2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its utilitarian roots, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Initially designed as a rugged workhorse, it had become a high-end SUV with a starting price of $92,000, which could soar to $250,000 with various upgrades. The test model, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim, offering a blend of standard and modestly upgraded features. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design with hallmark cues like blacked-out windshield pillars and clean styling. Inside, it exuded luxury with an Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although its infotainment system lagged behind newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness pushed the boundaries of the traditional station wagon, resembling more of a rugged SUV. It offered 9.5 inches of ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and improved approach and departure angles. The Wilderness stood out with unique design elements like a matte black hood decal and Anodized Copper accents. Inside, it featured StarTex water-repellant upholstery, though it lacked ventilated seats. The cabin was practical, with a robust roof rack and ample cargo space. The Outback Wilderness injected personality into the Outback lineup, appealing to those seeking adventure and off-road capability.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring off-road prowess. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, while the SUV's weight and tall center of gravity required a measured approach to handling. The EPA estimated 20 mpg in combined driving, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and an EPA rating of 24 mpg in combined driving, though the test drive averaged 21.3 mpg. The Outback's CVT, while functional, lacked the engagement of a dual-clutch transmission. The Wilderness trim featured all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. It excelled on challenging trails, offering improved approach, breakover, and departure angles, along with a dual-function X-Mode traction system.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers found entry challenging. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with a small center-console bin and modest luggage capacity of 25 cubic feet, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function aided loading.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness offered StarTex water-repellant upholstery, though it lacked ventilated seats. The front seats provided power adjustments, while the rear seat accommodated two adults or three children comfortably. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The Outback featured a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while functional, was not entirely intuitive and could be distracting while driving. The Range Rover included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with physical knobs for essential functions. The voice recognition technology required learning specific prompts, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered superior voice assistant functionality. The Outback lacked a premium sound system, but its PIN code entry technology allowed for keyless access during outdoor activities.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured EyeSight advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. It also had steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The Outback Wilderness lacked Subaru's DriverFocus technology but performed well in maintaining safe distances and lane centering. The 2021 Outback received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.