2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Its profile, marked by a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with the Armada, while the front-end styling was uniquely Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design that lent it an assertive yet refined appearance. Standard LED lighting and large wheels added to its luxury appeal, though the interior, despite its wood trim and leather upholstery, retained a noticeable Nissan influence, which might have left some buyers seeking exclusivity wanting more.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness pushed the boundaries of the traditional station wagon, offering a rugged, Jeep-like stance with 9.5 inches of ground clearance and all-terrain tires. Its unique design elements, such as a matte black hood decal and Anodized Copper accents, set it apart from standard Outbacks. Inside, the cabin featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The interior was practical, with heated seats and ample cargo space, making it suitable for adventurous outings.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power for highway driving, though the transmission shifts were not as smooth as expected. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control, offered a comfortable ride, though it struggled with body roll in corners. Its 4WD system and 8,500-pound towing capacity made it capable off-road, but its size and tire choices limited its trail prowess.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. While the engine was strong, the CVT transmission detracted from the driving experience with its droning and soft gear changes. The Outback's AWD system, combined with its lifted suspension and all-terrain tires, excelled off-road, offering improved approach and departure angles. On pavement, it felt quick but was limited by its tires, making it less suitable for aggressive cornering. The Wilderness trim's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like X-Mode traction control and skid plates.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious three-row interior, with a standard seven-seat configuration and an optional eight-seat layout. Front seats provided power adjustments but lacked thigh support, which could be uncomfortable on long trips. Passenger space was competitive, though not class-leading, and cargo space was limited compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and folding third-row seats for convenience, but storage solutions were somewhat lacking, with small center console space and poorly shaped cupholders.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness provided a practical interior with water-repellant StarTex upholstery, though it could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats offered power adjustments, and the rear seat was spacious for adults or children, with rear air vents and USB ports. Cargo space was generous, with 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the seat folded. The Outback's robust roof rack supported rooftop camping, adding to its adventure-ready appeal.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came equipped with the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and complex controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience, but the overall tech experience could be frustrating.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with physical controls for basic functions. While voice recognition was limited, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better functionality. The Outback lacked a premium sound system option, but its PIN code entry system was a practical feature for active lifestyles.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked testing from the IIHS, which is common for luxury vehicles.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness prioritized safety with its EyeSight ADAS, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and more. It also included steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. While crash-test results for the Wilderness were unavailable, the standard Outback earned high safety ratings.