2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness presented a rugged and elevated stance, distinguishing itself from the standard Outback models. With 23 centimetres of ground clearance, it was equipped with aggressive all-terrain tires and oversized fender protection, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents added to its distinctive appearance. Inside, the cabin featured dark gray StarTex water-repellant upholstery, a black headliner, and Anodized Copper stitching, creating a robust and functional interior. The Outback Wilderness was positioned as an entry point into the turbocharged Outback family, priced at $41,995 plus a destination charge.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic, rugged design with a boxy shape and solid axles, ideal for off-road adventures. Available in two-door and four-door configurations, the Wrangler offered removable doors and a fold-down windshield for an open-air experience. The new "Reign" purple paint colour added a unique flair to its exterior. Inside, the Wrangler featured a practical and straightforward design with easy-to-clean materials. The cargo space was limited, but the Wrangler offered various top options, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top for quick open-air access. The Wrangler's interior was equipped with multiple charging points, enhancing its functionality for adventurers.

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 provided ample power for the midsize crossover, with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. The Wilderness trim featured all-wheel drive, 23 cm of ground clearance, and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires, making it capable off-road. The CVT transmission, however, was less engaging, with its characteristic droning and soft simulated gear changes. The Outback Wilderness excelled in off-road conditions, with improved approach, breakover, and departure angles, and a dual function X-Mode traction system.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including the standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance. The Wrangler's off-road capabilities were enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases. The Xtreme Recon package further improved its crawl ratio. However, the 392 model's brakes and steering were less refined, requiring early braking and precise steering inputs.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could become uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats offered 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 4-way manual adjustment for the passenger. The rear seat provided generous head and legroom, with heated seats for cold days. The cargo area measured 920 litres behind the rear seat and 2,144 litres with the rear seat folded flat. The Outback Wilderness also had a robust roof rack with a 700-pound static load rating, suitable for rooftop camping.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, with heated options available in higher trims. The rear seat was tight, especially in the four-door models, and accessing it could be challenging. Storage for small items was limited, with a flat dash and small glove box and centre console. The cargo space measured 2,050 litres with the rear seats folded. The Wrangler offered various top options, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top for quick open-air access. The interior featured multiple charging points, enhancing its practicality for adventurers.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, integrating climate control and offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. While physical knobs were available for volume and tuning, most functions required the touchscreen. The voice recognition technology was less intuitive, but the system was functional once users learned the prompts. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium audio system, which was available in higher trims.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen in higher trims. The system appeared complex initially but was intuitive once users became familiar with it. The Wrangler's off-road pages provided valuable information for adventurers. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity were standard. The Wrangler offered practical tech features, such as a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness included the EyeSight suite of safety features, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The system was effective and unobtrusive, maintaining safe distances and lane centring. The Outback Wilderness also featured steering-responsive LED headlights and a blind-spot warning system. The 2021 Outback received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's standard safety features included a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on higher trims or available as options. The Wrangler's safety ratings were mixed, with some trims receiving Poor ratings for headlights. The NHTSA gave the Wrangler a four-star frontal crash test rating and a three-star rollover rating.