2022 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was a rugged departure from the standard Outback, with its increased ground clearance of 23 centimetres and aggressive all-terrain tires. It featured a unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, and a matte black hood decal, all contributing to its adventurous aesthetic. The interior was dominated by dark grey and black tones, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery and Anodized Copper accents. Despite the lack of ventilated seats, the cabin offered heated seating and a practical layout, making it a functional choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a more traditional SUV appearance, with its signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. The interior was crafted with the quality and refinement expected from Lexus, featuring comfortable seating and a quiet cabin. The GX's design was reminiscent of its predecessors, with a focus on physical controls and a classic layout. Despite its dated appearance, the GX offered a luxurious feel with NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim, providing a comfortable and upscale environment for its occupants.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate power for its 3,896-pound weight and a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. The Wilderness trim featured all-wheel drive, enhanced by its 23 cm ground clearance and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires. It excelled off-road with improved approach, breakover, and departure angles, and a dual-function X-Mode traction system. However, the CVT's droning and soft gear changes detracted from the driving experience on pavement.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivered 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. Despite its 5,126-pound weight, the GX managed a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph, aided by its six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and wheel articulation, making it capable off-road. However, its high drag coefficient and fuel consumption of 14.5 L/100 km on premium gas were drawbacks. The GX's ride was refined, but its slow steering and touchy brakes were less appealing.

Inside the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, the StarTex upholstery provided water-repellant seating, though it lacked ventilation. The cabin offered generous space, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and ample rear seat head and legroom. The cargo area measured 920 litres behind the rear seat and 2,144 litres with it folded flat, complemented by a robust roof rack for rooftop camping.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a tall seating position, offering clear visibility. The interior was comfortable, with NuLuxe upholstery and triple-zone climate control. However, the narrow rear door openings and limited third-row space were drawbacks. The GX's cargo area was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row and 1,833 litres with all seats folded, hindered by a side-swinging tailgate.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, integrating climate control and offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the lack of a premium audio system was a notable omission for its target demographic.

The 2022 Lexus GX boasted a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD player. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition, though the placement of stereo controls was less intuitive. The GX also included Lexus Enform connected services and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured the EyeSight suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. It also had steering-responsive LED headlights and a blind-spot warning system. While crash-test results for the Wilderness were unavailable, the standard Outback earned high safety ratings.

The 2022 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also offered blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, which might appeal to those preferring fewer driving aids.