2022 Subaru Outback vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness presented a rugged and adventurous aesthetic, distinguishing itself from the standard Outback with its elevated stance and off-road enhancements. It featured 9.5 inches of ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents added to its distinctive look, while the exclusive Geyser Blue paint hue further set it apart. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark gray and black tones, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery and Anodized Copper stitching, creating a purposeful and robust interior environment.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and elegance with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, complemented by a stately 16-foot length. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its luxurious appearance. The matte Brunswick Green paint added a touch of elegance, echoed inside with quilted leather seats in a matching dark green. The interior boasted a split dash with thin air vents, metal and matte wood trim, and a unique two-spoke steering wheel. Despite a minor quibble with the 14.5-inch infotainment screen's placement, the GV80's interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided ample power for the 3,896-pound crossover, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) detracted from the driving experience with its droning and soft simulated gear changes. The Wilderness trim's all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires made it highly capable off-road, with improved approach, breakover, and departure angles. The dual function X-Mode traction system and hill descent control further enhanced its off-road prowess.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbo 3.5-liter V6, with our tester featuring the latter, producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the GV80 was not particularly quick, taking over five seconds to reach 60 mph. However, it excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The active noise cancellation and Highway Drive Assist provided a serene and stress-free driving experience, although the system struggled with lane-keeping when facing direct sunlight.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but not ideal for hot weather. The front seats were heated, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 8-way for the passenger. Rear seat space was generous, with heated seats and dual USB ports. The cargo area offered 32.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The robust roof rack supported a 700-pound static load, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 prioritized luxury with Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, and an Ergo Motion driver's seat. A third row was available, though legroom was limited. The GV80 featured a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker stereo, and a panoramic glass roof. Cargo space was ample, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GV80's towing capacity was 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supplemented by physical knobs for volume and tuning. While voice recognition was limited, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better functionality. The Outback's PIN code entry technology allowed for keyless access, catering to active lifestyles.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system had a learning curve, with a cumbersome dial for navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with EyeSight advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The system was effective and unobtrusive, though crash-test results were unavailable at the time of review. The standard Outback earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The blind-spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster was a standout feature. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled with direct sunlight. The GV80 received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.