2022 Lexus GX vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eradicated almost all chrome from the exterior, transforming the SUV into a sleek, dark presence on the road. However, it quickly accumulated dust, making it look drab and old. Despite its modern touches like the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation model from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift that gave it a more aggressive appearance. The new front end featured redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray vertical cladding. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the bold design. The interior of the Touring trim was upscale, with Java Brown leather and light gray contrast stitching. Despite some hard plastic trim, the cabin felt premium and cohesive. The large infotainment screen and gloss black trim, however, were prone to collecting dust and smudges.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. Despite its hefty 5,126-pound curb weight, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, its fuel economy was a mere 16 mpg in combined driving, slightly better than expected during testing. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, but the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, with its standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine, produced 182 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 176 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) made good use of the power at lower speeds, but passing and climbing power was lacking. The Outback's fuel economy was disappointing, with an observed 25.6 mpg compared to the EPA's 28 mpg estimate. For better performance, the turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine in the XT models offered 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, though at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Outback's suspension provided a firm yet comfortable ride, and its handling was confident, especially on mountain roads.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it easy to maneuver, but the slow steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and well-placed padding, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition had NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The rear seats were spacious, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and flat door sills. The Touring trim offered a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The rear seats were also heated, and the Outback provided ample legroom and storage space. The cargo area measured 32.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Outback's design made it easy to get in and out, and the flat door sills served as steps for accessing the roof rack. However, the vehicle could benefit from more practical storage space in the cabin.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The system was easy to use, but the stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls. The voice recognition technology was excellent, and the dual-screen view allowed for simultaneous navigation and radio display. The GX also offered Intuitive Parking Assist, surround-view, and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, and access to Starlink connected services. The voice recognition system, however, was subpar, often failing to understand commands. The Outback also featured a camera-based digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, came with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked more advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2023 Subaru Outback excelled in safety, earning top marks from the IIHS. The EyeSight system included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Automatic Emergency Steering. The Outback also featured a Wide-Angle Mono Camera for better pedestrian and cyclist detection.