2022 Kia Sportage vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party's fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, featuring a Porsche Macan-inspired running light signature and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and user-friendly buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system. The upscale feel was complemented by a solid transmission shifter, enhancing the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a facelift, adopting a more aggressive appearance with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray cladding. The Outback's new look was further accentuated by a simulated skid plate, fog lights, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim reminiscent of the Wilderness model. While opinions on the design varied, the Outback Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, offered a more cohesive look. The Limited trim's interior was praised for its upscale feel, featuring premium Nappa leather upholstery, contrasting stitching, and a cohesive design. Despite some hard plastic elements, the interior maintained a quality appearance, with practical features like flat door sills for easy roof rack access.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, featured a more robust engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it a compelling choice for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, offering a spirited driving experience. The suspension system provided a smooth and compliant ride, though the steering and tire grip could have been sharper for a more refined driving experience.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic grumble. The standard engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but it struggled with passing and climbing power, especially at higher speeds. The Outback XT models, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, offered a more satisfying performance. The CVT mimicked an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the Active Torque Split AWD system provided excellent traction. The Outback excelled off-road, handling challenging terrain with ease, and offered a comfortable ride quality in various driving conditions. However, the standard engine's lack of power and fuel efficiency were notable drawbacks, making the turbocharged XT models a more appealing choice for performance enthusiasts.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite its compact size, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided comfort with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports, with heated rear seats in the SX trim. While interior storage was ample, the cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded. The Sportage's smart liftgate technology added convenience, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior design. The Limited trim offered a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front and rear seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The Outback's spacious interior accommodated four adults comfortably, with ample legroom and storage options. The cargo area provided 923 litres behind the rear seats and 2,141 litres with the seats folded, easily accommodating large items. The Outback's design facilitated easy entry and exit, and the roof rack was ready for various accessories. However, additional practical storage space could enhance its utility further.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the UVO Intelligence system lagged in technological sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, featured an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system with physical controls for essential functions. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, with available navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. While the Starlink system had improved usability, its graphics and icon design were not universally appealing. The voice-recognition system was limited, making smartphone connectivity essential for a seamless experience. Additional technologies included a digital rearview mirror and a front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2022 Kia Sportage's EX and SX trims included safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were also available. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX trim earning an Acceptable headlight rating for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2023 Subaru Outback emphasized safety with new EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster. The Base model included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like blind spot monitoring and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. The Outback received top safety ratings from the IIHS, including in the new side-impact crash test. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems could feel artificial, and the rear automatic braking system was not compatible with some driveways.