2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was unmistakably Lexus. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, a shapely body, and a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console design was considered bland. The RX was available in five variants: RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, each catering to different preferences and needs. The exterior boasted standard 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and rear privacy glass, with available upgrades like 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior was well-appointed, even in the base model, with features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel. However, the center console design and infotainment system were seen as dated.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness stood out with its increased ride height of 9.5 inches, aggressive all-terrain tires, and unique design elements like a matte black hood decal and Anodized Copper accents. The Wilderness trim featured a new roof rack system capable of supporting a 700-pound static load, making it ideal for rooftop camping. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark gray and black StarTex water-repellant upholstery, which, while practical, could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The interior also included brushed aluminum pedals, Anodized Copper stitching, and all-weather floor mats. The Outback Wilderness was positioned between the Onyx XT and Limited XT in terms of pricing, offering a blend of rugged capability and unique styling.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid and RXL Hybrid models combined a 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors, producing 308 horsepower. The RX achieved 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway in its most fuel-efficient FWD configuration. The RX Hybrid managed up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX F-Sport added adaptive variable suspension and sportier handling, though it wasn't as dynamic as some competitors. The RX's top speed was limited to 124 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. The Wilderness achieved an EPA-rated 24 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing showed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The Wilderness trim included 17-inch all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and a dual-function X-Mode traction system, making it highly capable off-road. The CVT, however, was less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission, detracting from the driving experience during maximum acceleration. The Wilderness excelled in off-road conditions, handling steep hills and challenging trails with ease.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a functional and spacious interior, seating five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seats provided ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space in the two-row RX was 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second, and 58.5 cubic feet with both rows folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats were heated and offered power adjustments, while the rear seats provided generous space for two adults or three children. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the seat folded flat. The Wilderness also included a waterproof cargo tray and a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, ideal for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most user-friendly and lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Remote Touch controller took up valuable center console space and was less refined than competitors' systems.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, with physical knobs for volume and tuning and buttons for temperature control. The voice recognition technology required learning specific prompts, making it less intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, but the sound system was not as premium as expected for the target demographic. The Outback's PIN code entry technology allowed for keyless access, which was convenient for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Lexus RX received the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation and a four-star overall rating from NHTSA. It came equipped with a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The RX lacked the advanced hands-off driving technology found in some competitors.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness included Subaru's EyeSight system, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. The Wilderness trim also featured steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. The EyeSight system was effective and user-friendly, though the Wilderness trim lacked Subaru's DriverFocus distraction mitigation technology.