The 2.5i Sport tester’s equipment list included a Bluetooth phone interface, sunroof, heated seats, satellite radio and a full complement of power accessories-- including a motorized driver’s seat.
The new dash layout is sleeker than the outgoing generation, and features more contrasting colours and textures for added depth and sophistication. Upscale materials mainly find themselves in the right places, although the hard dash plastics feels like a step back from the previous model.
Complaints inside are mainly nit-picky. The audio display screen is fuzzy, the Bluetooth system looks like an aftermarket add-in, and the busy instrument cluster isn't one of the most beautiful in recent memory.
Still a Subie
Despite the design and hardware changes, Subaru fans will be happy to know that the brand staples got through the revisions intact. These include standard symmetrical All Wheel Drive (AWD), a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and a proven 2.5 litre boxer engine. Of course, Outback will still safely navigate any daily grind, cottage trail, or snowstorm thrown its way.
Ultimately, the new look conceals some significant changes-- but enthusiasts should find the new Outback is still very much a Subaru at heart.
photo:Justin Pritchard
The new dash layout is sleeker than the outgoing generation, and features more contrasting colours and textures for added depth and sophistication. Upscale materials mainly find themselves in the right places, although the hard dash plastics feels like a step back from the previous model.
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| The new dash layout is sleeker than the outgoing generation, and features more contrasting colours and textures for added depth and sophistication. |
Complaints inside are mainly nit-picky. The audio display screen is fuzzy, the Bluetooth system looks like an aftermarket add-in, and the busy instrument cluster isn't one of the most beautiful in recent memory.
Still a Subie
Despite the design and hardware changes, Subaru fans will be happy to know that the brand staples got through the revisions intact. These include standard symmetrical All Wheel Drive (AWD), a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and a proven 2.5 litre boxer engine. Of course, Outback will still safely navigate any daily grind, cottage trail, or snowstorm thrown its way.
Ultimately, the new look conceals some significant changes-- but enthusiasts should find the new Outback is still very much a Subaru at heart.
photo:Justin Pritchard
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