle, a Lunar Silver Metallic Elite trim, featured perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, new dashboard ambient lighting, and handsome new 19-inch wheels, making it the most luxurious Odyssey yet.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness stood out with its increased 9.5 inches of ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled front and rear bumpers. It featured a unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, blacked-out exterior trim with Anodized Copper accents, and a matte black hood decal. The roof rack and rail system supported a 700-pound static load, ideal for rooftop camping. Inside, the cabin was outfitted with dark gray and black StarTex water-repellant upholstery, Gunmetal Gray interior trim, Anodized Copper stitching, and brushed aluminum pedals. The Outback Wilderness was priced at $36,995 plus a $1,125 destination charge, with the test vehicle costing $39,965.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided smooth and effortless power, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow. The Odyssey averaged 21.8 mpg in testing, close to the EPA's 22 mpg estimate. However, it lacked all-wheel drive, which was a disadvantage in snowy regions. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response, but the brakes struggled under heavy use, especially during a heatwave.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and averaged 21.3 mpg in testing. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) had eight programmed ratios but was less satisfying than a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Outback's all-wheel drive and 9.5 inches of ground clearance, combined with all-terrain tires and a dual-function X-Mode traction system, made it highly capable off-road. The Wilderness excelled in off-road conditions, handling steep hills and rough terrain with ease.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey offered legible instrumentation, logical controls, and ample storage. The 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, and the Elite trim added heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row Magic Slide seats provided versatile seating configurations, and the third-row seats accommodated both children and adults. Cargo space was generous, with 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 144.9 cubic feet with all seats removed. However, removing the second-row seats was cumbersome.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness had dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats offered 10-way and 8-way power adjustments, respectively, and the rear seats provided ample space for adults or children. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded flat. The Outback also featured a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's EX trim and above featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more. Touring trim added navigation, WiFi capability, and a CabinWatch interior camera. Elite trim included an 11-speaker premium sound system and wireless smartphone charging. However, the lack of a tuning knob and subpar voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch screen, Blu-Ray player, and streaming apps, but it was not a touchscreen.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness had an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with physical knobs for volume and tuning. The voice recognition technology required specific prompts, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable. The Outback lacked a premium sound system, which was available in other trims. However, the PIN code entry technology allowed for secure access without a key fob, ideal for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Honda Odyssey's Honda Sensing ADAS was standard on all trims, with new features like low-speed follow capability, pedestrian braking, and road-sign recognition. The Odyssey earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning systems were effective but could be smoother.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured EyeSight ADAS with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. It also had steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The Outback earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The EyeSight technology was effective and unobtrusive, making it a reliable safety feature.