Subaru Outback 2021 review | Chasing Cars
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- Опубліковано 8 сер 2024
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We drive the new Subaru Outback and see what this raised wagon is like to drive.
The Subaru Outback is the most popular station wagon on the market in Australia - largely because it’s styled to look like an SUV! Raised and cladded, the Outback is a rough and ready family vehicle that offers an alternative body style to typical medium and large SUVs.
Now there’s a new Outback in town - available overseas for a year, the 2021 Outback has just touched down. Sadly, no turbo for Australia - yet. But what’s the Outback like to drive on our roads?
In today’s video, Tom takes a detailed look at a mid-range Outback Sport AWD to give you detailed insights about this vehicle.
What do you think of this car? Leave a comment below.
While you’re there, please consider subscribing and joining our Chasing Cars community. - Авто та транспорт
Subaru: bring the Outback turbo!
The outback looks good yep a Turbo will make it a game changer
Yaaaass! Bring the Outback Turbo!
Business case is underway issue is only for US market at the moment
I want a turbo!
You tell them Tom
I test drove one today. Was almost faultless. I was sceptical about the CVT and underpowered engine. After the test drive, I was happy with how it drove. Not quick, but as a family car that you drive on the road, it's perfectly adequate for what it's designed to do. Super comfortable, heaps of room. Very impressed.
It is a perfect car.
Don't know what all the crying about power is about.
Also test drove one and 100% adequate engine wise. Turbo model should be a weapon really and not needed for most people buying this type of car.
I’m trading in my XV 16 to upgrade OB 23, tested drive and I felt that enough power for everyday around town/highway in Sydney 😂
Tom’s reviews have guided two car purchases in less than 12 months.
He has cost my household over $150,000 but has left us very happy.
Chasing Cars continues to be the best car channel on UA-cam and it is Australian!
"A knob would have done the job a little better." Hilarious! Another excellent car video btw.
no need for turbo, goes fine with enough power, great for city and off road driving.
As always, a great review. Head & shoulders better & more informative than the rest.
I remember a time when the sport badge actually meant something on a car.
Yeh like a eng performance upgrade so the car had more herbs than the standard run of the mill model
@@robertceroli3512 exactly, doesn’t have to be crazy upgrades but a few choice ones to make you feel you bought something different. Rather than something that looks like it went to super cheap.
Because they try now represent power with status
They should have called it the Onyx model, it would suit much better.
This more outdoorsy spec seems to be called the "field" in the UK market, more suitable name I think.
Was waiting for this!! Looks great! Thanks Tom ❤️❤️
I test drove the 2.5i CVT Outback. Many people here hate in this powertrain I found it perfectly adequate and perfectly smooth for a family car. And I don't think anything in the class is as comfortable as the Outback.
Test drove the 2.5 sport and loved it so much I bought one. The engine is easily enough for me. Not an exciting drive but plenty enough power for almost anyone.
I enjoyed watching the Video Review. Arriving In Europe this Spring
Hi Tom, thanks for the awesome review. Would you be able to review the new SsangYong Rexton Ultimate when you can? Thanks.
Great honest review Tom (love the reference to 🌚 and ☀️). Please review BMW 128 ti. At least with that car you won't be saying it's underpowered.😅
Do you get a grey cardigan with it or is that an optional extra?
Test drove one last week. I was so excited about this car. Got super excited when I seen it released and headed straight to the dealership. What a disappointment. It's slow and sluggish of the line. It needs more power. We need the turbo in Australia. Subaru make it happen.
What was the car really like to drive as I am interested in purchasing a Touring model.
@@petron1954 It felt sluggish from a standing start. Once it was up to speed it was fine. I drove a Forester straight after and it was much more responsive. Personally, I would have went for a sport as I feel its the sweet spot of the range.
@@scallenoz I thought the Sport would be the pick, however the wife was disappointed when she looked. Preferred the Touring. Like you I would like a turbo version.
@@petron1954 the touring certainly is a nicer place to be and I like the upgraded stereo. I liked the sport for the water repellant seats (I've 2 young kids) and I have no need for a sunroof as I planned to put a roof cage on it. It also had beefier roof rails.
@@scallenoz “it felt sluggish from the start”...I’m curious because I’m seriously considering buying an Outback, and I’ve only had turbos over the last 12-15 years (A4, A6, Volvo V60 etc). Surely for normal day to day driving the outback would be adequate? I mean, I’m not the type of guy who feels the need to burn away from the lights, nor do I feel the need to pretend I’m a tarmac rally driver. I guess what I’m asking, is the engine suitable for the school drop off, sport pick pick up, work commute...but also the odd trip to the bush for mountain biking, bush roads for camping etc?? TIA
Love the new Subaru Ad, interior looks really nice and exterior looks even better in that green colour. Im seriously thinking of swapping my M6 for the Outback, missing good old days when I was younger and also owned super reliable Subaru B4.
Good review thanks from Panama,C America.
We have a Forester XT turbo 2017 and the Outback non turbo 2018. The Outback is a very practical, comfortable car and has a little more of a premium feel to it than the Forester without the Forester feeling "shabby". Highway cruising in the Outback is very stable, even when loaded up to the brim. If you are going 120 km/h (or more) the Outback feels very stable and the Forester sways a little more. The Forester never feels unsafe though and is more fun to drive. Overtaking and getting out in traffic is a breeze with the turbo. When you are up and running the Outback wins out for comfort though and it doesn't feel sluggish while your are at your target speed. The Outback feels a little peppier when the engine is warmed up but it is a bit on the slower side - if you like fast acceleration and for some the droing sound when flooring it is ear grating. I don't mind though I prefer the older Outbacks (pre CVT) for sure in this regard. In all other aspects the new generation Outbacks are capable and smooth driving cars.
Other than acceleration - and sometimes when overtaking - the Outback is a great daily driver.
There is a simply solution to that predicament: put the turbo in the Outback. Done. I am very jealous at the 'muricans since I really enjoy the loading capacity and comfort of the Outback and with the turbo I would definitely go for it. It won't happen for emission reasons here in Europe I am sure so I am not holding my breath.
“Certainly the chassis can handle the power and torque of the turbo” .... sounded to me like an invite for mods...😁
Turbo for the new Outback please Subaru. My present 2017 Outback is 6 cyl and apart from the seats which tend to be a trifle hard and uncomfortable after sitting in them after a while, I love it for it's amazing features and amenity and it's fast pulling strength and zip under load. I wouldn't consider buying a new Outback without similar pulling torque and power.
Tom, took a Skoda 200TSI Scout for a test drive today. Bye Subaru & thanks for forcing me to look at something better at the same price
Ken, for me the space saver on the Skoda is a ‘deal breaker’
But scout is not better overall, just the engine. And vag has dropped the quality lately. Audi owner
Love my 2020 XT here in Canada. Beast of a vehicle.
I had the out going premium model, great comfortable wagon. If Subaru was to bring a turbo Outback or Forrester to Australia I would be back on the Subaru band wagon. For now I felt the Hyundai turbo motors were at an advantage.
Subaru AU needs to do a bit of foot stomping to get a more powerful power plant option for both cars
I just ordered a outback sport. Love the design, but will be more than happy to see australia brings in the turbo engine.
I agree. I was looking forward to changing from my 2018 3.6 litre Outback. Now I will wait, need more than the current engine can provide.
I have a 2012 manual forester and would be interested in ugrading to an outback but only if it came in the 2.4 ltr turbo. Please bring it to australia. We always seem to miss out on the good stuff that counts.
Would love to see the XT version here. Lament the demise of the Forester XT. Currently I drive a Levorg & the Outback XT would be the perfect next vehicle for my growing family for daily driving, weekend sport & camping trips. Hopefully don’t have to look to another brand for the mix of driving excitement & practicality I need. Enjoyed the review.
Keen for a 2021 wagon comparison vid. Could we get it in cost classes? Cos I wouldn't compare the Skoda Superb Scout with the Outback - it's nearly $20k more and more on par with Volvo V60 imo. Especially with the new Octavia Style just dropping.
Was considering this model as my next drive but Subaru has really missed the mark with the engine.
Tom, I have a 2018 Passat Alltrack Wolfsburg Edition and it comes with a Full Size (19 inch) Alloy Spare wheel. In fact, this car is a replacement of my previous 2016 VW Passat 140TDI Highline Wagon, which also came with a full size (18 inch in this case) spare wheel. Actually, all my previous Passat's B6 / B7 all had full size spare wheels). My ŠKODA Superb 206TSI 4x4 on the other hand, makes do with a Space Saver spare wheel...
Thanks for the additional detail - I have put a request in to Volkswagen to find out whether the incoming facelifted Passat Alltrack continues with a full size spare, and when I find out I will add a correction if I've got it wrong.
I would buy this in a flash if it had the turbo motor. Wouldn’t bother now with so many competitors offering better value at that price range. New Santa fe or Sorrento another 15kw and nearly double the torque with their diesel and only 7l/100 economy....
Yep, weak engine with horrid consumption and high C02 = insane taxes.
No Hyundai or Kia will take you to the places the Outback would, keep that in mind.
Have had a Liberty with the 2.5 for ten years and very happy with it. The CVT allows the engine to rev freely when you need a bit of grunt, but back off for great fuel figures when highway cruising.
My opinion won't convince everybody, as I'm an old fart with no demerit points, but I still like to get moving, and if I'm driving a WRX, my travel times are the same.
2010 Outback with 2.5 checking in here. Driven a lot on country roads. Totally adequate for passing B-double trucks in good time.
Can you please review 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness if it's coming to Australia.
Test drove the touring variant recently. Perfect vehicle, if it was n't for the underwhelming performance. I am ready to buy now, but will hold off until 2.4T engine arrives. Slightly higher ground clearance would be good too.
So looking forward to getting my outback until I found out there’s no turbo charged one have to look a another car any suggestions ?
Finally, using Indonesian language subtitle. I am loyal subscriber from Indonesia. Always waiting for your new car review. Thank you.
Subaru is one of the best car in performance. But in Indonesia is not good in selling because its expensive price.
Is an off-road and towing review of the Touring model coming please? It’s disappointing no turbo or 3.6 option and I’m sceptical that this release is “up to the job”. Also are the roof racks improved? Thanks!
I want the outback, the mrs wants the forester, so Ill compromise with her and get the outback 😁
Good video mate, cheers.
Thanks 👍
Tom I like your reviews
Could do a review of volvo v90 cross country. Thx.
Thanks for the great Review. Not buying one until they have the Turbo here in Australia and a bit of grunt. Coming from V6 Commodore Wagons, you need power out on the highway for long trips.
that turbo will come to Australia probably next year. We always get ripped off. Subaru Forrester sport was released in the US 2 years ago, we just got it in Australia and it's sold as the same price and "new".
I test drove one today. Nice car and I used the paddle shifters. I like it . use the auto CVT and its ok and then the manual mode I found good. Ride and handling and steering excellent . not fast like my old Ford Territory Turbo but I am getting older and
The ride, AWD, safety, finish, full size spare etc would have made this an ideal car for Australian country driving but we have to look elswhere because of the marketing mistake not to bring in the turbo engine. Subaru, what were you thinking?
Without turbo it is more then fast enough for normal driving, and it lasts longer.
Would love to see a practical comparison between the "Old Kona 2.0 Automatic" vs. "New Kona 2.0 CVT". Thanks
Definitely needs the turbo version!
Good review! What is the colour of the car in this video?
Test drove this and way better than the new Sportage 2022 GT. Buying this..
Looks green
Is it the same crappy video cameras as before? It's really annoying that they don't offer parking sensors as an option. I would like to have both camera and sensors but you can't get them via dealer.
Does it burn oil?
I have a 2017 model outback always wanted to have wider Tyers say 235 instead of the 255 ‘s fitted
Great review. Drove one a couple of weeks ago and was impressed. However my 2014 Forester XT turbo would have thrashed it over taking and towing. Definitely need the turbo option on this Outback.
Turbo and a decent gearbox thanks.
I have had Subaru's for 22 years all of them TURBOS and yes I want be buying a new one unless this option returns.
It's surprising that the revised outback has been available in NA for >1.5 years when it's been incredibly popular in the australian market
Agreed. Quite a disappointing delay. There have been issues with production capacity in Japan across a range of Subaru models for RHD markets including Australia.
interesting to see that in this version the front bumper black plastic looks pointy compared to the one sold in the US
The one great change on the Sport model. They got rid of the most useless roof rack ever. So thankful for the new roof rails! Back to carry two kayaks.
I have always thought that Subaru's were very popular here in Australia, but not as much as the USA, even thought that has changed over the last few years. So why are the Aussie's missing out on the more powerful model and the options for a manual. You would think Subaru would look after their loyal customer base, not short change them. Also why are the "capped" servicing price so expensive? 300-800 for a service is ridiculous. I have owned my current car for 7 years and have never paid more then $320 for a service. if the dealership is charging $800 for one capped service, I'd hate to know what they charge normally.
You do understand Australian dollars are worth 30% less then US right?
@@ekimandersom4478 Ummm Australians pay twice as much as the USA does for cars.
You have covered most things but missed out on Security ? Will it stay where you Park it ? Other than that I would like one ...J
I'm fine with the 2.5 motor, current drive is a Skoda Octavia 1.4 wagon, I'm replacing it with an Outback touring. Skoda and VW have discontinued the Golf Alltrack Wagon and Skoda Octavia Scouts, in favour of the more expensive Skoda Superb Scout and VW Passat Alltrack, both of which are good, but $10k out of my price bracket. My Touring with everything + Explorer pack cost only $49k
I really want to upgrade to this. but previously driving the 3.6r six cylinder i don't want to downgrade the engine. why haven't they considered the turbo model for the Australian market
How does the interior space compare to the forrester?
Far more useable space in outback.
Forget the Turbo; I want one in all electric. Come on Subaru!
Tom - what are your thoughts on Renault's?
Went for a test drive - really nice - but lack of power lets this down. Would have bought if more powerful
Excellent review. Lovely car but unfortunately here in Ireland, the annual road tax is €790, because of it's high emissions
Would seriously buy this over an SUV EXCEPT FOR THE PATHETIC ENGINE. bring on the 190kw XT and I’d buy one tomorrow
Nice looking car with good features but I still wouldn’t buy it because it’s slow and sluggish. However had the engine been punchier (turbo charged) I would definitely consider it.
Auto folding mirrors? Air con performance? Planned hybrid? Fuel consumption ?
Auto folding mirrors in the premium touring trim only. The other two variants have a manual push-button to retract the mirrors just as Gen5 did.
For a family car the power isn’t bad, I’ve got a wrx as well and yea it doesn’t compare but also the wrx is small and has harsh suspension this ticks all the boxes for my family
What Subaru should offer is a retune or stage 1-3 sports tune of any cars people buy from a dealership. That way a new owner who wants more power can get this done to breathe some extra ponies into the engine.
Aus Subaru imports its cars from Japan or somewhere else? thank you😃😃
I’m a current outback owner my18 premium I won’t be updating until a better engine is offered Turbo Please.
Why has Subaru decided not to sell the Turbo in Australia? Do they understand our market? We were really excited about updating our fantastic Impreza when the Outback landed but without any exciting engine (the 2.4 turbo) we will be looking elsewhere unfortunately.
I have a Forester XT 2016... Looking to upgrade... But there is NO upgrade available now! I'd buy a outback xt right away
They don’t really have any flagship vehicles now for the Forester and Outback in terms of power and performance. You have the new Forester lineup with no more turbo or diesel options and a “Sport” model which literally only adds black and orange decorations. And how long will it take Subaru Australia to finally receive the Turbo variant of the new Outback if we ever do 😩
Wonder if Australia will get the outback wilderness 2.4 turbo
If they don't, well I guess - sadly - we'll all be renaming them 'stupid-ru'...
:P
Would like the 6 cyl engine or height tourque diesel engine
If past history is anything to go by this will be a good vehicle. Styling is an individual thing. I had one and the rest makes up for the looks. Would buy again if I needed this sector. The 3.6 was a bit thirsty but that was just me having a lead foot. Hope they've improved the audio tho.
The standard speakers are a bit average (oddly, too bassy?) but I expect the premium stereo on the Touring to be an improvement
Great review as usual but I’m just not a fan of the raised wagon look. Due to this I’ll never consider one for my next purchase. Yeah I know the Subi is practical but I feel like I need a full family to own one.
100% agree with the summary. I’ve had 2 Outbacks, diesel and a 2.5. Loved them both but the 2.5 was just underpowered, and frankly a liability in certain situations with a full load on the highway. Currently have a 162TSi Tiguan, which I really like too but it’s a bit small and expensive. I’m ordering my next car in April and have been waiting for the new Outback with the turbo 2.4, but sadly my next car now will not be an Outback 😭😭😭
Which cars are on your shortlist?
Andrew - in rank order and before driving them all:
- Skoda Kodiaq RS
- Kia Sorento GTline (diesel)
- Toyota RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid AWD
- Subi Outback Touring (to drive at least but v. unlikely to buy the 2.5)
Same. Weird. It is a bit sad even though it’s ‘only a car’
Would buy one tomorrow but not gutless NA and CVT. Turbo or enhanced power YES Auto box 6,7 or 8 speed HELL YES!
Im here in New Zealand and echo those sentiments , same problem that dogged the XV , no different power or turbo options. Get those torque levels up for going up the mountains where this vehicle belongs
Very confused between this and the Pajero sport as both are same price here in NZ with the new Mitsubishi offers.
I bought a new car this year, and this was on the shortlist. It was removed from the shortlist because of the lack of turbo. I actually ended up buying a Skoda Kodiaq. Cmon Subaru, sort it out.
Think I will keep my 2005 3.0R bspec. Wagon it’s has a proper gear box manual 💪
review on your seamaster?
I think the Forester presents better value and practicality, unless you have to have the big touch screen to control everything.
How do you think about CVT transmission of Outback 2021?
Average
Well it look different then US model, but some design shearing across subaru SUV, wheels fender from Crosstrek Sport, rear reflective from Forester...
No hybrid either? What decade is this?
Has Subaru made any statement on why we don't get the turbo?
The turbo is a US made engine. Australia gets only Japan made Subaru's. Japan has the US engine now and are redesigning it. We can expect it next year.
I like the outback... turbo
If the XV came to Australia with the 2.5 I would probably purchase it
This new subie outback actually comes at the right time. Looking to upgrade the wife's sedan but I don't want a boring SUV like everyone else. This is the most practical you can get with space for the kids, bikes, outdoor stuff and her daily grind hauling work stuff. The 'ruggedness' is an added plus since the wife is a little function over form kind of person (in other words clumsy). The base spec is spot on, without looking like a base spec too. Kudos to subaru for that. Personally I'd probably be underwhelmed with lack of performance but won't be my car at the end of the day.
Base spec is awesome on this years model. Wouldn’t hesitate to get one. Wish more cars came with electric cloth seats!
As for power, I really struggle to understand the complaints. If you’re used to a v8 or turbo car yes it’s gonna be slower. I have an older Outback with a 2.5L 4 cylinder and it’s totally competent. You’re not gonna be making touch and go highway overtakes, but it is more than fine aside from that.
Good to hear - I am sick of seeing comments saying people are getting some stock standard SUV.
Such a shame it still has that CVT and misses out on the XT 2.4 turbo that other markets get.
Interesting Outback turbo would be nice and irresistible for buyers.
Agreed. Bring the turbo, Subaru!
Hi Chasing Cars
I’m new to your channel but have been a Subaru fan for a long time and have owned 2 Outback’s both have the H6 version, 2003 & 2007, we also owned the 2000 liberty wagon, and the latest 2018 Liberty and the 2008 GT H6 Liberty.
Like most I’m not happy Subaru Australia didn’t bring the turbo version here. I’d hate to say it but I’ll have to start to look elsewhere. I’d like to say what marketing genius decided to leave out a popular option?
What are Subaru Australia thinking, where’s the guts they once had, it’s now driven by marketing geniuses and bean counters, they need someone with drive, excuse the pun.
I was seriously looking at buying the 2021 Outback, been a long term fan. After seeing this review and the Passat Alltrack review, I am not so certain any more, the VW might be the new winner, such a shame there is no turbo outback, if there was, I would not been considering the VW passat. There is also the $10k (approx) price difference to consider! Yr thoughts Chasing Cars???
They say the turbo engine version is not yet engineered for right-hand drive models
oh man, it looks awesome but I would really like a manual with a turbo...diesel!