2022 GMC Yukon 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. Its interior, especially in trims above the base, featured a modern 11.6-inch portrait display surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim, offering a fresh look compared to the outdated dashboard of the smaller Crosstrek. The Onyx Edition XT, with its gray and black StarTex upholstery and lime green stitching, added a unique flair. Externally, the Outback maintained its smooth and plain styling, with high gray cladding on its wheel arches and bumpers, emphasizing its lifted wagon design. The addition of adaptive LED headlights as standard and a new brown paint option were among the few changes for 2021.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon embraced chrome to create a premium look, especially evident in the Denali trim with its vast, chrome-dominated grille. The Denali's 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and dark Redwood Metallic paint added to its commanding presence. The off-road-oriented AT4 trim offered a distinct appearance with a dark grille and red recovery hooks. Inside, the Yukon provided a spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured exclusive interior designs, such as the Teak/Light Shale color combo, enhancing its premium feel. The AT4 trim boasted a Jet Black interior with Brandy accents, adding a custom touch.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered two engine options. The base model featured a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination struggled with the Outback's weight, especially when loaded, resulting in sluggish performance. The XT trims, however, came with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, significantly improving acceleration and refinement. The Outback's fuel economy varied, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the turbo XT managed 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The Outback excelled in ride comfort and off-road capability, thanks to its high ground clearance and Subaru's proactive all-wheel-drive system.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices. The standard 5.3-liter V8 produced 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the Denali trim featured a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, available on most trims, delivered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, offering excellent fuel economy and a long driving range. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon provided a smooth ride, aided by its independent rear suspension and optional air ride adaptive suspension. The AT4 trim, with its off-road enhancements, offered improved ground clearance and approach angles. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity reached 8,400 pounds with the right configuration.

The 2021 Subaru Outback boasted impressive ground clearance, surpassing even some trucks, allowing it to tackle various terrains. Inside, it offered 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cabin provided ample headroom and legroom, with excellent outward visibility. Storage options included large map pockets, bottle holders, and a handy front center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were limited to higher trims. The Outback's standout feature was its standard roof rails with integrated crossbars, offering convenience and cost savings.

The 2022 GMC Yukon addressed previous shortcomings with its redesign, significantly increasing third-row legroom and cargo space. The move to an independent rear suspension and a longer wheelbase contributed to the improved interior space. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options eased access to the third row. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding center console with hidden storage, adding convenience. Power-retractable assist steps and pushbutton transmission controls were also part of the Denali package. The Yukon's interior offered a blend of practicality and luxury, with thoughtful storage solutions and advanced features.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. However, it offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Subaru EyeSight, a suite of driver-assist technologies, was standard across all trims, providing adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. The system relied on cameras, which could be less effective in certain conditions compared to radar-based systems.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came equipped with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center and a 15-inch head-up display, providing essential information in a convenient location. The 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system featured Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The Denali trim included a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens, offering entertainment options for passengers. The Yukon's technology package was comprehensive, though some features required acclimation.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a strong and stiff chassis, with standard airbags and driver-assist technologies. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Outback earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall rating from the latter.

The 2022 GMC Yukon included GMC's Pro Safety suite, offering a range of driver aids such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. The Pro Safety Plus package added features like blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with strong scores in side crash protection.