The fifth-generation Subaru Outback has changed quite a lot not only from its previous incarnation, but more so compared to the very first one. It’s grown in size (and height) and more importantly grown up in terms of quality, as well.
Subarus are not renowned for high quality soft-feeling interiors, but the Outback (and new Legacy) are models that prove the manufacturer is looking to change that.
KBB tried out the Outback and realistically found very few things wrong with it. They liked the interior and improved sense of plushness, including the infotainment units on offer – the exact words used were “thriftily upmarket cabin.”
The only thing they suggest you steer clear of is the four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine. It reportedly struggles to pull the Outback along without strain, and the best bet is the bigger six-cylinder; both units are coupled to a revised version of the maker’s continuously variable transmission.