All-New Subaru Outback – Striking and more capable

The Subaru Outback provides many popular SUV traits without the associated drawbacks. Based on Subaru's midsize Legacy, the Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive, a raised suspension for better ground clearance, and special interior and exterior styling details. At its debut, the original Subaru Outback was pretty much the only car of its type and was an instant hit with consumers.

All-New Subaru Outback

More recent versions of the car lost a bit of an edge as other automakers came up with similar crossover wagons and SUVs at the start of the new millennium. The all-new fifth-generation Subaru Outback is striking and crossover like; traits that should worry its rivals. 

Still capable off-road

  

Design

The all-new Subaru Outback introduces a bolder look with crisper, sculpted lines that convey both its all-road capability and upgraded refinement. A new front fascia combines the hexagonal grille and bumper into one smooth piece. An aluminium bonnet reduces weight over the front wheels, which helps enhance steering response.

HID headlamps with a signature look

New standard HID low-beam headlights give the car a more distinctive night time signature. The all-new Subaru Outback's windshield is more raked and pulled forward at the base. The new windshield angle, higher seating hip points, new front partition windows and door-mounted side view mirrors help improve visibility. 

 

18-inch alloys

The all-new Subaru Outback maintains a footprint similar to the model it replaces and still has 8.7-inches ground clearance, which is higher than for some crossovers, yet with low step-in height for comfort. New step-style doorsills allow one to stand firmly when securing objects to the roof rails with integrated retractable crossbars and tie downs. A power rear tailgate, with memory height, is available on Subaru Outback for the first time. The Outback 2.5i is equipped with standard 17-inch wheels, and the Limited trim line features 18-inch alloy wheels.

 

Build for the dirt

Performance

The all-new Subaru Outback 2.5i is powered by a double-overhead-cam (DOHC) FB series 2.5-liter BOXER engine. Power is increased slightly to 130 kW (175 hp). Peak torque remains at 235 Nm but is spread over a broader engine speed range for more responsive performance in all driving situations. Fuel consumption for the 2.5-litre power unit is rated at 8.4-liters per 100 kilometres. The more powerful 3.6R Limited features a 3.6-liter BOXER 6-cylinder power unit which churns out 190 kW (256 hp) and 334 Nm of torque. The 3.6-litre engine delivers torque between 2,000 to 6,000 rpm, making the Outback 3.6R Limited feel exceptionally smooth and responsive in everyday driving. The Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited needs 10 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. For 2015, all Outback models now come standard with a Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission), with the 6-cylinder model using a high-torque version. 

 

Larger boot

Ride

Subaru extensively revised and retuned the MacPherson front strut suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension for greater handling agility and a more compliant ride. New quick-ratio electric power-assisted steering delivers outstanding feel and also helps reduce fuel consumption Newly standard X-Mode, Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist augment Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to assist the driver in navigating rough roads, slippery surfaces or steep inclines.

Infotainment system

Interior

New soft-touch materials, thicker cushioning for armrests and the centre console and new trim styles give the car a more premium feel. The driver faces a sporty instrument panel, highlighted by two binocular-style gauge pods with a centre LCD information display. An ECO gauge indicates and promotes fuel-efficient driving habits using colour bars. With nearly the same exterior footprint as the previous car, the all-new Subaru Outback continues to offer a roomier passenger cabin.

Cockpit

The added space yields gains in shoulder, hip, elbow and leg room. However, rear passengers benefit the most from the increased cabin space. The Outback's load area has been increased. The space can be enlarged further by folding the 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks. The lowered rear seats provide a flatter surface enhance convenience. Higher trims offer heated seats front and rear, two position memory for driver's ten-way power seat, and 576-watt surround sound audio with ten Harman/Kardon speakers.

 

Rear design

Verdict

The all-new Subaru Outback offers the roomiest interior, most capable chassis and highest fuel-efficiency in the model's 20-year history. Its bold new design delivers an even more compelling blend of on-road agility, off-pavement control, ride comfort, interior refinement and safety technology. New or used, the Outback is a strong contender for shoppers interested in a car that provides plenty of everyday versatility with the type of all-season capability