The Car Guide's Best Buys for 2022: Subaru Outback

Every year, The Car Guide unveils a list of Best Buys covering all the different vehicle categories in the industry.

When it comes to midsize SUVs, we need to separate two-row models from three-row models. Among the first group, which one gets our Best Buy award for 2022? Answer: the same as last year.

• Also: 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness: The Best Outback Ever
• Also: 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Takes Adventure to New Heights

Winner

The Subaru Outback is a repeat champion in our books. This wagon-style crossover shares many components with the Legacy sedan and therefore proves more pleasant to drive than direct rivals. On the other hand, people looking for a more rugged and adventurous model can turn to the new Outback Wilderness offering increased off-road capability.

All Outbacks boast ample space for passengers and their cargo. Performance is decent with the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine included as standard, but you must select the turbocharged 2.4-litre unit for spirited acceleration. The excellent AWD system is another reason to love the Outback, particularly during winter.

Other Finalists

The Honda Passport is the runner-up. This burly SUV drives pretty much like the three-row Pilot and uses the same 3.5-litre V6 delivering generous power. For 2022, Honda added a new TrailSport model for families that want to go further off the beaten path.

As for third place, we picked the Toyota Venza, a model that slots between the RAV4 and Highlander and comes exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, achieving a combined 6.1 L/100 km. That’s very impressive given the size of the vehicle—and something many potential customers will keep in mind as gas prices remain high.