The sixth generation of the Outback broke cover in 2019 at the New York Auto Show, boasting the same impressive go-anywhere attitude as its predecessors.
What started as a jacked-up station wagon in 1994 ended up as a full-legit different model in Subaru’s stable. But the automaker didn’t go over the edge to create a designated platform for this crossover. It used the same one from the Legacy, as it did on the previous five generations of the Outback. It was also loaded with safety features that made the vehicle highly attractive. Yet, in terms of styling, it wasn’t a big step up over its predecessor, and it still looked like a station wagon on stilts, not a proper crossover vehicle. On the other hand, Subaru wasn’t reckoned for its fantastic design studio but for its all-wheel drive systems, and all versions of the Outback featured it.
Subaru introduced the sixth generation of the Outback just five years after launching the fifth generation of this moniker. Its front fascia featured swept-back headlights with integrated C-shaped daytime running lights. Depending on the trim level and options, it sported a chromed or black grille with horizontal slats as part of the upper bumper area. The lower side of the bumper was left black to create a rugged look for the car. Last but not least, the automaker installed LED fog lamps that flanked the lower air intake.
From its profile, the wagon-like look of the Outback was enhanced by the black wheel well-claddings and side skirts of the same color. The car had an almost identical wheelbase to its predecessor, so it offered similarly-sized doors. Thanks to its jacked-up suspension, the crossover boasted an 8.7-inch (22 cm) ground clearance and could handle more than just small potholes on the road. The chromed trim that surrounded the window area made the car look more upscale, while the raked forward tailgate adorned by a roof spoiler made it look sporty. Finally, all versions came fitted with roof rails for additional storage area.
Inside, the sixth generation of the Outback greeted its customers with high-bolstered front seats and an up to 11.6-inch center touchscreen for the infotainment system. Fronting the driver was an instrument cluster that featured two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer, flanking a TFT display for additional information from the car’s onboard computer. In the back, the 60/40 split-folding bench seat could accommodate three adults, and the adjustable tilt for the backrest was also an appreciated feature. The 32.5 cu-ft (920 liters) trunk space could expand to 75.7 cu-ft (2,144 liters) with the rear seats completely folded. For customers’ peace of mind, Subaru installed the EyeSight Driver Assist technology that included lane-keeping assist with automatic steering adjustments, emergency braking, and automatic cruise control.
Under the hood of the Outback’s sixth generation, Subaru installed a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with or without turbocharging. Both versions were paired with a CVT transmission, known as the Lineartronic, that ensured smooth driving.
load press release