2022 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Lexus GX

2021 Lexus GX
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Outback
2022 Subaru Outback
$27,645MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Outback
$27,645MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Lexus GX is 5.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Subaru Outback scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Subaru Outback is the recommended choice, offering a more modern design, better technology, and superior off-road capabilities.

Overview

MSRP

$53,450

MSRP

$27,645

Average price

$44,436

Average price

$28,079

Listings

442

Listings

2041
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

5.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Premium interior materials
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor handling
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • New Wilderness trim
  • Spacious
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology

2021 Lexus GX Reviews Summary

Most modern SUVs are really car-based crossovers—lifted station wagons, or minivans without the sliding doors. That’s not the case with the 2021 Lexus GX 460.

Like the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the GX is a creature that time forgot. It’s one of the last SUVs with truck-like body-on-frame construction and true off-road capability. That’s because the GX is actually a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (a smaller version of the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser not sold in the United States), and is related to the Toyota 4Runner. It’s also genuinely old: the current generation dates back to the 2010 model year, and Lexus has kept it in production with some updates of styling and tech over the years.

That makes the GX a fairly odd proposition on the new-car market. It has the off-road capability, not as a lifestyle statement, but because that’s what was still expected of SUVs when it was launched. The GX sits between the RX and LX in Lexus’ lineup but has little direct competition. Its only real rival is the much newer Land Rover Discovery.

For the 2021 model year, the GX gets some minor updates, including a new Premium Plus Package, and acoustic front side glass. Lexus continues to offer only the GX 460 model, with a single powertrain option, standard four-wheel drive (4WD), and three trim levels: base, Premium, and Luxury. Our test car was the midlevel Premium version.

2022 Subaru Outback Reviews Summary

The wilderness beckons and Subaru owners frequently answer the call. They modify and outfit their Subies for improved capabilities in the great outdoors, but in the process, they risk reducing the effectiveness of the carefully calibrated EyeSight driving aids that now come standard on most of the automaker's models. To address this EyeSight calibration problem while giving its owners the improved off-road capabilities they seek, Subaru presents the all-new 2022 Outback Wilderness, the first of several so-themed SUVs planned for the automaker's product pipeline.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

4.6L 301 hp V8

Engine

2.5L 182 hp H4

Drive Train

AWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

301 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

182 hp @ 5800 rpm

MPG City

15

MPG City

26

MPG Highway

19

MPG Highway

33
2021 Lexus GX
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Outback
2022 Subaru Outback
$27,645MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Lexus GX
$53,450MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Subaru Outback
$27,645MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Lexus GX is 5.3 out of 10, while the 2022 Subaru Outback scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Subaru Outback is the recommended choice, offering a more modern design, better technology, and superior off-road capabilities.

Overview
MSRP
$53,450
$27,645
Average price
$44,436
$28,079
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.6
4.5
Expert reviews

5.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Powerful engine
  • Premium interior materials
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Poor fuel economy
  • Poor handling
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • New Wilderness trim
  • Spacious
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Unintuitive technology
Summary

Most modern SUVs are really car-based crossovers—lifted station wagons, or minivans without the sliding doors. That’s not the case with the 2021 Lexus GX 460.

Like the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the GX is a creature that time forgot. It’s one of the last SUVs with truck-like body-on-frame construction and true off-road capability. That’s because the GX is actually a rebadged Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (a smaller version of the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser not sold in the United States), and is related to the Toyota 4Runner. It’s also genuinely old: the current generation dates back to the 2010 model year, and Lexus has kept it in production with some updates of styling and tech over the years.

That makes the GX a fairly odd proposition on the new-car market. It has the off-road capability, not as a lifestyle statement, but because that’s what was still expected of SUVs when it was launched. The GX sits between the RX and LX in Lexus’ lineup but has little direct competition. Its only real rival is the much newer Land Rover Discovery.

For the 2021 model year, the GX gets some minor updates, including a new Premium Plus Package, and acoustic front side glass. Lexus continues to offer only the GX 460 model, with a single powertrain option, standard four-wheel drive (4WD), and three trim levels: base, Premium, and Luxury. Our test car was the midlevel Premium version.

The wilderness beckons and Subaru owners frequently answer the call. They modify and outfit their Subies for improved capabilities in the great outdoors, but in the process, they risk reducing the effectiveness of the carefully calibrated EyeSight driving aids that now come standard on most of the automaker's models. To address this EyeSight calibration problem while giving its owners the improved off-road capabilities they seek, Subaru presents the all-new 2022 Outback Wilderness, the first of several so-themed SUVs planned for the automaker's product pipeline.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
4.6L 301 hp V8
2.5L 182 hp H4
Drive Train
AWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
301 hp @ 5500 rpm
182 hp @ 5800 rpm
MPG City
15
26
MPG Highway
19
33
Look and feel
2021 Lexus GX
7/10
2022 Subaru Outback
7/10

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. Despite its age, the GX's exterior styling remained coherent and distinctive, appealing to SUV enthusiasts with its tough and aggressive look. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim resembling molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. While leather upholstery was standard, the overall interior feel was not as luxurious as expected.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness presented a more rugged and adventurous appearance, with a higher ride height and aggressive all-terrain tires. It featured unique design elements like a distinctive grille, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents. The interior was dominated by dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but not ideal for hot weather. The cabin offered generous space, especially in the rear, and included practical features like a waterproof cargo tray and a robust roof rack for outdoor enthusiasts.

Performance
2021 Lexus GX
6/10
2022 Subaru Outback
8/10

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's 5,130-pound weight affected its performance at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The SUV's off-road capabilities were notable, with a Torsen center differential, low-range 4WD, and various driver aids. However, its on-road handling was less impressive, with noticeable body roll and a less refined ride quality.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Despite its lower power output compared to the GX, the Outback's lighter weight of 3,896 pounds made it agile and capable, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The CVT transmission, however, detracted from the driving experience with its droning and soft gear changes. The Wilderness trim excelled off-road, with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and advanced traction systems, making it the most capable Outback model for challenging terrains.

Form and function
2021 Lexus GX
5/10
2022 Subaru Outback
7/10

The interior of the 2021 Lexus GX showed its age, with limited legroom due to the upright dashboard and high center console. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position added to the discomfort. While the dashboard design offered excellent outward visibility, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded, and minimal space with the third row in use.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness provided a more practical interior, with water-repellant StarTex upholstery and heated front and rear seats. The cabin offered ample space for passengers, with generous rear seat room and convenient features like dual USB ports and rear air conditioning vents. The cargo area was spacious, with 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The Outback's robust roof rack supported rooftop camping, enhancing its appeal for outdoor adventures.

Technology
2021 Lexus GX
4/10
2022 Subaru Outback
6/10

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system was outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. However, the presence of analog controls for various functions provided a straightforward interface, albeit primitive for a luxury vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness boasted an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though it required learning specific voice commands for optimal use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, offering better voice assistant functionality. The Outback lacked a premium sound system, which was surprising given its target demographic, but it featured a convenient PIN code entry system for active lifestyle enthusiasts.

Safety
2021 Lexus GX
6/10
2022 Subaru Outback
9/10

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it missed some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness prioritized safety with its EyeSight advanced driving assistance systems, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a driver monitoring system. The Wilderness trim 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 from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Lexus GX
4/10
2022 Subaru Outback
8/10
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