Photo: supplied
Photo: supplied
The sixth-generation Subaru Outback has just been made available in South Africa. Not only is the Outback now the most technologically advanced model in the brand’s local line-up, but it’s also the safest Subaru ever.
The all-new Subaru Outback is a leap ahead in terms of benchmark safety and technology not just for Subaru but for others in the segment as well. Now offered in two grades, this is a continuation of our strategy to offer our South African customers even more choice.
Nteo Nkoli, Subaru Southern Africa marketing and communications.
Bigger body equals more room inside
The new Subaru Outback is 50 mm longer and 30 mm wider than the outgoing model. Not only has this resulted in more shoulder and headroom, but the luggage capacity has increased too. The boot swallows 522 litres with the rear seats upright and 1 267 litres with them folded flat.
The traditional black cladding that makes up the front bumper, lower half of the side panels and rear-end are now features of the Outback Field model, which also sports a metallic black finish on its 18-inch wheels. The Touring model rocks silver trim and panels instead, and unpainted alloy wheels.
Subaru Outback raises the safety bar
The Outback boasts a suite of electronic aids that will assist the driver in maintaining control when things get out of hand. There’s ABS, EBD, ESC, active torque vectoring, and auto vehicle hold for inclines. Just in case of a collision, there’s also a new feature called post collision braking that automatically slows the Outback after impact and activates the hazard lamps.
Another nifty feature is the latest version of Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system that now incorporates a vibration in the steering wheel for the pre-collision warning system. Other highlights of the system include adaptive cruise control with speed limit sign recognition and automatic pre-collision braking with autonomous steering
The new Outback is also the first Subaru to make use of the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system. It uses facial recognition technology to study the driver for signs of fatigue or distraction, and sends a warning where appropriate. The same system also serves five pre-programmed drivers, and automatically adjusts the seat position, infotainment settings, climate control preference, and side mirror angles – all using facial recognition.
READ: This Subaru SUV watches you! New, safest Outback has facial recognition
Generous standard specification in the Subaru Outback
Although safe, the new Outback can certainly not be accused of being boring. The cabin has been transformed through the use of a 11.6-inch touch-sensitive infotainment screen that takes pride of place in the middle of the dashboard, with features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in software that increases the clarity of MP3 or AAC audio. Speaking of which, audio is played through a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system.
As capable as ever
With a ground clearance of 213 mm and approach and departure angles of 19.7 degrees and 22.6 degrees respectively, the Subaru Outback should easily tackle inhospitable terrain. But in case you’re still uncertain, there’s the X-Mode. This is a selectable programme that lets the driver choose powertrain settings for tricky terrain like snow, mud, grass, and rocks.
Both Outback models are powered by Subaru’s venerable 2.5-litre direct-injection horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. In the Outback, this motor produces 138 kW at 5 800 rpm and 245 Nm of torque between 3 400 and 4 600 rpm. The boxer engine is mated with a revised version of Subaru’s favoured CVT transmission.
According to the manufacturer, the Subaru Outback will return an average fuel consumption figure of 7.3-litres/100 km.
PRICES
Subaru Outback 2.5i-Field ES – R699 000
Subaru Outback 2.5i-Touring ES – R729 000
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