@Murat Al Hi Mate, it’s a very bland low cost overall good car. The AWD system is good too. We got it as a company car instead of getting another hyundai iload as its more comfortable and can still carry a lot of field technician tools. If you want more comfort, quiet and high speed stability, I think you should look at a Volvo v60 or bmw 340i. Outback bounces at higher speed and is not as planted as the other two wagons. Same goes for the cabin noise, it’s on par with other low cost cars like Camry or accord.
We have had a Subaru RS for 12 yrs now. The reliability has been so great. This Outback i think, would be a great car and reliable. Most people i know with an outback's love them like children. They say a bit of an under-powdered engine is better for the longer life of the engine.
We have a 2017 & just bought another one, a 2021. Great car, perfect for our Alaska outdoors & winter, by far a lot better on winter driving than my Mercedes E350 awd. I believe this is the most practical car, coz u have almost the size & utility of a midsize SUV & the comfort of a car. And a great price especially. Can’t go wrong with the Japanese reliability as well 👍🏽
I have just ordered a 2021 (Gen 6) base model Outback to replace my 2006 (Gen 3) Outback with 203,000 kms on the clock. Priory to that I had 2 Liberty wagons each with over 200K kms on the clock. Why am I so loyal to Subaru? Essentially it comes down to reliability, safety, comfort, build quality and value for money (including re-sale value). In Australia we can only get the naturally aspirated 2.5L boxer engine which is fine, but what a pity that we cannot get the 2.5L turbo-charged engine option as available in the States.
we only get two models in the uk, standard and premium. I had mine a few months and wanted a car with higher ride and its just superb to drive it does everything without fuss. i live in the flatest part of the uk but its farm back roads and it just glides along the bumpy roads. Safety it does everything a volvo does and more.
Best review I see so far, thanks. It improves my confidence about is this the one for my family car. I wish the car little bit bigger or higher, but I haven't seen one yet, next steps will be visiting the dealer. Thanks for the video.
Absolutely love my previous gen 2020 Outback 3.6R. Its a classic "what it says on the lid" car. No pretences of being a BRZ or WRX, just a big, soft, comfortable family wagon that can handle loose stuff better than most. I've driven Mitsi and Nissan CVTs, and they've ruined the whole experience. Toyotas seem better, with less flaring, but this big ole girl is just sweet. In city traffic, it keeps the revs down, and the big motor has the grunt to cope easily. I imagine it would be a great pairing with the 2.4 turbo, if it ever comes here.
Thanks for the feedback - we agree, if you're not thinking you'll get a WRX, then the Outback is a pretty sweet rig. The turbo will change things, if it comes, and we believe it will - but maybe not for 12-24 months. Cheers Matt
After owing and driving its predecessor for 4 years, I think those who ummm.. *automatically* condemn its engine and transmission are just expressing bigotry. At times, I've wanted more power, for sure, but that applies to every car I've ever owned, including some with pretty good performance. The transmission does a great job of pretending to be a torque-converter auto. Overall, words I associate with the car are "competent", "dependable", and "comfortable". I tend to think the reviewer's assessments of the car are pretty much spot on. I note there was no mention of the ventilated seats that are in the overseas models. Bad omission, Subaru Oz. Very, very bad omission. My previous car had them, and my next car will too. The sole blot in my ownership has been the number of warranty claims - I'm on my third set of roof bars - and just how appalling the Subaru dealership network is: they are almost uniformly bad at what they do.
@@johndoutty9317 Interesting...I received a letter from them a short while ago, asking me to book it in for "urgent repairs"that weren't mentioned when it was serviced 3 weeks earlier. Hmnnn...
It always amazes me how the car companies get some things so right while they miss a lot of small practical features. It's like they never take these to a test drive before shipping to the public.
Kept my Forester for 20yrs loved it, next bought Outback 21 finding it a dream to drive, adjustments on driver seating fantastic for a 5 ft. person , thought at first it was a bit too big for me but I have got used to it and the IT stuff on board. One thing annoys me though is the adjustment for incoming call volume is so low conversation isnt easy..I have gone through all the adjustments with no success. Another glitch in my love affair with this car is my windscreen cracked on the passenger side, as it is laminated it was OK to continue to drive taking into account difference in temperatures inside and outside toi stop crack moving but there wasn't a replacement windscreen in Australia and of course when it does get here after reinstallment the window has to be recalibrated taking a whole day..These annoyances aside I am glad I bought the Outback 21, haven't done 10,000 klms yet but looking forward to another 20 yrs with Subaru
I want to like this vehicle. However, the big elephant in the room is the 2.5L engine and CVT transmission. I drove a 2019 Liberty with the 2.5L engine with the CVT, and I got to say it was the dullest vehicle I have ever driven. A Camry is more exciting to drive compared to a Liberty. Not only was it dull to drive but, it consumed so much fuel, around 10.5L per 100km combined driving! I hope this new revised version of the boxer 2.5L engine addressed some of the predecessor concern. However, my thoughts remain that this is still going to be a bore to drive. I'm not expecting a sportcar experience just, something that isn't asthmatic.
@@wadedixon6780 if you want to make it boring at least make it fuel efficient...a Camry is boring but atleast it's good on fuel... Compared to a liberty which uses about the same amount of fuel as my BA Falcon!
I would not mind owning one of these Outback models. Have always been a "station wagon" kind of guy. They seem to be an honest, reliable vehicle with lots of practicality thrown in for good measure. Only if I had the 💰 though...
Thanks for a great review as usual. I understand the marketing timing for not releasing the Turbo at the same time as the standard aspiration model - they can pump the market with enthusiasm at a time that Subaru determines, which will also enhance sales for the standard model by association. The Turbo model will probably require 95 Octane fuel (as a WRX does) - if that was released at the same time as the standard model, there would be not so much to gain for the seller. Moral is to keep the cash cow pumping and don't peak too soon. I do wonder how the CVT will go long term with any owners who exploit that 2 tonne braked capacity regularly.
So many American reviewers have complained about the touchscreen on the current Outback and Legacy. There's a bit of a learning curve, but its really not that bad. Once I had the auto climate control settings where I wanted I was set. Rarely have to dig into the menus for anything esoteric (and I wouldn't do that unless I was parked). Strange that Australia doesn't get the turbo like North America does. I have it and its quite nice.
I own the previous model. Pros : The outback is super comfy bcoz of its long wheel base + very good safety features like subaru eyesight.. value for money . Cons : under power.. doesnt help overtaking or sudden launch , Subaru service is very high - as the dealer will come up with reasons to charge you for some extra part sale when you gove it for service. Also when you give it for service make sure you do the walk around check WITH the dealer and then hand over the keys for service. Subaru Bundoora Service gave me back my car after Service with a deep dent and told me it was there before. my bad i did the walk around check by my self before I gave then the key.. I was 100% sure that the dent wasnt there as I did the check before i gave the key for service :( never going back to Subaru or subaru Bundoora again. they lost my respect. My friends wont be going there as well as they are charged with so many parts during service.
I never understood what prevented Subaru from making a decent and a more performance oriented engine and getting rid of the cvt which made this overall a very good car a snail on the road... I wanted this car for last 3-4 generations as a second car in a family , but always switched to volvos CC or Audi allroad, due to its big gap between overall look / driving capabilities and poorly performing engines
It would be interesting to know how you were driving to uses 8.8 l/100 km in the test. In 2019 I was living in the USA and had a 2017 Outback 2.5 Touring CVT. I averaged 8.5 l/100km in 14600 km of use. Now back in NZ I've bought a 2008 Outback 2.5XT turbo with old-fashioned slushbox automatic which has averaged 9.2 l/100km over the last 10 tanks (5951 km) with a best of 8.3 on a trip from Kerikeri to Rotorua down the goat track we amusingly call State Highway 1 at Christmas. It's a bit shocking that all the modern technology in the latest engines, and CVT transmission, doesn't actually give all that much fuel savings. You might as well have the 265 HP on tap!
@@destroyerarmor2846 I don’t know. I certainly call upon all it’s got from time to time when overtaking and drive pretty briskly (110-120) on twisty roads. If someone catches me I let them pass easily but it’s rare event. I’ve driven 475 km so far today (Kaeo to Te Kuiti), 140 to go. The computer is saying 11.9 km/l (8.4 l/100km) right now.
How come I pay $45k for a 2017 premium with leather and sun roof etc. Now I have to pay over $50K for the same thing!! I don't get it. In 2017 I could get the 6 cyl for that price. Now I can only get the 4 cyl for the same price.
Exactly I'm looking for a new car to replace an aging Mitsubishi Delica which is simply the best vehicle I've ever owned I was excited about the Subaru but then saw once again Australia doesn't get a turbo No sale Subaru
Boot is more practical then 9/10 mid range SUVs. Its certainly bigger then ours....we only paid 27k for ours though with towbar, front sensors and tinted windows. It was a bargain with only 150km on the clock.
Hi Matt - thanks for the good review. Identifying the different between the base and top models from the outside is getting harder. I had a 2019 Forester and found the front seats to be not deep enough, they didn't come up behind my knee enough. Do you think the seat depth in the new Outback is the same as the Forester? Thanks.
I'd recommend heading to a Subaru dealership to do the bums-in-seats back-to-back, but I feel like they're probably the same seats. And you're right - there's less to pick the difference from the outside these days! Works well if you buy a base car, not so much if you're spening 20 per cent more on the top-spec! Cheers Matt
I'm waiting for mine (2012) to be repaired, what saved it was bugger all on the second hand market. They do need a higher specced motor in the new ones
Transmission no issue, if you want grunt look elsewhere - engine does its job & for the demographic it targets no complaints. Bang for buck, given its real off road credentials with XMode make it a class leader - in fact tell me something at $50k that comes remotely close across all uses.. Reviewers in OZ seem to forget this significant fact.
I like 2015 design of outback model rather than new model especially tail light. It looks…weird of course outback has large room of back seat and eyesight camera which I avoided few times from accident that was really helpful it Stopped straightaway when outback approach very close to front car with speed it forcely stopped and when the car is out of lane they beeping. I love outback for family car it safe and those who don’t know about subaru much, ppl think kind of expensive car like Lexus. Just doesn’t like 2 things are music sound feels lighter than other suv and Horn is very light sound like a small car. I agree with him to give 7.9 of 10
I don't think this looks like the Forrester at all. That looks like every other SUV on the market. The Outback is just in a class of it's own. Bought first outback in 1997. Then had a Liberty that the police said saved my life in 2001 after being T-boned by a Pajero. Just ordered a 23 model Touring and will get it just before Christmas - can't wait
Love the Outback, hate the giant screen in the middle of the dashboard. I much preferred the previous model system - a smaller screen and some actual knobs to avoid the need to constantly look down at the screen while driving.
My 2001 has 400K on it. Yes it is looking tired, has some quirks, likes to rev high with the manual transmission. Cheap to own. The 2016 diesel manual is not lasting as well. There is worrying noise from the mid differential.
This is really useful! I'm a big wagon fan and I'm seriously considering the new Outback. Any chance of a comparison video for the midrange wagons that are dropping in March/April? The Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Passat and Subaru Outback all seem comparable which makes it really hard to decide between them.
i have a 2018 outback , there was some things in the forester which i would like in the outback , but im very happy with the car so far , would i buy another one ? yeap . i would . it suits me what we use it for , around town work and country runs for holidays. yea its a wagon . good car . im keen to see the 2022 model . cheers Steve/Geraldton
I like the basic value proposition/packaging. Lifted wagon, AWD, reasonable fuel economy, availability of trims that feels kinda preimum . But my concern is outdated power plant, lack of innovation in power plant and some worrying signals about deteriorating reliability in recent years Subies. Toyota Versa seems quite intriguing.
Not sure how relevant this argument will come across but how does one reconcile with powerplants from cars 10 or 20 years ago that are still on the road? Doesn't exactly make them obsolete or dangerous to operate. The old, trust adage here is, if it ain't broken, don't fix or change it; much like Subaru's design language, funnily enough. The 186hp is stout enough for day-to-day excursion and can still tow enough. I thought about going up to the XT but I'm thinking 90% of the time, the non-turbo version will be fine and saves me from speeding tickets which I think will be much more tempting in the XT.
Re the back seats folding down. Does the seat part lift forward , then the the back of the seat fold down forward ? Or does the back of the seat just fold down forward over the seat area ?
i have the prior version. The motor loosens up and there's plenty of power. but ive driven an XT turbo and that thing is quick. THe Outback is not quick and the prior car's CVT took a while to kick e.g. when changing from reverse to drive. But super reliable, cheap to service. great service. HIgh quality. Need to see one in the flesh as I dont love the shape of the old or new.
It is too bad that the Turbo didn’t make it down to you. The Turbo is a much more enjoyable with the 2.4 version. It does lose a tiny bit of efficiency but it’s not something feel in your wallet.
You mentioned a warranty period of 5 years, unlimited kilometers? Is that a bumper to bumper warranty or just an engine/drivetrain warranty? Either way, I wish Subaru would offer that in the States!
That could be one of the best 4x4 wagons in this market. The main problem with this car is probably the fuel consumption. Although 8.8L/100km is not too high for a 4x4 car.
Nope, 8.8 isn't bad. But that was primarily one occupant and a decent skew towards open/highway driving. With a family of four and a boot full of gear things might be different. Cheers Matt
Our Subaru vehicles are made in Japan. That says it all about quality I expect. There are some subtle differences with trim but the Aus and US versions are similar. Pity Subaru US have decided the 2.4 turbo is only for the north America market.............
Subaru Outback is a compact crossover. Forget the "wagon" mantra. RAV4 is a wagon too - "officially", as is written in the price quote I received. Most crossovers are wagons by definition. And yes, the Outback is a better crossover than RAV4. czcams.com/video/jcmrQe9qWkM/video.html
Nah it sucks! No 2.4 Turbo motor downunder, BUT, we pay the same price as the yanks get the 2.4Turbo model for if you do the price comparison with conversion rate from $US to $ Aus. So Subaru treats us downunder as second class citizens! We pay the same but get a lower spec vehicle whether we like it or not, there’s no choice at all! We get the vehicle that if you tow anything in the country oh highways, hasn’t got the turbo engine legs to overtake safely and quickly before traffic approaches the other way! This ISNT a car suited to Aussies needs. It’s not an outback, it’s barely a town car for mums to drop kids at school. It’s engine won’t pull the skin off a rice pudding compared to the US 2.4Turbo. The 2.5i naturally aspirated motor is the wrong power plant choice for downunder. Subaru have let us Aussies down tremendously! They have discontinued the flat 6 cylinder 3.6 litre engine suited to towing & left us with the ONLY choice 4cylinder 2.5i naturally aspirated. It’s such a “mediocre offering” when compared to the scintillating 2.4 Turbo engine the yanks get! Subaru screwed this up completely & totally. Worse still now those who bought the mediocre model, with the 2.5i naturally aspirated, can’t even take delivery! Subaru have placed “stop delivery orders” on all 2021 outback’s over quality safety issues! Brake Booster Failures & on top of that - reported 12v power outages that black out totally the tablet screen in the dash & the gauge cluster as well! There’s reports of a dealer test driving one when the power outage occurred and with so many electrical operated systems failure, (steering is electric, braking is electric, the camera stopping is electric, lane keep is electric, that the new vehicle being test driven crashed into the rear of the car in front because it could neither be steered nor stopped! This vehicle just isn’t safe for Australia in so many ways. We Australians should stand up for our rights, we aren’t second class citizens and this isn’t a 3rd world nation. Boycott Subaru Australia until we get the option of the same 2.4 Turbo motor as the Yanks and at the same price! & they need to fix the electrical system safety problems as well, because currently the vehicle is not of merchantable quality & represents a safety risk. Sign the petition to get Subaru to change their ways. chng.it/Cc2rBRmrZp
It's coming next year. Japan haven't finished redesigning the US made engine in time for the AU launch, and it wouldn't have been a good idea to go with Gen5 for another year.
I went to the Gen6 launch and there's lots to like about it. I agree that some of the design cues are a little jarring, but it's a great car compared to Gen5, particularly the reduced cabin noise.
It's incomparable. Outback is much more comfortable, better suited for daily use in city, better for family. Forester is still a car for work. Not so comfortable, you are sitting higher, less cargo space. I tried new e-boxer and it has also less engine power. I personally give Outback 9/10, Forester 6/10 ..
It’s ok, although I’m not a fan of the CVT, the lobster claw tail lights, or it’s length. Subaru makes it hard for me to buy one on the basis of its CVTs having oil that is sealed for life. I’m sure that when the oil goes off the gearbox will fail... my guess is at around 120 to 160K. You want to change the CVT oil, it’s $800 sir. No thanks.
@@johndoutty9317 Why don't you rate Mazda? I owned a 626 many years ago and did 330,000km with only a heater cable buckling - everything else, including seat fabrics remained in near new condition.
@@carsguide whilst that is true , I did say INTERIOR not infotainment nor technology, as an automotive journalist you should know the difference. Don't you think?
Interior is excellent infotainment looks modern still uses Tom Tom navigation which is lanky plus android auto looks very bad, exterior is just fine these black plastic things near tyres and bumpers were designed to make it look though but they look ugly, engine should have turbo. These are just my observations
That's specific to certain engines and as much an issue with the move to lighter-weight oils for fuel economy. Way overblown, and not specific to Subaru.
Once an outback owner, always an Outback owner. We might have other cars but I think we will always have an outback in our family.
@Murat Al Hi Mate, it’s a very bland low cost overall good car. The AWD system is good too. We got it as a company car instead of getting another hyundai iload as its more comfortable and can still carry a lot of field technician tools. If you want more comfort, quiet and high speed stability, I think you should look at a Volvo v60 or bmw 340i. Outback bounces at higher speed and is not as planted as the other two wagons. Same goes for the cabin noise, it’s on par with other low cost cars like Camry or accord.
We have had a Subaru RS for 12 yrs now. The reliability has been so great. This Outback i think, would be a great car and reliable. Most people i know with an outback's love them like children. They say a bit of an under-powdered engine is better for the longer life of the engine.
Generally bigger non turbo is better for long life like the 3.6r they discontinued.
It's a high riding wagon. And I like it.
We have a 2017 & just bought another one, a 2021. Great car, perfect for our Alaska outdoors & winter, by far a lot better on winter driving than my Mercedes E350 awd. I believe this is the most practical car, coz u have almost the size & utility of a midsize SUV & the comfort of a car. And a great price especially. Can’t go wrong with the Japanese reliability as well 👍🏽
Better then 4matic? Really??
Posting the timeline for us in the actual video. Class act. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
I have just ordered a 2021 (Gen 6) base model Outback to replace my 2006 (Gen 3) Outback with 203,000 kms on the clock. Priory to that I had 2 Liberty wagons each with over 200K kms on the clock. Why am I so loyal to Subaru? Essentially it comes down to reliability, safety, comfort, build quality and value for money (including re-sale value). In Australia we can only get the naturally aspirated 2.5L boxer engine which is fine, but what a pity that we cannot get the 2.5L turbo-charged engine option as available in the States.
we only get two models in the uk, standard and premium. I had mine a few months and wanted a car with higher ride and its just superb to drive it does everything without fuss. i live in the flatest part of the uk but its farm back roads and it just glides along the bumpy roads. Safety it does everything a volvo does and more.
Best review I see so far, thanks. It improves my confidence about is this the one for my family car. I wish the car little bit bigger or higher, but I haven't seen one yet, next steps will be visiting the dealer. Thanks for the video.
Something bigger? An Ascent model?
Absolutely love my previous gen 2020 Outback 3.6R. Its a classic "what it says on the lid" car. No pretences of being a BRZ or WRX, just a big, soft, comfortable family wagon that can handle loose stuff better than most. I've driven Mitsi and Nissan CVTs, and they've ruined the whole experience. Toyotas seem better, with less flaring, but this big ole girl is just sweet. In city traffic, it keeps the revs down, and the big motor has the grunt to cope easily. I imagine it would be a great pairing with the 2.4 turbo, if it ever comes here.
Thanks for the feedback - we agree, if you're not thinking you'll get a WRX, then the Outback is a pretty sweet rig.
The turbo will change things, if it comes, and we believe it will - but maybe not for 12-24 months.
Cheers
Matt
After owing and driving its predecessor for 4 years, I think those who ummm.. *automatically* condemn its engine and transmission are just expressing bigotry. At times, I've wanted more power, for sure, but that applies to every car I've ever owned, including some with pretty good performance. The transmission does a great job of pretending to be a torque-converter auto. Overall, words I associate with the car are "competent", "dependable", and "comfortable". I tend to think the reviewer's assessments of the car are pretty much spot on. I note there was no mention of the ventilated seats that are in the overseas models. Bad omission, Subaru Oz. Very, very bad omission. My previous car had them, and my next car will too. The sole blot in my ownership has been the number of warranty claims - I'm on my third set of roof bars - and just how appalling the Subaru dealership network is: they are almost uniformly bad at what they do.
I agree the Subaru dealerships are slack. My local one keeps trying to upsell on car servicing for my Forester. They are actually trying to scam me.
@@johndoutty9317 Interesting...I received a letter from them a short while ago, asking me to book it in for "urgent repairs"that weren't mentioned when it was serviced 3 weeks earlier. Hmnnn...
Outback always great car. Good price ,roomy and quite.
Ah we meet again I swear your a bot but maybe your not
It always amazes me how the car companies get some things so right while they miss a lot of small practical features. It's like they never take these to a test drive before shipping to the public.
Kept my Forester for 20yrs loved it, next bought Outback 21 finding it a dream to drive, adjustments on driver seating fantastic for a 5 ft. person , thought at first it was a bit too big for me but I have got used to it and the IT stuff on board. One thing annoys me though is the adjustment for incoming call volume is so low conversation isnt easy..I have gone through all the adjustments with no success. Another glitch in my love affair with this car is my windscreen cracked on the passenger side, as it is laminated it was OK to continue to drive taking into account difference in temperatures inside and outside toi stop crack moving but there wasn't a replacement windscreen in Australia and of course when it does get here after reinstallment the window has to be recalibrated taking a whole day..These annoyances aside I am glad I bought the Outback 21, haven't done 10,000 klms yet but looking forward to another 20 yrs with Subaru
Joe many km did you have on the 20 year old forester?
I want to like this vehicle. However, the big elephant in the room is the 2.5L engine and CVT transmission. I drove a 2019 Liberty with the 2.5L engine with the CVT, and I got to say it was the dullest vehicle I have ever driven. A Camry is more exciting to drive compared to a Liberty. Not only was it dull to drive but, it consumed so much fuel, around 10.5L per 100km combined driving! I hope this new revised version of the boxer 2.5L engine addressed some of the predecessor concern. However, my thoughts remain that this is still going to be a bore to drive. I'm not expecting a sportcar experience just, something that isn't asthmatic.
It’s supposed to be boring and comfortable that’s the point, if you want performance buy a levorg...
@@wadedixon6780 if you want to make it boring at least make it fuel efficient...a Camry is boring but atleast it's good on fuel... Compared to a liberty which uses about the same amount of fuel as my BA Falcon!
I would not mind owning one of these Outback models. Have always been a "station wagon" kind of guy. They seem to be an honest, reliable vehicle with lots of practicality thrown in for good measure. Only if I had the 💰 though...
As soon as the the turbo model is available, sold!
My answer to this question is yes…I traded the RAV for a Subaru.
Are you still happy with that decision? Does it have enough grunt?
Thanks for a great review as usual.
I understand the marketing timing for not releasing the Turbo at the same time as the standard aspiration model - they can pump the market with enthusiasm at a time that Subaru determines, which will also enhance sales for the standard model by association. The Turbo model will probably require 95 Octane fuel (as a WRX does) - if that was released at the same time as the standard model, there would be not so much to gain for the seller. Moral is to keep the cash cow pumping and don't peak too soon.
I do wonder how the CVT will go long term with any owners who exploit that 2 tonne braked capacity regularly.
@@MarcMol You are correct. The North American XT/Outdoor model is flashed for 87 petrol. IMO it's a waste to run it on any higher octane.
I used to tire of cars after 4 years and change them, that was until I got my 2003 H6.....still with me after all these years.
This will be 2022 in most markets that lagged a year behind, seems like they went back to the circular fog lights.
So many American reviewers have complained about the touchscreen on the current Outback and Legacy. There's a bit of a learning curve, but its really not that bad. Once I had the auto climate control settings where I wanted I was set. Rarely have to dig into the menus for anything esoteric (and I wouldn't do that unless I was parked). Strange that Australia doesn't get the turbo like North America does. I have it and its quite nice.
I own the previous model. Pros : The outback is super comfy bcoz of its long wheel base + very good safety features like subaru eyesight.. value for money . Cons : under power.. doesnt help overtaking or sudden launch , Subaru service is very high - as the dealer will come up with reasons to charge you for some extra part sale when you gove it for service. Also when you give it for service make sure you do the walk around check WITH the dealer and then hand over the keys for service. Subaru Bundoora Service gave me back my car after Service with a deep dent and told me it was there before. my bad i did the walk around check by my self before I gave then the key.. I was 100% sure that the dent wasnt there as I did the check before i gave the key for service :( never going back to Subaru or subaru Bundoora again. they lost my respect. My friends wont be going there as well as they are charged with so many parts during service.
I never understood what prevented Subaru from making a decent and a more performance oriented engine and getting rid of the cvt which made this overall a very good car a snail on the road...
I wanted this car for last 3-4 generations as a second car in a family , but always switched to volvos CC or Audi allroad, due to its big gap between overall look / driving capabilities and poorly performing engines
Maybe Toyota prevent them.
Everyone seems to buy korean shitboxes these days with horrible AEB and pedestrian detection
GREAT Review Guys
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Cheers
Matt
It’s needs the turbo ! The standard engine is damn wheezy…
After 4 Turbo Subaru’s I’m now looking at Mazda or BMW for the family car.
This car is like a soccer mom who knows how to play soccer like professional.
Seeing the video it’s going to be very interesting to see what the do with the new wrx hopefully we will get a video soon
It's a while away. Our mail on the new WRX is that we'll get it here in late 2021. Stay tuned though - we will give it the full treatment!
Thanks
Matt
It’s almost March and American dealers haven’t received 2021 WRX yet. The redesign comes with the 2022 model year, however.
There's something Australian about the Outback nameplate.
I really want that CD player.
Great car, great review - love your style - I just ordered the touring, what do you think of the option front grill please?
It would be interesting to know how you were driving to uses 8.8 l/100 km in the test. In 2019 I was living in the USA and had a 2017 Outback 2.5 Touring CVT. I averaged 8.5 l/100km in 14600 km of use. Now back in NZ I've bought a 2008 Outback 2.5XT turbo with old-fashioned slushbox automatic which has averaged 9.2 l/100km over the last 10 tanks (5951 km) with a best of 8.3 on a trip from Kerikeri to Rotorua down the goat track we amusingly call State Highway 1 at Christmas. It's a bit shocking that all the modern technology in the latest engines, and CVT transmission, doesn't actually give all that much fuel savings. You might as well have the 265 HP on tap!
You must be a conservative driver. Give a youth that 2.5xt and watch the fuel economy go down
@@destroyerarmor2846 I don’t know. I certainly call upon all it’s got from time to time when overtaking and drive pretty briskly (110-120) on twisty roads. If someone catches me I let them pass easily but it’s rare event. I’ve driven 475 km so far today (Kaeo to Te Kuiti), 140 to go. The computer is saying 11.9 km/l (8.4 l/100km) right now.
How come I pay $45k for a 2017 premium with leather and sun roof etc. Now I have to pay over $50K for the same thing!! I don't get it. In 2017 I could get the 6 cyl for that price. Now I can only get the 4 cyl for the same price.
The prices shown are all below 50k ???
Subaru, bring the turbo to Australia. I’ll buy my parter one. Pinky swear
Exactly
I'm looking for a new car to replace an aging Mitsubishi Delica which is simply the best vehicle I've ever owned
I was excited about the Subaru but then saw once again Australia doesn't get a turbo
No sale Subaru
Add turbo and zf transmission and would get an instant sale
It’s called a levorg...
Boot is more practical then 9/10 mid range SUVs. Its certainly bigger then ours....we only paid 27k for ours though with towbar, front sensors and tinted windows. It was a bargain with only 150km on the clock.
Chairman of Subaru's mother still uses CDs.
2021 Subaru Outback will not be a big seller in Australia, Stupid not bringing the turbo into Australia
Hi Matt - thanks for the good review. Identifying the different between the base and top models from the outside is getting harder. I had a 2019 Forester and found the front seats to be not deep enough, they didn't come up behind my knee enough. Do you think the seat depth in the new Outback is the same as the Forester? Thanks.
I'd recommend heading to a Subaru dealership to do the bums-in-seats back-to-back, but I feel like they're probably the same seats.
And you're right - there's less to pick the difference from the outside these days! Works well if you buy a base car, not so much if you're spening 20 per cent more on the top-spec!
Cheers
Matt
I'm waiting for mine (2012) to be repaired, what saved it was bugger all on the second hand market. They do need a higher specced motor in the new ones
Subaru I have a 3.6 and would update with this new one.....but not the 2.5. What are you thinking? Bring in the 2.4T.
It's coming next year
Hope so
Owned 4 Subaru , last one with a CVT. Unfortunately, I don't think I will buy one again (unless they change to an AISIN 8 speed).
The reason is that CVT reveals slow dynamics or its bad reliability?
Transmission no issue, if you want grunt look elsewhere - engine does its job & for the demographic it targets no complaints. Bang for buck, given its real off road credentials with XMode make it a class leader - in fact tell me something at $50k that comes remotely close across all uses.. Reviewers in OZ seem to forget this significant fact.
Correct
Waiting on the 2.4T........
Do you know when that may be coming to Australia?
I like 2015 design of outback model rather than new model especially tail light. It looks…weird of course outback has large room of back seat and eyesight camera which I avoided few times from accident that was really helpful it
Stopped straightaway when outback approach very close to front car with speed it forcely stopped and when the car is out of lane they beeping. I love outback for family car it safe and those who don’t know about subaru much, ppl think kind of expensive car like Lexus. Just doesn’t like 2 things are music sound feels lighter than other suv and Horn is very light sound like a small car. I agree with him to give 7.9 of 10
I don't think this looks like the Forrester at all. That looks like every other SUV on the market. The Outback is just in a class of it's own. Bought first outback in 1997. Then had a Liberty that the police said saved my life in 2001 after being T-boned by a Pajero. Just ordered a 23 model Touring and will get it just before Christmas - can't wait
Love the Outback, hate the giant screen in the middle of the dashboard. I much preferred the previous model system - a smaller screen and some actual knobs to avoid the need to constantly look down at the screen while driving.
My 2001 has 400K on it. Yes it is looking tired, has some quirks, likes to rev high with the manual transmission. Cheap to own. The 2016 diesel manual is not lasting as well. There is worrying noise from the mid differential.
This is really useful! I'm a big wagon fan and I'm seriously considering the new Outback. Any chance of a comparison video for the midrange wagons that are dropping in March/April? The Skoda Octavia, Volkswagen Passat and Subaru Outback all seem comparable which makes it really hard to decide between them.
Good comparison idea...! We will investigate.
Thanks
Matt
If you want reliable Petrol AWD with higher chassis, go for Outback..
pls Add Mazda 6 Wagon too if you do a wagon comparison
you can skip the ISOFIX as its been an ADR standard since 2014 (introduced since 2012)
i have a 2018 outback , there was some things in the forester which i would like in the outback , but im very happy with the car so far , would i buy another one ? yeap . i would . it suits me what we use it for , around town work and country runs for holidays. yea its a wagon . good car . im keen to see the 2022 model . cheers Steve/Geraldton
How comfortable is the driving in this car?
How much noisy sound is heard when you drive this car in highway?
Nice review Matt. I'll have Hybrid Theory ready to go when I get my test drive. But can you foresee the problem with that CD player?
Where did my fuel card go
Where did that coin go
The wife’s bobby pins
...
Thanks review. No turbo. No outback.
It’s a shame!! Going for the Mazda.
I like the basic value proposition/packaging. Lifted wagon, AWD, reasonable fuel economy, availability of trims that feels kinda preimum . But my concern is outdated power plant, lack of innovation in power plant and some worrying signals about deteriorating reliability in recent years Subies. Toyota Versa seems quite intriguing.
Not sure how relevant this argument will come across but how does one reconcile with powerplants from cars 10 or 20 years ago that are still on the road? Doesn't exactly make them obsolete or dangerous to operate. The old, trust adage here is, if it ain't broken, don't fix or change it; much like Subaru's design language, funnily enough. The 186hp is stout enough for day-to-day excursion and can still tow enough. I thought about going up to the XT but I'm thinking 90% of the time, the non-turbo version will be fine and saves me from speeding tickets which I think will be much more tempting in the XT.
Re the back seats folding down. Does the seat part lift forward , then the the back of the seat fold down forward ?
Or does the back of the seat just fold down forward over the seat area ?
i have the prior version. The motor loosens up and there's plenty of power. but ive driven an XT turbo and that thing is quick. THe Outback is not quick and the prior car's CVT took a while to kick e.g. when changing from reverse to drive. But super reliable, cheap to service. great service. HIgh quality. Need to see one in the flesh as I dont love the shape of the old or new.
It is too bad that the Turbo didn’t make it down to you. The Turbo is a much more enjoyable with the 2.4 version. It does lose a tiny bit of efficiency but it’s not something feel in your wallet.
You mentioned a warranty period of 5 years, unlimited kilometers? Is that a bumper to bumper warranty or just an engine/drivetrain warranty? Either way, I wish Subaru would offer that in the States!
That could be one of the best 4x4 wagons in this market. The main problem with this car is probably the fuel consumption. Although 8.8L/100km is not too high for a 4x4 car.
Nope, 8.8 isn't bad. But that was primarily one occupant and a decent skew towards open/highway driving. With a family of four and a boot full of gear things might be different.
Cheers
Matt
I have the current model and on long trips, we regularly record consumption at worst 7.3 l/100 and at best 6.5 l/100.
Is there big difference between our and American outbacks.
Our Subaru vehicles are made in Japan. That says it all about quality I expect. There are some subtle differences with trim but the Aus and US versions are similar. Pity Subaru US have decided the 2.4 turbo is only for the north America market.............
Does it have memory seat positions?
Great review. Your into shows you know outback owners.
My one question. Is the stereo in the top model worth the extra money?
no, go to a shop and get real speakers like hertz, jl, audison, arc
and an amp to run them
Interested to hear this
Please review also 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander! Thanks 😊
Great vehicle, however it is under powered. No 6 cylinders and no turbo charge.
from Vietnam with love
If only we had the turbo, I’d be buying an outback straight away. Until then... I’d rather spend money on something useful
I love it!!
Apparently the new Outback is never going to make it to Europe. At least we can congratulate Australia.
Soooo is this a better alternative to the RAV4??? That why I'm here and very disapointed in this click bait!!!
Not new one I would go for RAV4!Why put CVT in Subaru?Lost a customer now!
Nice review, I’m sure Subaru will sell plenty of these to the outback supporters.
The way the whole panel moved when the tailgate button was pressed at 8:53 looked cheap as fluck 😳
Question security after Hrs ,will the Outback be still there in the morning .J
Subaru Outback is a compact crossover. Forget the "wagon" mantra. RAV4 is a wagon too - "officially", as is written in the price quote I received. Most crossovers are wagons by definition. And yes, the Outback is a better crossover than RAV4. czcams.com/video/jcmrQe9qWkM/video.html
OMG, Mat Campbell, you've come a long way big fella! Doing well I see and BTW I've just ordered a new Sports model 2021 Outback.
Take care.👍
It seems that they didn't bother to put gas struts under the bonnet. Shame.
Its officially on my short list.
Nah it sucks!
No 2.4 Turbo motor downunder, BUT, we pay the same price as the yanks get the 2.4Turbo model for if you do the price comparison with conversion rate from $US to $ Aus.
So Subaru treats us downunder as second class citizens!
We pay the same but get a lower spec vehicle whether we like it or not, there’s no choice at all!
We get the vehicle that if you tow anything in the country oh highways, hasn’t got the turbo engine legs to overtake safely and quickly before traffic approaches the other way!
This ISNT a car suited to Aussies needs.
It’s not an outback, it’s barely a town car for mums to drop kids at school.
It’s engine won’t pull the skin off a rice pudding compared to the US 2.4Turbo.
The 2.5i naturally aspirated motor is the wrong power plant choice for downunder.
Subaru have let us Aussies down tremendously!
They have discontinued the flat 6 cylinder 3.6 litre engine suited to towing & left us with the ONLY choice 4cylinder 2.5i naturally aspirated.
It’s such a “mediocre offering” when compared to the scintillating 2.4 Turbo engine the yanks get!
Subaru screwed this up completely & totally.
Worse still now those who bought the mediocre model, with the 2.5i naturally aspirated, can’t even take delivery! Subaru have placed “stop delivery orders” on all 2021 outback’s over quality safety issues!
Brake Booster Failures & on top of that - reported 12v power outages that black out totally the tablet screen in the dash & the gauge cluster as well!
There’s reports of a dealer test driving one when the power outage occurred and with so many electrical operated systems failure, (steering is electric, braking is electric, the camera stopping is electric, lane keep is electric, that the new vehicle being test driven crashed into the rear of the car in front because it could neither be steered nor stopped!
This vehicle just isn’t safe for Australia in so many ways.
We Australians should stand up for our rights, we aren’t second class citizens and this isn’t a 3rd world nation.
Boycott Subaru Australia until we get the option of the same 2.4 Turbo motor as the Yanks and at the same price! & they need to fix the electrical system safety problems as well, because currently the vehicle is not of merchantable quality & represents a safety risk.
Sign the petition to get Subaru to change their ways.
chng.it/Cc2rBRmrZp
Unfortunately our market is too small c.f.the US.
And Subaru Australia is just an importer and has no direct input or sway over FHI Japan unfortunately.
Such a great car totally ruined by a lame engine and transmission. I could even forgive the CVT if it had a turbo....
Like the WRX, you mean? And like the next Levorg...? Hmmm... You could be onto something!
Thanks
Matt
@Paul Attard Potential customers are lower importance compared with actual customers who put their money where their mouth is.
@@carsguide Matt I'd much rather have a turbo manual. Subaru have totally lost the plot these days
@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars I'm on my third Subaru, all turbo 4 or H6. Will never buy a CVT NA 2.5 ever. Customer lost
@@LoftyVisions I reckon a turbo manual would sell in VERY small numbers. But I might buy it, too!
Matt
Was the CD player necessary?
no turbo, means no buy. without turbo engine , Subaru is not Subaru....
Add CVT = 😵
It's coming next year. Japan haven't finished redesigning the US made engine in time for the AU launch, and it wouldn't have been a good idea to go with Gen5 for another year.
I like my 5th gen design better. 6th gen looks strange with it's bulgy/squared quarters and back end... looks like a rugged Prius.
I went to the Gen6 launch and there's lots to like about it. I agree that some of the design cues are a little jarring, but it's a great car compared to Gen5, particularly the reduced cabin noise.
No turbo or diesel, and still the ugliest roof rails in existence.
Great review Matt! Just curious to hear your thoughts on how the Outback’s ride compares to the Forester?
It's incomparable. Outback is much more comfortable, better suited for daily use in city, better for family. Forester is still a car for work. Not so comfortable, you are sitting higher, less cargo space. I tried new e-boxer and it has also less engine power. I personally give Outback 9/10, Forester 6/10 ..
why are we not getting the turbo engine?
Next year we will
The 2.4 turbo engine is US made. Subaru Japan are still redesigning the US engine to "fix the bugs in it", according to our local rep.
7.9 ? you are kidding, at least an 8.5
Did you hear me say "read the review before you hate on the rating"?
Matt
It’s ok, although I’m not a fan of the CVT, the lobster claw tail lights, or it’s length. Subaru makes it hard for me to buy one on the basis of its CVTs having oil that is sealed for life. I’m sure that when the oil goes off the gearbox will fail... my guess is at around 120 to 160K. You want to change the CVT oil, it’s $800 sir. No thanks.
But you save the money for destroyed turbo..
and......still no turbo 😞
Why not Subaru?
Pass
You don't have the turbo option in your country?
No Turbo engine in the Outback just elevated the Mazda CX5 Turbo to the top of my list.
@@MarcMol If I wanted to go off roading, I wouldn't buy either one.
The best Japanese cars to buy are Toyota, Honda, Subaru . I don't rate Mazda.
@@johndoutty9317 Why don't you rate Mazda? I owned a 626 many years ago and did 330,000km with only a heater cable buckling - everything else, including seat fabrics remained in near new condition.
Good choice. And you don't have to be disappointed by a CVT. CX5 have less space though but CVT was a deal breaker for me.
A temporary spare wheel rules it out for me, especially for touring over long distances in Australia.
Older Versions BETTER in my personal veiw..
Hey, I think I like the look of the old model more than this, and the fact there were more options available, too.
Matt
bad weather driving? turning off the eyesight tech? etc. incomplete review.
Are the DRLs not working at 14:40 ?
Think it's to do with camera framerate, but it does look like they blanked out...!
Matt
Handsome car! 👍
I was here to find out is it better than RAV 4 as per title suggested… guess I’m at the wrong place.
CVT = no way!
Why?
Could have been worse like Nissan jatco
I think he never tried it :) CVTs in new Subaru's are awesome
Clearly demonstrating that you've never driven one. There's nothing wrong with CVT's.
2011 has called and they want their interior back 😂
No car in 2011 had an 11.6-inch touchscreen, nor did any car have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto...?
Cheers
Matt
@@carsguide whilst that is true , I did say INTERIOR not infotainment nor technology, as an automotive journalist you should know the difference. Don't you think?
I like the interior, it very is elegant and modern. Trust me they never had a 11+ inch screen with apple/ Google Play back in 2011.
@@sandorhodi4630are you referring to upholstery? That is a monster touchscreen to completely modernize the interior.
CD player? What year is it?
I like a CD player. I am not throwing hundreds of Cd's away.
Subaru makes great cars; reliable and safe, but unfortunately they are always behind in design, options and features.
Interior is excellent infotainment looks modern still uses Tom Tom navigation which is lanky plus android auto looks very bad, exterior is just fine these black plastic things near tyres and bumpers were designed to make it look though but they look ugly, engine should have turbo. These are just my observations
Dose Subaru solve the issue about burning engineer oil?
That's specific to certain engines and as much an issue with the move to lighter-weight oils for fuel economy. Way overblown, and not specific to Subaru.
Thats a feature with boxer engines. Consuming oil when running, and leaking when parked