2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2024 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler presented a rugged, no-nonsense design with its fourth-generation JL model, characterized by its boxy shape and minimal curves. Available in both two-door and four-door Unlimited versions, the Wrangler allowed for a customizable open-air experience with removable doors and a foldable windshield. The iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and wide fenders were standard across all models, while the tailgate swung out for easy cargo access. The interior was practical, featuring easy-to-clean materials and a straightforward design, with body-coloured dash and chunky controls. The Wrangler also introduced new paint options, including the limited-edition "Reign" purple and the "Earl" grey with aquamarine highlights.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Outback maintained its familiar design with minor tweaks to the Wilderness trim, including a new front fascia and LED fog lights. The Outback Premier XT tester showcased an appealing Autumn Green Metallic colour, complemented by tasteful chrome accents. The various trims offered different wheel sizes and finishes, with the Wilderness trim featuring matte black wheels. Inside, the top-trim model boasted Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery, providing a luxurious feel uncommon for Subaru. The Outback's interior varied by trim, with options ranging from cloth to synthetic leather, ensuring a balance between comfort and capability.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler was renowned for its off-road prowess, featuring solid axles and optional differential lockers. It 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. Torque enthusiasts could opt for the 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6, delivering 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The Rubicon 392 model boasted a 6.4-litre V8 engine with 470 horsepower and torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 4.5 seconds. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid offered a 17.3-kWh battery pack for 35 km of all-electric range. The 392 model, however, had shortcomings in braking and steering, which were not as pronounced in other trims.

The 2024 Subaru Outback featured a "Boxer" engine, with the base model equipped with a 2.5-litre flat-four producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The XT and Wilderness trims upgraded to a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine, generating 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kg. The Premier XT model's turbo engine provided a better balance of power and weight, with a CVT mimicking eight gears. The Outback's suspension and wheel design contributed to a comfortable ride, with the Wilderness trim offering increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires for off-road adventures.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's interior offered comfortable front seats, with heated options available on select trims. The rear seat was tight, especially in four-door models, and storage for small items was limited. The cargo space measured 2,050 litres with rear seats folded, slightly less than the Bronco. The Wrangler's top options included a removable hard top, a Sunrider soft top, and the Sky One-Touch power soft top, providing various open-air experiences. Charging points were abundant, with USB-A and USB-C ports, 12-volt outlets, and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2024 Subaru Outback excelled in interior space, offering more headroom and legroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The cargo area measured 923 litres with seats up and 2,141 litres with seats folded. The Outback featured dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, with ventilation available on the Premier XT trim. The hands-free power liftgate and power moonroof were standard from the Touring trim, and the roof rails with retractable cross bars added practicality.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect infotainment system, with an optional 8.4-inch screen. The system, while initially complex, offered comprehensive off-road information and connectivity features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Wrangler included a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories but lacked advanced tech features like a digital key or over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Subaru Outback's Premier XT trim featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen, with the Starlink multimedia platform offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system included hard buttons for essential climate controls, while other functions were managed through the touchscreen. Bluetooth and SiriusXM were standard, with a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available on most trims. The Outback also offered a CD player on the Premier XT trim, catering to those who appreciate traditional features.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with standard components including a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were only standard on top trims or available as options. The Wrangler received mixed ratings from the IIHS and a four-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover rating.

The 2024 Subaru Outback earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies was standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic pre-collision braking. The Touring trim added reverse automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a wide-angle camera for improved pedestrian detection. The Premier XT trim featured a digital rearview mirror and a driver-attention monitor.