2020 Ford Explorer vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Ford Explorer was a striking vehicle, boasting a more refined and athletic design compared to its predecessors. Its widened headlights, large grille, and distinctive "Explorer" lettering on the hood gave it a recognizable and upscale appearance. The ST version, with its black 21-inch rims and quad exhaust pipes, was particularly eye-catching. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal. Despite its high price tag, the interior materials felt subpar, with low-grade vinyl and hard plastics dominating the cabin. The Explorer's interior struggled to compete with more luxurious options available at similar or lower price points.

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its winning formula by focusing on incremental improvements. Built on Subaru's Global Platform, it offered a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The exterior changes were subtle, with noticeable updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims, enhancing its tech appeal. The innovative DriverFocus system, which used facial recognition to adjust settings and monitor driver alertness, was a standout feature. The Outback's interior was spacious and well-equipped, with various trims offering features like heated seats, leather upholstery, and advanced safety systems. Its design prioritized functionality and safety, making it a practical choice for many buyers.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered a range of powerful engines and a rear-wheel-drive chassis that improved weight distribution. The ST trim featured a 3.0-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided smooth and addictive power delivery, with impressive handling and cornering capabilities. The Explorer also offered a 2.3-litre turbo inline four-cylinder engine with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, as well as a hybrid option with a net 318 hp. The Explorer's towing capacity varied, with the V6 capable of towing up to 2,540 kilograms. It featured seven drive modes for various conditions, enhancing its versatility.

The 2020 Subaru Outback came with two engine options: a 2.5-litre engine producing 182 horsepower and a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with 260 hp and 277 pound-feet of torque for the XT trims. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that mimicked a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provided consistent power delivery and improved handling. The Outback's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its 22.1 centimetres of ground clearance and upgraded X-Mode with hill-descent control. While not a true off-roader, the Outback handled various terrains with ease, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered ample interior space, with generous headroom and legroom for passengers. The second row featured air vents, USB ports, and a panoramic moonroof, creating a comfortable environment. The third row accommodated six-foot-tall adults for short trips, though the bench was flat for long-distance comfort. Cargo space was slightly reduced behind the third row, measuring 509 litres, but expanded to 1,359 litres behind the second row and 2,491 litres with all seats folded. The Explorer's interior featured physical knobs and switches for climate and stereo controls, though visibility was hindered by thick D-pillars and fuzzy cameras.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 920 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,144 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior was spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The Outback's design prioritized visibility, with great sightlines in most directions, though the rear quarters presented a blind spot. The station wagon design provided a low load height and a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling and reducing rollover risk. The Outback's interior was well-proportioned, offering a comfortable and practical environment for passengers and cargo.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Sync 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. Keyless entry, remote start, and SiriusXM satellite radio were also standard. The Premium Technology Package added a 10-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster for ST and Platinum models. While the interface was well-organized, it lacked innovation, with system updates requiring an external Wi-Fi connection. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ system offered semi-automated driving features but was less effective than competitors' systems.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen that was visually appealing and easy to navigate. However, the system suffered from lag, affecting navigation, app usage, and even volume control. The camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the Outback's infotainment system had potential, with a user-friendly interface and a large display that enhanced its tech appeal.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came standard with Ford Co-Pilot 360, which included forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, auto high beams, and lane-keep assist. Adaptive cruise control with steering assist and reverse braking were also standard. The Explorer received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered a comprehensive safety suite, including Subaru's EyeSight system, which was standard across all trims. However, the optical system had limitations, as it could be obstructed by weather conditions. The DriverFocus system, designed to alert distracted drivers, was less effective, often providing false alerts. Despite these issues, the Outback's standard all-wheel-drive system and safety features provided a solid foundation for driver and passenger protection.