2021 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for the 2020 model year, retained a familiar and comfortable feel reminiscent of older Subaru models. The analog gauges, steering wheel design, and seat forms were consistent with previous iterations, though the interior was fresher than the smaller 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Higher trims featured an 11.6-inch portrait display, surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim, enhancing the cabin's modernity. The Onyx Edition XT, with its gray and black StarTex upholstery and lime green stitching, added a touch of flair. Externally, the Outback's gray cladding and smooth, plain styling maintained its lifted wagon appearance, with minimal changes for 2021, including new paint options and standard adaptive LED headlights.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum, the most luxurious trim in the lineup, offered a plush and roomy experience. Despite its high-end features, the Expedition struggled to accommodate six passengers and their luggage, highlighting the utility of minivans. The Platinum trim boasted a chrome grille, 22-inch wheels, and brightwork, enhancing its bold presence. The extended-length Expedition MAX would have resolved the cargo space issue, but the test vehicle's captain's chairs limited flexibility. The Expedition's leather-lined cabin, sourced from the F-150 parts bin, provided comfort, though hard plastics reminded occupants of its origins. The Lincoln Navigator offered a more refined alternative.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base 2.5-liter flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when loaded. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) exacerbated the issue, resulting in slow and noisy performance. The turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine in the XT trims, with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improved performance, making the Outback more capable and refined. Fuel economy for the turbo XT was slightly lower than the base engine, but the trade-off was worth it for better performance. The Outback's ride comfort and handling were commendable, with its high ground clearance and electronically-variable AWD system enhancing off-road capability.

The 2021 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, with the Platinum trim boosting these figures to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. The 10-speed automatic transmission and available 4WD provided smooth and responsive performance. The Expedition's towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds, with Pro Trailer Backup Assist technology aiding in trailer maneuvering. The Platinum's 22-inch wheels impacted ride quality, but the adaptive damping suspension and independent rear suspension maintained stability. The FX4 Off-Road Package, available on XLT and Limited trims, enhanced off-road capability with additional features like a two-speed transfer case and all-terrain tires.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive ground clearance, surpassing many larger vehicles, and provided ample interior space. With 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised, the Outback was practical and versatile. The cabin featured comfortable seating, excellent visibility, and numerous storage options. However, some essential features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims. The standard roof rails with integrated crossbars were a standout feature, offering convenience and cost savings. The 11.6-inch touchscreen complicated climate controls but was generally responsive and useful.

The 2021 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort and utility, with large, wide seats for all passengers and an independent rear suspension ensuring a smooth ride. The regular-length Expedition offered 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 57.5 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 104.6 cubic feet. The Expedition MAX provided even more space, with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 121.5 cubic feet. However, the high cargo floor liftover height could be a drawback when loading heavy items. The Expedition's power-deploying running boards and ample storage for small items added to its practicality.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system, though functional, appeared outdated with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. The adaptive cruise control system offered four settings but was challenging to adjust. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the optional navigation system was more modern. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. However, the system relied solely on cameras, which could be less effective in certain conditions.

The 2021 Ford Expedition's Sync 3 infotainment system, while user-friendly, featured a small 8-inch touchscreen that felt outdated. Despite this, Sync 3 offered desirable features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, FordPass Connect, and a navigation system. Amazon Alexa compatibility and enhanced voice recognition were also included. The test vehicle's 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charging were impressive, though the available rear-seat entertainment system was not included.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard driver and passenger airbags. Additional driver assists were available on higher trims, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear emergency braking. The Outback earned a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" award and received top ratings in all crash tests. The NHTSA awarded the Outback an overall five-star rating, with four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and four stars for rollover resistance.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, with its substantial curb weight, had a safety advantage over many vehicles. The NHTSA awarded the Expedition a five-star overall rating, though the RWD model received a three-star rollover-resistance rating, while the 4WD model earned four stars. Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, semi-autonomous parking assistance, and a 360-degree camera system.