
Andy Harris
Motoring and Property Editor
1:00 AM 21st December 2024
cars
Outback Adventures – Subaru’s Load-Lugger On Test
The Subaru Outback is a rare offering in the UK, blending the practicality of an estate car with the ruggedness of an SUV. The latest model builds upon Subaru’s reputation for reliability and all-weather capability, while introducing modern features and improved refinement.
The Outback’s exterior styling strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Its raised ride height and chunky black plastic trim around the wheel arches signals its off-road intentions. I rather like this rugged look, though some may prefer a subtler appearance for everyday driving. For that, Subaru’s Forester model may be more appropriate.
What is in no doubt is that the estate body style provides a spacious interior without the bulk of a traditional SUV, making it a practical choice for various lifestyle adventures.
The Outback’s cabin is spacious and well-appointed. The driving position offers excellent visibility, and there is ample room for passengers in both rows. The interior features a mix of soft-touch materials, shiny black finishes, and durable plastics, striking a good balance between comfort and practicality.
An 11.6-inch touchscreen dominates the centre console and whilst it works well, its graphics do feel somewhat dated compared to competitors. Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems are fitted, the former being my go-to when on the move.
Under the bonnet, all UK Outback models feature a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 169PS and 252Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (Lineartronic in Subaru speak) and a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Performance figures are modest, with a 0-62mph time of 10.2 seconds.
When pressing on, there are occasions when the Outback can feel somewhat underpowered, such as joining a fast-moving motorway. The transmission, whilst much improved from previous iterations, still exhibits some of the characteristic drone associated with this type of gearbox.
The Outback was with me over an especially wild and windy week. With many miles to travel, I could not have been in a more capable and reassuring vehicle. The permanent all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction on truly rain-soaked roads and stability on the motorway was great.
With a plethora of green lanes close by, I took the Outback on a modest adventure. The X-Mode feature optimises the drivetrain for improved off-road performance. With 213mm of ground clearance, I was able to tackle obstacles that would stymie many crossovers and some dedicated SUVs. I came away impressed.
Back on terra firma, it is clear that the Outback’s suspension prioritizes comfort and off-road ability over sporty handling. The ride is generally settled, with bumps and imperfections absorbed with ease. The trade-off is some body roll, which I am sure would-be owners will not mind one bit.
As an estate car, the Outback excels in practicality. The spacious interior and large cargo area make it an excellent choice for families or those with active lifestyles. Its 2,000kg towing capacity is impressive, making it suitable for caravan enthusiasts or those needing to haul heavy loads.
Fuel efficiency is perhaps a tad below par, with an official combined economy figure of 32.8mpg nothing to write home about. At the end of my week behind the wheel, the trip computer was reading low 30s mpg. CO2 emissions of 193g/km probably rule the car out for a company car user, which is a shame.
Subaru has equipped the Outback with an impressive array of safety features. The EyeSight Driver Assist system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. These features, combined with the car’s robust construction, have contributed to its five-star Euro NCAP rating.
The Outback occupies a fairly unique position in the UK market. It’s more capable off-road than most estate cars and many crossovers, yet more car-like than traditional SUVs. The versatility comes at a price, with the top-spec Touring model I tested priced at £42,995 OTR. The range starts at £36,995. While well equipped for the money, the Outback does face stiff competition from more premium brands and more efficient alternatives. Its appeal lies in its rugged dependability and all-weather capability rather than outright luxury or performance.
In conclusion, the Subaru Outback remains true to its roots as a capable, practical and dependable vehicle. It offers a compelling package for those who need genuine off-road ability combined with estate car practicality. The thirsty engine and modest performance may deter some.
For the right buyer, me perhaps, living in a rural area, frequently venturing off the beaten track, the Outback may well be the ideal choice. It is a car that prioritises substance over style, offering a unique blend of capabilities that few competitors can match. While it may not be the most refined or efficient option in its class, the Outback’s rugged charm and go-anywhere attitude continue to win it a loyal following.