Subaru Outback - MORE proof you might not NEED an SUV | ReDriven used car review

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In this video review, we take a closer look at a used Subaru Outback and share our thoughts on its performance, features, and overall value. If you're in the market for a reliable and practical crossover SUV, the Outback could be a great choice and we'll tell you why.
What did you think? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below and don't forget to subscribe to stay up to date with all of our latest content!
00:00​​​​​​​ - Intro
00:48 - What is it?
03:15 - How's the interior?
07:23 - Tech & safety?
09:32 - What's it like to drive?
11:59 - Pricing
12:28 - What goes wrong?
16:57 - Should you buy it?
USED CAR BUYERS GUIDE: • ULTIMATE used car buye...
#subaru
#outback
#offroad
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At ReDriven, we’ll be taking you through the pros and cons of a huge range of used cars to see how well they’re going now that they’re a few years old, have thousands of kilometres on the clock, and are coming toward the end of their warranty, or maybe don’t have one at all.
Plus, thanks to our resident mechanic, Jim, you’ll find out what commonly goes wrong with them and what might need to be fixed.
Most importantly, we want to make ReDriven a voice for the most in-the-know used car experts there are...you guys.. See, you’re the ones that actually buy, live with, love and sometimes unfortunately hate the cars we’ll be reviewing.
So we want to hear your thoughts. Hit us up in the comments, or on Instagram and Facebook.
We’d love nothing more than for you to give us as much feedback as possible, so we can make this channel the best it can be.
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[@richardlove4287]

I bought a 2018 3.6r a couple of years ago, it’s never missed a beat and is as good and solid as the day I got it. No rattles, everything fits beautifully. I’m 30klm outside town on a farm with a fair bit of dirt in between, the outback doesn’t know the difference between dirt and tarmac, it just sticks like glue. It’s fast and direct to drive, I can’t recommend it enough…..

[@darrenhill6589]

Have had a 3.6R since 2016, and now 162000k on the clock. Loved every second in this car, and no issues at all. Love it so much that we’re transferring it to Tasmania for our holiday stay car, and buying our fourth Subaru, to sit next to our Prado caravan tower. Our six cylinder has a lifetime average of 9.3l/100 city and semi rural. On country roads we usually average 7.6. Love it, and the 12 speaker premium Harmon Kardon speaker system is lovely on long trips too.

[@angelapotter8332]

I concur, owned a 3.6R for 6.5 years from new, 130,000km. Was faultless, just keep it serviced. Great car, if the new outback XT had been available at the time in Australia would have bought one. Not interested in the non turbo 4 cylinder so ended up buying a different brand.

[@HyRax_Aus]

@@angelapotter8332 The Gen5 3.6R is lighter and faster (and IMO rides better) then the Gen6 XT too! Holding onto my 3.6R for a handful more years longer I think - will wait to see what Gen7 offers.

[@christopherludlam1602]

My 3.6R just needed a gearbox rebuild at 170,000ks which cost me AU$5000 Plus other repairs on alternator etc at $2000 Other than that no real issues

[@Hallowsaw]

I have a 2011 legacy 3.6r and im not giving it up but.... i have a 2.5 2017 outback and im totally getting rid of it before it hits 100k miles. The 2.5 is garbage.

[@51249ca]

My 2017 3.6r is like 11.2L/100kms (if driven conservatively) for city driving.

[@alanbrooke144]

Had a 1993 Subaru Impreza (manual), after ticking over 620,000km I had to replace the starter motor. The interior was definitely getting a bit on the worn side, but mechanically it just kept going without issue. Upgraded to a 2014 Outback 2.5 which has been fine so far - but I honestly can’t imagine it coming close to matching the reliability of the old school Impreza.

[@Gazza021]

Very thorough and well researched video, nice work! Subies have ALWAYS been maintenance sensitive (Our family has been through 8 of them since 1989 so far), so full service history is absolutely gold. Though you should ignore the Subaru stated service intervals for the CVT (Pretty much every service interval in the booklet says "Inspect". They basically won't touch anything or change the fluid until issues arise after which it's too late). Early (2010's or so) CVT units had issues with the main bearing and some valve body problems internally. The newer ones in these Outbacks have these issues ironed out, though obviously nothing is perfect. Get the transmission serviced and the fluid changed at the same intervals as a regular automatic. A Subaru specialist mechanic or suitably qualified auto transmission specialist can do this easily, just ensure they use the correct CVT fluid from Subaru. I was very sceptical, going from the 5 Speed Auto in my GT to the CVT in my Levorg, but I'd rate the Subaru CVT well above the Jatco junk box Nissan provides, though it too benefits from regular fluid changes. Thanks for the video, I've been considering adding an Outback to our fleet :)

[@bullnukeoldman3794]

Very good review - honest and fairly thorough. I'm a Subaru Outback owner (I currently own 2 daily drivers, one with 111k miles and the other 183k miles) but the older generation (2010-2014). I've driven the newer generation (2015 -) and prefer my older vehicles; easily upgradeable entertainment systems, no wonky electronic safety nannies, original windscreens, no oil usage between scheduled maintenance periods. As for the CVTs (one of mine has the older unit without the faux "shift points" in the engine computer), it has been completely reliable over 183k miles with only drain/refills of the fluid every 50k miles. I previously owned a 2014 with the current FB-series engine and had the engine short block replaced under warranty due to the excessive oil consumption. This is a sign of the times with vehicles of all brands experiencing excessive oil consumption by using thinner viscosity oils and low-tension piston oil control rings to increase fuel mileage. My old EJ-series engines have no issues of this sort. Cheers, good video.

[@dgurevich1]

After owning one from 2011 I would get another one in a heartbeat. If they weren't so darn expensive. The main lesson you need to learn when buying one: maintenance! Keep up on your fluid changes, make sure to replace the gear oil, and diff oil on time and you will have a beast.

[@colechapman6976]

Absolutely. Not for penny pinchers. Toyota and Honda is cheaper to own, but they offer less practicality and poor AWD systems. I think Subaru's resale value almost beats theirs as well because of that. I always do oil changes, and I have done CVT transmission fluid changes every 30k miles. I have owned my 2012 Limited 2.5i since 2020, so 3 years, and for a 12 year old car, it holds up pretty well. All electronics work. The sunroof, navigation, backup camera, audio system, electric heaters, electric seats, and windows work. Also, haven't had any other issues related to mechanical. I probably will have to buy new tires and maybe replace the windshield wipers too. Other than that, nothing really went wrong and it is at 113,051 miles.

[@marinusmourik9494]

​@@colechapman6976totally agree with you ! I have my third Outback at the moment for five years and nothing went wrong or broke down, normal service costs, that's it. Towing a trailer/caravan with it from 1500 kg,zero issue on gravel roads and in the mountains even in winter,only winter tires. For me no better car for the money.....and I had many.

[@MonsterDA6]

Yay I've been waiting for this video. I have a 2017 Outback. My Subaru Mechanic has recommended that I change the CVT oil every 50,000km.

[@Cynical_Ninja]

From europe and not even in the market for a car right now, but these videos are just so entertaining 😁

[@MrWilliam.Stewart]

Always a good day when these guys put out a new video 😃

[@arad907]

Great video as always!

[@geoffhickin7000]

2015 3.6R owner. No mechanical issues whatsoever. 6 monthly service is a pain but you get a reliable vehicle. Superb on the open road and very manageable around town. Tons of room inside. Engine is a gem, but the CVT whilst very smooth, dumbs it down. Eyesight on this model is pretty crude, but I believe it improved on later models. Still a great all-rounder. Cheap to insure, too.

[@tomasandrescortelezzi1383]

Great video by the way!

[@mahcooharper9577]

I don't like Outbacks but I really enjoy your content guys - getting more slick all the time and glad to see your views are going up all the time too!

[@ReDriven]

Thanks so much mate. - AK

[@zappy7393]

I brought a 2016 Outback last year after figuring out that paying $65k+ for a Pajero was a stupid idea. I paid $16k because it had some issues that I spent a weekend and about $800 to fix. I hate to say it (I hate Boxer engines) but I don't regret the purchase at all. So comfortable to drive, so much room for family activities and so easy to work on. Only issue I have yet to fix is I believe, the beginning of a front cover leak which is common on these engines, Subaru have just never figured out how much sealant to apply to anything. The actual value for money though is spot on.

[@bb-qk8mp]

Yes its becoming a problem, not just for Subaru, a spec of dust, a fingerprint..couple years later...the lexus 3.5 motor has many issues with this. BTW average life exoectancy for the seal is 8 years 100,000 kms, so if you got near that, not so bad.

[@rob6756]

I just bought a 2010 Outback 3.6R nearly 2 weeks ago, drives like a new car and so comfortable, love it. This is my 5th Outback, 1998 till now

[@s0lephasr248]

Loving the entire channel. Putting a request for used Skoda Superb or Octavia RS circa 2016-2021. Great work guys. Comprehensive advice, one if the best motoring channels I've seen. Please stop apologising for the audio. It's unnecessary, you guys are great.

[@ReDriven]

Thanks so much for the kind words! We’ve got some Skodas at the very top of our list!

[@s0lephasr248]

@@ReDriven Sweet, can't wait!

[@waggaclint]

Great Cars we bought a 3.6r new in 2017 it now has 120,000km on it with Zero issues, excellent car that’s great to drive👌

[@paulwang5213]

loving these videos on more versatile cars, more reviews on wagons please!! 🔥🔥🔥 especially the Toyota crown Estate Athlete V

[@daweigo6851]

They were never sold in Australia unfortunately, nice car

[@rexthesheep]

@@daweigo6851 There's been a fair few Japanese import-only car reviews on the channel already, and you can buy grey imports on the used market here, so it's not an inappropriate request. ^^ I'm actually a big fan of the Toyota Caldina myself and would love to see a review on that. I actually saw one a couple of weeks ago!

[@greyjk]

Just bought a 2018 base model, after a 2009 3.6R. So far, I am really enjoying the experience, reduced fuel cost, base level equipment is excellent, and simply the best CVT I have driven. Yes, I have less power, but most driving I do is around town and the newer car is smoother and nicer to drive daily. I had issues with the older car, probably due to previous owners not doing the correct preventive maintenance. Time will tell how this newer car will age, but I have bought it with lower milage and less age, so the maintenance and ageing well will be on me.

[@HyRax_Aus]

Other lesser-known features: All pushbutton-start Subaru's (across all models, all years) can set a five digit PIN code on the tailgate to unlock the car without the fob. Good for rescuing trapped kids and pets without smashing a window, or deliberately locking your fob inside the car when you go to the beach so you don't lose it or the service key. On the Gen5 Outback, you can change the colour of the combination meter rings from blue to one of about 15 or so other colours (red is reserved for EyeSight if equipped, and brown is reserved for indicating Manual Flappy Paddles mode). Sadly this feature was removed in Gen6. 2018-2020 (AU) Premium models got Adaptive Driving Beam (in addition to the Steering Responsive Headlights), also known in other brands as Matrix Headlights, where high beam can automatically turn on, but rather than be all on and all off, breaks the high beam up into three zones, so it only illuminates what is safe to do so via what the EyeSight cameras see. You can, for example, be following a vehicle and have high beam illuminating the left and right sides of the road, but there is a box of low beam tracking the vehicle in front. If an oncoming vehicle comes, the right zone will shutdown back to low beam, leaving just the left side in high beam, etc. 2018-2020 (AU) models received EyeSight 3.0 which switched the black and white cameras for colour cameras that can see and react to brake lights from other vehicles. You can tell a 2.5 apart from a 3.6R by looking at the sideskirt. All 3.6's have a chrome sideskirt.

[@ravingmad765]

Now that should have featured in this video, done with a Slim Dusty voice. AK, addendum please.

[@fluffypuppy1040]

The other way to spot a 3.6 is look for an exhaust pipe on each side, but really the exhaust is fairly well hidden on any recent Outback.

[@pastorofmuppets8834]

Where do you put the pin in?

[@HyRax_Aus]

@@pastorofmuppets8834 There's an extra button to the right of the tailgate release button. You use that to enter the PIN in, old-SMS style. The same button will also lock the car afterwards with a single press. For sedans, the boot release button is also the PIN entry button.

[@HyRax_Aus]

@@fluffypuppy1040 They face downwards with no bumper cutout rather than backwards through a cutout in the bumper too.

[@fluffypuppy1040]

I bought a 2016 3.6R during Covid (it was freighted from an auction in Melbourne). It has had no problems other than some wind noise in the driver side near the mirror. And the 3.6R can be seriously quick for a large-ish car.

[@peterlattimore6013]

I tried everything to find where that wind noise comes from. It's a little less intrusive when folding the mirrors in at speed, but obviously not ideal. Have taped the panel gaps up and entered from the passenger's side to see if it was there, but alas... conclusion, it's the shape of the side mirror, big boxy wind sail ... 3.6RS with 165k 2017 still going strong except a CVT showing wear groove at 1200rpm on coasting... Use ceratec oil additive and on long open road driving I'm getting 7.5 l/100

[@Sarman605]

Love your work lads, would still love to grab a few second thoughts on the audio system, especially with a musicians ears!

[@ReDriven]

Daniel my ears are so destroyed after 30 years of gigging, I’m not sure if my opinion would be worthy! We’ll try to make a few more comments about it but. - AK

[@peterknight7880]

Totally agree with you RE buttons.

[@noelkeenan7329]

Just ticked over 200k in my 2016 Diesel Outback today. Perfect long distance touring car on secondary roads. Comfortable as hell and quiet. Diesel can be problematic with DPF issues, mine is no exception. Done two windscreens, but rocks do that! Still tight and rattle free. 2.5 petrol would be the best.

[@geekdrive8017]

I purchased a 2016 3.6 a few months ago and don't regret my purchase at all. After a Carplay head unit upgrade and some cosmetic mods, this thing is shaping up to be a fantastic car! Great vid.

[@muddyshane4529]

What head unit did you get?

[@LincolnEather]

Also enquiring about the head unit

[@rs7111]

Same, how is it

[@toddstewart3179]

I have a 2016 2.5 that I purchased new. So far I’ve driven 96,000 trouble free miles. It feels so solid, comfortable and safe. It never fails to get me through any weather or driving situation. I love this car.

[@jamesmoros1274]

I had the 2011 and one problem kept coming up it was the radiator.. every 8 months it was leaking had it replaced under warranty 3 times 😮 till I sold the car and the parts were more expensive than other cars I had. Design and practicality was very good 😊

[@simonisaacs9265]

Bought a new MY15 3.6R to replace a MY06 GT specB Liberty wagon. Miss the Liberty, but love the 3.6R. Apart from regular maintenance, we've replaced a clockspring and the volume controls on the steering wheel are a bit dodgy now. Even managed to get it bogged once going a bit off road😅 Love it!

[@Jase583]

I am loving my Outback XT sport. The turbo gives it oomph. The ride is smooth. The interior is very nice. It is quiet. Because of the turbo the engine isn't struggling.

[@MasterCurry69]

Would love to see a review on the Toyota Landcrusier 100 series, I’ve fallen in love with them and looking to get into a V8 petrol!

[@Stanz-ug5cc]

Awesome thank you. I know the CVT’s aren’t great. We have had ours for over 3yrs and it’s been great. Ours is a 2015 2.5i premium. Sat nav isn’t great.

[@myke49]

I've got a 18 Premium diesel. I live out of Canberra so most of my trips are at least 35 km. I have not had any DPF problems and the car now has about 140,000 km over its 5 years. It averages about 7.2 litres /100km around here and about 6.5 on a longer trip to Melbourne and back. The first set of tyres wore quickly so I had the wheel alignment checked and it was way out. I am very happy with our Subi. It is comfortable, quick enough and has tons of room for large model aeroplanes and camping equipment. Mike in Oz

[@alfstewart22]

The reason why you don’t have DPF issues is because you travel 35kms at highway speeds

[@peterb666]

@@alfstewart22 The diesels are definitely country cars. Not the least suited to mum's suburban taxi.

[@marinusmourik9494]

2018 2.5 Outback owner,you should buy one ! This is my third one and never ever had any costs of problems,don't recognise the mentioned problems...... by the way the mechanic is wrong about the drive belt..... it's a chain,the earlier models do have a belt.

[@derekharvey5257]

I’ve had 3 Outbacks, a 2012 Gen4 Premium diesel, a 2016 Gen5 2.5 Premium and presently a 2018 3.6R. The 3.6 is my favourite, yes it is thirsty in urban driving, but just better than a 2.5i which can struggle once loaded up. The diesel was good but they (or their DPF in particular) hate extended urban driving. Much better choice if you’re doing bulk highway km’s. The main thing with Subarus is (1) being very particular about servicing them on-time, and (2) treating the CVT kindly i.e. not towing much. I just think they’re one of the best all-rounder vehicles you can buy. I’ve leased a VW Tiguan and RAV4 hybrid, both not bad, but with my own $$$ another Outback was a no-brainer. Waiting now for Australia to get the new Outback Wilderness at last…..mm hmmm 🤔

[@richardlove4287]

The cvt in the 3.6r is a heavy duty one compared to the 2.5. Never had a problem with mine.

[@essjayyell]

I’ve had a 2016 3.6R since new. Love the car and can’t really see a reason to sell for anything else. It’s our everyday family car. Two kids in the back most of the time and very little wear and tear inside. I’ve even camped in the back myself with a little plywood sleeping platform. I have had the issues mentioned such as battery drain, and the air con blower motor failing twice already. Very comfy car that is honestly a joy to drive especially on longer trips. Just feel like I could drive it forever.

[@sarahloc5371]

Thank you this was very helpful. I have owned a car that had major CVT issues, cost me heaps over and over. So tis a No taking the Outback unfortunately off my list

[@michaeloconnor9678]

The modern Outbacks are NOT simply jacked up versions of Legacy Station wagons. That is their legacy and DNA, but they are now Outbacks from the new Universal Platform, which is a big deal and upgrade that you didn't even mention, making these newer cars the last 3-4 years depending on model, a lot more stiff and strong, and as I mentioned, the platform and Frame versions are redisigned from the ground up. And there are a lot more deep rooted differences. Of course we could use the word "essentially", but it is no longer true to say that these are just beefed up Legacy Wagons. I had One of those, and I had one of the first Outbacks, and several others. They are a different breed now, despite a lot of the obvious similarities by virtue of being Subaru's.

[@chriswalker4272]

You do not need any tool to resett the oil dilution, after changing the oil youself on 2016 2.0 Diesel Premium,. I do the servicing on my XV car, same mechanics as Outback and Forrester, and have changed the oil every six months, and inbetween dealer services, when it was under warrenty and Subaru serviced it each year. I can get over 60 mpg, and average 47mpg in Scotland in the Highlands. Also I can get 30mpg towing my caravan, although I do change the Havoline engine oil every six months to help keep the timing chain, (no timing belts in the diesels either), and engine clean inside. Here is how to resett the oil dilution counter, and it does work:- start engine depress & hold brake pedal turn heated rear window on turn side lights on turn heated rear window off turn lights off turn heated rear window on (again) turn side lights on (again) turn heated rear window off turn side lights off release brake The glow plug light should blink for 5 seconds to confirm reset has been successful, Job done! I have had the prop centre bearing fail, under warranty, a cast recirculation exhaust component crack, again under warranty and probably because I used to like driving through flooded roads too quickly. But now I know this can happen,(just behind front right wheel area, by thermal shock of cold water), so am more careful now. Other than that it's as fast as a wrx 50 to 70 mph, but only there lol, and is the most economical yet with 350NM of torque, nicest cars I've ever driven. I'm just fitting 225/55R17 101H COOPER DISCOVERER ATT ALL TERRAIN 4X4 TYRES 2255517 to my winter wheels once refurbished.

[@Greyman268]

Bought 2015 prem 4 cylinder brand new - serviced on time, premium fuel etc Wouldn't buy a new Subaru again with CVT... Burnt oil Short block replaced under warranty Torque converter replaced Transmission replaced 6 months after warranty expired cost 5k. Asked Subaru if they would cover it, answer was No. Loved the space and wagon but wouldn't buy again after that experience. Love the videos mate 👌

[@ReputacionMedica-no7xi]

Same here!

[@blancomputers1]

I have owned 3 Subaru 1st 1999 Forster (500K on the clock still going like 1st day on the road ) 2nd 2006 Outback ( 300k ) and now a 2013 Outback Diesel, they are great cars, yes they have know falls but there have been very minor, As for the CVT in my 2013 been great, just one thing change the CVT oil at a Subaru dealer for just over $ 400 piece of mind no CVT oil last in a transmission. Other than that, I haveeen happy with all Subaruru's I have owned over time with 7.2 L/100ks local and 6.3 l/100ks highway driving and averages 950 to 1000 ks per tank on the diesel. I'm the second owner of this 2013 Outback still feel like it just come off the showroom floor.

[@chrisbates8064]

In 2012 we cross shopped Subaru and Skoda. A mid spec liberty wagon to a base diesel Superb wagon. We bought the Skoda and have never regretted it. It had more cargo volume and a vast rear seat in comparison. 180,000 kilometres later and it has proved extremely reliable. One headlight globe, brakes at 165,000 and two batteries is all we've done outside of services.

[@kenc8359]

I still own my MY2004 Liberty Wagon GT since new. Done almost 250K kms. Replaced the dampers with Bilsteins and new front lower control arms recently. It's still a lot of fun to drive and it goes like a rocket - it's a mature person's WRX I'm told. No major issues with it. I really love the console cockpit, leather Momo steering and Recaro-like seats. I'll probably keep it until one of us fails first. I'm 70.

[@montyspearo]

Friend has 10yr old one and no issues with drivetrain that he has mentioned. Great on open road and not bad on fuel considering load carrying capabilities. Given how popular they are why haven't competitors tried to compete instead of making just another SUV. Mazda how about a jacked up Mazda6 with CX5 drivetrain? Saw KZbin video on demise of wagon/estate in USA, only account for 1.7% of market now with Outback making majority of that, rest are expensive but nice high end euro wagons.

[@cheesemaster113]

A lot of them are made in Japan entirely from Japanese produced parts, nuff said. I will pay 3000 extra for a Japanese assembled and produced car, so for me these are a great buy.

[@jimmyp1433]

If you want your CVT to last , don't trash it, and change the fluid every ~100k , pretty good chance it will last a reasonable time. That said, I bought a 2013 3.6R with the old 5 speed - primarily because I was on a budget so looking at higher K cars , and also for Offroad, where the 5 speed is pretty bullet proof, and allows quite a bit more low down power - basically just something I don't have to worry about , within reason (any transmission can fail after all - but the 5 speed Jatco is very sturdy) . PS the 3.6R is a gem of a motor . The problems noted for it (idler pulley's and oil leaks) are very insignificant. - Oil leaks don't happen for many Kms usually, espcially if serviced reasonably on time, and Idler pulleys are a 30min $10 fix if you press your own new bearings in ( or your mechanic does!) . I don't get the constant fuel consumption mention's for it either as a negative.. especially in the 'what goes wrong' segment? - it's a 3.6L port injection engine , in a 1600+KG car , with 'proper' AWD to boot. So of course it uses fuel , but no more than any other! (incl toyota's , holden, ford V6/I6s) . and PPS - Great , fair review overall. Not perfect, but do so much right. I'll find it hard to move on from an outback (this is our 2nd) as the daily/family truckster/roadtrip/light off-roader weapon of choice

[@glennmk5167]

Having owned the WRX with CVT I would be changing that fluid every 55 to 70,000km, I also had some issues with the CVT as well they extended my warranty on the CVT

[@Wrang15]

Mom has had 3 cvts in a car with only 71k on it 2.5. She is in her 70s and they go out. .. I wonder if the fluid drained out of parts of the cvts as the car sits in the garage a lot.

[@s_s_d_d_33]

Weird I'm guessing its a Nissan or Kia. I'm currently 430,XXXkm@@Wrang15 on my 2017 2.5 outback and the cvt is still going strong. Been doing fluid changes every 30k.

[@TwistedDonners]

First thing I noticed with today's video was the lack of a 0-60kms and 60-100kms. Did you guys accidentally forget to add it to the video or are you dropping that bit from the videos from now on or can't I see for looking? Lol Stuff the ads on TV and online for Subaru at the moment they should pay you guys to do a bush ballad style ad like the safety features overview and they'd be selling them by the truck loads I think. This has given me a lot of food for thought as I know some people that are potentially looking at getting a new car and this might help them decide or not. Great video as always guys. Have a good weekend and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.

[@ReDriven]

Heya mate!!! No performance times thanks to bloody Sydney traffic. - AK

[@TwistedDonners]

@@ReDriven good thing it wasn't during the Newcastle 500 then lol 😆

[@swkohnle08]

Nice review. I have the 2019 2.5 Outback. I love mine. Enjoyed your review. The only thing is that I think your steering wheel is on the wrong side but otherwise good ;)

[@J.Young808]

I have a 2005 Outback XT manual with a 1” (254mm) lift and Method rims with Falken AT tires.

[@jaredbawden6707]

My workplace has 2 of these. A few issues we've noticed: - The Eye Sight system can be a bit of an annoying backseat driver. The amount of times it alerts me of an imminent collision is ridiculous. You only have to prod (and I mean very briefly) the throttle with another car in front of you and it will go nuts. Also thinks you're going to drive into walls in car parks with right angle corners. Lastly if it rains. The Eye Sight sometimes can't see and cruise control shuts down. I've had to drive 100's of kms on a trip before with no cruise, because it simply refused to work in anything more than light rain. We've got different infotainment systems in both our vehicles (one had a special edition upgrade package) and both of them have played up badly. The smaller screen unit has had multiple updates due to it regularly just freezing the screen or not displaying the full radio interface. The larger unit has started spontaneously generating key presses, and is delaminating, causing all sorts of mayhem. We have been waiting months now for it to be replaced, and Subaru insisted that they needed to see the serial number of the unit (which required pulling it out no less) before they could order another one! -I noted the model on review had a rubber boot liner, which I would strongly recommend, as the boot floor is utter crap. The forwardmost section is a separate piece which is just a flimsy piece with cardboard like backing and a few clips holding it. We've managed to ruin both of these from loading equipment in and out. Something the old VF Commodores never had an issue with. Cargo barriers take up a lot of the boot space and forget about using it in the forward position with the rear seats down, as the setup is an utter joke. Lastly, the boot height is way too low. I personally own a '07 Liberty GT-B wagon, which is much closer to the ground, yet has way more head room with the boot open. I'm 178cm and my head touches the lid on the Outback. They've otherwise been reliable machines. Not stunning in any way. Not a lot of power, but they don't struggle either. I do wish the lower models had a tilt adjustment for the seat base though.

[@maxregal8889]

Yes, the old stuff is better than the new stuff. When Subaru make a wagon that is an improvement on my ‘07 Liberty 3.0R I’ll buy it. Also, a proper Subaru has frameless door glass.

[@tomnewham1269]

To answer your first question Adam the answer is no. If you asked me before I watched this video the answer would be yes but those mechanical and electrical issues puts the Outback in the not to buy category. The Subaru's of the 80's and early 90's definitely were good vehicles. The wagons were quite popular for rural folk as they were a perfect mix of a car that could be driven in tricky conditions ie muddy wet unsealed roads. And the Brumby was a great little ute and if I had the space and time to do up one I'd buy one in a heartbeat. Another thing I would like to mention is that here in Australia we have a consumer law that despite a vehicle being out of warranty, if the vehicle is still under a certain age and has been looked after, the manufacturer is obliged to fix, replace or make a refund.

[@rsmnh7892]

Subaru agreed to replace the transmission for free for 2016 outback this year as the car was always serviced at Subaru dealers. Good well 👏

[@drumaasepp9899]

I've got a 2016 3.6R - it's a peach of an engine to drive and it's been our daily for 80,000km's so far. Issues are: a gremlin who seems to jump from window to window and stops the windows rolling down temporarily, they always start working again so been hard to flag with our mechanic. Clear coat paint seems fragile, one door in particular seems to peel whenever anything lightly brushes it! And the plastic on the roof rail is garbage, really cheap and wavy looking. Agree the service intervals at 6 months are pretty short. We've get 9.8l/100km as a lifetime average and we're Sydney based, usual highway k's for school holidays but mostly runabout in town. I'm over 6 foot and I can attest the the low boot opening is annoying, I always hit my head on the hatch. Other than that I am hopeful we will not run into CVT drama that the internet has so much of an opinion about. I recently got my mechanic to do a fluid change even though Subaru say it's a lifetime fluid in there. I did not notice a change at all in how it drives and he said the fluid which came out was fine. I also thought it was interesting Jim said these are the worst CVTs... I thought Nissan's JATCO CVT would have taken that prize. There are certainly more videos of dead Nissan CVT's floating around but I realise that is not a good piece of evidence. Also worth noting that the 4 cylinders have a different CVT to the 6 cylinder but both are made by Subaru and yes, I guess they are still CVTs.

[@seymourskinner2533]

I was getting my BRZ it’s first service the other day. While at the dealership a guy is absolutely going off because his cvt has failed after 70ks. The workshop guy was telling him the warranty probably won’t cover it. Good times, good times.

[@andoletube]

That's why you don't listen to the workshop guy - he doesn't care who pays. All cars have a legal requirement to be of reasonable durability in Australia - the warranty is actually not the most relevant factor there. The only caveat is that you need to have kept up with the servicing schedule. If your transmission claps out at 70k, you can have it replaced by citing consumer law at your relevant tribunal. It's worth hiring a solicitor to make sure it's handled properly, but 70k for a transmission is a slam-dunk with at any civil administrative tribunal. The sad part is, so many people are unaware of this, and end up paying for it.

[@johnnumbat9782]

Thanks again Adam & Jim - I’ve owned 11 Subarus including a ‘96 Outback which was quite luxurious compared to my ‘81 Leone wagon or my ‘99 Liberty wagon - they’re just very good value for money compared to other makes and have amazing grip on the road in all weather conditions - I sold my ‘98 WRX hatchback to buy a house and still have an ‘06 Forester next to my Hilux as a runabout - I stopped buying Subarus when the problematic CVT was introduced - my last Subaru was a 2010 XT Turbo Forester which I quickly sold after discovering that the new 2008-13 ‘lamb chop’ piston arm/bearing was designed to reduce fuel consumption but inherently produced weakened offset stresses giving rise to many engine failures with rods and bearings.

[@santouchesantouche2873]

I don't think the EJ engines had that asymmetrical rods. That was for the FA series

[@johnnumbat9782]

@@santouchesantouche2873 OK thanks SS - looks like my mechanic had an agenda then when he bought it off me.

[@santouchesantouche2873]

@@johnnumbat9782 Ooft I think you may have busted him. Time to find a new mechanic methinks...

[@LucjanBurakowskai]

I own 2018 3.6 R is good. I can’t complain. I pulled the trailer that Car never let me down. It’s solid and reliable. Of course I change the oil I look after that. And if I had a chance, I’ll buy the other one.

[@Ford_TImelord]

That Brown duco and Cream interior looks great. My best mates gen 4 2012 outback got to 400,000 before DPF and CVT issues. however it was a reps car in the city before so fair enough. He spent $1,500 on a replacement DPF and flushed the 'forever' CVT oil and it runs fine now. Keeping it for his daughter. Feels like a vault My work car is this model. in the video but Base with the 2.5. It cruises well - the CVT is much improved. secret to getting big kms is preemptive maintenance.

[@richardlionheart3965]

geez louise, bloody lovely!

[@rossmangano414]

As a current owner of a 2017 diesel, I love this review. Unfortunately, the CVT, in my own opinion, has been the weak link in this vehicle. This is my wife's daily drive and the vehicle we tour with. It is so comfortable to tour in. This was our first Subaru and potentially our last as it has limited towing ability for our next stage of life with a larger caravan. We currently tow a small van with the Outback, and the diesel is a great option. The CVT was serviced around 80K, and it now has 98K. We have the car serviced by Subaru and plan to keep it until about 160K, so I hope the CVT holds out. We have had no issues with the DPF as my wife regularly does a DPF burn off.

[@Kacpa2]

If you couls get the manual diesel you would be surprised how good at towing it is. Its underrated on purpose. Braked caravan or big trailer with load can easily towed quite far above subarus conservative specs.

[@michaelvandord7505]

Got a 2.5i 2018, second hand, love it but had a gearbox solenoid go but only cost $1000

[@owenwilson6737]

I’ve had 2008 and 2011 2.5 litre Premium Touring Wagons, both bought second hand with about 100K on them. The 2011 had more problems than the 2008, the build quality was not as good and then it was in an accident and never the same again so I have gone to a 2016 Mazda 6 wagon. I miss the AWD occasionally but that’s about it, the Mazda does what I need it to do and it’s still enough fun to drive. The customer service from the Mazda dealer I go to for servicing is much better than any Subaru dealer I have experienced. Would I buy Subaru again? I’d never say never, but at this stage probably not.

[@laureus31]

Own one of this since new from 2016 as the family car. It travels 80k already. Heard the cvt solenoids will go bad on early BS9 with miles but completely fine in our one. I installed several JDM Subaru option and I strongly recommend the 'mirror auto folding system'. In normal Outback the mirror will not work after the engine was shut. With this option installed the mirror will fold itself when the car was locked. Fun facts, this models shares a lot of parts with certain Toyota models. For example, the outside handels and ac filters are the same with S200 Crowns. I will retro fit a smart handle to the rear doors so we don't need to unlock from the front doors.

[@flavio17021979]

Any chance for link etc to parts,description of this upgrades??

[@laureus31]

@@flavio17021979 I'm planning to make videos as tutorials but I don't know when :(

[@KentHutchins]

Re: “the cvts in these are arguably the most unreliable of all the cvts on the market………” For once, I’ll disagree. My 3 essential ways to avoid big repair costs are: - 1. Preventative CVT fluid change is essential. Makes for smoother operation too. 2. Yes, a couple of solenoids like to fail. Pretty easy to replace at an independent specialist. Warning: Dealers & some ‘by-the book’ places replace the whole valve body (cost will make your eye's water), when only simple solenoids and a good service was necessary. 3. Don’t tow ‘heavy’ or often. There’s lots more suitable vehicles for towing.

[@rShadowFace]

dont now about most unreliable in the market, as far as i heard that goes to nissan.. ive seen at least a few subaru cvts shit themselves for no reason with like 50000 miles, but at that point cars were mostly under warranty and subaru paid for a new gearbox

[@TheJeepWranglerMan023]

Love these Outbacks, my mate has a 2015 with the 3.6L 6 cylinder engine. I would love to own a diesel one.

[@samawol4161]

Review a 2018-current model suzuki swift sport? Really underrated car.

[@damilolaakanni]

It would be great if you can find a first or second generation Outback to review, just to compare with this one.

[@ReDriven]

Working on exactly that mate. - AK

[@stogmot1]

you can reset the oil dilution by following procedure , ignition on ,brake pedal on ,side light on ,rear demist on ,then off in turn , then back on ,then all off in turn . If you have caried this out correctly ,the glow plug light will flash . My Dpf gave me headaches ,and the injectors need reprograming every 6k ,or it rattles like a ba tard . Done 120k ,very happy with my outback ,going to get a newer one

[@rexthesheep]

Yes!! I'm so glad to see some reviews on wagons! Well, Subaru Australia may market the new Outback as a SUV now (and it's certainly become a pretty huge vehicle), but it'll always be a wagon in the hearts of its buyers.

[@ravingmad765]

Mate, we prefer to call wagons Carriages in Australia. And look apart from it being very expensive to replace the horse (some say they are less reliable than a CVT, but I disagree) and the aircon being a bit rubbish on a hot day, look, a wagon can be a good buy. There you got another wagon review.

[@rexthesheep]

@@ravingmad765 I can say I've now been sassed in ReDriven comments for liking both SUVs and now wagons. Thank you for this.

[@ravingmad765]

@@rexthesheep LOL I'm a wagon fan too mate.

[@rexthesheep]

@@ravingmad765 Yeah i'm laughing with you just to be clear.

[@AP-gn9fd]

Will you be reviewing 2016 Foresters?

[@mvnorsel6354]

I like the cream interior of your test car.😅

[@559viking]

I just purchased a 2016 OB 3.6r with 110k miles on it and the only weird issue is the CEL came on randomly and was probably the gas cap, that went away, seems to be a great car so far.

[@bamabowhunter8499]

Im looking into buying one exactly like yours. Curious what gas mileage do you get

[@trevorcourt2306]

Have had my 2016 3.6R since new in May 2016 has done just over 130,000km Mechanically have not had any major problems. The car was almost written off twice .. Once due to horendous hail damage but new boot, new bonnet new doors x 2 and a new roof... then full respray. Second time I lent it to a mate who was side=swiped whilst towing a boat at 100km/hr... Another new boot, another 2 new doors and new wheels. (Mate was fine luckilly) It still drives like new.|Regularly serviced by Subaru for 5 years then by local mechanic. Subaru declined to check CVT when asked before warranty ran out(5yr warranty) that was the last time they got the car to service.. Local mechanic has checked the CVT and all OK. I tow a 4.5 alloy boat with it and it pulls the boat with ease. Yes it is more thirsty than my Mazda 6 wagon but it never feels like the boat will pull it down the boat ramp.. I'll keep driving it having it regularly serviced till it dies.

[@simonbrooks6073]

Had a 2000 gen 2 2.5 auto. Amazing car. Had a 2013 gen 4 CVT diesel. Dpf issues, economical but bigger and just didn’t feel as good as the earlier one.

[@s.baldrick3807]

My parents had an 01 Limited, the 4 speed auto wasn't very fun but I loved the sound of the 2.5L engine. Had to let it go because of a headgasket issue (dad's fault for sending it uphill fully loaded...), though it gave us 220k's of service by the time we parted with it.

[@beaux7157]

I'd like to know if CVT problems have corresponded with particular engine sizes. I have a 2016 diesel and have had no problems at all. The diesel revs much lower for a start, but I also wonder if it, and the 3.6, had a beefed up CVT. Seems to me that most diesel owners are more concerned about the DPF than the CVT. I've never had a problem with either, in 140,000 kms, but I only do country driving.

[@williamegler8771]

My neighbors were serial Subaru buyers for decades. They bought their first when they graduated college and owned them almost exclusively since around 1985. They would sing their praises whenever the subject of automobiles came up. Around 2000 or so each new one was more problematic than the one it replaced. Multiple head gasket failures. Oil and coolant leaks. Transmission problems. Leaks. HVAC issues including a complete failure of the A/C while driving across Texas in summer in 43°C heat. Their last Subaru was a Ascent which Subaru bought back under "LEMON LAW". They now have a Toyota minivan and a Lexus SUV.

[@ravingmad765]

Mate, there is a TV show in that. Did they live on Ramsey St or were they more Summer Bay?

[@eskieman3948]

No one cares about the 'story' of your 'neighbors'.

[@DaDaDo661]

Wow i wish we could get the Diesels here in North America

[@dgdgbeer]

We’ve got a 2004 3.0R Outback & love it. It is nearing 400,000kms (had it since 125,00kms) without any major issues, but we are considering an upgrade. We are looking at the exact vehicle you just reviewed. I’ll look for a good service history & have the cvt checked out. Does towing detrimentally affect cvt’s? I may look for one without a towbar.

[@hikersteph]

When you said "a spot for life's filth" I FELT THAT 😂

[@scotboy1297]

Brings to mind the movie Quigley Down Under with Tom Selleck and Alan Rickman, great actors at their prime and great story.

[@campbellellis7934]

Looking at getting a 2010 manual diesel. Want to stay away from the CVT as I've been bitten by them in the past. I reckon the DPF stuff is mainly people not driving them properly and not giving them regular, decent highway runs to burn the crap off.

[@StevenJohnson-jv1iw]

I have had 3 subarus.... reliability and getting parts is making this no longer an option in South Africa

[@jonnywalkerjames6220]

Redriven please make a review video for 2018 to 2022 Mazda 6

[@johnlebeau5471]

I have a 2014 Outback with the 3.6L engine and the 5 speed automatic transmission, NOT the CVT. I bought it new in late 2013. It has 205,000 miles, I'm in the U.S., or 330,000 km for the rest of the world. Most of the miles are highway cruising. It gets fresh synthetic oil every 5-6 thousand miles, and full fluid replacement every 30-40 thousand miles. I did the spark plugs and brakes at 120,000 miles. The worst mechanical problem I've had was a broken horn button. It still runs like it is new. I have never owned a car, and I am 65 so I have owned quite a few cars, that has been more durable, reliable, capable, useful, and trouble free. I'm going for 300,000 miles. The problem is that Subaru no longer makes this car, except in name, so I can't buy another one. This one has to last.

[@ildar0709]

Hey hunk, you should make a vid about your watches. I am pretty sure you have a seiko turtle, and a casioak. Are you wearing a SKX in this one?

[@ReDriven]

Something might be coming on the socials mate. - AK

[@torquendirty2186]

Love the review Adam! Gotta say, what a ridiculously good looking car and that coliur 😍😅🤣 I can confirm the previous owners had three kids' car seats in the back, basically its whole life.

[@satishkaligiri2747]

Hey mate, could you make a video on Mitsubishi outlander please 😊

[@pdx_angler9760]

My wife's '17 3.6R premium(?) has been good outside of the cooling fans screws letting loose and the AC compressor failing. I like the motor and trans is OK for a CVT. Not as fun as my '02 WRX was but pretty good for a family wagon. Better than her previous '13 2.5L Outback. The only other problems are random failures of the back hatch to open. Don't buy it for fuel mileage.

[@kevinbarry71]

They also made an outback sedan for a few years. I think they sold several dozen. This is in the United States

[@deanmichael1279]

So yes the 16-19 Crosstrek Automatic transmission had major CVT issues. Rather than Issue a recall Subaru chose to extend the warranty and replace them without making updates to the transmission. So when you see people complain it’s not about your old 2010 cvt nor are they complaining about your manual sti. It’s a real issue that exists and seems to be more isolated with the crosstrek than it is with other models.

[@surfman0115]

Subaru cvts worse than the Nissan ones? I find that hard to believe

[@eskieman3948]

That's just a completely false statement, plain and simple.

[@danmccarthy4700]

"Life's Filth" is my new band name.

[@b4ndogor479]

I really like the Outback but that CVT put me off. I was cross shopping the Outback with a AWD CX-5 and decided that the Mazda would be better in the long term.

[@tomhartigan182]

Any other reccomendations for a wagon of similar size ? We currently have a kx kluger and do love it , but its thirsty and old technology

[@Wrang15]

All I can say is mom's 2014 2.5 has 71k.. it's had 2 cvts put in it. Every thing maintained at the dealer. She is in her 70s so it's not beat on. It sits in a heated, humidity controlled garage most of the time. Goes really good in nasty weather too. Gets good mpg. 27 to 32 for a 10 year old car. Exaust rusted off at 60k.

[@peterlattimore6013]

Probably the fact "mum" throws the car from reverse into drive while still rolling backwards... that'll kill any CVT. It's never the drivers fault, only drivers behavior and ignorance!

[@jimiburns6891]

That’s because at 70k, a subaru is usually near the end of its lifespan

[@fatihyucel6534]

i have a 2004 subaru legacy 3.0R as a sedan also could you plz review the Subaru liberty as it is sold in there It has 245 hp same interior color and it’s a petrol it uses 14litres per 100 kilometer

[@ChrisACiufo]

We have the identical US model with the 3.6 V6. Has been trouble free except for injectors gumming up because we don’t drive it enough or hard enough. Some Sea Foam cleaner and some aggressive starts with fast driving is important.

[@bunburysbigbogan5778]

Does the previous generation with the diesel engine have the same DPF & cracking inlet problems?

[@bradsommerville2972]

2005 liberty owner, one of these outback's next on my ownership list didn't realise they got the dodgy cvt.

[@Sophos1964]

GM, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi & Nissan CVTs are indeed dodgy. But Honda, Subaru & Toyota/Lexus CVTs are durable & stout.

[@dimsoneill]

Owned two outbacks, both 3.0R 2006 and 2008 models and they were awesome.

[@rickiemwaih7176]

in Kenya, its a to go with sub SUV and man that thing is reliable..being a purist i`d vouch for a traditional auto trans more than a CVT bt anyway😁😁😁😁 the 2023 is a tank 😎😎😎😎