2023 BMW X7 vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a facelift, presenting a more aggressive appearance with its redesigned front end. It featured new LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray vertical cladding, giving the impression of large air intakes. The addition of a jutting simulated skid plate, fog lights in oversized housings, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim reminiscent of the Wilderness model contributed to its bold look. While opinions on these changes varied, opting for a dark paint color or the Onyx Edition with black wheels and trim could enhance its appeal. The Onyx Edition became more accessible with the base powertrain, offering a starting price of $33,495, a $5,100 savings compared to the turbocharged version.

Inside, the Outback Touring trim impressed with its upscale interior, featuring Java Brown premium Nappa leather upholstery and contrasting light gray stitching. Despite the use of hard plastic in some areas, the interior maintained a quality feel. The flat, textured door sills served as practical steps for accessing the roof rack. However, the large infotainment screen and gloss black trim on the center console were prone to collecting dust and smudges. Overall, the Outback's interior was cohesive and comfortable, making it a strong contender in its class.

The 2023 BMW X7 received a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights where the previous headlights were, with the actual headlights tucked underneath. While the oversized kidney grille remained polarizing, the new styling aimed for a more assertive presence. The sides and rear retained their previous design, offering a sense of familiarity. Shoppers could choose between the chrome-trimmed Design Pure Excellence model and the M Sport with a dark finish.

Inside, the X7's dashboard received a refresh, with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The center console featured a new toggle switch-like gear selector. Interior materials were of high quality, with supple leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. While glossy wood and carbon fiber trim choices caused glare, matte and open-pore wood alternatives added warmth and tactile appeal. The X7's interior was well-built, with no creaks even on bumpy roads, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic grumble. The standard engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but the 3,781-pound vehicle felt underpowered, especially during passing and climbing. The EPA estimated 28 mpg in combined driving, but real-world testing returned 25.6 mpg. The Outback XT models, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, offered better performance but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The CVT mimicked an eight-speed automatic, and all models came with standard AWD and an X-Mode traction system for off-road capability.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup started with the xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, but it offered a good blend of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and flat door sills. The Touring trim offered a comfortable interior with power-adjustable seats, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats were also heated, and the cabin provided ample legroom and storage options. The Outback's cargo space measured 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.6 cubic feet with them folded down. The vehicle's height made entry and exit easy, and the roof rack was ready for accessories.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered ample space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers. The third row, accessible via power-operated middle seats, provided adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. Cargo space measured 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with it folded and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats down. The split tailgate and adjustable suspension made loading easier. Front-seat passengers had ample storage options, including a large center console bin and door pockets.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, featured an 11.6-inch Starlink touchscreen infotainment system with physical controls for essential functions. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with subscription-based Starlink services. While the system's usability improved, the graphics and voice recognition were lacking. Additional features included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which had a less intuitive layout than previous versions. Many functions were moved to the touchscreen, requiring navigation through menus for basic tasks. Voice commands were available but could be slow to execute. The system's complexity highlighted the need for more physical buttons and intuitive menus.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured new EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster, earning top safety marks from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. The Outback's safety features were effective, though some, like the rear automatic braking system, had limitations.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, and options included adaptive cruise control and a highway driving assist feature. The safety features performed well, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses.