2023 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift, adopting a more aggressive appearance with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and dark gray vertical cladding. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the bold design changes. The Outback offered six trim levels, with the Onyx Edition becoming more accessible by including the base powertrain. The Touring trim, with its Cosmic Blue paint and Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery, provided a comfortable and cohesive interior, despite some wind noise on the highway. The Outback's practicality was evident in its easy entry and exit, generous cargo space, and robust roof rack.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured a standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the engine provided adequate power for city driving, it struggled with passing and climbing. The turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four in the XT models offered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft, providing better performance but at a cost to fuel efficiency. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its suspension tuning ensured a comfortable ride. However, the standard engine's lack of power and fuel economy were notable drawbacks.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. It offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. Its air-conditioning system performed well even in high temperatures, making it a reliable choice for various climates.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior design. The Touring trim provided comfortable seating with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. The Outback offered 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its high ground clearance facilitated easy entry and exit, while the interior provided adequate storage, though more practical space could be added.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While the system was intuitive, it could be glitchy and slow. The XC90 offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system upgrade provided exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, came with an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a WiFi hotspot, and optional navigation and premium audio. The system was improved but still had usability issues, particularly with voice recognition. Additional features included a digital rearview mirror and a front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing Volvo's commitment to safety.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured the EyeSight system with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency steering. The Outback earned top safety ratings from the IIHS, though some driver assist features could be improved for a more natural feel.