The Subaru Outback has been engineered for the Kalahari desert, but in this sixth generation form, should work a bit better in the suburbs too. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

Almost everything's different with this sixth generation Subaru Outback but ultimately, not much has really changed. Not even for this new era of electrification. But it's still the toughest, most capable 4x4 estate out there.

Background

The Subaru Outback. With a history going all the way back to 1995, it was the original off-road-orientated family estate, with an image that, at the turn of the century, placed it comfortably alongside big Volvos and Land Rovers as a preferred choice for the tweed jacketed country set. In more recent times, it's been a rarer sight on our roads - something Subaru's importers would like to change, with the introduction of this much improved sixth generation version. The Japanese brand reckons that this was the original 'Crossover' vehicle. Now this may be true but the way the market now understands 'Crossovers' (as Nissan Qashqai-like SUV-styled family hatches with little off road ability) doesn't fit the Outback's remit at all. With a core market following in wild parts of Australia, America and Asia, it has to be pretty capable in the rough - or at least pretty capable for something that remains a conventional estate car. In this sixth generation guise, launched here in mid-2021, it continues to be.

Driving Experience

Like its predecessor, this MK6 Outback uses a 2.5-litre petrol engine (though there's no longer a diesel option). Subaru says though, that it's a very different unit now, with around 90% of its parts being different, though, somewhat surprisingly, no attempt has been made to build in the company's latest Boxer Hybrid tech that features on smaller Subarus. As before, this petrol engine has to be had paired to Lineartronic CVT auto transmission, which Subaru has now enhanced with a wider range of gear ratio coverage, so the 'box won't be swapping cogs quite so frequently. This MK6 model's use of the latest Subaru Global Platform has allowed the brand to create a much stiffer structure for the body, the front suspension and the rear subframe. Should you ever throw this car into a corner, you should feel the benefit of that because body roll is supposed to be reduced by up to 50%. Through that corner, you might also feel the benefit of the active torque vectoring system that's now been engineered into the AWD set-up (Subaru calls it 'SAWD'). Handling performance and ride comfort have also been increased with significant improvements made to the suspension and chassis, removing vibrations from the steering system, floor, and seats. There's also enhanced off road performance, thanks to an evolved 'X-MODE' system, with Hill Descent Control for slippery slopes. Switch between [SNOW/DIRT] mode to confidently negotiate snow, dirt, or gravel, or [D.SNOW/MUD] mode for soft conditions where lesser vehicles get stuck. The high 213mm ground clearance maximises approach, departure and ramp angles, minimising the risk of the bumpers or chassis getting damaged or stuck. This Outback also boasts a 2,000kg braked or 750kg unbraked towing capacity.

Design and Build

Existing Outback owners won't want anything radically different to what was served up before - so most will like the evolutionary redesign that features here. This sixth generation version looks more athletic than before, but retains a tough and rugged demeanour that sets it apart from less capable segment rivals like Volvo's V60 Cross Country and the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. Prominent wheel arches surround the premium 18-inch alloy wheels that get fitted across the range. Inside, it feels more spacious than the previous generation model. Even at the front, which benefits from the fact that the windscreen has been moved forward and the front side door windows moved out. Avoid entry-level trim and you get Subaru's latest 11.6-inch central display screen, part of a completely revamped infotainment system. Rear seat space benefits from an increase in the bodywork's total length. The luggage area, accessed via Subaru's very first hands-free powered tailgate, is larger too, rated at 561-litres and extendable to 1,822-litres with the seats 60:40-split-folded. Little touches please too, like the wider non-slip side sill steps for the front and rear doors. And the improved boot area hooks so items can be more easily secured.

Market and Model

Prices start at around £34,000 for the base 'Limited' version, rising to around £38,000 for the mid-range 'Field' model and around £39,500 for the top 'Touring' variant. All models are well equipped, with standard features like keyless entry, LED headlights with high beam assist and LED front fog lights. Across the range, there are a variety of seats options, from Nappa leather seats for a more luxurious feel in the Outback 'Touring', to more practical and durable water-repellent synthetic leather seats in the Outback 'Field'. Both front and rear seats enjoy heating to shoulder level with three temperature settings and a heated steering wheel takes the chill out of winter journeys. Safety kit includes the brand's next generation EyeSight Driver Assist technology, which includes quite a lot: Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering Function, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Speed Sign Recognition with Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning with steering wheel vibration, Lane Departure Prevention and Pre-Collision Braking System with expanded support for collision avoidance at junctions and crossroads. New to the range is the Driver Monitoring System, which will alert the driver when distracted or feeling fatigued. Reverse Automatic braking meanwhile, helps drivers to avoid collisions when reversing and mitigates the damage in case of collision.

Cost of Ownership

Subaru owners tend to be a well-informed bunch and they probably won't thank us for letting a few of their secrets out. The big one is residual value. The Outback has long been a big winner in that department and things have only got better in recent years. As for running cost efficiency, well in this era of engine electrification, it's a surprise to find that nothing of that sort's included here, particularly given that the brand has developed full-Hybrid technology for its XV and Forester models. Mind you, that doesn't make those cars particularly economic, so maybe that's no great loss. All Outback variants record the same efficiency figures - 32.8mpg on the combined cycle and 193g/km. Yes, rivals will do better. No, they can't offer the same kind of all-terrain ability.

Summary

Subaru needs to reach a wider market, but there was little point in radically changing this Outback in order to find it. We're surprised that this sixth generation model doesn't feature the company's latest Boxer Hybrid tech, but we doubt whether this will bother likely customers very much. People who don't want an SUV but are looking for the toughest, most durable 4x4 estate out there. This is it. The improvements made in drive dynamics here are welcome, but it's unlikely that many owners will really notice them. You don't choose an Outback for the pleasure of throwing it from lock to lock at speed. You choose it because it can be a luxury estate on minute, then a go-anywhere family conveyance to your mountainside weekend cottage the next. This Subaru is now slightly better at drive dynamics, interior comfort and efficiency than it was before, but rivals still do those things better. All of them though, feel rather silly next to an Outback. And that's the biggest compliment we can probably pay it.

Body Glass

Rear wiper

Privacy glass

Windscreen wiper de-icer

Automatic wipers

Power windows with one touch function on all 4 windows

Brakes

Electronic parking brake

Anti-lock Brake System + Electronic Brakeforce Distribution + Emergency Brake Assit

Auto hold function

BAS (Brake Assist System)

Active torque vectoring

Reverse automatic braking

Chassis/Suspension

SVDC - Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control

Communication

Voice recognition

Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Driver Aids

Power assisted steering

Rear parking sensors

Digital reversing camera with washer jet for lens

Eye sight assist monitor

SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive)

X-Mode (2 modes) and hill descent control

Front and side Multi view monitor

Driver Convenience

Stop/start system

Hands free power tailgate

Tonneau cover with pop up function

Driver Information

Trip computer

Rev counter

Satellite Navigation

e-Call (emergency call)

Pin Code Access

Driving Mirrors

Heated door mirrors

Automatic dimming rear view mirror

Satin chrome door mirrors with built-in LED indicators

Dipping passenger door mirror on reverse gear

Auto power folding door mirrors on ignition

Entertainment

Steering wheel mounted audio controls

DAB Digital radio

Auxiliary audio input socket

Bluetooth telephone and audio streaming

2 x USB ports for row 1

2 x USB ports for row 2

Subaru infotainment and Harman/Kardon audio system with 11 speakers, subwoofer and amplifier

11.6" Tablet-like infotainment screen

Exterior Body Features

Wheel arch extensions

Roof spoiler

Shark fin antenna

Power sliding and tilt adjustable sunroof

Roof rail with silver built in cross bars

Rear side wing doors

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlights

Third brake light

Pop up headlamp washers

LED daytime running lights

LED front fog lights

Steering responsive headlights

LED headlights with auto leveliser

Adaptive driving beam

Headlights activated by wipers

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Rear air vents

Dual zone automatic air conditioning system with anti-dust filter

Interior Features

Front cupholders

Nappa leather seat trim

Heated steering wheel

Door pockets with bottle holder

Aluminium pedals

Rear centre armrest with 2 cupholders

Paddle shift controls

Boot under floor storage

Centre console box

12V DC power socket in row 1

12V DC power socket in boot space

Smooth leather wrapped steering wheel

Illuminated USB charging ports in lower dashboard area

Type C charging port

Interior Lights

Front and rear LED map lights

Packs

Eyesight version 4.0 pack - Subaru

Rear vehicle detection pack - Subaru

Driver monitoring system pack - Subaru Touring

Safety

Driver and passenger airbags

Height adjustable front seatbelts

Front side airbags

Active front headrests

Front and rear curtain airbags

Rear child proof door locks

Drivers knee airbag

Front seatbelt pretensioners + load limiters

3x3 point rear seatbelts

Driver and passenger seatbelts with warning light

Tyre pressure monitor

Front passenger seat cushion airbag

Safety pedal system

Seatbelt indicators for all seats

Seats

Heated front seats

Heated rear seats

Rear headrests

Reclining rear seats

8 way power adjustable passenger seat

60/40 split folding rear seat

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Rear seat release in boot space

8 way power adjustable drivers seat with lumbar support and memory function

Driver and front passenger fatigue reducing seats

ISOFIX adapted child seat anchors (with Tether Anchors) on both outer rear seats

Single front passenger seat

Security

Thatcham category 1 alarm + immobiliser

Keyless entry and push button start system

Transmission

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Lineartronic CVT

Boxer engine

Vanity Mirrors

Illuminated driver/passenger vanity mirror

Wheels - Alloy

18" machined dark metallic alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Emissions - ICE

Particles: N

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 193

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 193

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 193

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 77.8

CO: 0.271

NOx: 0.008

HC+NOx: N

Engine and Drive Train

Engine Layout: NORTH SOUTH

Number of Valves: 16

Cylinder Layout: FLAT 4

Cylinders: 4

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: DIRECT INJECTION

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 94

Catalytic Convertor: No

Compression Ratio: 12.0:1

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 90

CC: 2498

Engine Code: FB25

Gears: 8 SPEED

Fuel Consumption - ICE

WLTP - MPG - Low: 23.1

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 34.9

WLTP - MPG - High: 39.6

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 32.5

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 8.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 8.6

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 33

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 33

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 33

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 8.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 12.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 8.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 7.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 8.7

General

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

NCAP Safety Assist %: 95

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 84

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 89

Badge Power: 169

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Badge Engine CC: 2.5

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 30A

Service Interval Mileage: 12000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 88

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

Generation Mark: 7

Coin Series: Touring

Coin Description: i

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 12

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Performance

Engine Torque - RPM: 3800

0 to 62 mph (secs): 10.2

Top Speed: 120

Engine Power - BHP: 169

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 124

Engine Power - RPM: 5000

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 186

Engine Torque - NM: 252

Engine Torque - MKG: 25.7

Test Cycles

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

Tyres

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Tyre Size Front: 225/60 R18

Wheel Type: 18" ALLOY

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Tyre Size Rear: 225/60 R18

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4870

Width: 1875

Wheelbase: 2745

Width (including mirrors): 2114

Height: N

Height (including roof rails): 1675

Weight and Capacities

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 561

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Loading Weight: 526

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2000

Minimum Kerbweight: 1674

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 63

Max. Roof Load: 68

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2200

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1750

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 12.2

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

Special pearlescent paint

Special silica paint

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Ice silver

Metallic - Magnetite grey

Metallic - Brilliant bronze

Metallic - Autumn green

Paint - Pearlescent

Pearl - Crystal white

Paint - Special

Silica paint - Crystal black

Special pearl - Dark blue

Service/Warranty

3 year service plan

Trim - Leather

Nappa leather - Black