2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, featuring a striking new exterior and interior, updated powertrains, and advanced technologies. This transformation mirrored changes in its Nissan counterpart, the Pathfinder, as both shared the Nissan D platform. The QX60's origins traced back to the 2013 JX, later renamed in 2014. The second-generation QX60 boasted a bold front with a prominent grille, sleek LED headlights, and chrome accents. Its elegant side profile and floating roof design added sophistication, while the rear maintained a grounded appearance. However, the top Autograph trim's chrome panels at the rear were a slight design misstep.

Inside, the QX60 offered a spacious and luxurious cabin. The Autograph trim featured quilted leather upholstery on seats and the dash, complemented by a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The TFT instrument panel provided clear graphics, and the intuitive controls enhanced the driving experience. Built in Tennessee, the QX60 showcased high craftsmanship and build quality, aligning with Infiniti's reputation.

The 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift, presenting a more aggressive front with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper. The dark grey cladding and simulated skid plate added to its rugged appearance. The Onyx Edition, with black wheels and trim, offered a more cohesive look. The Outback came in seven trims, with the Onyx Edition priced at $38,695 in Canada. Standard models featured a 2.5-litre engine, while the XT variants offered a turbocharged engine for better performance.

The Outback's interior, especially in the Limited trim, was upscale and cohesive, with premium Nappa leather and contrasting stitching. Despite some hard plastic elements, the cabin maintained a quality feel. The Outback excelled in utility, with practical features like flat door sills for roof rack access. However, the large infotainment screen was prone to dust and smudges, and the engine's power left something to be desired.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT, significantly enhancing the driving experience. The 3.5-litre V6 engine delivered 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, providing smooth acceleration. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 on the highway. The reworked suspension and electric power steering offered a comfortable ride, though the QX60 wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. It excelled on highways and suburban streets, prioritizing passenger comfort.

The 2023 Subaru Outback used a flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the CVT managed lower speeds well, the engine struggled with passing and climbing. The XT models, with a turbocharged engine, offered 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, improving performance but reducing fuel efficiency. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced off-road capabilities, while the suspension provided a firm yet comfortable ride. However, the standard engine lacked urgency, especially at higher elevations.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, with its three-row seating, offered ample space and comfort. The centre console provided convenient storage, and the second-row seats slid for easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity was generous, with 411 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,135 litres with seats folded. The QX60 also had a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with additional equipment.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior storage. The Limited trim offered comfortable seating with power adjustments and heating. The Outback's cargo space measured 923 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,141 litres with seats folded. The vehicle's design facilitated easy entry and exit, and the roof rack was ready for accessories. However, more practical storage space could enhance its utility further.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 impressed with its technology offerings. It featured a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims included a head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The Bose Performance series sound system provided excellent audio quality, and the vehicle offered a suite of connectivity features via Infiniti InTouch services.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, came with an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the voice recognition system was lacking. The Outback included a digital rearview mirror and a front-view camera, enhancing safety and convenience. However, the absence of a surround-view camera was noted.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 was expected to achieve high safety ratings, similar to its predecessor. It came equipped with a comprehensive set of airbags and advanced driver assistance systems, including ProPilot Assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot intervention.

The 2023 Subaru Outback excelled in safety, earning top marks from the IIHS. It featured the EyeSight system with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Outback Premier XT added a Wide-Angle Mono Camera for improved pedestrian detection. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems could feel artificial, and the rear automatic braking system had limitations.