One of Subaru’s most enduring models is its Outback all-wheel drive wagon. A new sixth-generation Outback released in March has quickly sold up a storm, now, year to date, the second biggest selling large 4WD behind Toyota’s Prado. Visually the Outback in its 25th year has not changed that much over the years but under the skin it’s a very different story. A high riding wagon rather than an upright SUV the Subaru Outback offers a real point of difference. Now in a reduced three-model range, the simply named Outback AWD at $39,990, the mid-spec Outback AWD Sport $44,490 and the top-spec Outback AWD Touring  $47,790. Gone is the six-cylinder petrol and diesel now just one engine  – a 90 per cent new, direct injection 2.5-litre boxer engine with 7 per cent more power and 4.2 percent more torque, all linked to a refined continuously variable automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Also enhanced, Subaru’s X-mode system for light off-road work providing different traction control profiles for mud, snow and sand. On top of that, enhanced Subaru Eyesight driver assist technologies. A new high-definition 11.6 infotainment screen, now with vertical orientation, is said to simplify many functions but for me it’s too much in your face and like many such screens today is driver distractive. Braked towing capacity 2,000 kilos, warranty five-years/unlimited km.

I’m David Berthon

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