2022 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels positioned at the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, such as plastic body cladding and a slightly elevated ride height, the ID.4 aimed to present itself as an electric SUV. However, its appearance was more akin to a hatchback, similar to other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness pushed the boundaries of the traditional station wagon, offering a design closer to a Jeep. It featured 23 centimetres of ground clearance, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The Wilderness stood out with a unique grille, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents. Its roof rack supported a 700-pound static load, ideal for rooftop camping. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark gray and black tones, with StarTex water-repellant upholstery. While ventilated seats were absent, heated seats were standard. The interior also included a black headliner, Gunmetal Gray trim, and Anodized Copper stitching. The Wilderness package added waterproof rear seatback material and a cargo tray, enhancing its rugged appeal. Positioned as the entry point into the turbocharged Outback family, the Wilderness offered a blend of style and functionality.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, with the front wheels steering and the rear wheels driving. While not sporty, the ID.4 prioritized comfort, offering a smooth ride over bumps. Unlike many EVs, it relied on friction brakes, with regenerative braking available in "B" mode. This decision aimed to provide a familiar experience for drivers transitioning from gasoline cars.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Weighing 3,896 pounds, it offered a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. Fuel efficiency was rated at 10.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway. The Wilderness featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with eight programmed ratios, though its performance was less engaging than a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and specialized wheels and tires enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Wilderness boasted 23 cm of ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, and a dual function X-Mode traction system. On pavement, it felt quick but was limited by its tires, while off-road, it excelled in challenging terrain.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than competitor EVs, though legroom was average. It provided 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. While lacking a "frunk," the interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector, freeing up space on the centre console. Heated steering wheel and front seats were standard, providing efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. Heated front seats and effective dual-zone climate control helped combat the chill. The driver's seat offered 10-way power adjustment, while the rear seat provided generous head and legroom. The cargo area measured 920 litres behind the rear seat and 2,144 litres with it folded. The Wilderness also had a robust roof rack, supporting a 700-pound static load for rooftop camping.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12-inch screen optional. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster. Haptic touchpads replaced traditional controls, though they were challenging to use without tactile feedback. A natural-language voice-control system allowed for easier operation, while the ID.Light feature communicated information through a light strip. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with smart graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with integrated climate control. While physical knobs and buttons were provided for some functions, most controls required the touchscreen. Voice recognition technology was less intuitive, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered better functionality. Despite targeting a higher-income demographic, the Wilderness lacked a premium audio system, which was available in other Outback trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist enhanced safety, with Travel Assist providing smooth lane centring.

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 DriverFocus technology was unavailable, EyeSight proved effective in maintaining safe distances and lane centring. The standard Outback earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.