New Subaru Outback arrives in March

The king of crossovers will thereby maintain its unique positioning as a capable and trusted solution to an active life style. And one in which aspects such as safety (both passive and dynamic) and reliability are non-negotiable … duce technological features which enhance the former, while the latter is already synonymous with the brand.

The fifth-generation Outback will include capability-enhancing features such as Active Torque Vectoring for more dynamic handling, and the X-Mode suite of off-road driving aids. It introduces a number of innovations: an automated tailgate, and longitudinal roof rails which quickly convert to lateral crossbars, to make it more user-friendly and practical in its intended role.

It will also bring a new flagship to the brand’s SUV offerings, in the shape of a potent 3.6-litre six-cylinder version of the Outback, to complement the existing 2-litre Boxer turbodiesel and 2,5-litre normally-aspirated petrol powerplants. In all cases these engines are mated to Subaru’s acclaimed Lineartronic CVT transmission and stability-enhancing Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

All of this is in a package which is especially striking and purposeful, with a powerful new grille treatment, a more aerodynamic profile, and trademark rugged lower body mouldings to protect it in the rough. Changes on the inside are even more dramatic, and the cabin is essentially all-new.

While the Subaru focus on quality remains, it is roomier than before and the overall ambience is engaging, with improved levels of refinement.

Says Subaru Southern Africa’s Marketing Manager Ashley Lazarus: “The Outback continues to define the segment which it created in 1994, combining wagon and SUV like no other.

It remains a trendsetter when it comes to overall capability, but the move upmarket will add a new level of sophistication befitting of a premium crossover.”

Pricing is expected to start from R479 000, inclusive of a 3- year/75 000km comprehensive maintenance plan; and it will be available from Subaru’s nationwide dealer network from the middle of March.