New Subaru Outback now for sale in South Africa

The new Subaru Outback is now for sale in South Africa, offering the highest levels of safety in a car from the brand.

It features an entirely new body that is 70% more rigid than its predecessor and that can also absorb up to 100% more energy in the event of a collision.

It also has the most advanced EyeSight safety system yet, a larger chassis, and a more efficient engine.

Field vs Touring

The new Outback may have a new body, but it retains its “SUV wagon” look – while being 50mm longer and 30mm wider.

The tough and rugged purpose of the vehicle is amplified through the plastic panel claddings and wheel arch covers, and the integrated roof rails.

It also boasts 213mm of ground clearance, which is more than most entry-level crossovers, and features a 19.7-degree approach angle and 22.6-degree departure angle.

Up front, the black silica-plated grille features active shutters for engine cooling and efficiency, and the LED headlights adopt a new C-shape for both the daytime running lights and turn signals.

The vehicle then comes in two trims – Field and Touring – with the latter taking a more urban design approach.

The Field, as the entry-level trim, is fitted with 18-inch black alloy wheels, black underguards and mirror caps, and green Outback lettering on the side guards.

The Touring spec features silver trim, and it gets 18-inch aluminium-finished alloy wheels.

Both models can be chosen in one of nine body colours.

Comfort and technology

“The new Outback has the largest cabin to date,” said Subaru.

The cargo area has been made wider and longer by 23.9mm, and boot capacity is increased to 522 litres when all the seats are up.

The powered tailgate has also been given sturdier connection points, allowing a larger opening for easier loading and unloading.

For the first time, the rear tailgate offers hands free operation, too.

On the inside, the Field model comes with optional fabric seats, while the Touring is treated to a full Nappa-leather interior.

The front seats are eight-way power-adjustable, and front seat and steering wheel heating comes standard.

Situated on the dash is an 11.6-inch portrait screen that is used to control vehicle features.

“The most often-used functions such as volume and climate control remain as button controls,” adds the company.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, a radio, and four USB ports are also included.

The audio experience is then provided by a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon system with sound-improving software.

To cement its spot as the brand’s flagship vehicle, the new Outback is the first model in South Africa to offer the DriverFocus Mitigation System that uses facial recognition technology to detect signs of fatigue or distraction in the driver.

Safety

The biggest focus for this Outback was its safety capabilities.

Primary safety is taken care of by class-leading visibility and fatigue-reducing front seats.

Passive safety is then covered by the fitment of eight airbags, a post-collision braking system, and the most advanced EyeSight System yet.

EyeSight uses a dual-camera set-up to offer features such as:

• Sway warning
• Lane departure warning
• Collision avoidance at intersections
• Adaptive cruise control with speed limiter
• Lane keep assist and lead vehicle start alert
• Pre-collision braking with autonomous steering assistance

Subaru Vision Assist is fitted, too, which uses radar technology to enable blind spot monitoring, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, and EyeSight assist monitoring.

This has assured the Subaru Outback a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Performance

The new Outback is offered with a 2.5-litre Boxer engine that produces 138kW and 245Nm of torque, mated to a Lineartronic CVT transmission.

“The CVT now weighs less than before and the ratio has been enhanced to improve take-off responsiveness, yet settle to a lower engine speed while cruising for better fuel economy.”

Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is rated at 7.3l/100km, and a braked towing capacity of up to 1,500kg is supported.

Both models are then equipped with X-Mode and Hill Descent Control drive modes, which will assist with optimal traction in all situations.

Pricing

South African pricing for the new Subaru Outback is as follows:

• Subaru Outback 2.5i Field ES – R699,000
• Subaru Outback 2.5i Touring ES – R729,000

Each model is sold with a 3-year/75,000km maintenance plan and a 5-year/100,000km warranty.

Subaru Outback – Photos