2021 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Volvo XC60

The 2021 Volvo XC60, positioned between the compact XC40 and the larger XC90, was a testament to Volvo's rebirth under Geely Holding Group. This second-generation model, built on the Scalable Product Architecture platform, shared its elegant design with other Volvo vehicles. The XC60's exterior featured a sophisticated two-box design with short overhangs and crisp details, highlighted by the iconic Thor's hammer LED headlights. Inside, the XC60's cabin exuded Scandinavian charm with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a standout feature, complemented by thoughtful details like the elegant HVAC vents and harmonious textures.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback retained its familiar and comfortable design, even after a redesign in 2020. While the base trim featured dual 7-inch touchscreens, higher trims boasted an 11.6-inch portrait display, enhancing the interior's modernity. The Outback's quality was evident in its substantial window switches, dash padding, and surface materials. The Outdoor XT trim offered water-resistant upholstery with lime green stitching, adding a touch of adventure. Externally, the Outback's gray cladding and smooth styling emphasized its practicality. Despite minimal changes for 2021, the Outback remained a lifted wagon, offering a unique alternative to typical crossovers and SUVs.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model delivered 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 model increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft with the addition of a supercharger. The T8 plug-in hybrid variant combined a turbocharged engine with an 87-hp electric motor, producing a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Polestar Engineered model further enhanced performance to 415 hp and 472 lb-ft. The XC60's AWD system and torque vectoring ensured agile handling, while its serene cabin and smooth suspension made it an ideal road-trip companion. Fuel consumption ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 9.3 L/100 km combined for the T8 PHEV.

The 2021 Subaru Outback, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-litre flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. This powertrain struggled with the Outback's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. The XT trims offered a more powerful 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance. The Outback's fuel efficiency was slightly better with the base engine, but the turbo XT provided a more satisfying driving experience. The Outback's handling was forgiving, prioritizing ride comfort and off-road capability. Subaru's AWD system, with X-Mode and additional driving modes, ensured the Outback's prowess on rough terrain.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in providing comfort and functionality. Its front seats were highly adjustable, and the heating system performed admirably in winter conditions. The XC60's interior featured smart storage solutions, intuitive controls, and ample cargo space, with 613 litres behind the rear seats and up to 1,410 litres with the seats folded. The XC60's towing capacity was rated at 1,587 kilograms.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive ground clearance, allowing it to tackle challenging terrains. Inside, the Outback provided 2,144 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 920 litres with them raised. The cabin boasted ample headroom and legroom, excellent visibility, and practical storage options. However, some features like push-button start and rear console climate vents were not standard on lower trims. The Outback's standout feature was its integrated roof rails and crossbars, offering convenience and cost savings.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which divided opinions with its tablet-style interface. Familiar to iPad users, the system offered intuitive controls but required a learning curve. Smartphone integration, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, was standard, and the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system impressed with its quality.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older technology. Despite this, it offered modern features like adaptive cruise control and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru EyeSight, with adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking, was standard across trims. However, the system relied solely on cameras, limiting its effectiveness in certain conditions.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 continued Volvo's legacy of safety innovation, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system. Volvo's commitment to safety extended to limiting the XC60's top speed to 180 km/h.

The 2021 Subaru Outback also prioritized safety, with a stronger chassis and standard driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking on higher trims. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. The Outback's safety features included a driver-attention monitor and Subaru EyeSight, which provided semi-automated control on highways.