Subaru Outback 2.5I Touring AWD SUV 2021 Review

We drive the Subaru Outback on a road test review

Subaru Outback is unique amongst SUVs in that it is more wagon based rather than upright SUV, yet has more ground clearance, capability and space than others.

Subaru Outback Touring front qtr The outback has true full time premium Active Torque Split AWD that distributes optimal torque to the front and rear wheels, depending on road surface and driving conditions.

They also feature dual-mode X-MODE that enhances Outback’s AWD off-road performance. It rivals the Land Rover Discovery Sport, which is the closest SUV to the Outback in capability terms.

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Powered by a 2.5L boxer engine that delivers 138Kw/245 NM and drives through a revised CVT with an 8 step manual mode. This provides adequate performance, but I would love to see a sport version.

Subaru Outback Touring interior drivers instruments

The interior of the latest version has a luxurious ambience and the vertical central screen is amongst the best in class for its intuitive ease of use and clarity.

In terms of SUVs the Outback stands alone with its combination of safety, luxury, ride and handling, AWD capability and practicality. It’s also outstanding value for money at around $47,790 plus the usual costs.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Subaru Outback Touring rear qtr

Some Other Subaru Outback Articles

Subaru Outback Touring interior reverse camera

What is good?

What is not so good?

  • Selectable adaptive cruise control
  • Technology user interface easy to use
  • AWD and towing capability
  • Central screen clarity in direct sunlight
  • NO HUD
  • No turbo version

Subaru Outback Touring boot

Also Look At

Subaru Outback Touring engine

Model   

Subaru Outback Touring AWD

Model Price $47,790 MLP*
Engine 2.5L Boxer 4 Cyl
Drivetrain CVT 8 Step manual mode, Active Split Torque AWD with X-Mode
Power 138kW @ 5,800 rpm
Torque 245 NM @ 3,400 to 4,600 rpm
Safety Five Star ANCAP
CO2 Emissions 168 g/km
Economy ADR 7.3 L/100km
Tow Capacity/Tow Ball 2000 Kg / 200kg
Servicing 12 Months / 12500 km  Service Plan
Warranty 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5 Yr. roadside assist

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

Subaru Outback Touring interior front

Overall Rating    

92/100

Behind the Wheel 9
Comfort 9
Equipment 9
Performance 8
Ride and Handling 9
Practicality 10
Fit for Purpose 10
AWD/Towing Capability 9
Technology/connectivity 9
Value for Money 10

Subaru Outback Touring profile

Dimensions

 
Overall Length 4870mm
Wheelbase 2745mm
Width / Height 1875mm / 1675mm
Unladen ground clearance / wading depth Up to 213mm / TBA mm
Approach / Rampover / Departure (degrees) TBA
Fuel Tank  / Turning Circle 63 Litres / 11.0mts KTK
Kerb Weight /  GVM / GCM 1661kg / 2200kg / 4200KG
Towing Capacity / Tow Ball rating 2000kg / 100kg

 

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  • 9/10
    Behind the Wheel - 9/10
  • 9/10
    Comfort - 9/10
  • 9/10
    Equipment - 9/10
  • 8/10
    Performance - 8/10
  • 9/10
    Ride and Handling - 9/10
  • 10/10
    Practicality - 10/10
  • 10/10
    Fit for Purpose - 10/10
  • 9/10
    AWD/Towing Capability - 9/10
  • 9/10
    Technology/connectivity - 9/10
  • 10/10
    Value for Money - 10/10
9.2/10

Summary

Subaru Outback – In terms of SUVs the Outback stands alone with its combination of safety, luxury, ride and handling, AWD capability and practicality. It’s also outstanding value for money at around $47,790 plus the usual costs.

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About Rob Fraser 2510 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.