Facelift (What's New)
Subaru EyeSight driver assist technology
Stable X-Ride System
X-Mode System
CVT with seven-speed manual mode
It might be late to the game, but Subaru has finally put its hat into the ring with the updated Outback, which now comes with Subaru EyeSight, on top of other goodies such as a StableX-Ride System and X-Mode.
A new front bumper and hexagonal grille give the Outback a fresh lookThough not exactly an industry-first, the addition of technologies under the Subaru EyeSight umbrella is a welcome sight, especially since it offers a more premium experience and improved assurance.
I spy with my little Eye
With the help of two cameras up front, the Outback enhances driver and passenger safety with features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Pre-Collision Braking System and Pre-Collision Throttle Management.
And although it works for the most part, the EyeSight system isn't perfect. Several factors such as sun glare, a cracked windscreen, or even a dirty lens on either camera may mess with its accuracy.
The CVT now comes with a seven-speed manual mode, which makes the drive slightly more engagingThis means that despite its driver assistance capabilities, Subaru EyeSight is just that, a driver assistance system. It makes driving safer but doesn't replace the driver, who is ultimately responsible for safe and attentive driving.
Keep your eye on the prize
The Outback retains its 2.5-litre Boxer engine, which still produces 173bhp and 235Nm of torque, and is still mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
I spy with my little Eye
With the help of two cameras up front, the Outback enhances driver and passenger safety with features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Pre-Collision Braking System and Pre-Collision Throttle Management.
And although it works for the most part, the EyeSight system isn't perfect. Several factors such as sun glare, a cracked windscreen, or even a dirty lens on either camera may mess with its accuracy.
Keep your eye on the prize
The Outback retains its 2.5-litre Boxer engine, which still produces 173bhp and 235Nm of torque, and is still mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
However, the CVT now comes with a seven-speed manual mode, which allows for a slightly more engaging albeit unenthusiastic drive due to the lackadaisical nature of the CVT.
The engine also receives a new alternator, which reduces weight by eight percent and supposedly improves fuel efficiency. We managed an average of 10km/L during our short time with it - not too shabby for a car that weighs over 1.6 tonnes.
X-Mode optimises the engine and works with the Outback's all-wheel drive system to conquer almost any terrainAnother ace up its sleeves is the StableX-Ride System, as well as X-Mode, that give it a little bit of an edge both on and off-road.
Better late than never
Though it may be late to the party, the Subaru Outback has done pretty well to keep its head in the game, thanks to EyeSight, as well as other improvements such as an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that make it a more premium option for buyers.
A new alternator in the 2.5-litre Boxer engine allows for an eight-percent reduction in weightCouple that with its all-around capabilities and you've got a party guest that, despite being late, believes it's better late than never.
The engine also receives a new alternator, which reduces weight by eight percent and supposedly improves fuel efficiency. We managed an average of 10km/L during our short time with it - not too shabby for a car that weighs over 1.6 tonnes.
Better late than never
Though it may be late to the party, the Subaru Outback has done pretty well to keep its head in the game, thanks to EyeSight, as well as other improvements such as an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that make it a more premium option for buyers.
