Subaru Outback

Essentially a jacked-up Subaru Legacy estate, the Outback mixes car-like dynamics with rugged off-road ability

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Rating:
Latest deal price: from £27,214 to £33,985
For : Smooth diesel engine, well equipped, four-wheel-drive traction
Against : Awkward looks, dated cabin, high running costs

The rough and tumble Subaru Outback has been a firm fixture in the manufacturer's line-up since 1995. Essentially a Legacy estate with a raised ride height, the rugged model is now in its fourth generation. A practical, dependable and likeable family holdall, it’s a quirky alternative to the Audi A4 Allroad and Volvo XC70. All versions benefit from the famous Subaru symmetrical four-wheel drive system and a range of characterful flat-four ‘boxer’ engines. There’s only a limited number of trim levels to choose from and all are quite pricey, but on the plus side standard equipment levels are high.

Our pick: Subaru Outback 2.0D SE AWD

Styling

The Subaru Outback features a gaping grille, large headlamps and bulging wheelarches. Jacked-up suspension and tough looking plastic mouldings hint at its off-road potential. Buyers can choose from S, SE and SE Nav Plus trims, although they all look identical externally. Climb aboard and you’ll find a robust and workmanlike cabin. It’s solidly screwed together, but the materials don’t feel as upmarket as rivals, while the dashboard design is dated. Still, there’s plenty of equipment, with all versions getting climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and heated seats. Go for the SE and you’ll benefit from leather seat trim, while Nav Plus models include a clunky sat-nav set-up.

Driving and Performance

There’s limited engine choice, with two petrols and one diesel available. Entry-level models get a smooth 167bhp 2.5-litre petrol with a Lineartronic CVT automatic gearbox, which is refined but works hard in this big car. The 256bhp 3.6-litre flat-six petrol is not short on performance, completing the 0-62mph sprint in 7.5 seconds, but its only available with a clunky five-speed auto. Best is the punchy 2.0-litre diesel. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it suits the go-anywhere attitude of the Outback. A 10-way adjustable electric driver’s seat is standard, and the combination of good visibility and a poised and grippy four-wheel-drive chassis makes the Outback surprisingly road capable. A 70mm increase in height over the Legacy means the Subaru feels assured in the rough.

MPG and running costs

As with the Legacy, petrol-powered Outback models are not cheap to run. Unsurprisingly it’s the 3.6-litre petrol that features the most wallet wilting costs, courtesy of CO2 emissions of 232g/km and claimed fuel returns of just 28.2mpg. The 2.5-litre is only slightly cleaner and more efficient, but has much less straightline pace. So that leaves the diesel to uphold the eco-friendly honours for the Outback. Its impressive figures of 167g/km and 44.1mpg are similar to an Audi A4 Allroad 2.0 TDI. With residuals of around 40 per cent and so much standard kit, you won’t need to splash out on any expensive options.

Practicality

Given its size and estate car roots, it would be a surprise if the Subaru didn’t impress in this category. There’s plenty of space inside for five adults, while the large glass area creates a bright and airy atmosphere. Moreover, a multitude of cubbies, deep door bins and a large glovebox mean there’s a decent amount of storage. Opening the large tailgate reveals a usefully low loading lip, plus a generous 526-litre boot. Fold the rear bench flat and the carrying capacity increases to a van-like 1,677 litres. And of course, the combination of grippy four-wheel drive and self-levelling rear suspension makes the Outback a first-rate towing vehicle.

Safety and reliability

The Outback hasn’t been given the Euro NCAP treatment, but its mechanically and structurally identical Legacy brother secured a five-star rating. All versions benefit from electronic stability control, six airbags and ISOFIX mountings for baby seats. The Outback also scores with its permanent four-wheel-drive system, which delivers reassuring traction in all weathers. Owners can expect dependable service from the tough mechanicals fitted to the Subaru, while the solidly constructed cabin feels like it will withstand all manner of abuse. And while maintenance costs aren’t the cheapest, Subaru dealers always score strongly in our Driver Power satisfaction surveys, so you can expect a top-notch service.