2020 Subaru Outback vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a few subtle enhancements. 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 minimal, focusing on head- and taillights, but the interior saw significant upgrades, including an 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trims and the innovative DriverFocus technology. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at an MSRP of $30,695, with features like heated front seats, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features.

The 2021 BMW X5, a luxury SUV, was unmistakably a BMW with its signature kidney grille and body shape. It featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of xLine or M Sport styling, with the latter offering a sportier appearance. The interior, while consistent with BMW’s design language, included high-quality materials and unique M Sport elements. The X5 offered a range of wheel sizes and a spacious cabin, though some controls were difficult to differentiate at night. The split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height made loading cargo easier, and the optional third row added versatility.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and improved handling, while the Outback’s 22.1 cm ground clearance allowed for moderate off-road capability. The vehicle’s approach, departure, and breakover angles were suitable for light off-roading, especially with the upgraded X-Mode on the Outdoor XT trim.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with several powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. The M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp, while the X5 M offered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid delivered 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of up to 50 km. Despite its power, the X5’s steering and handling were less engaging than expected, with dynamics more akin to a Lincoln.

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, even for taller passengers. Visibility was generally good, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot. The Outback’s design prioritized practicality, with a low load height and easy-to-use rear seat handles for expanding cargo space.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with comfortable seating for short trips and an optional third row. The split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height facilitated cargo loading, though the second-row doors didn’t open very wide. The X5’s cargo area was spacious, though slightly reduced in the xDrive45e model. The interior featured numerous controls, which could be challenging to differentiate at night, but the climate controls were easy to manage.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, which was visually appealing but suffered from lag across various functions. The infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity, though some climate-control functions were buried in the interface. The camera resolution was subpar, detracting from the overall experience.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was generally user-friendly. Standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, a premium audio system, and ventilated seats.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered a comprehensive safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, the DriverFocus system was problematic, frequently issuing false alerts. Subaru’s EyeSight system, while standard, was prone to deactivation in certain conditions.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with numerous safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and mostly Good ratings from the IIHS.