2022 Acura MDX vs 2023 Subaru Outback

2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2023 Subaru Outback
2023 Subaru Outback
$28,395MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Subaru Outback
$28,395MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

CarGurus experts evaluated the two vehicles in the contexts of their own classes. The overall rating for the 2022 Acura MDX is 8.0, while the 2023 Subaru Outback scores 7.8. Based on these ratings, we recommend choosing the 2022 Acura MDX for a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced features.

Overview

MSRP

$48,000

MSRP

$28,395

Average price

$42,192

Average price

$32,804

Listings

1492

Listings

1303
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Cramped third row
Pros
  • Great safety ratings
  • Excellent value for money
  • Impressive off-roading capability (for a crossover)
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Frustrating voice recognition system

2022 Acura MDX Reviews Summary

Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.

2023 Subaru Outback Reviews Summary

People love crossover SUVs because they drive like cars but provide the utility of an SUV, and the Subaru Outback was one of the first modern crossovers when it went on sale almost 30 years ago.

Now, the 2023 Subaru Outback gets several updates. The improvements include fresh styling, new infotainment and safety technologies, and a more accessible price point for the popular Onyx Edition, which features blacked-out exterior trim and water-resistant upholstery.

These changes to the 2023 Outback build on the momentum established by the rugged Subaru Outback Wilderness, which debuted last year.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Engine

2.5L 182 hp H4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

Horsepower

182 hp @ 5800 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

26

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

32
2022 Acura MDX
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Subaru Outback
2023 Subaru Outback
$28,395MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Acura MDX
$48,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Subaru Outback
$28,395MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

CarGurus experts evaluated the two vehicles in the contexts of their own classes. The overall rating for the 2022 Acura MDX is 8.0, while the 2023 Subaru Outback scores 7.8. Based on these ratings, we recommend choosing the 2022 Acura MDX for a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced features.

Overview
MSRP
$48,000
$28,395
Average price
$42,192
$32,804
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
5.0
Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Great handling
  • Excellent value for money
Cons
  • Cramped third row
Pros
  • Great safety ratings
  • Excellent value for money
  • Impressive off-roading capability (for a crossover)
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Frustrating voice recognition system
Summary
Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature.

People love crossover SUVs because they drive like cars but provide the utility of an SUV, and the Subaru Outback was one of the first modern crossovers when it went on sale almost 30 years ago.

Now, the 2023 Subaru Outback gets several updates. The improvements include fresh styling, new infotainment and safety technologies, and a more accessible price point for the popular Onyx Edition, which features blacked-out exterior trim and water-resistant upholstery.

These changes to the 2023 Outback build on the momentum established by the rugged Subaru Outback Wilderness, which debuted last year.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.5L 290 hp V6
2.5L 182 hp H4
Drive Train
FWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
182 hp @ 5800 rpm
MPG City
19
26
MPG Highway
26
32
Look and feel
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
8/10
According to CarGurus experts, the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8 out of 10 for look and feel, while the 2023 Subaru Outback scores 7 out of 10. The MDX offers a sportier and more modern exterior design with larger wheels and a high level of craftsmanship. The interior of the MDX is luxurious with genuine materials and innovative controls. On the other hand, the 2023 Subaru Outback features a redesigned front end and a robust appearance, especially in the Onyx Edition with black wheels and trim. The Touring model offers premium Nappa leather upholstery and a spacious, comfortable cabin.
Performance
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
6/10
The 2022 Acura MDX impresses with its performance, featuring a powerful V6 engine, responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, and enhanced suspension for a smooth ride. The Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent handling and control. On the other hand, the 2023 Subaru Outback offers a choice of two engines, with the turbocharged option providing more power for acceleration and climbing. The Outback's all-wheel drive system and X-Mode traction system make it suitable for various terrains.
Form and function
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
9/10
The 2022 Acura MDX offers flexible seating capacity and cargo space, ideal for family trips or everyday use. The MDX's innovative features like the power tailgate and customizable interior lighting enhance its utility. In comparison, the 2023 Subaru Outback provides a comfortable cabin with heated seats, ample cargo space, and a robust roof rack for additional storage. Both vehicles offer practical and functional features to meet diverse needs. For cargo capacity, the MDX has between 16.3 and 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, and up to 71.4 to 95 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The Outback offers 32.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 75.6 cubic feet with the back seat folded down.
Technology
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
6/10
The 2022 Acura MDX comes equipped with advanced tech features like the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The MDX also offers over-the-air updates, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a range of safety and driver assistance technologies. Meanwhile, the 2023 Subaru Outback features an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, and various driver assist technologies like EyeSight with Automatic Emergency Steering.
Safety
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
9/10
Safety is a top priority for both the 2022 Acura MDX and 2023 Subaru Outback. The MDX includes the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, high-strength steel construction, and advanced collision protection systems. Similarly, the Subaru Outback offers EyeSight with various driver-assist technologies, improved crash-test ratings, and new safety enhancements like Automatic Emergency Steering.
Cost Effectiveness
2022 Acura MDX
8/10
2023 Subaru Outback
10/10
In terms of cost effectiveness, the 2022 Acura MDX starts at a higher price point but offers luxury, performance, and advanced features that justify the cost. The 2023 Subaru Outback provides great value for its price, with standard all-wheel drive, safety technologies, and utility features that make it a practical and affordable choice.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.