2022 Acura RDX 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 minor updates like new paint options and standard adaptive LED headlights.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, including updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with the A-Spec Advance package offering high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter cabin. Despite some controversial design elements, the RDX maintained a stylish and sporty appearance, with a focus on driving dynamics and comfort.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base 2.5-liter flat-four engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination struggled to move the vehicle, especially when fully loaded, resulting in slow and noisy performance. The turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine available in the XT trims offered a significant improvement, with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, providing better acceleration and refinement. The Outback's ride comfort and off-road capability were notable, thanks to its long-travel springs, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and Subaru's proactive all-wheel-drive system with X-Mode for tougher conditions.

The 2022 Acura RDX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided quick acceleration and an enjoyable driving experience, though fuel economy suffered with aggressive driving. The 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system enhanced the RDX's performance, especially on winding roads. The revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. The RDX's quieter cabin and refined driving dynamics made it a compelling choice for everyday driving, though it lacked the thrill of some German competitors.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive ground clearance, allowing it to tackle rough terrain without the drawbacks of larger vehicles. Inside, it provided 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and excellent outward visibility. Storage options were plentiful, though some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were limited to 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 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seats lacked support, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and included hidden storage compartments.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system felt outdated, with graphics and typefaces reminiscent of older technology. However, it offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the optional navigation system was more contemporary. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system's reliance on cameras rather than radar limited its functionality in certain conditions.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve but offered a direct one-to-one relationship between the touchpad and the display screen. The RDX also included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers. The RDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display in higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Outback rode on a stronger and stiffer chassis, with standard driver’s knee and passenger seat-cushion airbags. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear emergency braking were available on higher trims. The Outback earned a 2020 IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and for the rollover test.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and added a rear seatbelt reminder system. The standard AcuraWatch suite included pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims featured front and rear parking sensors with low-speed automatic braking. The RDX earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance, and five-star side-impact ratings.