2022 Subaru Outback vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness had a distinctive, rugged appearance that set it apart from the standard Outback models. It featured a higher ride height of 9.5 inches, aggressive all-terrain tires, and restyled bumpers for improved approach and departure angles. The unique grille design, black 17-inch wheels, and Anodized Copper accents added to its bold look. Inside, the cabin was dominated by dark gray and black StarTex water-repellant upholstery, with Anodized Copper stitching and accents, and all-weather floor mats. The Outback Wilderness was priced at $36,995 plus a destination charge of $1,125, with our test car totaling $39,965.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was redesigned with a more rugged and substantial appearance, featuring an upright grille and boxier styling. It was larger than its predecessor, with increased dimensions in length, width, and height. The TrailSport model gained legitimate off-road parts, including a taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, with materials quality meeting class expectations. The new Pilot emphasized function over form, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and an EPA fuel efficiency rating of 24 mpg in combined driving. However, during testing, it averaged 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The Outback Wilderness featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with eight programmed ratios, but its droning and soft simulated gear changes detracted from the driving experience. The Wilderness trim had a commendable 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a dual function X-Mode traction system, making it the most capable Outback ever.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was equipped with an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine, generating 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available on all models. The Pilot's initial acceleration response was quick, and the brake pedal was easy to modulate. The Pilot cornered well for a three-row SUV, with noticeable body roll but no alarming residual bouncing. The TrailSport model offered increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, providing a go-anywhere attitude without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured dark gray StarTex upholstery, which was water-repellant but could be uncomfortable in hot weather. The front seats were heated, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 8-way for the front passenger. The rear seat offered generous space and heated seats, but the StarTex material caused discomfort in warm conditions. The cargo area measured 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 75.7 cubic feet 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 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional, with a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims had a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The EX-L trim and above offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. The Pilot's stowable second-row center seat provided a useful center pass-through for third-row passengers. The cargo area offered 22.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 60.1 cubic feet with the second row folded, and a maximum of 114.3 cubic feet.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with physical knobs for volume and tuning and buttons for temperature control. The voice recognition technology required learning specific prompts, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered superior functionality. The Outback Wilderness lacked a premium sound system, which was available in other trims. The PIN code entry technology allowed for keyless access, making it convenient for outdoor activities.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and above featured a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was responsive and logically laid out, with features like Honda's CabinTalk and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The TrailSport and Elite trims had the multi-view TrailWatch camera system for off-roading.

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness featured the EyeSight advanced driving assistance system (ADAS), with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, and a driver monitoring system. It also had steering-responsive headlights, a blind-spot warning system, and rear cross-traffic warning. The Outback earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Honda Pilot included standard Honda Sensing safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign reader, automatic high beams, and driver attention monitor. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking, front and rear parking sensors, and surround-view and multi-view camera systems. The Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, and Honda expected top scores from the NHTSA.