2020 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a handsome profile that saw only incremental improvements. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-litre engine, though seemingly unchanged, featured 90% new parts, while higher trims offered a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine. Exterior changes were subtle, focusing on head- and taillights, while the interior introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trims and innovative DriverFocus technology for enhanced safety.

In contrast, the 2021 Acura RDX, especially in the A-Spec trim, presented a sporty yet understated design. It avoided off-road pretensions, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping. The A-Spec trim, positioned mid-hierarchy, offered a stylish interior with sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges. However, the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background proved difficult to read. The RDX's design emphasized a sporty look without compromising its compact SUV identity.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered a 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower, a modest 7-hp increase from 2019, featuring direct injection and improved components. It achieved fuel consumption ratings of 9.0 L/100 km city, 7.1 highway, and 8.2 combined. For more power, the 2.4-litre turbocharged engine in XT trims delivered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced handling, while the Outback's 22.1 cm ground clearance and upgraded X-Mode made it capable off-road.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system. This setup allowed up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels, enhancing handling. The Integrated Dynamics System offered Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes, adjusting powertrain response and steering effort. A-Spec models had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, though adaptive dampers were absent. The RDX's precise steering and fade-resistant brakes contributed to a rewarding driving experience.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 920 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,144 litres with rear seats folded. Its design prioritized visibility, with great sightlines except for a rear-quarter blind spot. The interior accommodated tall passengers comfortably, with ample headroom and legroom. The Outback's station wagon design provided a low load height and lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling and reducing rollover risk.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite its compact SUV label, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. Front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating standard. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low, flat cushion and excessive seatback recline. Cargo volume measured 835 litres, expandable to 1,668 litres with seats folded. The RDX featured additional storage compartments, though access was limited while driving. Acura's cargo measurement methodology differed, quoting a maximum of 2,260 litres, which may not reflect practical use.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, appealing to technophiles with its size and clarity. However, lag issues plagued the system, affecting navigation and other functions. Camera resolution was subpar, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, the system's potential was evident, with hopes for future improvements.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface, a touchpad-based system mirroring the screen. While an improvement over Lexus's approach, it required users to adapt to its unique operation. The system included satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi tethering, with a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D audio system in A-Spec and Platinum Elite trims. Despite its learning curve, the TTI offered a better experience than previous iterations.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's safety suite impressed with standard features like AWD, but DriverFocus technology fell short. The EyeSight system, while standard, faced issues with obstruction, leading to frequent deactivation. DriverFocus alerts were overly sensitive, causing distractions rather than enhancing safety. Despite these challenges, Subaru's commitment to safety remained evident.

The 2021 Acura RDX included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, but lacked blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert on the base trim. The RDX earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact and rollover resistance. The RDX's safety systems were more refined than previous models, encouraging their use.