2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, especially with the Luxury trim's 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. The TX came in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with options for FWD or AWD. The interior, though dark, felt luxurious with premium materials, meeting expectations for a Lexus badge.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback stood out as one of the few remaining wagons in the U.S., adopting crossover trends with rugged design elements. Its Crimson Red Pearl paint paired well with the black leather interior, though earthy shades were preferred. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, appealing to adventurous buyers. The Outback's design was practical, with a rugged exterior and a well-executed interior. The Limited trim gained features like a power moonroof and advanced tech, while the Touring XT trim offered Nappa leather and ventilated seats. The Outback's design and features catered to those seeking a versatile vehicle for both urban and off-road adventures.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds, or 7.8 seconds with AWD. The performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg for the FWD model. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balance between firmness and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a CVT and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine provided better acceleration, making it a recommended upgrade. The Outback excelled off-road with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode. The ride was smooth and comfortable, with light steering and powerful brakes. However, the stop/start technology and CVT had some drawbacks, affecting the overall driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model offered premium features like semi-aniline leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models. However, adjusting the second-row seat for third-row comfort compromised second-row legroom. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape offered practicality with easy entry and exit. It provided 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet with the seat folded. The flat floor and square shape maximized usability. The Outback's passenger volume was larger than its crossover competitors, offering more front headroom and legroom. Buyers were advised to test different trims, as they drove differently. The turbocharged engine increased towing capacity to 3,500 pounds, appealing to those needing extra utility.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and more. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were frustrating. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX included free subscriptions to various services, enhancing connectivity. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with large icons but suffered from slow response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims. The dashboard featured a mix of buttons and knobs, appealing to those less tech-savvy. The Outback Touring included a CD player and both USB-A and USB-C ports, catering to a range of tech preferences.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of the system but was not always smooth. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. The system was generally effective but had issues with sudden braking when vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Subaru Outback used EyeSight technology with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. The system kept the vehicle in its lane but required frequent corrections. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring confidence in its safety features.