2022 Subaru Outback Review - Is this the SUV that offers everything?

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Our video guy, Ciro De Siena, recently spent a week with latest Subaru Outback and while he didn't have the opportunity to venture far from the city, he was surprised to find that besides it's well renowned offroad credentials, the Outback was superb in the urban jungle too.
In this review we take a very detailed look at the Outback, from all the interior features, extensive safety tech, the clever roof racks, the automatic tailgate and boot space/cargo area, and we tackle the worst of Johannesburg's roads, which aren't difficult to find.
We hope you find this review useful and we'd love to hear what you think in the comments below.
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
1:17 - What is the Outback?
2:39 - Perfect for Urban Use
3:14 - Ride Quality
3:43 - Engine, Gearbox and Fuel Consumption
5:20 - Interior Features
6:47 - Facial Recognition
8:07 - Interior Tech
9:32 - Back Seat Space
10:26 - Boot Space and Features
11:43 - Dr Strange Spell Casting
12:08 - Roof Rails
12:50 - Safety Features
14:28 - Pricing and Warranty
16:18 - BMW X3 vs Subaru Outback
18:12 - Should you buy a Subaru Outback?
18:59 - The End
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[@LeRouxEnslin]

Subaru's current range with the XV / Forester / Outback are very underrated here in SA. We love our mountain passes, national parks, but also want family cars that are safe, and nice to drive on our open roads, and in city traffic. The three mentioned models give you all that in spades. Nice review Ciro.

[@honeybadger1656]

I love Subaru, however their prices are getting ridiculous.

[@lungimgaga7179]

@@honeybadger1656 but still even if they were cheap, South Africans will tell you of shape and looks which is what we buy. No matter how much Subaru can convince us. South Africans will never buy into that. Many good brands have left South Africa because they were not supported. I still don't know what Suzuki did to get black township people, perhaps it the Uber revolution.

[@honeybadger1656]

@@lungimgaga7179 Suzuki and Renault provide good affordable and very fuel economic vehicles. The current state of South Africa is making car buyers rethink their choices. We as South Africans are very loyal to certain brands like Ford, Merc and BMW. If you can find one, take a look at a 2015 CAR Mag and look at these manufacturers prices. Yes there has been inflation,.but, currently the prices are way over the inflation rate. Ford still offers the ecosport with a ridiculously small screen while being priced over 320k! Merc charges people for every accessory, and doesn't even have a car in the 400k bracket. Manufacturers like Renault, Suzuki, Haval and now Chery are providing affordable and fuel economic vehicles that already have tons of accessories. Toyota also needs to up its game and start providing cheaper cars.

[@thenorthwatch777]

The power train is disappointing. The 2.4 sold in the USA could make better sense here, way better power output.

[@BarryBernau]

Awesom delivery on the review!

[@m2ngwa89]

I actually like this car, makes sense... Never saw it as an suv but more of an off road station wagon like the old A4/A6 Allroad

[@darryljohnston1290]

I am a South African residing in Canada and the Outback has been voted 3 times that I am aware of, not Car of the Year but Car most suited to Canada. This is for the 4wd (especially for traction in winter), additional ride height, space and versatility.

[@SM-McKraken]

It's AWD, mate. There's a diff!

[@daviddicesare1068]

i have just bought exactly this car in review, down to colour and towbar ... it is magnificent ... we love it.

[@hey_myk]

Ciro, you might be the best in the business. Globally.

[@shaun1900]

Fun fact there is a programmable button under the flap where the number plate lights are on the tailgate. This can be programmed with a unique code or pin to allow you to access the vehicle without a key.

[@capetowncoffee]

Saw this on another review. One of the best features for hiking, running or watersports. Don't have to take your key with you

[@tvundla]

I use it often. Helps even when you forgot your keys and just want to quickly unlock the care to get something.

[@nkululekoshoba4034]

Nice content you're creating, simply the best of Mzansi. That's the best portrait orientated infotainment screen I've seen. I think we're going to see more like that.

[@CobusDerrenberg]

I just did a complete test drive this week, on most of the range, including the XV, Forester and Outback.., and I have one simple word to summarize the complete experience, from A to Z: Simply AWESOME vehicles literally in EVERY SINGLE aspect 👍! I will be getting the complete range for our operation: various of each. I was SO IMPRESSED !! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@AdamBoltGoldCoast]

I've just got the Outback Touring in Australia. The only difference with our Australian Touring model is it has heated and ventilated front seats (Driver side also has adjustable leg bolster), and the rear seats are also heated. I've had mine for a week and already driven over 1300km in it. It is by far the most comfortable car I have ever driven. Its perfect in the city, as not only is it comfortable and easy to drive, BUT the vision from inside the car is amazing (You really dont have any bad blind spots). This makes reversing into trafiic, or turn through blind corners so easy to see what is ahead or behind you. I drive 50,000km per year and having the adaptive cruise control with lane keep just makes the highway stuff so enjoyable, its such stress free driving. And to top it off, this car is wickedly good in the rough and muddy stuff. I particularly got this car, because not only is it comfortable and easy to drive, but the other two selling points for me is the amount of room in the car and it's offraod capabilities. I love photography and wanted a car that could take me to places other cars couldnt get me to, plus I wanted a car that I could also sleep in overnight. In the Outback I can lay the back seats down and I have approx 1.8m from the back of the car to the back of the front seats, so there is room for me to sleep inside the vehicle (Here's my set up kzbin.info/www/bejne/epLYZaeYj52CldE ) And the cherry on top is the All Wheel Drive with X-Mode. This has already saved me once from a difficult situation. I was driving down some random dirt roads looking for a good location to take photos, and found one narrow dirt road that headed down towards a lake. When I got to the end of the dirt road, it turned it to a muddy marsh area. I put the Outback into X-Mode with Deep Snow/Mud mode activated, and it allowed me to get the Outback turned around in this slippery mud. It handled it easily actually with mud flicking up everywhere. So all in all, my first impressions are its a super easy car to drive with it's fantastic vision, its an incredibly comfortable drive with the most comfortable seats I have ever sat in and oodles of room (which is great on long trips). All the controls are easy to find and within easy reach, and the Outback can take me places where other cars cant. It's a vehicle I would highly recommend for people to look at if they are in the market for a new car with good room and with a comfortable ride.

[@iancollings5047]

Hi from Canada. What an excellent review, a good balance on the specs but heavy on the feel and value. Well done.

[@daneheinemann9899]

Awesome review I love I Australia and have just brought one hopefully it arrives in November. You review confirmed to me that I have brought the right car

[@ericcharbonneau7842]

I really enjoyed your video. Being from Montreal Canada, I know a thing or two about potholes (understatement of the century). I think there’s a competition for biggest pothole in Quebec. That being said, when I tried the outback, I had the same feeling as this car being solid. I’ve ordered one in January. Should be getting it soon.

[@senitnelav]

To be honest, Subaru's marketing depart is very absent here in SA.

[@Chuene_Ashley_kgomo]

Agreed

[@stormyboy5455]

Very, they used to be good back in 2002-2009 Died after that.. their cars are also just not the same, looking at what Toyota and Hyundai are doing Subaru should be stepping up

[@honeybadger1656]

@@stormyboy5455 if subies were cheaper they would be the most sought after car in South Africa.

[@paulanderson7953]

I’ve an outback back here in Australia since 2017. Just love it. It’s also white and has the notification that the car ahead has moved love that. Sunroof is great in autumn and spring.

[@wonder_Tv]

Perfect SUV it's true when they say don't judge a book by it's cover and very practical better than many Germans SUV's

[@elpomada]

Great review !!

[@Albert-oq2il]

Great video, buddy. One thing to reminder that Subaru‘s apps “My Subaru” is so convenient and smart.

[@sceloxulu3494]

I have been waiting for this review for a really long time. I wished it would be longer than 10min, review the Touring model & be presented by Ciro. All boxes checked. I enjoyed the Australian reviews, but the Mzansi review is very special. I've loved this new Outback since it came out, despite the lack of turbo... thank you for another awesome review 🙌🏾

[@Carscoza]

We are so glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching

[@CobusDerrenberg]

GREAT review... I was planning to say: "Not intrrested.."..., BUT you CONVINCED me ... 😮😮😮!!! Not sure how you did that ???? But I might even get one 😉💪👍 REALLY 😃👏!!! BRILLIANT review !! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@jamesmorley5811]

Excellent review. We have one and agree wholeheartedly.

[@reetsangmothibi4987]

Great review, I'm sold ❤

[@reecerodrigues1127]

Wow, awesome review.

[@terrence4933]

Ordered my OBW yest. Love this wagon.

[@Maggieismydog]

We purchased the Touring when it released in Australia, the TomTom is not great and the operating system is a bit clunky, other than that it is a brilliant vehicle for the money. When the Turbo arrives next year we will be trading in. Exceptional value for money, a must for your list to test. Great video and review. All the best from Aus!

[@rodneyemmerich8828]

Another great video 👌👌👏👏

[@althafkhader8680]

Great review, please do the Opel Mokka GS, at over half a million, it would be nice to see how it fares against its rivals.

[@photokunstler]

Weirdly enough, I have always loved Subies and watching vids, but your vid seemed to unlock more details I didn’t know existed and that is fucking cool. Thanks!

[@GaryKari]

Our Jack Russel loves our Subaru as well!

[@GastronomicEntity]

Great review, front seats in our Tourer are also air cooled

[@oddities-whatnot]

I had the previous shape Outback. Fabulous, quiet and comfy, dealt with bad weather and bad roads. Id like another but this new version is growing on me

[@yosilerer]

so the Subaru xv will be perfect for you

[@johannortje6973]

Just love your reviews 👌

[@Carscoza]

Thank you kindly :)

[@humphreykagwi5096]

The Best Subaru Outback thus far! I'm impressed, can't wait for it in 🇰🇪🇰🇪

[@AkhonaNgquba]

What has always been missing with these memory seats is the adjustment of the steering wheel (if it is electronic) and the side mirrors. Possibly change the radio interface to what I like too almost like how Android auto and Carplay is always person specific since it runs off their phone.

[@ginnie5099]

Impressive styling. IMO, at first glance, the roof rails and cladding are its signature design aside from the raised ground clearance. I agree--Subaru offers complete package not only for adventure, but also practicality, comfort, luxury feel, and may I add, safety. Love, love Subaru.

[@paulwatson4574]

Great car for sure I would rate this car over most of it’s rival,both in terms of how it drives and value for money.excellent review thanks to for sharing.

[@tlotlangmoncho9826]

I almost went out and bought a Subaru Outback after this review, well presented. In all honestly, some of its features truly make sense in day to day of this modern life.

[@todtalk3912]

what stopped you? the fact that none are readily available execpt the super high trims like the wilderness that they want like 45k for?

[@tlotlangmoncho9826]

@@todtalk3912 The pricing is out of my bracket

[@honeybadger1656]

If you want something similar try go look at the H6. Has a great interior and some models also have 4x4

[@SM-McKraken]

@@honeybadger1656 LOL... "and some models also have 4x4". As opposed to Subarus which have full-time AWD no matter the trim level. Dude, I'm not sure many who're interested in an Outback are also weighing getting a Hummer. Just not the same class of vehicle, really.

[@honeybadger1656]

@@SM-McKraken not a hummer bro it's a haval 🤣

[@bodrip1]

It's certainly the right place to test the car if you want potholes. [Did you check for loose nuts and bolts underneath?]. Nice review, thanks.

[@cc77ee1]

great car, great review!

[@robertjacobsfishing]

Loved the review Ciro. All round a fantastic car. As the owner of a 2013 XT with CVT I have grown to respect the gearbox. Agree with you on changing your driving style a bit. My fuel consumption indicator agrees. Personally what I feel is missing is the 2.4T XT Outback model in South Africa. Would love to see that in the Forester too like every other Subie petrol head in the world. I think the Outback is a fantastic car. I believe the 2.0 Diesel Outback a few years ago won the best tow vehicle under R500K against tough competitors like the Fortuner. The only thing I would change (apart from adding the 2.4T) is to give it a bit more of an off road stance like the Forester to shake the station wagon feel. Probably the last or close to the last of this generation of Boxer petrol motors before the electric revolution....

[@floydthebarber71]

I see we're getting the Outback XT in SA next year

[@keithduffield5239]

I wish you had expanded a bit more on the performance. Every review I have seen has seriously marked this car down on Power and Torque.

[@KhanyoMjamba]

I'm hearing more and more good things about this car. I think it's time for a test drive. Looks like a great option for when I upgrade from the Duster

[@xoliklaas445]

Wow! This is actually a great looking vehicle and there is a tech fest inside indeed. My only concern is Subaru's sluggish CVT gearbox. How was you experience in this particular model?

[@marnicvictorduys8656]

Subaru are the most underrated cars in SA. The US have realised years ago what value they offer...

[@CesarGonzalezRFMonk]

the dog was attracted to the Subaru!!! made my day

[@benvisagie8844]

What a great review. And after I had look at the car at a Dealer I can identify with your views. I am a Subaru fan and owner from 2000. Never had an Outback, but I have ordered my one for early next year. Perfect for the SA roads as I am travelling a lot… the spare wheel and nice ride quality on all our very poor road surfaces are the selling points and the modern tech and connectivity, compared to some big and very popular SUV’s. And its big enough and well priced. And you wont know what I am getting rid off, a fairly new Prado which frustrates me a lot.

[@siraj_jr_]

A Subaru outback over a Prado? What's frustrating you in the Prado boet?

[@pierre7981]

thanks for the review, baffles me that this is 2 years late coming to SA.

[@ozemsadventureofrandomstuf252]

Great review. I mean the 138kw is it enough for this vehicle though? Anyway it’s definitely value for money everyone who I know owns Subaru never changes brands it’s an absolute steal of a car

[@mphotshabalala1501]

You are the best man.

[@SM-McKraken]

I really LOVE my '22 Outback Onyx XT (in black). So smooooooth and quiet. Even at 80 mph hwy speeds, converstations with passengers are easy and clear. The adaptive cruise control is absolutely a MUST-have if you drive highways even if just occasionally. Driving interstate is a breeze in this car, thanks to it's awesome Eyesight suite. I highly recommend these cars.

[@tadstertrolley7770]

Do you still love the XT, how is the get up and go?

[@YusufPetersenCPT]

Ciro the type of guy to Whipppanngg his Sprung action....

[@iantjasink6966]

Nice review, specially to a Subie fan! you restore my faith in a mark that isn"t what it used to be! Still think it needs more muscle, bigger tank. So you can go as far as a diesel. and real gear box (towing with a CV belt isn,t). I hate the high tech naucified elcto bull. But if there is one manufacture that will get it to work as long as the timing belt, it is Subaru! but where are the frameless windows? the fully formed side panels, the high lift suspension.

[@sheldzeeking640]

That facial recognition is Next Level ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😂

[@jasonjohnson905]

If I just walked in a room and started watching from 8:00 and didn't look at the intro I would've sworn this is a Volvo interior.

[@heroldmaitsebale4609]

This guy's laugh finishes me 😂

[@springbok410]

Just bought Touring model...green metallic autumn.

[@ThisIsJoe07]

That face recognition system would be a R80k optional extra on VW or Audi - after you have paid the additional extra for the electric seats.

[@Kopsnkops]

Mazda offers the same facial recognition technology in its upcoming CX-60, hope that car makes it to South Africa, but i am a little bit concerned about its price as its starts very close to the price of the BMW X3 in Europe and obviously would be more in SA. I know it is a Luxury car but it is pretty obvious that most people would go for the BMW over the Mazda at that Price.

[@Showmetheevidence-]

Having owned a Toybaru 86 for 7 years I would have zero qualms owning another Subaru (or Toyota, but basically a Japanese car). This car looks pretty dam good… 🤔 *starts counting pennies.

[@PeterGoyer]

Our 2022 Outback with 8K miles had the windshield spontaneously crack across the drivers line of sight without a rock chip or any damage. We got a bill for 1400$ even though we have the windshield warranty and it wasn't a damaged windscreen. After researching the issue online and with friends, I have come to the conclusion that ours cracked because of the defective black strips that serves as the defroster. It is an issue with glass that is too thin, and the Subaru windshield is too thin. There needs to be a larger class action suite for the newer cars with Eyesight windshields. This is the last Subaru I or my family will ever buy, based on the crappy customer service at our dealership.

[@bobmite9281]

Please do the Mercedes c class next. My uncle from England rented one when he came here and it had so much stuff. Could they be extras or it comes standard. It shun the 3 point star onto the ground from the side mirrors.. Cool

[@mamoshidimoleko1927]

I'm waiting for your review of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson, hopefully it will be soon.

[@sphantshangase6196]

How does the field differ from the touring in terms of features?

[@bobmite9281]

Lovely car. Especially for long road trips

[@Ash-so6qn]

LOVE THIS CAR!

[@donaldtebogostuurman4538]

Tell me that Ciro is from South Africa without showing me Ciro: Does anyone have a knife?

[@yaseene5349]

This is such an amazing car to buy

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Outback is a the Swiss Army knife of vehicles; can do a bit of everything.

[@scottbrady4472]

Well i'm sold!

[@siyamamnkelagcwini6949]

After warranty what's the resale value

[@farananibrucebudeli8612]

What are the chances that South Africa will get the wilderness edition of the Subaru Outback?

[@gerhardmaree]

Still the best spec'd car on the market in the segment. Just a pitty its not the most attractive looking one.

[@mulhatton]

Dash from the centre console looks like an abdo guard (ballbox).🤣🤣🤣 I've always though the Subaru was a lifted station wagon 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TeslaRules1856]

Do they offer a Hybrid or PHEV option ?

[@DeanFriederich]

AHHH FLOOF! Hello!

[@andrewleventis8341]

the most sensible car

[@KhanyoMjamba]

Really wish they can introduce hybrids or better fuel economy models

[@rudolphkruger6415]

Had to come to the comment section, expecting the Joburgers to comment. None found, maybe they agree about the potholes hehe. From Limpopo myself, all I can say is that our roads still beat the Freestate though.

[@getyourwillhere]

Aplomb is a great word.

[@phelosakathi1048]

I love this Car❤❤

[@lungimgaga7179]

My favorite car

[@PennsylvaniaDualSport]

It’s Stijl a Station Wagon to me. Not an SUV. Which is what makes it still cool to drive.

[@xihlukemathebula5202]

Review the staria

[@raymondmalan487]

Superb Package. Unfortunately, the S.A Motorist Public have been Drowned with the Typical SUV Look and Feel. Everybody that has some form of Motoring Witt, will know these Vehicle's are Long Haulers ( Do High Mileage ), and can withstand Regular "Bundu". Taking a German X3 Regulary on Dirt Roads...will just end up in Disaster. Another Plus, the Electronics will last till Kingdom Come, unlike it's German Competitors. Shout Out to Scooby. Great Vid.

[@keloduma]

If there was a Turbocharged offering this would definitely be a go to car

[@thenorthwatch777]

There is a 2.4L sold in North America. It produces 194kw and 375Nm. We need that in South Africa

[@keloduma]

@@thenorthwatch777 we need it badly bafo

[@kgothatsojonathan3267]

Please review the Cherry Tiggo 8 Pro

[@m2ngwa89]

It's already been done, check the channel uploads

[@maxmpuru8616]

Can 20 minutes and more be the new standard length for car reviews with Ciro💪

[@giepgrootpoot]

At least...

[@rosequartz2290]

He's incredible

[@springbok410]

We´re potholes republic LOL¡ LOVE SUBARU ¡

[@ericlucci2829]

also supplies you lots of trips to the dealership for problems!

[@waynemurray5084]

The 2.5 CVT Forester is R100 000 cheaper. I wonder what this Outback has in terms of equipment that the Forester doesn't?

[@zmirc]

Size

[@camf7522]

IMHO, Yes! Al only with its cousin Forester.

[@kudakwashechikoko9085]

what about the xc60

[@sechabashuping8685]

Well specced car and also well priced - value for money. It’s just the looks, man. Something about the way it looks that just shouts “ouma”

[@bailemagana4263]

Hahaha but you will be more safer in it than a VW Polo / Golf GTI

[@ElecAndAll]

We need a 7 seater outback pls.

[@notundermywatch3163]

From what I observe it's closer to an estate car or off road station wagon than an SUV

[@brandonclark6024]

Ja our roads are crap. However those roads where you are ( Eastgate and Bedfordview ) are really crap.

[@romaabrupt2391]

Only one bloody question where is DIESEL engine ?

[@smilereceive]

For Johannesburg it needs to be bullet proof. Literally.

[@Davo_1991]

i would call it more offroad or lifted wagon, not an suv.

[@brucekendall52]

Brilliant car.Pity about car prices.

[@limpo03]

How many times did Ciro say "box" in Afrikaans?, 😂😂😂