2022 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Lexus NX

In 2021, the Lexus NX was offered in three variants: NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This review focuses on the gasoline-powered NX 300 and NX 300 F Sport models. Tested in its F Sport guise, the NX presented a sportier persona compared to its base and Luxury counterparts. With sharp exterior lines reminiscent of its siblings—the smaller UX and the larger RX—the NX maintained a family resemblance. At about the same dimensions as the Toyota RAV4, the NX was both visually appealing and functional.

Visually, the NX F Sport separated itself with unique elements. It featured a refreshed honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, a lower chrome-trimmed bumper, accented rear bumper and taillights, laser-engraved fog light housings, and distinctive 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the NX F Sport was adorned with quilted NuLuxe sport seats. This model also offered the Circuit Red interior color scheme, along with more conventional choices like Black and Arctic White/Black. The fit and finish were exceptional, with leather and wood trims available, providing a luxurious feel.

Conversely, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness distinguished itself as a more rugged and adventurous vehicle—arguably more an SUV than a station wagon. With a ride height of 9.5 inches, more aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles, it was primed for off-road escapades. Design elements such as the unique grille, black 17-inch wheels, Anodized Copper accents, and a glare-reducing matte black hood decal gave it a standout appearance.

The Outback’s interior was designed for durability and functionality. The dark gray and black cabin featured StarTex water-repellant upholstery, ideal for active lifestyles. Anodized Copper stitching and accents, brushed aluminum pedals, and all-weather floor mats added to its rugged theme. The new Geyser Blue paint hue was exclusive to the Wilderness model, emphasizing its adventurous spirit.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the NX provided decent acceleration, reaching 60 mph in about seven seconds. The powertrain could be noisy under hard acceleration but generally offered a quiet ride. Active Sound Control in the F Sport variant electronically enhanced the engine’s note through the speakers, although some may consider this feature gimmicky.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive as an available option, allowing up to 50% of the car’s torque to transfer to the rear axle. Fuel economy was reasonable: 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined for the FWD model, slightly lower for AWD variants. The adaptive suspension, borrowed from the LC 500 sport coupe, allowed for up to 650 adjustments, enhancing ride comfort and agility. Drive modes included Eco, Normal, and Sport, each altering throttle response and steering assist.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness housed a more potent turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Weighing 3,896 pounds, it had a respectable 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity. The EPA estimated a fuel economy of 24 mpg combined, though real-world testing yielded 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route.

Despite the engine’s strength, its continuously variable transmission (CVT) dulled the driving experience with droning and mushy simulated gear changes. Off-road performance excelled with features like improved approach and departure angles, Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance. The Outback Wilderness’s X-Mode traction system and dual-function settings (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud) further enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The Lexus NX’s interior was stylish and comfortable, with heated and ventilated seats available. While its front seats provided ample space, the second-row seating was generous enough for adults during longer trips. Engine noise could intrude, but road and wind noise were well-muted, maintaining Lexus’ luxury standards. Cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The Subaru Outback Wilderness, meanwhile, offered a more practical and spacious interior. The StarTex upholstery repelled water effectively, though it tended to retain sweat. Its climate control system was efficient, maintaining comfort despite seat material challenges. The rear seat provided ample room and included air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. Cargo capacity was superior, with 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with seats folded flat. A robust roof rack allowed for a 700-pound static load, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch or optional 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Navigation package included predictive traffic information, ETA calculation, and fuel station guidance. New for 2021 was HomeLink integration, part of the Lexus Enform suite which provided in-car personal concierge services akin to Google Assistant or Siri. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. Audio systems ranged from standard eight-speaker setups to a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness boasted an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system. While physical knobs and buttons were provided for essential functions, most operations required the touchscreen. Voice recognition was less responsive than rivals, making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preferable alternatives. The Outback lacked a premium sound system option but featured PIN code entry technology, allowing secure vehicle access without the key fob.

The Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard as well. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX earned top scores from both IIHS and NHTSA and came with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Subaru Outback Wilderness included the EyeSight suite, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist. It also featured steering-responsive headlights, blind-spot warning, lane-change assistance, and rear cross-traffic warning. EyeSight technology was highly effective in real-world driving tests. While specific 2022 crash-test results were unavailable, the 2021 Outback earned a IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and received a five-star overall NHTSA rating.