2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia, giving it a rugged look. However, the side design introduced a swooping character line over the rear wheel arch, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the grille design, but the overall appearance felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element added interest, while the infotainment touchscreen was positioned for easy visibility. The Bronze Edition featured unique bronze wheels and door sills, but the light grey fabric upholstery was prone to dirt and felt less durable.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper, giving it a more aggressive look. The Onyx Edition, with black wheels and trim, complemented the bold cladding. The Limited trim featured premium Nappa leather and a cohesive interior design with contrasting stitching. Despite some hard plastics, the interior felt upscale. The Outback's design changes were subjective, but the interior quality was undeniable, offering comfort and practicality.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, reaching 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick start, but the engine's hum became a drone under pressure. The ride was soft, with a suspension that smoothed bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2023 Subaru Outback used a flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The CVT managed lower speeds well, but passing power was lacking. The Outback XT offered a turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower, providing better performance. The standard engine's fuel efficiency was disappointing, but the XT models offered more power at a cost. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced off-road capabilities, while the suspension provided excellent ride quality.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly placed. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining options, while the third row was less accommodating. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,387 litres with seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a roof rack and dashboard storage shelf. The Limited trim offered power-adjustable seats with heating and premium leather. The Outback's high ground clearance made entry and exit easy. Cargo space was 923 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 2,141 litres with seats folded. The Outback's design facilitated easy loading and unloading, though more practical storage could be added.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with navigation and a JBL audio system on higher trims.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except the Base trim, had an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen. Physical controls included volume and tuning knobs, while other functions were embedded in the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The voice recognition system was lacking, but additional technologies like a digital rearview mirror and front-view camera were available.

The 2022 Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The systems generally worked well but needed fine-tuning.

The 2023 Subaru Outback earned top IIHS marks, with EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster. Standard features included adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The Outback added Automatic Emergency Steering and a Wide-Angle Mono Camera for enhanced safety. While effective, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist felt artificial.