Driving the new turbocharged Subaru Outback AWD wagon, now available in two
models the Outback XT Sport at $52,190 and the XT Touring at $55,190 – both
$5,000 dearer to equivalent naturally-aspirated models but well worth the extra. I
drove the 2.4-litre four-cylinder XT Sport which gains 32% more power, 42% more
torque – linked to a CVT or continuously variable automatic with programmed
steps that mimic a conventional automatic – the drive experience very satisfying.
This high-riding five-seat wagon with 213mm ground clearance and Symmetrical
all-wheel-drive is perfect for those wanting to explore our great outdoors – highly
competent and now with what Subaru call X-mode with a number of drive features
that give it far more capability in snow and mud. It excels in cabin comfort and
sensibly shod with high profile tyres it offers a very comfortable ride. The XT
Sport seats trimmed in synthetic leather, hard to distinguish from the real thing
but importantly the fit and finish and overall quality of the Subaru Outback is top
class – but it’s not perfect – it lacks wireless phone charging and its centre touch
screen whilst large can be fiddley and frustrating to use, and the instrumentation
in parts too compressed for quick reference. Warranty five-years/unlimited km.
I’m David Berthon

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