2023 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim, and the new ST-Line added a sporty flair to the XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, with the cabin mostly feeling worthy of its price, though hints of the base trim occasionally surfaced.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray vertical cladding. The Outback's aggressive appearance was further enhanced by a simulated skid plate, fog lights, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim. The Onyx Edition, one of seven trims, offered black wheels and trim, complementing the bold cladding. The Outback's interior, especially in the Limited trim, was upscale and cohesive, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and contrasting stitching. Despite some hard plastic elements, the interior maintained a quality feel, though the large infotainment screen and gloss black trim were prone to dust and smudges.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. This engine had a towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offering an athletic driving experience.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, with the standard 2.5-litre flat-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the CVT made good use of the power at lower speeds, passing and climbing power was limited. The Outback XT models, with a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, offered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing better performance but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The standard engine returned 9.2 L/100 km, while the XT models were rated at 9.5 L/100 km, with the Wilderness trim at 10.1 L/100 km. The Outback's suspension provided excellent ride quality, and its AWD system, combined with X-Mode traction, made it capable off-road. However, the standard engine's lack of power was a drawback, especially at higher elevations.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with available massaging, while the second-row seats were nearly as accommodating. The Explorer's cabin lacked practical storage, with limited centre console space and few pockets or cubbies. Cargo space measured 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility, with features like a roof rack and dashboard storage shelf. The Limited trim offered a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front and rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, all wrapped in premium Nappa leather. The Outback provided ample legroom and comfort for long trips, though wind noise was noticeable on highways. The vehicle's height made entry and exit easy, and cargo space was generous, with 923 litres behind the back seat and 2,141 litres with the seat folded. The Outback's roof rails were robust, ready for accessories, though more practical storage space inside would be beneficial.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and navigation. Higher trims offered wireless charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was lacking, struggling with basic commands. The Platinum trim added a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0, which could autonomously park the vehicle.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, came with an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with subscription-based Starlink services available. The system's usability improved, though the voice recognition was poor, necessitating reliance on smartphone connectivity. Additional technologies included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to the driver's hands was a minor issue.

The 2023 Subaru Outback also received top safety marks from the IIHS, with EyeSight technology offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-centring assist. The system included a new Automatic Emergency Steering function and a Wide-Angle Mono Camera for better pedestrian detection. While EyeSight was effective, the steering feel was artificial, and the rear automatic braking system was incompatible with some driveways.