2021 Subaru Outback review: Like an SUV...but an off-road wagon!

The all-new 2021 Subaru Outback debuts a brand new design, big 11.6-inch infotainment screen plus a stack of new safety equipment. Does it present a more compelling purchase choice than a mid-sized SUV? Paul Maric tests it to find out!
Hardness tester results: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
Read the full review: www.carexpert.com.au/car-revi...
More Subaru content: www.carexpert.com.au/subaru
More Subaru Outback content: www.carexpert.com.au/subaru/o...
Skip Ahead:
Intro: 00:00
Exterior: 01:04
Interior: 03:58
Infotainment: 05:27
Safety Tech: 09:02
Practicality: 11:03
On the road: 14:50
Verdict: 19:54
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#subaru #outback #review

[@ashley0423399993]

I was planning to get the Forester (for car camping) until I saw several “Outback” videos on KZbin. I really love the roomy interior, large infotainment, leather seats, great head room and large cargo space. Great video, thanks! Decision made.

[@Doc1855]

The reason why we chose the Outback over another suv was because of the ground clearance, reliability, the AWD system (which is far superior over any other unibody vehicle. The Outback has a LOT more interior space, it’s the safest vehicle on American roads, it’s super comfortable. When our Outback wears out we’ll replace it with another Outback. When my Rav 4WD Limited wears out we’ll replace it with a Forester Touring (so we can get the Brown interior). Our Outback has Ivory interior and we LOVE the color. We live in a very mountainous area of the USA in north central WA state and get 5-6 feet of snow every winter. We’ve Never had a problem with traction even with over a foot of snow on the unplowed roads. (We’re still using our original factory tires). This is our first Subaru but both of my wife’s Brothers and sisters in law live in Montana and get more snow than we do here in Washington state and all they drive is Outback’s.

[@autonewstv86]

Wagon Utility Vehicle WUV, it's what makes a Subaru a Subaru.

[@mikeykeyes]

a subsidiary of GM.

[@petron1954]

@@mikeykeyes Wrong. Toyota have a large stake in Subaru and appear to be making decisions so that Subaru cars do not compete with or better Toyota cars. That is make them boring like Toyota.

[@saif890000000]

@@petron1954 Subaru never boring

[@petron1954]

@@saif890000000 What I said was "Toyota are making Subaru boring".

[@oldpaddler1158]

@@petron1954 That's what the Subaru Wilderness trim is all about -- not being boring

[@eason2946]

Excellent review Paul! You’re one of my favourite Australian car reviewers at the moment and looking forward for more reviews to come! One thing I would like to see in your reviews though it’s how the car drives/feels in urban/city environment given most of your reviews have been done in rural area only. Anyway keep up the good work mate!

[@lukebrinsmead]

I bought an Outback. Why? I wanted a car that can drive well on all roads with the ability to be easily parked and visit most camp sites. The car had to be affordable, safe, reliable with adequate space for my family of four. Yes occasionally the boot is a little small for all our camping gear but that’s what roof pods/baskets are for.

[@JasonISF]

Still loving my '04 Outback. Has low range gearing so it's surprisingly capable off road.

[@oggyoggy1299]

Go the RAV 4 instead.

[@rdmz135]

@@oggyoggy1299 too small

[@michaelthompson6972]

Great review. I’m planning to update my current 2018 model so this review really helped me to understand what’s new/different in the 2021 model. Cheers!

[@sylvb1686]

Hello, nice review Paul. I've had my 2021 Outback Sport for a week now and I'm really enjoying it. Only done appx 300ks so far but it drives very nicely. Info screen isn't as distracting as I thought it may have been. I'm still learning how to use the tech that's loaded into the car. Night time vision is awesome and the car is very quiet. It's no rocket leaving the lights but then it's comfortable sitting on 100 on the freeway and just flows with the other traffic. Still early days, but so far really happy. Cheers.

[@petron1954]

Would like to know how you feel after a few months as I am looking to purchase a 2021 Touring. I would like to see one with the ivory nappa leather beforehand.

[@HughRussell06]

Didn’t realise that Apple updated ACP to integrate better with portrait touchscreens which is a good thing

[@The9meister]

Good review, you explained the tech better than any of the other reviews I have watched, I want a sport model in wilderness green please.

[@christoskontogiannis9031]

Great review! You guys are always a step ahead and you cover all of my potential questions on a new car! About this specific all rounder as you described it, my most important negative comment would be that there is only a petrol edition without any hybrid section to combine it for lower consumption. Rather than that is an absolute all around vehicle with hi end tech safety and it really upgrades your style. Very elegant car but unfortunately much more expensive to purchase here in Greece than any other country. Keep on your great work guys and thank you for your reviews 🙏🏼

[@ekimandersom4478]

Hybrid rarely gives lower consumption

[@Speckled10]

Great video thanks SO MUCH for showing us the Apple Car Play with full portrait mode support !!! Have not been able to get an answer on this up till now .. hopefully Android Auto will support it soon too ..

[@jedi_v]

Great review ! Its really tough to make a decision within this segment & $$ but this review definitely helps ! Thank you.

[@markabbott9836]

Another great review 👌 Best going around. Not sure if it’s been asked before but any plans to review the Mini Clubman anytime soon??

[@adamrenissance3322]

I bought the Outback. I compared the Forrester, CR-V, RAV4, CX5, Equinox, and Edge. The Outback seems to me to have equal or more quality, be better thought out specifically the infotainment center. I especially like the automatic dimming wing mirror, the position of the blind spot monitor, the 8-way passenger seat, the position of the automatic sensor in the back hatch, the option of a non-turbo, and the quality of the CVT. I was not specifically looking for all wheel drive, but getting the symmetrical AWD at the same price of other FWD's was huge a bonus. The Outback combines, luxury, utility, and practicality for a reasonable price. Seven months in and 7,000 miles later, I am well pleased with my choice.

[@MrPhantomPete]

For me, the appeal of a raised wagon over an SUV is 1) raised wagon handles better and 2) the boot space is far more useable in a wagon. I think the new outback is the perfect next vehicle for me, although am holding off buying one until they offer a more powerful engine. Ventilated front seats would be nice too, but not a deal breaker.

[@mikeykeyes]

I found Subarus one of the best cars to drive around and a genuine SUV. My Forester was let down by a certain Geolander tyres downright dangerous in the wet but the car itself was superb. I drove a new Subaru given to me as a loan car and was fascinated by the pick up and go. The control I got was unparalleled.

[@michakob92]

Nice review and great attention to detail!

[@easy4steve]

yes i bought a 2018 outback , and yes its a great car on the highway very good on fuel and power , and very safe too with all very useful safety features . very happy with it Cheers steven

[@wigworx]

We have the 2019. Just a super practical car. We'll thought out and easy to live with. Wind noise is my only bugbear.

[@metalmick99]

I have the previous model, and yesterday had a short drive of this one. I think your observations are really spot-on. Subaru's Outback is the labrador of cars: they do a couple of things very well indeed, and nothing poorly. You can depend on it to meet most, if not all of your needs, whenever that may be. Ownership isn't always smooth, with (in Victoria) some truly second-rate dealerships for servicing. One thing that you touched-on were the minor features: the poor implementation of Android Auto; the need to connect by wire; the lack of decent storage for bits and pieces; no 360 degree camera view, are all seemingly strange omissions. To me a big one is the lack of cooled seats, but provision of a heated steering wheel. The latter is really nice, but I'd swap it for cooled seats every day of the week, particularly in our summers. That said, it's currently at the top of my list for replacing the Outback I have. It's just *there* whenever I need it, and does all I ask of it.

[@Stevevm21]

Cool seats are in the new 2022 top of the range

[@metalmick99]

@@Stevevm21 so I hear. I'm really enjoying my OB, but wish I could have waited. (Sigh)

[@babsschloss]

Finally! My car will remind me about those wedding anniversaries ... how have I coped until now?

[@GriffDawg94]

Ive seen 25,368 comments on fb from people asking for a turbo in Aus and the pricks at subaru still wont listen

[@CarExpertAus]

😅 true!

[@amode8761]

I read in another Aussie article that it could come here eventually...

[@jesserowlingsify]

Because the average punter doesn't care, couldn't tell you what a turbo does or how many cylinders are under the bonnet, and will buy it anyway. All the comments on the Subaru posts talk about turbos and 6 cyls because only enthusiasts comment on them. Average punters don't care. And average punters buy, enthusiasts don't.

[@GriffDawg94]

@@jesserowlingsify so why do other countries have the turbo then? Lol

[@1991Vn2nV]

@@GriffDawg94 only the US have the turbo. It was designed and built by Subaru US and they 'own' the engine. Also, for reference, in the previous generation, Subaru sold 1 3.6R model for every 44 2.5L models. Where is the business case to pay to have the US engine built and shipped to Japan based on that? Australia sold less than 5,000 outbacks last year, while the US sold around 200,000. A turbo version will have to wait until the following model year refresh after the WRX gets the new turbo engine in Japan.

[@hrk2hrk]

This is my second subaru outback and I still love it.

[@philmurray3651]

Hey Paul, thanks for the review of the 2021 Subaru Outback. I currently drive a 2012 Nissan Murano which I bought as my very first brand new vehicle. Have loved the 6 cylinder, comfortable, full leather Murano but now ready to update the technology and tossing up between an Outback or a Forester. My wife drives a 2016 Forester and we use that vehicle as our road trip car. Fantastic, great vision, AWD safe vehicle. You ask, why a standard SUV over an Outback? Well, the Forester is 6cm higher which makes it easier for us older folk (post 65) to slide in and out without banging your head. The Forester's turning circle means it spins on a dime, but ... in 2022 I'll likely go the Outback for that big screen entertainment/information unit. Would still like to drive a 6 cylinder vehicle for the grunt, but, hey, the world is moving elsewhere. LOL

[@seanpatrickperfecto7426]

I really like their take on the plastic cladding above the tires. Adds to the overall design.

[@murrayhicks9965]

Excellent review and very well presented

[@M8YM8]

Hey Paul, would love to see you include some of the off-road components in the AWD SUVs, specifically sand. This car especially is marketed as the best of both worlds but I can’t find many videos on how they go beach driving.

[@krzysztoflemiech8665]

Excellent review! 😀

[@Oddish08]

Great review! The only thing killing me is the fuel economy! rav4 still top of my list

[@sgbb]

12:55 the sound of door closing is pretty solid

[@gene978]

Subaru has come LIGHT YEARS from 1978 with our First Subaru DL with 60bhp climbing the hills (second hilliest City in the Country here in the North East) We had 2 long steep hills to get to our house and the little DL never disappointed. Even through the Blizzard of 1978!

[@philross1680]

Great report on the Outback Paul I think it’s the best I have viewed. I have owned a number of Subaru’s over the years including the Outback and for the most part I have been very happy with them. I probably would have been interested in buying the new ‘21 edition but Subaru took so long in getting it released here (a year later than the US) that late last year I decided to go for a RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid (mainly because as luck would have it I could get one!) and I would have to say it’s the best Toyota I’ve driven. However back to the new Outback it looks to be the best version of this model that Subaru have brought out so far. I still think the design could have been further updated as it still has some of the exterior look of the 2010 model, Subaru have given a facelift similar to what they did with the latest Forester and I must admit they have become very similar in appearance especially in the tail. I only wish they would have given us a bit more power in the engine bay and I’d have to say the RAV4 has it over Subaru in this respect. I agree with you on the Piano Black finishes they are too easy to become marked or scratched even new from the factory (just have a look at one of the new Mazda’s) I just don’t know why vehicle manufacturers continue with this unfortunate design feature. To answer your question on SUV’s Vs Wagons I think it’s become a state of mind the motoring public, SUV’s have become such a craze and fascination most people still view wagons as an extension of a normal sedan. This however will hopefully be changed a little with the new generation constant All Wheel Drive Outback which is certainly worth considering as it has the same or more going for it than the average mid size SUV. Just have a look at the new Outback sport which would be pick of the bunch.😊

[@petron1954]

I think the Sport would be the pick of the bunch as well, but without all the black accenting.

[@davidmckay8581]

Great review balanced and very informative

[@simoncouch1523]

Really excited about this review

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks!

[@Naessey]

Great review as always. I’ve always loved Subaru. Though, stick a small caravan on back and loaded car with gear and kids, the underpowered engine and increase in economy is going to be noticeable.

[@Grvmps]

I had an original Outback (1996) and it was a brilliant vehicle. The size difference between the original and the current model is massive. This model is practically SUV size and should be labelled as such.

[@taohan2281]

First time that I drove a car before paul tests it. Have to say, outback is too hard to resist and cant wait for my Outback sports in autumn green!

[@bitemyram]

I have the same model and trim here in the USA. I’m amazed at the differences in features you have we don’t and visa-versa. Color choices too. 😱

[@Doc1855]

Again, I LOVE all the chrome and the look of the nose on the Outback you have in Australia. It’s bold and classy looking at the same time. It’s Fabulous !

[@rogerraj5504]

Hi Paul, well explained mate. Excellent, Thank you.

[@LoftyVisions]

Gimme a T Gimme a U Gimme a R Gimme a B Gimme an O What do you get? A 2.5 wheeze bag. Cheers Subaru! 🙄💤

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

And a CVT. It's like they hate us.

[@goose646]

“A 2.5 wheeze bag” lmao 😂😂

[@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars]

Change the channel, mate. The only reason people say this about the 2.5 and Subaru's CVT is because they don't know how to drive. If you need a turbo, you're doing it wrong.

[@LoftyVisions]

@@ScottMurrayBestFamilyCars lol Righto mate

[@stevef2608]

I've got a 18 forester xt and boy is it fun to drive. Wouldn't trade the turbo out if you paid me. Driving is just that much more engaging (and enjoyable)

[@markpukete]

Paul’s review never disappoint me.

[@sbGOM]

We looked very closely at the Forester as a replacement for our Sportage. It had more useable interior space than the Sportage but the same external size (have a small garage). We drove a mid range demo. We wanted top of range but it wasn't available. Drive was better than we thought although I thought it was CVT noisy on hard acceleration. Was really impressed with the interior features and comfort. I think if this updated Outback had been available it might have tipped us over. As it was we went next door to the Toyota shop, got sprayed with fairy dust and walked out with a RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid.

[@Mogsy28uk]

great review Paul, we're still waiting on Gen 6 in UK, but interior looks good, and I hope we can still get the light Ivory leather interior (some alcantara would be good), and for the love of all that's holy, will they just give us the 2.4L turbo engine option already! not sure i like the HVAC controls now not on the physical dash, and there is no heated steering option in UK (odd i know). I do like the near-side mirror camera, saves scuffing alloys on kerbs -- auto folding mirrors on lock would be nice too. Loving my 2019 Outback, don't like climbing into an SUV, so quite like the comfort of the Outback, and my first auto.

[@joshnnik]

Great review, this 2021 model hasn’t arrived here in the UK yet but I own a 2019 Outback which I love and rate highly. My other car is a 2016 Audi Q7 with the 272bhp V6 Diesel engine and air suspension. So, to be totally honest if I could only keep one car it would be the Subaru, no question.

[@mauritsvw]

Now that's loyalty!

[@Evilwing12]

I wish the US version of the outback had this styling mainly the grill and the fog light Front facia. Also on the forester.

[@lukakamoni5084]

Am really digging into the refreshed model.

[@CarExpertAus]

It’s a good looker!

[@marnuscoreyempanadaslooseb6760]

@@CarExpertAus it’s not just a looker it’s also a brilliant car

[@jm-river4573]

Great review Paul! How would you say the ride compares to the current 2.5 Forester?

[@CarExpertAus]

The ride in the Forester is pretty good - this feels a little more comfortable. But the road noise is a little greater here than it is in Forester.

[@cuipougy]

Hi, I wonder if a car's performance, e.g. 0-100 could be more accurately tested, perhaps with the use of equipment other than relying on each car's speedo. Also, it would be great to compile a spreadsheet with all cars' performance numbers, even if only 0-100 so a comparison could be made. Keep up the excellent work!

[@robkeogh4593]

Just ordered our new Outback Touring. Build is mid Feb. Paul have you heard any whispers around delivery times? I know there are issues everywhere at present, but we have been told mid March for delivery and we are doing a Tassie road trip in mid April. Hopefully its here by then. Great review. Helped us decide between this and the Mazda CX5

[@angelapotter8332]

Paul I do have an Outback, 2016 3.6R. It is brilliant and would buy a new one without thinking......if only it had the 2.4T (which some people say is coming next year to Aus). My 2016 is the the only car I have ever owned from new that has not had at least one warranty claim (even the most minor). Not the cheapest car to service but hey if they always run perfectly I’ll take that every time. Highly recommended.

[@CarExpertAus]

I loved the 3.6! How are you going with fuel economy over the long term?

[@angelapotter8332]

@@CarExpertAus Paul city peak hour and peak hour suburban driving sees about 12.2L/100. Suburban flowing traffic around 10.5 L/100. Highway is high 7’s to low 8’s. Currently I am averaging 8.8L/100 for the last 8,000km or so. That would probably be 80% highway. For the driving I do now pretty good, remember too you can use 91 octane.

[@angelapotter8332]

@@CarExpertAus Paul city peak hour and peak hour suburban driving sees about 12.2L/100. Suburban flowing traffic around 10.5 L/100. Highway is high 7’s to low 8’s. Currently I am averaging 8.8L/100 for the last 8,000km or so. That would probably be 80% highway. For the driving I do now pretty good, remember too you can use 91 octane.

[@CarExpertAus]

That’s pretty impressive!

[@Tonynz]

Subaru dealer in NZ told me it'll be available in 2022. (The 2.4T)

[@vchanpe1]

Drove a RAV4, CR-V but the Outback felt more "planted" to the road. This is because of the lower center of gravity of the 2.5L boxer engine. The high gas mileage, high reliability, smooth ride, low noise and recommendation by consumers report magazine were all I needed. Potential buyers must drive other SUVs to compare and appreciate the Outback.

[@sgzip]

We have a 2019 Outback and couldn’t be happier for a family car. Roomy for three adult sized teenagers in the back, relaxed and enjoyable to drive, all the safety and tech I wanted. I’ve been genuinely pleased with the choice after looking at every mid-sized suv I could reasonably find.

[@estebanposadaduque6415]

... love how you make noticeable details ... that otherwise one my not check so clearly ... good job ...very elegant vehicle ... quite expensive though ... my dad used to have a lovely elegant LEGACY back in 1992 ... was a real head turner premium like car ...

[@johnturnbull2146]

As an older Australian I found that the slight stoop to get into the Outback is the difference for me with the Forester, wish it wasn't so but ease of access is a biggie and Subaru Oz, get the turbo engine here asap.

[@AndresK5Blazer]

My love for Subaru faded as the CVT spread throughout the lineup. I sadly said goodbye to my 2016 Outback, but today I am happy with an 8 speed transmission.

[@ytlurker220]

Whereas a huge number of people's love for Subaru has been reinspired with this new model. It's truly incredible, no one should need to buy an SUV.

[@ramishaheen1267]

Best car reviews, thanks for being detailed.. had no idea how bad Android auto was on this car, no other reviewer mentioned it. I still bought the car, but was good not to have the surprise later. Keep it up and thank you!

[@barberlab7041]

There is no criticism much in this review

[@RichardJoashTan]

Glad that I will buy a fully loaded Outback Touring because the new Eyesight X will be available soon in Australia.

[@Quilustrucu]

Lucky you! You get that gorgeous red which we don't in Canada

[@helicoptermn1463]

Hi Paul, what would towing with the outback be like, the specs say it’s 2t which is more than previous 3.6r which was 1.8t, and from memory you had to have an80km limit I only have a small camper trailer so that would be no problem just curious how the towing Capacity is increased although it’s a smaller engine

[@sergioandresperezibarra7976]

Buen video, gracias por indicar sus prestaciones

[@shaunwindrim5901]

Own a 3.6 2019 Outback and I am very happy with it. Very practical and meets the need for most purposes, drive is very smooth with good acceleration & highway driving. I do prefer the smaller infotainment screen with some buttons. Horses for courses though, IMO you don't buy an Outback if you want to go big bush traversing. Great review Paul, I think you gave it a deserving measured report.

[@Set_your_handle77]

12:56 The rear head rests are different that those here in the US. These look classier but somewhat odd that they go down below shoulder level when lowered. Any reason for that?

[@sydhowell4813]

I have a US spec Onyx XT with the 2.4 turbo and it transforms the car. Very sorry you don’t have it there because it is a big improvement in power without too much economy sacrifice. It is interesting to see the different styling cues and different headrest from the US spec cars. I’ve had mine a year and love it. My biggest complaint is having to go into the screen with multiple touches to change seat heater and other settings. Bring back the buttons!!

[@mauritsvw]

"Bring back the buttons!!" Second that, but in this screen crazed era it will probably never happen.

[@lindumservices2812]

Currently have a 2018 Outback 3.6R and I love it. I know its probably only 1 out of 8 outbacks are 3.6 but there is no replacement for me here so will be forced to look to another brand :(

[@lowlifeangler]

I have a 2018 2.5 premium. I think it's pretty fast. I should got a 3.6R with a tow package instead. The Outback definitely can go through the snow!!

[@helicoptermn1463]

Do you tow with the 3.6r? Looking at getting one but this new one has more towing capacity even though it’s a smaller engine ?

[@makingadifference4834]

If you live in the US the Mazda CX-50 is on sale in April

[@paulmaconochie8909]

I took delivery of an MY21 Outback Touring a couple of weeks ago. I had traded a MY10 Forester and the car before that was also a Forester. I agree with all the comments made in this review. Every car will have bits you like and bits you are a bit disappointed in. For me the disappointment is in the infotainment system. Overall it is very good except the touch screen is laggy; it can seem like an age while typing in letters, for example. The implementation of Android Auto is not particularly good. I have seen better on other cars. But, let's not be too niggly. The Outback is a lovely car, I enjoy its comfort and I particularly like how quiet it is and thus how much I can enjoy the superior sound system. Finally I reckon it It represents very good value for money; you do get a lot of bang for your buck.

[@barry7962]

Handed back my company CX9 and spent my money on an Outback Touring. Quiet, comfortable and economical. Doesn’t have bulk oomph away from lights but doesn’t need much fuel for its size. The tech is amazing and took a few weeks to learn as it is so customisable. The Mazda was tech laden but the Subaru feels very next generation in comparison.

[@CaptSavageOZ]

I'm a wagon person, so the outback makes much more sense to me, love the space.

[@Cooliemasteroz]

I love the concept though I’m not to sure about the durability of Subaru engines but I still thought I’d like to get one one day until the only gearbox option is now a CVT.

[@ekimandersom4478]

Most reliable cars on the planet, that would be the last thing to worry about.

[@victormhango8078]

Would like to see a review for the new Audi A6 allroad or the e class all terrain

[@vampyrelycan99]

The ODD module inside the center console storage seems slimmer compared with similar setups. Hope it'll still be as reliable as a conventional in-dash drive......

[@brianhoward9217]

Great review Paul, as usual so thanks. They need the 3.6R back WITH a turbo. What's wrong with Subaru now? An asthmatic N/A 2.5 four?! C'mon, where's that STi spirit? :-) We have a 2015 3.6R and it is, for us, perfect. Top quality, no issues ever.I wouldn't want anything with LESS urge than our 3.6R that's for sure. A turbo on that unit would be heaven.

[@darrellborland119]

@Brian Howard...I am not sure why one needs more power....the turbo 2.4 is more powerful than the 3.6...maybe to chase high end euro-suv's?....maybe as we say in the motorcycle world...never enough oomph! 😀 The 2.4 turbo gets better mpg than the 3.6. But, of course, with high fuel prices, economical driving seems more prudent. Thanks.

[@brianhoward9217]

@@darrellborland119 Hi Darrell, I'm in Australia so was talking from an Aussie viewpoint. We only have the naturally aspirated 4 cylinder here currently, although Subaru is making grumbling noises about bringing the turbo in. Why they'd even waste time with this normal motor and not just going straight to turbo is beyond me. Incidentally, it isn't the 'power' I love most about the 3.6R - I should have been more specific - it is the low end torque. The launch feel is magnificent, and when and not something a smaller 4-cyl can 'easily' replicate, even a turbo methinks but I haven't driven a Suby turbo.

[@oddities-whatnot]

The current Outback in the UK is a good choice if you don’t want a hybrid, as it has 170bhp compared to 148bhp for the outgoing Forester. Similar prices nearly new.

[@chappo4845]

Paul, any plans to do some longer term, or more targeted tests on popular models? A week in traffic or a decent trip? The performance tests are good but what are these cars like to live with for long periods. Does the annoying arm rest continue to annoy or do you stop noticing? Is an underpowered car really underpowered when using it in real world situations. Will a faux roader cope with a family camping trip? I tend to keep my cars for a while and all but the most annoying fails are forgotten after a few thousand km. Even the ride in a ute is long forgotten. However, I did once get rid of a BF Fairmont because I just couldn't get comfortable. Loved that car but always felt like I was sitting on it.

[@simoncouch1523]

Bloody wicked review, everyone in the reviews so far has said ride is very very good, I’d love to turn in my crap 2018 XV for this

[@CarExpertAus]

Thanks! Definitely worth a test drive 😁

[@simoncouch1523]

@@CarExpertAus looks as slow and as frustrating as the XV tho grrrrr haha

[@paramghuliani9688]

Please do the subaru accent, I've Been waiting for sooo long

[@jbountalas]

So you don't have the option for a 260 HP Turbo version of the Boxer? Here in Canada they have 6 trim levels, Touring, Limited, Premier, and the same ones again with the XT suffix. The 3 XT trim levels come with the Turbo Boxer. That additional 78 HP makes a difference.

[@roadeyerob]

Man - I wish Outbacks in Canada had the same front end as those in Australia!

[@paulredfern2252]

you can skip the ISOFIX as its been an ADR standard since 2014 (introduced since 2012)

[@SunnyJ907]

Hey Paul, could you review the new Subaru Outback XT? I think there’s a few now arrived in Australia

[@derekharvey5257]

Was so looking forward to this car with the turbo 2.4 when I order my next car in April. I’ve had 2 Outbacks, a diesel Gen4 and 2.5i Gen5, and will not buy another 2.5, which I though was underpowered to the point of being a liability on the highway when loaded with 4 people plus luggage. I could not contemplate towing anything with it. So it is such a shame because otherwise I love it. Will Subaru Australia listen or just go with the option that ~80%of their customers seem to be happy with (not sure of actual split of 2.5 vs 3.6 vs diesel in the Gen5)?

[@1991Vn2nV]

1 3.6R for every 44 2.5L sold The 2.4 turbo was designed and engineered by Subaru US and is built in the US. RHD outbacks are manufactured in Japan. No business case to ship a turbo engine from the US to Japan just for a few Australian sales (consider the split above, and that we sold less than 5,000 outbacks last year vs around 200,000 in the US). We won't see a turbo variant unti the model year afterl the new WRX turbo is produced in Japan.

[@derekharvey5257]

Thanks for the info, that’s an even smaller volume of 3.6 sales than I had guessed. Absolutely it would be/is a marginal business case. I can’t help feeling though that in following the numbers and serving the mainstream Subaru are losing a bit of their magic sauce and appeal for the enthusiasts and more discerning buyer

[@jaroslavtyrner1977]

Hi Paul, i like very much you channel. I am from Czech Republic and i want to buy new Subaru Outback. What do you think about reliability of Cvt transmission? Thanks a lot for your answer. Jaroslav

[@whya2ndaccount]

Does the ID link to the seat setting? That is, once the car recognises your face and sets up the centre panel does it also implement the seat settings for that person?

[@Hughes500]

I have had 3 Outbacks and loved all of them. Drives like it is on rails. All the reviews do mention the fact that Aus isn't getting any engine options which is a real bummer. not sure why that is from Subarus perespective. I think I will wait until we get some engine options - hopefully. Then I am buying one.

[@angusnz7910]

Had outback’s since 1999, replaced in 2004, then 2009....went to change again in 2012 and just couldn’t do it. Still have the 09 3.0l outback as a run around and went VW as main car. Huge affection for my old outback...newer one too big, too ugly, too slow, too plasticy....just couldn’t do it. This one looks better...but are they going to give it a proper engine ?

[@johnballs4589]

Subaru what happen to the bonnet scoop ? You’ve forgotten to put your Signature on the car.

[@whya2ndaccount]

Also whilst I'm a non smoker is there still a 12V / lighter socket up front? We currently use that for a GPS that we move from vehicle to vehicle.

[@masasiization]

Looking at forward for you to review the Toyota crown 2021

[@paulholder9361]

Yes, but how well does it tow ? That's likely why many want a full size turbo.

[@drjphau1834]

Pls do the XV 2021 Love alllll your reviews

[@CarExpertAus]

Will be getting our hands on one soon!

[@drjphau1834]

@@CarExpertAus Cool thanks

[@noophe5747]

When were the vented seats introduced to the outback touring? I know they aren't air-conditioned, they're fans that draw the air out . But I can't figure out when they got them

[@judih.8754]

Interestingly the 2021 US model didn't have the wide fender cladding. We only saw it in 2023. Also your coffee cups in Australia are quite small by normal standards here! Unfortunately its difficult to find a decent size like that. Great review!

[@benbaxter132]

I’m reasonably sure the lack of portrait mode is an Android Auto limitation rather than something Subaru has done poorly. Apple specifically updated their software to work with portrait screens.

[@philipwest4553]

I decided to buy a Forester rather than an Outback because the Forester suited my needs a little better gets a bit better fuel economy and has better visibility for the driver. I think that there's no front sensors for parking and the like because the 'eyesight' cameras give a very good view of what is in front of the vehicle if you use the 'mode' button and look at the top screen. I think the camera view is better than the chorus of beeps from sensors.

[@jean-loubertrand6896]

Got my new 2021 Outback Sport in November last year. I have to say the tech, safety and interior is excellent with tonnes of space inside. It also looks good outside. A head turner. sadly that's it. The ride is too smooth and spongy and the engine is underpowered for the size. I wouldn't dare towing although you can do 2000Kg. The cvt gets a bit loud when in S drive. Overall it's a good car to own.

[@MrScottmac99]

Overall, I really like your laid-back style but this car is an all wheel drive ... why didn't you do any off-road evaluation? I taken my Outback on some fearsome 4WD tracks and it performed really well. Also, re fuel consumption, mine is Diesel, a few years old now, but the first long trip we did (Melb to Adl without aircon on) we got 5.9 Lp100. Aircon seems to increase that by about 0.5 - 1.0 Lp100.

[@drivesafely12]

A great car. Good review.

[@LL2500]

V60 CC is coming and it maybe come with 187kw powerful engine. Hope Subaru Australia can bring the 2.4T to Outback when they introduce next generation WRX later this year.

[@erniethegiantchicken1027]

Will you be doing a review on the 2021 Skoda Octavia RS wagon when it arrives?

[@CarExpertAus]

Of course!

[@erniethegiantchicken1027]

@@CarExpertAus awesome look forward to it 😀👍 looking at buying one, it’s one of the few wagon that looks sporty and are still practical without going down the SUV market

[@Set_your_handle77]

1:18 Where is the front tow hook mounting point on Australian model? Is it under the car?