2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness vs. Ford Maverick FX4 Overland Adventure

[@calvinspires1220]

Yay! I asked specifically for this and low and behold!

[@k1ngf1sh92]

Bone apple tea

[@andyf313]

I needed a practically all-purpose city vehicle that also chews up Rocky mountain back country for 📸. After weeks of research I ended up with these being my best 2 options. Thanks for the perfect side-by-side test. It's been illuminating & quite helpful! #DifficultDecision

[@SinnerSavedByGrace85]

It is much harder to use a touchscreen in offroad conditions or when the road is bumpy. I would much prefer actual buttons in all situations, but especially off road.

[@larryhawes8295]

No knobs/buttons would make me crazy.

[@drewthompson7457]

Even on road, I don't want to take my eyes off the road to sort thru menus when a twist of an easy to find knob would do. I"m waiting for the steering and brakes to be added to the touch screen. It would be a lot cheaper than actual controls....

[@Wearyman]

I don't want any system that relies on the function of something as fragile as a touchscreen for so many integral system functions. Honestly, I don't even like the mode switching knob on the Ford and would MUCH rather have a series of buttons, although I certainly can understand the need to have a programmable interface. In defense of the touchscreen systems though (And to show I am not just dismissing them out of hand) a programmable interface can be a useful thing, IF you have the ability to reprogram it yourself in some fashion. A Customizable interface for users is likely the next step in automotive technology, and that customization is a real positive, IF the car makers can get out of "control freak" mode and allow their customers that ability. of course, with Lawyers and marketers involved, it will probably never happen. So we might as well stick with buttons and knobs and switches. Because without customizability, the touchscreen interface is just frustrating to use and generally inferior.

[@drewthompson7457]

@@Wearyman : I might be able to live with a steering wheel button that would allow the computer to listen to me to execute commands. No need to take eyes off the road at all.

[@serenityinsilence]

I own the Outback and it’s a pain to use in any situation except when stopped.

[@bryanmills2295]

One nice thing about the Maverick is the cheaper XLT trim can be ordered with the FX4 package. That brings the price down quite a bit (to $30k), while retaining the off-road capability.

[@TheMeanmarine13]

I think XLT has plenty to offer. My last few trucks were all XLT 302A packages. You can spec them out really nice actually. Heated seats, navigation, remote start etc. Heck my F150 even came with the rear locker, small skid plate and A/T tires. It wasn't even an FX4, I didn't know until I bought it you could even get skid plates and rear locker's on trucks that weren't FX4.

[@chrisreynolds7482]

Yep. That is the path I would be going with it. I have played with the configs on both and I can have everything I was in the XLT including technology/fx4/towing for a fair amount less. I personally do not care about leather seats at all.

[@JamesD-HB]

I ordered mav xlt eco awd 360 4k tow lux with no fx4 on purpose. $30,710 includes shipping. This is a low profile softroader to the trailhead that awd can easily handle. I did not want to lose sport and eco on a 250hp engine for 2 off road modes I would rarely use.

[@just4ivaylo92]

@@JamesD-HB ForScan will likely enable Eco and Sport on the FX4 packages soon enough...

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@JamesD-HB what is this eco and sport?

[@orical2832]

I'm a Subaru fan, I've owned 5 of them and my current daily is a 2016 outback. But for the life of me, I can't understand why Subaru don't have a Diff-lock as an option... This would honestly be more appreciated and used when needed, than toggling though various 'modes' on a screen. My trucks that have diff lock I absolutely LOVED the option for when the going got tough. It really is a game changer that could be so easily added by Subaru engineers.

[@27Zangle]

There is a company that sells a diff kit for a few hundred dollars and I bet for 500-750 it can be installed. A factory diff kit is usually about 400-800 anyways, so that is not too much more money and the aftermarket one will work better and last longer than a factory kit.

[@edlawrence6553]

My feeling is that 95% of the Subaru market (likely buyers) buy the car to show off that they COULD do roads/trails as in this video, as opposed to actually DOING them. We’ve all seen the ads on TV; some of us have seen the demographics. A marketing company recently showed me a possible forthcoming ad for the Subaru Forrester Wilderness edition. In my survey answers, I said the ad was no different from a beer ad. “Drink this beer” is changed to “Drive this car.” The end result is the same: You’re manly, sexy, and get the girl.

[@kristoferbrown8007]

I had this same complaint. I don't want to have to be in an X mode to have my locker enabled.

[@ez56789]

Aftermarket torqlocker for subaru outback is 400$

[@christiantveito8877]

Many of the older subarus has ls diffs. Automatic diff-lock like my 2006 outback 3.0r. Makes everything look easy.

[@timflint25]

Once Karleena entered X-Mode I think both cars were the same during the bowl test. They both had some wheel spin in the right front tire, but more ground contact was avaliable slightly father to the right of the bowl. The only reason the Maverick seemed more capable was Ryan shifted to the right for more ground contact much quicker - Karleena kept it straight until the very end in X-Mode 2, and then she slightly broke right and made it up.

[@mr.mctiktok]

I’d love to see the Outback Wilderness and Forester Wilderness do this trail together. It would definitely be a fun episode! Thanks for the great content guys! :)

[@jeffk464]

I would love to see a Outback with a ZF transmission, just say no to CVT's

[@scottsmith4730]

Choosing any wagon/suv over a short-bed pickup does have its downfalls for taller items, bulk items, yard waste, etc. I own an Impreza wagon now and have a Maverick on order for just those situations. In the last three years, I’ve had to borrow my work truck to buy a dishwasher, haul a snowblower, and transport 30 paving bricks, not to mention regular yard waste hauls. None of those items would have fit in the Impreza or my wife’s RAV4 (with a car seat in the second row.) The Maverick will be able to handle all of that and seat up to four passengers.

[@drivingsports]

Within a week of getting the maverick my wife had me rent a sod cutter, which of course requires an open bed to transport.

[@scottsmith4730]

@@drivingsports so you’re saying I’ve created more work for myself!? Haha!

[@rodneydecormier1504]

Nah, just get a hitch and a trailer. Bonus - you can leave the trailer behind when not needed. Save on gas and ride roughness when the open bed is empty.

[@redwhite_040]

Strange, here in Europe we buy wagons for their utility. We haul everything with it, and if needed just put a trailer behind it.

[@66scooterdaytona]

@@rodneydecormier1504 yeah I plenty of room and money to buy a utility trailer that I need part time and violates my HOA if it is visible in my drive way.

[@Black2005Lotus]

I've got a big ol lifted F150 that I off road a lot, but something about that Maverick is bang-on. Great off road test - especially going up the hill at the end. Well done!

[@C-Henry]

I could swear this channel is being tuned to answer all my questions about the Maverick, benchmarking against the Subaru is perfect as I often consider the Forrester we grew up with as a n example of the minimum off road capabilities I could except. Both vehicles did well but the bed on the Maverick has some big appeal despite being small, sometimes just having a separate compartment is all you need.

[@calvinspires1220]

Same! I feel like cross shopping these vehicles is more natural than at first glance. In my opinion: Maverick pros: Bed Not CVT Gas mileage Cons: No offroad trim (yet) Interior is cheap-ish (but I love the look) OBW Pros: Much nicer and larger interior space Exterior looks (opinion!) "Proven" platform that's been around for a while now Cons: CVT No bed Gas mileage is meh Can't be called a trucklet

[@D00biSnaKs]

Nice, just picked up my Wilderness on Monday, same color. It’s bad ass. Cool vid.

[@user-vh9fn2qg6v]

Ryan, you and your crew do an amazing job with the cinematography. Great shots! The way you film and narrate is perfect.

[@andrewvillavicencio8496]

Agreed!

[@mavrickmiller2755]

Not even kidding, these are the two exact cars I'm considering if/when I get my promotion, how convenient to have a video with both.

[@KB-bh9hp]

Have you made a decision? Personally, I'm going with the maverick.

[@jy1190]

best of luck on your promotion.

[@ScrappertontheFurst]

Going with the maverick

[@jackrandom4893]

Hope you get it and not a membership to the Jelly of the Month club.

[@trailrunnah8886]

Good luck with the promotion, hopefully it includes a raise and not just a fancy title.

[@NathanBrantley]

Per Minute @12:00+, For anyone seeing this 2 years later, the Maverick Tremor has upgraded off-road suspension and lift system over the FX4 and thus drives smoother and should be equivalent to the ride he said he got in the Outback Wilderness.

[@lorenyoder8696]

Why a short bed truck? Sometimes items are hauled that are way to small to deal with a trailer but should not under any circumstances be in the cab with you unless you get a tarp or chest of some kind to contain the uh, smells, and or liquids. I am one of those people who loves the footprint of something like a grand Cherokee, but found the added convivence of a short bed with a tonneau cover for more convenient, especially when the vehicles cost the same. So, I say all that to say that the maverick does the same thing to a compact crossover that a Tacoma or f150 does to a grand Cherokee. Offers you a separate cargo space that can haul any nasty thing without ruining the cab, for the same money-ish.

[@ryan56976]

Added bonus, the Maverick is pretty much just a truck version of the Baby Bronco. I Iove that they did this - very similar vehicle, two configurations.

[@pizzasaurolophus]

I bought a SUV and a $1000 utility trailer for the couple of times per year I need to carry something that can't or I don't want to put in the SUV. Since I Have dogs and go camping, the hatch is way more practical than a truck bed.

[@dalecackowski9259]

Great points. But the opposite can also be true. Some people who just need the cargo and typically larger seating 2nd or 3rd row space that an suv offers (and some degree of better protection from the elements and less chance of jostling in the truck bed) for storing items....may just work better for their particular situation. I think the Maverick is a great suv alternative and proving its worth more and more for the right buyer. Both have compromises but the Maverick and Santa Cruz are starting to blur the lines.

[@max_archer]

Yeah, and I think people really underplay the value of open top access and the tailgate too. You can pop that gate down and instantly have a foot and a half of extra supported load surface, and then easily get around the load to strap it down. That's a lot more practical than putting a long load in a wagon or SUV and driving around with the hatch door up in the air with only gas struts to hold it there.

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@dalecackowski9259 maybe, but you will run into what feels like an infinite amount of times that you wont be able to fit an item in because its just a couple inches too big, it can be really limiting sometimes. Plus camping is so much easier when you can just toss the dirty stuff in the back without worrying about smells or dirtying up the insides, have a bed is a huge freedom for so many reasons. Its like comparing 4wd to 2wd, does everyone need 4wd? No, but but if they had the choice and chose 2wd then everyone will wish they had gotten 4wd more often then not.

[@stevecarroll8967]

I was raised a Ford guy my entire life but since buying a Subaru I've never looked back for a daily all around vehicle, as for off road I'll stick with my 89 F150 with manual transfer case and manual locking hubs.

[@vihtoripuurola3775]

FX4 with an 8 speed trans versus a Subaru with CVT is a no brainer for me. I've driven CVT Subarus, and they leave a lot to be desired.

[@warriorwarehouse206]

Ok, I can't take it. Some of the stupid comments I'm reading in this thread are ridiculous. First of all, another great video guys! Keep it up! Let me start by saying, I'm a two time Subaru owner and a too many times to count (dead serious) truck owner. I love my trucks. Been a truck guy from the git go, but....and I can't stress this enough....you CAN NOT compare a truck to a car of ANY kind and yet that's what so many of you are doing which is completely moronic. The video wasn't intended to compare their functionality, it was to compare two different AWD vehicle's ability to handle certain terrain by adjusting their performance modes. Fact is, 99% of the time people are driving on normal roads, not through ditches and holes all the time, most never. So if you wanna trash the Subaru for not being a truck, let's compare the two vehicles performance and abilities on paved roads (you know, the roads we ALL drive on EVERY DAY, and see what the outcome is, shall we? Look people, when it comes to hauling, unless you're in the construction or furniture moving business, it's not a big deal, be honest with yourselves. Yes, it's great to know you have it if you need it, but don't act like it's more important than it is in the grand scheme of things. But I get it, I've been a truck guy my entire life and I'm 56 now. But I also know the difference between true necessity and fake necessity created solely by our "want" desires, not our "need" desires. Let me give you an example. Just follow me here. I'm a huge 2nd amendment advocate and gun owner, including assault rifles. But I'm not one of those off the deep end nuts who act as if they're burglarized, mugged, threatened and shot at every time they go out their damn door in effort to justify them owning a gun. The way some talk and act you'd think it was warzone outside their doors every day (maybe someday it will be, but that's another discussion). How many of you gun owners reading this have been mugged, jumped, stabbed, shot at, robbed or any other life threatening situation which would call for pulling your firearm? Be honest with yourselves. Not many, if any, I'll bet. How many of you personally (not someone on the news) know someone who's been victimized in a way that drawing a firearm was necessary? I'm sure not many. If any of you have been in a life or death situation (not military action) or know someone who has....how many times has it happened to you/them? Shit happens all the time and it could happen to anyone, I get it, but the chances of anyone ever being in a situation where they actually "need" a gun is remote at best. The majority of police officers never discharge their firearm during their entire careers, and bad guys is their business. Should you be allowed to have one to protect you and your family, absolutely! But people with shit for brains that believe anything those people they WANT to believe are clueless and try to justify their reason for owning a gun is the NEED to protect themselves and their family. Bullshit....and again, I'm a huge gun guy. But I'm a realist, not a delusional nut looking to justify their WANTS not NEEDS. Fact is, other than hunting, people buy guns because they're cool, they're fun, they're empowering and they make you feel like a bad ass. Protection is way down on the list, even though it does exist. People don't want to be honest with themselves though. They want to ride that concocted reason for their ways and religiously sell it as such for their own contentment. Ok, so how does this gun talk tie into a discussion of off-road vehicles? Honesty. Not to mention trucks and guns are practically related in a way. Think about that one. So, much like the necessity of owning a firearm vs desire to own one, let's first ask ourselves why we need a truck as opposed to something like a wilderness. I've read many of you saying you can't haul big things like appliances in the Wilderness so you need a truck. First question, how often are you freakin moving washers and dryers and hauling stone? Next question, would you be able to load a wilderness Outback with most everything you would need to transport on a regular (daily/weekly) basis? I have a 2019 Silverado and probably use it like 90% of all truck owners. I use it a lot, but very rarely do I haul anything that wouldn't fit into an Outback and WITHOUT damaging anything. Another question, how many of you intend to use a brand new ($30k on up) four wheel drive truck, much less an AWD Maverick, to go off roading? I'm not talking hitting the campsite or hunting grounds, true off roading or rock rolling? You buy an $80,000 Raptor, you're not taking it through the hills unless you have money to burn. Let's face it, most of you are driving it past the wilderness down the street for people to envy and to pick up chicks. It's not going anywhere that the Subaru wilderness can't. Outdoor enthusiasts are hitting trails hiking, camping, biking, kayaking, fishing etc every chance they can and THAT is what the Outback Wilderness is designed for....NOT to haul lumber n shit. You wanna move furniture or haul bricks? Rent a truck or trailer for $30. Better yet, have someone else do the work and pay to have the shit delivered! Less wear on your $30k+ vehicle AND your back. I'm being honest. Many of you are looking for reasons to justify the truck over the Wilderness cause deep down they want a truck. Nothing more badass or manly than a jacked 4x4, even a smaller truck, but you try passing the reason as needing it to haul appliances n shit. This, is the same mentality as I was talking about with gun owners. We may tell ourselves and others it's for protection (like we're in constant life and death situations) but the reality is it's more for fun and show and to feel like a badass. We're guys, it's in our DNA, which is fine. Just don't lie to yourself of the real reason for wanting that gun.... or truck. BTW, it's amazing what you can haul on top those reinforced roof racks on the Wilderness...like all kinds of lumber! Need ability to haul more? Rent a truck or hook a trailer. You really only haul something larger than the Wilderness's capabilities once or twice a year if that. Don't let the idea of hauling a refrigerator deter you from something other than a truck, like an Outback or other capable SUV. Be honest with yourself and get what you want based on that.

[@ryan56976]

Would really like for you drive that 4Runner up the hill as a benchmark. You keep mentioning that, “it’s not a replacement for a real 4x4” but it’d be nice to see how easily the 4Runner does it or if it still slips even a little. Would have also liked for y’all to trade places and drive up the dirt hill to hear impressions. Lastly, why’d you cut Karleena (sorry idk how to spell her name) off from talking about her perspective of the interior? Like many others on here - curious how Maverick/Baby Bronco, Subaru, and 4Runner/Taco/Real 4x4 compete

[@loneapple440]

Great assistant with this video presentation. It is good to see Karkeena's driving and comments about these cars from her perspective, I encourage that prospective in future videos. Great job the camera crew did also.

[@scot_smith]

This is great to see these two together as we are considering swapping the current cars in our family fleet for an outback wilderness AND a maverick hybrid. Thanks again for top content!

[@NiNjaTurtLe697]

just remember.... this is NOT the hybrid

[@Theborpapogs]

@@NiNjaTurtLe697 True, hybrid only has a 2WD option....

[@ericgallagan946]

Totally agree about the big touchscreens to control everything. My wife wanted a commuter car and we really thought about a higher trim Outback but ended up with a Crosstrek Sport. It has physical control knobs for the heater and on the radio. The touchscreen is nice, but it’s distracting to try and use it while driving - like to change the radio for example. I can’t imagine having a full touchscreen only setup… no thanks. It’s a case of: “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it”. Physical control knobs have been working for decades and require very little effort to use.

[@Reality_Filter]

6:05 short bed trucks serve a purpose, I couldn't fit my full size snowblower or any of my larger yard equipment in the back of that Subaru.

[@chuckd7423]

Nor a refrigerator, washer or dryer, and I doubt if many people would want to haul loads of rocks, unbagged sand, mulch, dirt, or yard waste in that enclosed area of the Subaru.

[@EricFortuneJr.]

6:00 Still there’s a height restriction with enclosed cargo areas. A small short bed pickup will still have the advantage of allowing taller objects to be loaded upright.

[@chuckd7423]

True. I doubt we'll see anyone hauling a refrigerator or washer/dryer in the Subaru, but should be no problem in the Maverick. Likewise, not many people are going to be willing to haul a load of rocks, unbagged mulch, dirt, or sand in the Subaru. There's lots of things you can haul in that Maverick bed that won't fit in a crossover, including 4x8 sheets of plywood. Some things, like the sheets of plywood, will stick out the back of the bed a little, but can still be carried.

[@SuperSTEIN24]

Bikes is a huge one here too. You have fit 4 in that maverick

[@rushthezeppelin]

@@SuperSTEIN24 that's one of the reasons I'm looking at the Maverick over my current Nissan Rogue. It's a pita to get my bike in the back and I think the prices on bike racks are bonkers. With a truck I can buy a cheap tailgate pad and throw it right in. Plus I can haul the occasional tall stuff or dirty stuff (I can't stand putting my dirty fishing waders in the back of my Rogue) and I could even do that while hauling something like a teardrop trailer.

[@warriorwarehouse206]

So will a trailer attached to the back of your Outback while all the precious cargo stays dry and secure in the cargo area. Soooooo..... Your point?

[@warriorwarehouse206]

@@chuckd7423 ever hear of roof rails? They're the things on to the roof of SUVs like the outback that you can haul stuff on..... including sheets of plywood. The wilderness's roof rails are also upgraded to like a 500 lb weight capacity. Soooo....if you need anything more than that, get/rent a trailer for your SUV or rent a truck or have someone else do the work altogether and have the crap delivered.

[@robvanhalen9696]

Did anyone notice how the Ford shifted sideways on the steep hill? It's the sign of a non-symmetrical drivetrain. It basically shoved itself sideways until it found traction. The Outback didn't do that and had to rely on finding traction otherwise.

[@rodneydecormier1504]

One of things I noticed in the test was the Maverick kicked to the right and found more solid ground and better geometry to be able to pull itself out of the bowl. The Subaru system keeps the vehicle moving straight forward and that actually gave it a disadvantage getting out of the bowl in that particular course of exit which was through the ruts and the steepest climb.

[@jascospeed]

Bro just take the L and Keep it moving, that is of course if you have a Subaru system that can only go straight lol !

[@zachv8286]

Yeah, better tires plus more momentum and a better approach.

[@AleksandrOsadchy]

One climb. This is not a test. Ford kicks to the right always and never as subaru straight. This is already disadvantage of ford and not subaru. Need perform rollers test and check the time how AWD system will work. So, this comparison is full bullshit.

[@nathanserolf2313]

These are exactly the 2 vehicles i was cross shopping for. Long story short, i ended up with the outback wilderness. Waiting for the delivery date

[@1kidneyrunner]

Same here. I ordered a Mav in October, but now I am leaning towards the wilderness. The Mav may not deliver until August 2022, and I can get a wilderness in a few weeks.

[@Starlesslemon]

10:35 "The car won't work without the key" No shit

[@sky_janes103]

The reason a truck bed, short or not, is better then a suv trunk is the height of objects you can put. Also you don’t have to be worried about getting the inside of your vehicle dirty.

[@chad.breece]

Problem is a lot of trucks end up seeing grocery bags in the bed and not much else.

[@NorthernNomad90]

Great video! I just got my Wilderness and absolutely love it. I actually so like the touch screen, but I can see why some don’t.

[@4x4.tests.on.rollers]

Karleena engaging dirt mode.

[@brahadeeshsuresh500]

aka Carlina filling holes with silt 20:10

[@waltfullerton1]

I'm a Subaru guy from way back, but I just ordered the Maverick FX4 this week. I was wondering how they would compare...great video!

[@J.Young808]

The Maverick’s security feature of not going into Drive w/o the key is good for when you have to warm up in sub zero weather. Wondering if you can lock it without the key in it. I used to be able to do that with my 2002 Expedition and use the exterior keypad.

[@spacebound1969]

Speaking from experience with my 2017 Fusion, you can indeed lock the car without the key inside. On my trim you can use the key to remote start the vehicle, but it will only turn the engine and climate on. In order to use fully turn on the vehicle you still need to climb in with the key and hit the start button.

[@slandshark]

I'm curious how it handles a dead battery in the keyfob. Many cars allow you to still turn the car on with a dead keyfob, for example by placing the keyfob 1 inch from the 'push start' button, then just drive like normal. Does the ford have something like this?

[@CabOnceAgain]

The advantage of a short bed truck (compared to a SUV) is that you can throw trash & wet stuff into the back without ruining and stinking up the interior. You can hose out a bed. Carry trash in an SUV and it'll stink up the interior for weeks, especially if it leaks. -4runner owner speaking from experience. lol

[@pizzasaurolophus]

How often do you put trash in the back of a 4runner? Utility trailers can be had for under $1000.

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@pizzasaurolophus probably not that often, because he cant haha thats his point, how often are you doing something and you just happen to have a utility trailer attatched to the back? Haha its the fact that in truck you can just do it, no planning, no excuses, "oh you need me to run that to the dump, ok and ill grab some firewood on the way back too" without needing to go home and hook my trailer up haha

[@pizzasaurolophus]

@@samuelyeet6006 yeah glad the 2 times over 5 years that has been convenient makes it worth it :D :D

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@pizzasaurolophus maybe for you haha, id say its probably a weekly thing for me 😂

[@chuckd7423]

@@pizzasaurolophus Why would you want to buy and store a utility trailer when this Maverick pickup can eliminate that need, and can be bought cheaper than most SUVs?. If you drop the trim level from the Lariat down to the XLT, which is still well equipped, it's $10k less than the Outback in this video. If you don't need AWD, you can pick up a nicely equipped hybrid Maverick for $15k less than the Outback in this video and, along with the added utility of the pickup bed, you will also spend way less money on gasoline.

[@MrAKhiker]

Well done! I agree with Karleena on the short box. Can’t wait to see a comparison of the Forester Wilderness and the Bronco Sport.

[@samuelyeet6006]

Ehh, cant fit a dirt bike in an outback 😂

[@mnbvlkjhgpoiuyt]

I don’t understand how Subaru came out with the Wilderness trim but didn’t give it a locking diff option. Even my 2007 Subaru Impreza STI has it

[@dannymcneal]

Very enlightening comparison-thanks! Reviewers such as yourselves talk about how much better actual 4x4s do on these kind of roads, as they don’t cause as much road damage. Question: Since it is the traction control computer that determines which tires receive braking and which tires receive power, why can’t a traction control system be programmed to distribute power equally to all four tires, thus mimicking a true 4x4? Seems an easy problem to solve!

[@andrewmeer5071]

Thank you for all of these off road test videos! It helps me get to know what the Mav is capable of so I don’t do anything too crazy on my own! (Yes I know off-roading alone isn’t the best idea, but that’s where we are at now. Be safe on the road always!)

[@lukas9278]

Awesome video! Defiantly wanted an idea of a comparison with the Subi. Ive got the Maverick Lariat and went up to Big Bear and out to Holcomb Valley (California) - snow, ice, mud, rocks, multiple bumps and holes - Vehicle is still STOCK -- No issues! Drove by a 3 vehicle squad on the way - Chevy Silverado, Lexus GS, and GMC Sierra - all of which were lifted with some bad a$$ looks to them.... they turned around in fear of the road conditions. POINT IS, driver defines the car and car defines the driver. You can do anything so long as you know what you are doing and not rely soley on the vehicle. Great video for solid comparison of two great cars and testing the actual road.

[@smckeon28]

She says the Wilderness & Maverick bed have the sae rooom....no they have a similar footprint....my crosstrek is useless to bring home anything thst isnt flat, cant even get lumber....have to rent a truck for just getting bushes.....having an open bed is much different than a closed cargo area. I also think the bed is much easier to keep clean, and you dont bring debris inside the vehicle. The maverick can fit 18 sheets of plywood, can the wilderness?

[@bobkus]

Would be good to see the wilderness v bronco sport badlands… I think those are more likely to be cross shopped. Also would have like to have seen the 4Runner go up once for reference. Nice video as always!

[@staryoshi]

1000000% go outback if you're spending $40k. Maverick is a cool small pickup with lots of utility, but the outback does everything it does and more, besides have a short bed. Better ride, better economy, better quality (features and build), more capable, etc. Towing is close as well. Mav has it's place, and that's as an affordable light duty trucklette. At $40k, it's outclassed by its older brothers as a truck and crossovers as a people hauler. Also, watching the Subaru AWD system work its magic is beautiful.

[@samuelyeet6006]

Did the ford not out due the subaru on offroading in this video? Lol also the maverick gets better fuel econamy....

[@dannytse8767]

@@samuelyeet6006 Only if one drive in a dirt bowl all the time.

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@dannytse8767 no lol

[@g.fortin3228]

Carlina doesn't know about leaving down the tailgate and loading a dirt bike :- ) But that's OK .. she's cool and everyone has different needs. I used to need a pickup but don't anymore. But don't knock it because sometimes it's the open height that matters. This channel always has good tests and content.. keep it coming !

[@pezave]

Nice .. I really enjoy the video! Thank you for checking all the options of off-roading.. That's what I was waiting for!!!

[@KN-jw7ts]

So envious of the type of trails and beautiful terrain you have in the PNW. Absolutely gorgeous scenery, love watching your videos. PLEASE, if you have any knowledge of trails/off-roading you can recommend outside of NYC…..it would be greatly appreciated!

[@DannyF249]

Heck yeah! Look at that powerful Maverick. Love it. I have 1000+miles in my Maverick XLT FX4 (Area 51) and it is so fun to drive!

[@bobbydecatur4259]

I love the fact that the Maverick doesn't go into drive if you don't have the key I had a 2019 Nissan Sentra drove two hours away after forgetting my key at home my wife had to bring it to me because I couldn't get the car to start

[@1roblock]

Not just tires. Longer wheelbase is bound to give better traction in certain situations. Vehicle weight also a factor. Great video, thanks! Can't wait to get my Maverick.

[@RigiLiquid945]

It's nice to see comparison reviews like this. Well done!

[@adventuretraveling8957]

👍👍👍👍 your cars reviews is totally different level than other channels! You always show us real world challenge I like it 👍👍 keep it

[@rominic7385]

Mavericks changed everything! perfect well-balanced small truck.

[@kevincampos3418]

I’m glad maverick came out, or else I would had never know about this awesome channel. awesome work!

[@PreludeSon]

Not allowing you to put it into drive without a key is a must....I see myself in the morning trying to warm up my car while coming back into the house to grab something, and I don't want somebody drive off while I'm in the house.

[@pellaz123]

As often as it's been referenced, I would love to see a video that directly compares a factory Wilderness with a Wilderness equipped with more aggressive ORT.

[@Johnny-Five]

Agreed!

[@ronnshaw4394]

Geolander vs KO2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rny7eJdtjLx8Z6c

[@pellaz123]

@@ronnshaw4394 Perfect thank you!

[@Doc1855]

I’d like to buy a new pickup, but my 11 Ford Ranger XLT super cab 4X4 with a 4.0 liter V6, custom 2 tone paint, custom upholstery, mag wheels, Line X bed liner, K&N intake, 4 inch FlowMaster exhaust, tow package and only 34K original miles, I simply can’t justify selling it only to buy a replacement which would cost me over $45K. With the 2 mods of the intake and exhaust, I get 25-26 mpg on the freeway with the cruise set on 85 mph ( in MT), or 75mph (in WA). This is our 4th Ranger. We’ve found that our Ranger’s are almost as reliable as a Tacoma. The only thing I dislike about the Ranger is that it doesn’t set as high as the Tacoma

[@TypeNull19]

Just got my Outback Wilderness and this just confirms everything I love about it. Learned a ton about how to drive it from you guys! And Karleena, sweet Seattle Kraken hat 🐙

[@jackrandom4893]

How is the body lean on curves? I had a 2018 and never got used to it on the highway

[@TypeNull19]

@@jackrandom4893 Can’t say I’ve really noticed it! Coming from the Tiguan, this one drives really smooth.

[@JuckiCZ]

Why to buy a short bed truck? Because I transport wood from forest 3-4 times a year - you don't want to put it into your trunk. Because I transport hay and straw for our animals every 2 months. Because I need to transport our sheep from time to time for veterinary inspection/slaughter,... Because you can sleep on truck bed and you don't have to put everything from/to your trunk every evening/morning. Because if you want to take something bulkier (like fishing kayak), you can tie it down in truck bed more easily than on your car's roof. Because when you need to transport bikes, you can just put them easily in bed from above and you don't have to dismount the front wheel and then slowly put them inside your station wagon trunk. I just don't get this woman's ideas...

[@edlawrence6553]

I feel the reviewers did a fine job showing off the capabilities of both cars. I especially like how they swap back and forth so we witness their comparison reactions. But, the line that stood out for me is when Ryan said these cars “are for getting to their adventure.” IMO, the Subaru ads sell the wilderness or off-road driving experience AS the adventure. I think that’s an important difference, Probably won’t matter to most of the drivers that will use their Outback Wilderness to get to their car-camping experience.

[@AverageBud]

What a great test, I'm super stoked for mine to be made.

[@cesarpalmos8235]

6:00 i can fit a dryer/washer, bikes, a bed topper, atvs, muddy tools and equipment in the truck that I may not want or fit in my car. Of course I am a diesel mechanic and have a purpose for a compact truck vs an Suv, other people's needs are different. Also keep in mind the longer wheel base of the Maverick on that hill climb, I believe that helped ontop of better tires. I love your channel and been watching all the latest updates on the Maverick, I am seriously considering an XLT Fx4 with the 4k tow package.

[@nxdboi]

Yeah, I think that take is unique to people who don't do anything dirty, as well as people who don't usually carry things that require a higher payload capacity. For people who load dirty/heavy things, a short bed truck is a far better option than a crossover. If all she's doing is carrying "stuff" then yeah, I totally get why it she wouldn't understand the appeal of something like a small pickup.

[@chrismatheny4957]

I would love to see you compare the Maverick to the Hyundai Santa Cruz in a similar video. And I wouldn't be shocked at all if we see a return of the Subaru Baja due to the massive success of the Santa Cruz and Maverick. With regards to the Santa Cruz, would also be interesting to see the off road capability of an SEL with the regular 8spd transmission compared to the dual clutch transmission that is with the 2.5 turbo engine.

[@kenhoward3512]

Reviews of the Santa Cruz with the non-turbo, 8-speed auto are almost nonexistent. Hyundai, and their dealers, don't seem to want to promote that version (no surprise, there, when there's much more money to be made with the turbo models).

[@Macky4941]

Can't really compare the two imo. I think it's comical the Maverick is made in Mexico with most of its interior and electronics made in China while the Santa Cruz is MADE in America with a mix of us, Japan and Korean parts.

[@DarkFilmDirector]

@@Macky4941 Mexico has reliable manufacturing standards, with more productivity than in the US union states. Many rugged Toyota Tacomas are made there as well as here in Texas. A lot of people that try to get snarky and turn up their nose when "made in Mexico" is mentioned is just old fashioned bigotry for the most part without any real data on it being "unreliable". Hyundai is for a far different market of people, generally soccer moms or hipsters. And guess what, three Hyundai vehicles are made in Mexico. As are Jeeps, Chevys, Mazdas, Hondas, Audis, etc. Your opinion is meaningless.

[@Dicki793]

Sorry the Santa Cruz is way to ugly for filming .

[@The_Norse_Hunk]

Just picked up my Outback Wilderness and I noticed on the bowl test it was disappointingly disproportionate on the rear wheel power in both xmodes. The other wheels should grab much sooner and better. Will I be driving up hills like that? No. But you can't deny how much better the Ford performed in that test.

[@matthewjohnson1211]

The driver could have been a factor…it just like with the CVT you need some momentum with those steep climbs.

[@samuelyeet6006]

@@matthewjohnson1211 but both vehicles completely stopped

[@Macky4941]

I've gone up much steeper and rockier trails without X-Mode. 2020 Forester Premium with 2" lift on Falken Wildpeaks, those tires are really good as I keep them on year round in Alaska. Momentum makes all the difference, as long as you keep it moving it can go almost anywhere. Just have to have proper expectations and experience, it's not going to crawl up anything crazy like a super modified jeep will but it's very capable getting you down most orv trails.

[@AleksandrOsadchy]

Ford always kicked to the right to climb easier than subaru did. This is not a test to climb on one hill.

[@AleksandrOsadchy]

@@samuelyeet6006 But only Ford always kicked to the right to climb easier than subaru did.

[@CipoCat6]

As to why a short bed pickup over a wagon: I'm going on 24 years of driving Outbacks, and too often I find I can't fit what I need in the back due to the limits of the opening size and height; it also beats up the back of my car hauling certain things. Overall I've loved my Subarus, but as I want a bit more utility, I'm leaning towards a small pickup or a van next. This comparison is perfect.

[@Kab695]

Many of us only get new appliances and tall things once every few years, and we don't have regular yard waste that would need hauling. I've had two pickups (Jeep & Toyota) and the beds were empty 99% of the time. To me, it was too much empty space too often, and exposed to the elements. With the SUV's I've owned, I have kept blankets, tools, and all manner of gear in them year-round as well as seat space, cooler space when needed. 4X4 pickups make good sense for looks, for those with waste and lots of tall things to haul. For those of us without those needs, a 4-Runner or even a Wilderness makes good sense.

[@rtbdmd]

I wish Ford would publish more information about exactly how the modes function. Also, I really hate virtual buttons on touchscreens for vehicles. You get zero tactile sense of where the button is; this encourages drivers to look away from the road. .Mechanical controls for me, please! Gimme all buttons and switches.

[@jascospeed]

No kidding, virtual buttons are awful when your on even a slightly bumpy road you'll hit every other button but the one your trying to press. Some are ok but definitely not the HVAC controls or volume !

[@eclate100]

Can you fit a fridge in the Subaru wilderness? I know you can definitely fit one in the Ford Marverick. The Marverick options to carry stuff in the bed far surpasses the Wilderness cargo space 🤷🏽‍♂️!

[@79random]

That's completely relative as to what cargo you're carrying on a regular basis. There's arguments for both sides but it's impossible to make a blanket statement of which one is 'better'

[@rodneydecormier1504]

Xmode 2 - deep snow and mud is also on Subaru Forrester sport, Impreza sport, and now the Outback wilderness and Forster wilderness. ✌️

[@drivingsports]

Only the Outback Wilderness has an enhanced Dual Function X-Mode. We have a whole video on it. It's not the same as just Dual X-Mode found on those other vehicles. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHS0omOoqbGcmpo

[@jeffgiles4693]

You were SPOT ON with the Tremor prediction at 14:56

[@K03sport]

Thanks Ryan and Karleena. ☕ Only if (big IF), Subaru continued the Baja; a Baja Wilderness would be a fantastic vehicle in the lineup. I wonder if there will be a Solterra Wilderness....

[@lolotus4borderless]

Yes Baja will return! looking at the price of mid size and full size trucks 50 to 60k!! Those UTEs are brought back by popular demand. Consider $5000 is a down payment baseline so every $5000 increment over $20k truly matters for the majority of buyers.

[@milo8425]

Apparently that Bronco software Ford was able to copy paste onto its other vehicles is legit as fuck. Bronco Sport in particular shows that off.

[@srrtbb]

Oh man I think I'm getting the fx4 maverick as my next vehicle. But as mentioned in the video, I'll hope they release fx4 tremor or raptor. That'd be so cool.

[@ohroonoko]

The Outback is ready for a rooftop overland tent with those rails. Plus it looks better. The reason why the Maverick performed better than the Outback on the hill is due to the longer wheelbase. The Outback has a 108” vs 121.5” on the Maverick. The advantage is your front and rear tires could more likely be on different contact patches; if the front is slipping, the rear could be on more solid ground and vice versa. The other advantage is weight distribution will be more even on a longer wheelbase vs a shorter wheelbase. The front end will lift more (loss of traction) on a shorter wheelbase as you push up the hill, shifting weight to the rear. On a longer wheelbase, the front end won’t lift as much, this is because of leverage.

[@Mryetti26]

I’m literally on the market and torn between these two vehicles. Thank you

[@bobwilliams2192]

Just got my Outback Wilderness about 3 weeks ago, absolutely love it! I do wish it came with the wildpeaks though...

[@K03sport]

...easily added, at the expense of ditching brand new tires like I did on my WRX. At a mere 2200 miles, the stock Dunlop Spprtmaxx tires came off and a UHPAS (conti DWS06) tire went on to get me through winter. 29k miles later, the brand new dunlops are still sitting on the storage rack...not because they are bad, but because I didn't want to keep mounting/unmounting tire btwn sum/win when I had a competent AS tire already on the car. Who knows, the dunlops may never make it back on to the car...such a waste

[@jaybou007]

My wife and I are looking for a second vehicle at the moment, since we moved in the far snowy country of Quebec and since her dear Mazda 3 won't cut it during the winter. That Maverick seems to be a very, very nice option. She carries skis often, she doesn't drive sticks, she likes a car feeling but she also likes something more practical and something that could give her a respectable gas mileage. It's such a shame, however, that you can't get the AWD Maverick with the hybrid engine. I guess it's because the system takes too much room, but I might be wrong. Will she like the idea of a truck? I'm not sure. But hey, if that thing can keep her away from my beloved and precious 6MT Willys JL, i'm all for it. :)

[@chuckd7423]

Ford put their AWD hybrid system in the Escape, so I don't see any reason why they can't put it in the hybrid Maverick, and I've read that's likely to happen in the future. Maybe they didn't want to cannibalize sales of their higher priced AWD 2.0 Maverick by offering the AWD on the less expensive hybrid model.

[@79random]

The Subby is a far better choice for trips to the ski hill. Depending on ski length, they most likely won't fit inside the cab or box of the Maverick.

[@jaybou007]

@@79random Good point.

[@michaelcafaro4022]

The Subaru all wheel drive system is unbelievable. Had my forester in lose beach sand and I truly couldn’t believe it’s capability, coming from an older 4Runner. Not a fan of Subaru reliability since I had my share of issues both major and minor.

[@tah6746]

The Touch Screen is a Car Killer. If that One Component dies. It would almost total the car. Because everything is tied into the screen. Please Give me normal buttons that do not move about. Also, give me a Manual Transmission Option.

[@chileshemubanga3594]

Hey Ryan,how about doing an offroad comparison between the forester wilderness & maverick tremor?.

[@jimheenan8218]

Another great comparison video...we want more Karleena!

[@johnbatson8779]

i have a 2022 outback wilderness and live near Taos ski valley and it is the perfect suv for the snowy conditions this past week, 36" of snowfall in 2 days.....the nice thing is that it is very comfy driving on the highway, and if you need to pass then you will have zero problem accelerating past anybody, just look out for the law enforcement as this thing is seriously fast....even faster than my wife's Jeep Trailhawk with the hemi V8

[@genevacoast]

Would a 2wd F150 with locking rear and AT tires make it through that course?

[@drivingsports]

Yup

[@Sanctified_Leather]

Not without a Chip 😂🤣

[@Databyter]

Great video. It almost looked like the Ford had a limited slip differential on the bowl. It didn't even seem to need to use much torque vectoring. Of course, the tires were better and likely bigger to boot. But this looks like a nice little truck that I never heard of. It's on my radar now, but Im still leaning towards a Wilderness purchase in 2022. I am also resisting the urge to buy a Bronco, not because I think there is anything wrong with them, but because it's just a bit much for my budget. Im at a place where I could easily afford to buy it now, but that doesn't equate to it being a WISE purchase in my overall life plan at this moment. Maybe I'll pick up a used Badlands in a few years, that would fit better, and the Subaru, or something similar is a better daily choice. Databyter

[@SEVENTEENPOINT1]

I ended up getting a Ford Maverick. It is great so far for me. Very comfortable and always turns heads. Nothing wrong with the Subaru, but it seems a bit boring. Also that touch screen will get tiresome. Main reason I didn’t go for a Santa Cruz tbh.

[@JSS75]

I find this comparison to hit the biggest question about this truck. The bed size… in all practicality, with weather sealed, comfortable storage the Outback or other similarly sized SUVs they have more space. How much do we all (there are some rare cases) carry things where we need the open bed of the truck? I’d love a truck but I think my ‘18 Outback for general storage has more space for what I do most consistently. Now with a bigger bed clearly that can have a ton more space than an outback

[@samuelyeet6006]

Well dont forget things that just cant be put into the same space as you, anything with smells or extra messy, or chances of spills. And as someone that owned a few suv/crossover/hatchbacks, i couldnt even count the amount of times i couldnt fit something that was just an inch or 2 big, struggling forever trying to get something to fit, if i would have had just a short bed i would have saved so much time and effort, plus i can fit all of that stuff in the bed, and still be able to put people in the back seat!

[@hege750]

I love Karleena! I wish she would be involved more in these videos. 😊

[@jordanfarnsworth8087]

great video! did you take a subaru forester wilderness to that same hill climb spot at any point? i am curious if the improved low gearing would make the forester wilderness match the maverick in terms of easily walking up that hill when in the proper drive mode as opposed to the outback struggling a little before climbing all the way

[@williamguillIII]

Every vehicle has its purposes. This vehicle to me would be a vehicle that I or someone would buy for the occasional large item purchase, hauling off trash bags, yard debris(small), small loads of chopped wood, an occasional half sheet of plywood, etc. Plus, it's great for parking and the gas mileage is outstanding. BUT, my truck, a 2018 GMC Sierra crew cab SLT Z71 4x4 probably wouldn't even need to come out of 2wd for this road in this video. I can also haul a large trailer, get a whole sheet of sheetrock or plywood and the 2x4's, 2x6's, etc to do a build job, in one trip, just in the bed. I could haul another vehicle on a trailer if needed, tow a camper, etc. So, there is definitely a niche market for this Maverick, and it appears the sales are outstanding. I'll stick with my full size truck and enjoy its quiet and smooth ride for now.

[@Starlesslemon]

If you say "why even get a truck" you're not in the market for a truck so there's no reason to worry about it. Also probably shouldn't be a vehicle reviewer/journalist

[@joeboland95]

This is a great cross comparison. Thank you!

[@RazorVanHelsing]

Hope no one takes offense , but Carlena can’t drive very well .. my wilderness could make it up that no problem ! She is scared to really drive

[@Johnny-Five]

Great show! Hope the repairs on the Toyota 4Runner turned out well! 😃🤟🤙

[@slimtny]

We have purchased our one and only Subaru product. My wife's outback eyesight system is not working properly and corporate could care less. They actually told us to get a lawyer and sue them! which looks like we are going to have to do. Trying to find a dealer that wants to tackle why it isn't working has been horrendous as well. None of the collision avoidance or lane keep etc. works. Oddly enough the adaptive cruise control works ok.

[@chrisflores9432]

I got a wilderness a few months ago... can someone tell what type of gas it takes? the dealer says regular but everyone else says use premium? What gas do you use? not trying to gum up my ne wildie?!

[@drivingsports]

Turbo models (XT) can run on regular. But to do so the ECU compensates and reduces power. Manufacturer says you can use either regular or premium.

[@rushthezeppelin]

I will say the tires aren't everything though. I have those Falkens on my 2017 Rogue and I've been in easier situations than that bowl and gotten stuck. I'm sure the AWD is WAY more basic in the Rogue. Really making me think strongly about trading in for the Maverick XLT FX4.

[@rushthezeppelin]

Those Falkens are awesome in snow too which the Rogue handles pretty well (it's AWD is probably akin to the sand setting on the Maverick).

[@matiasmartinvaldez1818]

Which tires size did you use on the maverick in these video? 235 or 245? Thanks

[@savillecreations8046]

It’s a good point that the tires are stock on both…however, I would have liked to see if there would have been an improvement on the Subaru with similar tires as the Ford. Most likely there would have been. They both have off-road strengths. Fun video.

[@alexvelasquez4739]

I love that giant screen on the Subaru, we live in 2022 let tech get better!

[@Starlesslemon]

6:12 I can't put my Harley in the back of the Suburu... How astonishing a woman doesn't understand trucks 😂

[@AnthonyGonzalez-lw1ek]

Now that you have driven all 3 vehicles how would you compare the Santa Cruz where would you put it - 1,2, 3 ?

[@rodneydecormier1504]

I really enjoy this channel because it has the best video and discussion on off-road capabilities of not off-road focused vehicles.

[@jonathanshrum7944]

Great video Ryan! Also with Subaru you need the key to go into drive as well.

[@GettingthruLife]

The bed of a truck has way way more potential than the back portion of the outback. Can you stick a Honda 450F motorcross bike in the back of an Outback? can you stack a queen/king sized mattress and large headboard in a Outback? Duh...

[@tomcostin1462]

Harbor Freight Trailer, done.

[@GettingthruLife]

@@tomcostin1462 what if you have a 4 wheeler/atv or small boat and a dirt bike? The woman made the statement what fits in a short bed truck will fit in the back of the Outback. Not at all the same was my point. The Ford Maverick is a lot more versatile.

[@shikcheese3234]

The point is you'd get an suv if you dont have a 4 wheeler. Most people don't.

[@GettingthruLife]

@@shikcheese3234 truck all the way any day and what would be the ultimate vehicle under 65k for versatility would be the Ford F150 full electric. Tow a trailer plus truck bed. Suv for mothers carting around kids with cartoons playing on the back tv's.

[@captured_agent5714]

I mean buy what works for you. I'm getting a hybrid Mav myself