2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned in 2020, 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11.6-inch portrait display surrounded by polished black plastic and chrome trim, offering a fresh look compared to the outdated dashboard of the smaller Crosstrek.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 touch of flair to the Outback's otherwise understated design. Externally, the Outback's styling was smooth and plain, with high gray cladding on its wheel arches and bumpers, maintaining a balanced and stable appearance. The 2021 model introduced adaptive LED headlights as standard and offered a new brown paint option, Brilliant Bronze Metallic, on the Premium trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous aesthetic, particularly in the High Tide special edition model. This version, based on the four-door Sport S trim, included features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The standout Xtreme Recon package added a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 35-inch BF Goodrich tires, and rock rails, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Wrangler's design emphasized its open-top, doors-off driving experience, with a focus on durability and functionality. Despite its higher price point, the interior remained basic, reflecting its purpose as a rugged off-roader rather than a luxury vehicle.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's performance was defined by its two engine options. The base model featured a 2.5-liter flat-four engine producing 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 fully loaded, resulting in sluggish acceleration and noise. However, the XT trims offered a significant upgrade with a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, providing a smoother and more powerful driving experience. The turbocharged engine improved the Outback's ability to keep up with traffic, though it slightly reduced fuel economy compared to the base engine. The Outback's handling was forgiving, with a focus on ride comfort and off-road capability, thanks to its high ground clearance and Subaru's proactive all-wheel-drive system.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system enhanced its performance in slippery conditions. Despite its power, the Wrangler's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.8 mpg during testing. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, characterized by its loud cabin, vague steering, and rough ride, which were part of its charm for enthusiasts. The Wrangler excelled in off-road environments, offering an immersive and adventurous driving experience, but required frequent stops at the gas station and adjustments to its quirks.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive interior space, with 76 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. Its wide and flat cargo area, along with ample headroom and legroom, made it a practical choice for families and adventurers. The Outback's visibility was excellent, aided by thin pillars and a low shoulder height. Storage solutions were abundant, with large map pockets, bottle holders, and a handy front center console. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims. The Outback's standout feature was its standard roof rails with integrated crossbars, providing convenience and cost savings.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, with its raised suspension, posed challenges for entry and exit, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials, with some padded spots for comfort. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring acclimation. Visibility varied, with challenges in certain situations, but the reversing camera and safety features helped. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but enjoyed agreeable accommodations once inside. The Wrangler's cargo space measured 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded. The tailgate's heavy 35-inch spare wheel added complexity to loading cargo.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system, while functional, appeared dated with graphics reminiscent of older technology. The single large screen was more cohesive and useful than the base model's dual-screen setup. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation offering a more modern look. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, provided adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking, though it relied solely on cameras without radar supplementation.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a basic 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a premium sound system, but the test vehicle's setup sufficed for most needs. Wind noise affected voice commands, but options like remote engine starting and heated seats added convenience. The Cold Weather Group extended the open-air driving season with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 Subaru Outback boasted a strong and stiff chassis, with standard driver and passenger airbags. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear emergency braking, depending on the trim. The Outback earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall rating from the latter, though it received four stars for the front passenger in a frontal crash and rollover test.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less favorable, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS in certain tests. Safety features were optional rather than standard, and the Wrangler's design required extra care when driving.