2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its winning formula by focusing on incremental improvements. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine was updated with 90% new parts, while higher trims featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. Exterior changes were subtle, with noticeable updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trims and innovative tech like DriverFocus, which used facial recognition to enhance safety and convenience. The Outback offered seven trims, starting at $26,645, with a range of features and options that catered to various preferences and budgets.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, featured sharp edges and a streamlined profile. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid retained the same platform as the previous-generation Toyota RAV4, making it feel somewhat dated. The Black Line edition added unique elements like a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels. Inside, the NX Hybrid offered a radical design with a stepped center console and F Sport-specific features like aluminum pedals and NuLuxe upholstery. However, the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury, with plastic switchgear and trim.

The 2020 Subaru Outback's upgraded 2.5-liter engine delivered 182 horsepower, a 7-hp increase from 2019, with improved fuel efficiency at 26 mpg city and 33 highway. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in XT trims offered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in around 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and enhanced stability, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road capability.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, producing 194 horsepower. It achieved 0-60 mph in 9.1 seconds, emphasizing efficiency over performance. The Black Line package included sport-tuned suspension, enhancing handling without sacrificing comfort. However, the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with power transitions. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expandable to 75.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Its design provided ample headroom and legroom, even for taller passengers, and prioritized visibility with well-designed sightlines. However, rear-quarter visibility remained a challenge without optional blind-spot monitoring.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Despite this, front seats offered excellent support with 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, though large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited to 16.8 cubic feet, expandable to 53.7 cubic feet, with power-folding seats and a liftgate available but not standard.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, praised for its size and layout but criticized for lag and outdated camera resolution. Climate controls were sometimes buried in menus, and the system's responsiveness needed improvement.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While analog controls were available, the system felt dated, with poor graphics and text-heavy menus. The base audio system lacked quality, making the optional Mark Levinson system a desirable upgrade.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered a strong safety suite, including AWD and EyeSight, but DriverFocus was problematic, frequently issuing false alerts. EyeSight's optical system could be obstructed by weather conditions, affecting reliability.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 with comprehensive driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system. The NX Hybrid's safety features provided good value compared to other luxury crossovers.