Subaru’s Outback line firmly established its reputation a while ago. Now dissociated from the Legacy models, the successful Outback has garnered quite a following in the country. In fact, the Outback is so popular that the head honchos over at Subaru decided to drop the simple wagon version of the Legacy, so limited were its sales over the past few years. To say that the Outback fills the needs of many Canadian consumers is an understatement.
Once behind the wheel you understand why this car has become a veritable icon in markets where winter is a cold reality a few months out of the year. Its all-wheel drive and high ground clearance (22 cm) transform it into an urban snow plow. Its reassuring presence is such that you’re often tempted to take a quick spin before the good ol’ plow drives through, simply to savour its wintry efficiency.
The Outback tackles 2010 as a fourth generation model. This time around, no contrasting rocker panel attempts to give it an SUV feel. Protective plates still circle the lower body, but in a discrete mat black finish. Personally, I appreciate the anonymity that comes with driving this car, a welcome change from the previous generation.
Family traits
The Subaru DNA is particularly evident inside. The M style, first introduced on the B9 Tribeca, has found its way on board the Outback, thus standardizing the entire lineup. The refined look and good ergonomics leave an impression of great quality despite the large quantity of plastic. Imitation wood trim and chrome accents catch the eye. The steering wheel offers an exceptionally good grip in the 9 and 3 o’clock position.
What is most alluring about this cabin is the available space. The very high roof line ensures excellent headroom in both rows of seats. Legroom is equally generous, and the cargo area is just as impressive. With the seats up it has a 972-litre capacity, but once the seats are folded down that number skyrockets to a cavernous 2,019 litres. The Outback has the upper hand over its competition, the Toyota Venza AWD ($30,610) offering 870/1,985 litres and the Honda Accord Crosstour EX-L 4WD ($36,900) only 728/1,452 litres.
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| Subaru remains true to the idea of creating a very practical vehicle for active families who don’t want to compromise. |
Once behind the wheel you understand why this car has become a veritable icon in markets where winter is a cold reality a few months out of the year. Its all-wheel drive and high ground clearance (22 cm) transform it into an urban snow plow. Its reassuring presence is such that you’re often tempted to take a quick spin before the good ol’ plow drives through, simply to savour its wintry efficiency.
The Outback tackles 2010 as a fourth generation model. This time around, no contrasting rocker panel attempts to give it an SUV feel. Protective plates still circle the lower body, but in a discrete mat black finish. Personally, I appreciate the anonymity that comes with driving this car, a welcome change from the previous generation.
Family traits
The Subaru DNA is particularly evident inside. The M style, first introduced on the B9 Tribeca, has found its way on board the Outback, thus standardizing the entire lineup. The refined look and good ergonomics leave an impression of great quality despite the large quantity of plastic. Imitation wood trim and chrome accents catch the eye. The steering wheel offers an exceptionally good grip in the 9 and 3 o’clock position.
What is most alluring about this cabin is the available space. The very high roof line ensures excellent headroom in both rows of seats. Legroom is equally generous, and the cargo area is just as impressive. With the seats up it has a 972-litre capacity, but once the seats are folded down that number skyrockets to a cavernous 2,019 litres. The Outback has the upper hand over its competition, the Toyota Venza AWD ($30,610) offering 870/1,985 litres and the Honda Accord Crosstour EX-L 4WD ($36,900) only 728/1,452 litres.
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| The refined look and good ergonomics leave an impression of great quality. |