2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a full-size SUV that embodied a blend of ruggedness and refinement, positioning itself as a premium-grade vehicle within the General Motors lineup. It offered a variety of trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the Denali trim being particularly popular for its upscale features. The Yukon Denali boasted a distinctive design with a unique dashboard, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, setting it apart from its Chevrolet counterparts. The exterior was marked by a bold grille, chrome accents, and 22-inch wheels, giving it a commanding presence on the road.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester was a compact SUV that prioritized practicality and utility. It came in several trims, including the base, Convenience, Touring, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Premier. The Forester Wilderness, in particular, was designed for off-road adventures with features like a suspension lift, higher ground clearance, and protective cladding. Inside, the Forester emphasized function over form, with a cabin that combined hard plastic and soft surfaces. The interior was equipped with an 8-inch Starlink infotainment system, and the Wilderness trim featured water-repellant StarTex simulated leather, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing robust acceleration. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with an average consumption of 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The Yukon also featured an Active Response 4WD system, enhancing its cornering performance and traction. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable of towing up to 3,629 kilograms, although this was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's CVT and AWD drivetrain provided a smooth driving experience. The Wilderness model doubled its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms, thanks to a design that increased initial torque supply. The Forester's fuel consumption was competitive, averaging 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres. The SUV's dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension improved its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various terrains.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly enhancing passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse for improved comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered better thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available when all seats were folded.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit due to its tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The Forester's interior offered ample comfort, with rear air conditioning vents and quick-charge ports for passengers. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,101 litres available when the rear seats were folded. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a three-person roof tent, enhancing its practicality for camping trips.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali came equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Package added features like wireless device charging, a navigation system, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays provided entertainment for passengers, although streaming content required some setup. The Yukon also featured a 15-inch colour head-up display and multiple camera views for improved maneuverability.

The 2022 Subaru Forester included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim featured a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The infotainment system was user-friendly, although a breadcrumb function for navigation would have been beneficial. The Harman Kardon system delivered clear sound, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The ADAS operated smoothly, providing a safe and comfortable driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's size offered a sense of security.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear automatic braking. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, and it was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.