2022 Subaru Outback vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was designed to stretch the boundaries of what a station wagon could be, edging closer to a Jeep in its ruggedness. It featured a 9.5-inch ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The exterior boasted a unique grille, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents, while the interior was dominated by dark gray and black StarTex water-repellant upholstery. The cabin also included a black headliner, Gunmetal Gray trim, and Anodized Copper stitching, creating a purposeful and distinctive look.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of subtle seductiveness and newfound ruggedness. Its design included a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, complemented by blistered fender swells and oversized air intakes. The CX-50's standard black grille and mirror caps, along with available 20-inch wheels, added to its appeal. Inside, the CX-50 featured black leather with caramel-colored stitching, a driver-focused design, and quality materials. The cabin was equipped with vertical air vents and a mix of analog and digital gauges, creating a modern and stylish environment.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate power for a midsize crossover SUV weighing 3,896 pounds. The Wilderness had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and an EPA fuel efficiency rating of 24 mpg in combined driving, though real-world testing showed an average of 21.3 mpg. The Wilderness trim featured 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a dual-function X-Mode traction system, making it the most capable Outback for off-road adventures.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine's power varied depending on the fuel type, with 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-50's six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system provided smooth acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. The CX-50's fuel efficiency was estimated at 27 mpg for the base engine and 25 mpg for the turbo, though real-world testing showed an average of 23.4 mpg. The CX-50's driving modes and G-Vectoring Control technology ensured a natural driving experience, while its 8.6 inches of ground clearance allowed for moderate off-roading.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could become uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats were heated and offered power adjustments, while the rear seats provided ample space and were also heated. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The Outback Wilderness also had a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior included power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control effectively cooled the cabin. The back seat was roomy and featured rear air vents and charging ports. The cargo area offered 31.4 cubic feet of space, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The CX-50's storage options were adequate, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which included physical knobs for volume and tuning but required touchscreen use for most functions. The voice recognition technology was less responsive than desired, making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preferable options. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium sound system, which was available in other trims, but featured a PIN code entry system for secure access without the key fob.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims included a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect historically lacked touchscreen control, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen use for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The CX-50 also offered an Active Driving Display, projecting important information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with the EyeSight advanced driving assistance system (ADAS), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and lane-centering assistance. The Wilderness also had steering-responsive headlights, a blind-spot warning system, and rear cross-traffic warning. The Outback Wilderness had not been crash-tested at the time of review, but standard Outbacks received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, similar to other Mazda models. It came with a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, active blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-50's driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.