2022 Subaru Outback vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness presented a rugged and adventurous aesthetic, distinguishing itself from the standard Outback models. It featured a higher ride height with 9.5 inches of ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The exterior was marked by a unique grille, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents, with Geyser Blue as an exclusive paint option. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark gray and black tones, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery and Anodized Copper stitching, creating a purposeful and distinctive look.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX exuded a commanding presence with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs. The interior, however, was marred by an abundance of plastic materials, which detracted from its luxury appeal. Nevertheless, it offered heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery, maintaining some luxury touches.

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 midsize SUV, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. The Wilderness trim featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with eight programmed ratios, though it lacked the engaging feel of a dual-clutch automatic. The Outback's all-wheel-drive system, combined with its lifted suspension and all-terrain tires, made it highly capable off-road, with improved approach, breakover, and departure angles. The dual-function X-Mode traction system further enhanced its off-road prowess.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, but its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable and controllable handling, and its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its 4WD capabilities. The GX's driving dynamics were improved with strong brakes and a communicative road feel.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats offered power adjustments, and the rear seat provided ample space for passengers. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The Outback's robust roof rack supported a 700-pound static load, ideal for rooftop camping.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The interior featured hard buttons for controls, which some users preferred over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs or a bench seat option. However, the third row was tight and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 64.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though its voice recognition technology was less intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, offering better voice assistant functionality. The Outback lacked a premium sound system option, but it featured PIN code entry technology for convenience.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a CD player. While the infotainment technology lagged behind newer Lexus models, the GX excelled in off-road capabilities with a real 4WD system and advanced driving-focused technology.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured the EyeSight advanced driving assistance system, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. It also had steering-responsive headlights and a blind-spot warning system. While crash-test results for the Wilderness were unavailable, the standard Outback received high safety ratings.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date, though it lacked some top-end features.