Subaru: This is how the new Outback drives
COMBINED CROSSOVER The sixth generation of the Outback crossover SUV, which is popular in Switzerland, is now available from Subaru's representative. Although the model is completely new, it leans heavily on its predecessor. A popular all-rounder is to be developed further step by step - a revolution would not make sense. This is how Subaru keeps it with the Outback. Although the new [...]
A popular all-rounder is to be developed further step by step - a revolution would not make sense. That's what Subaru is doing with the Outback. Although the new model is now based on the global SGP platform like all its brand brothers, it comes with a familiar concept: station wagon crossover body, four-cylinder boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive.
Greater ground clearance, longer and wider
Outback number six is several centimeters longer and wider than its predecessor and has greater ground clearance of 21.3 centimeters.
With its black plastic wheel arches and standard roof rails, it now looks even more robust, although the new front and rear sections have been designed to be rather more delicate.
Inside, the dashboard, seats and trim have been refreshed, and many switches and buttons are housed in the central 11.6-inch touchscreen. Rear-seat passengers have more legroom, and front-seat occupants are even better protected in a crash by new seat-mounted airbags.
More assistants for comfort and safety
Under the well-known Subaru safety label Eyesight, the developers have further increased the number of safety and comfort assistants and optimized their function. The emergency braking system with stereo camera now includes virtually all currently available assistance systems, from adaptive cruise control and safe lane guidance to drowsiness and attention warning.
This also immediately describes the essence of the new generation: the car brings even more safety on board. The driver decides whether to drive semi-automatically by selecting the activated assistants.
More torque at low speed
Many details have been optimized in the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine. Although the maximum output has remained at 169 hp, the maximum torque is slightly higher and is achieved at lower engine speeds. However, this does not make sporty driving performance possible.
This is not expected from the all-round crossover SUV, because this engine is completely sufficient for everyday driving. In terms of driving dynamics, the Outback is well equipped with all-wheel drive, a low center of gravity and torque vectoring cornering control.
For detours onto unpaved roads, two special X-mode driving programs can be selected in addition to the normal setting.
