Take the Outback on an adventure - the fifth generation Subaru Outback

The fifth generation Subaru Outback, gracing showrooms since mid-March, continues where its predecessor left off: a sports utility vehicle that requires no sacrifice in its aspirations to be a practical lifestyle accessory. Previous generations have achieved this by remaining faithful to an engineering recipe which combines horizontally-opposed Boxer® engines with Symmetrical All Wheel Drive™, and a high-riding and roomy wagon body style that is ideal for going almost anywhere in pursuit of almost anything.

Marketplace/positioning

• Outback moves upmarket in all respects but retains its pioneering and adventurous spirit
• ‘Capability Mastered’…consumers demand the best of all worlds. Outback obliges
• Function and form – practically handsome and exceptionally safe

The broad SUV/crossover/leisure vehicle marketplace is littered with vehicles that are pointless in terms of positioning, and/or represent meaningless shows of status and performance – an approach which has always been anathema to Subaru.

It is widely acknowledged that the brand has traditionally placed function before form, but for the fifth generation Outback (the first being launched internationally in 1995, two years before similar rivals joined the fray) a more unified approach was taken. The two elements were given equal status, engineers and designers working more closely together than ever, so that Outback would represent a major step forward and not just a shuffle in a fashion-driven direction. Change for the sake of change wasn’t acceptable.

Outback owners will therefore take delivery of a car which is more sophisticated, sleeker, has a host of relevant convenience and safety technology, and a 20-year legacy. Indeed, the combo of Boxer/AWD can be taken all the way back to the Leone, a dual-use wagon which Subaru introduced in 1972.

“Conceptually, the Outback has remained unchanged since the first generation,” explains Subaru Southern Africa’s Marketing Manager, Ashley Lazarus. “So we’ve retained those pioneering qualities that are synonymous with the Outback nameplate but made the vehicle more stylish and refined, and taken advantage of technological developments to make it more efficient, safer and even more dynamic across a broad spread of terrain.”

Outback is designed to appeal to family buyers who enjoy outdoor activities, and value functionality, safety and reliability, and enjoy taking the wheel themselves – their car is not merely a means of transportation.

“Consumers seek a crossover/SUV that has a distinctly adventurous spirit: cars that are more engaging on a tactile and emotional level, and the Outback delivers in that regard too,” concludes Lazarus. 

Design/engineering

• Assertive new frontal styling. Hawkeye headlamps with LED low-beam
• Windscreen base moved forward by 50 mm for sleeker profile, and a 10 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency
• Optimised construction with selective use of high tensile steel to improve crashworthiness, suspension integrity, refinement without increased mass. Torsional rigidity is significantly improved over the outgoing model

The Outback looks more purposeful thanks to the bolder grille, a more steeply angled windscreen, a lower rear roofline and a slight increase in overall width. Subaru’s trademark ‘Hawkeye’ headlamps with light-emitting diode low-beam assistance flank the hexagonal grille, and at the rear, wraparound light clusters also making use of LED lighting technology.

These modern and sophisticated touches don’t detract from the Outback’s essence: it still exudes a functional, tough and rugged feel. Its high-riding stance is key to this and there’s 213 mm of ground clearance thanks to 18-inch wheels shod with 60-profile tyres that strike a perfect mix for the Outback’s intended role. The front foglamps are encased in hard-wearing protective surrounds, which wrap around the corners and extend to the front wheelarch. Similar black cladding encases the sills all the way to the rear weelarches, and then across the rear valance.

The sleeker profile from the more steeply angled windscreen is immediately apparent, as is the new mirror treatment: instead of being integrated into the window surround at the base of the A-pillar, they now stand on independent door-mounted pedestals. A small quarter light is fitted, and these changes result in excellent front three-quarter visibility from the driver’s seat – a 10mm increase of the hip point height for front occupants also contributes to better all-round visibility.

A combination of improved aerodynamics (including the active grille shutter, which diverts air around the car rather than through it when cooling needs are minimal), reduced rolling resistance, and less internal friction on the various mechanical components all improve overall efficiency and fuel consumption. Only those with exceptional eyesight will notice the smaller panel gaps, while a magnet will confirm that the bonnet is now made from aluminium, saving seven kilograms.

And it is what you can’t see which represents the most important changes to Outback: under the multiple layers of primer, basecoat and clearcoat is a metal skeleton of unprecedented strength.  Selective use of high tensile steel optimises crashworthiness with minimal mass penalty but also provides a rigid framework to which the suspension pick-ups are mounted. This translates into precise and predictable handling behaviour, with shock absorbers and suspension links able to do exactly what they were designed to do.

The pursuit of refinement to complement chassis precision proceeded in tandem, and the Outback has set a new standard within the company for vibration damping across all frequency ranges, accompanied by significant reductions in wind and road noise. Thanks to the inherent smoothness of the Boxer engines, mechanical noise was, predictably, not of great concern, though even these areas have been improved on.
 

Engines/drivetrain

• Three Boxer engines: two normally-aspirated petrol, one turbodiesel. All revised for higher efficiency and smoother performance
• One transmission: improved version of Subaru’s acclaimed Lineartronic™ CVT, with manual shift mode
• Symmetrical All Wheel Drive with Active Torque Split optimises distribution of traction in the most effective way possible

The flagship of the Outback range is powered by the EZ36 3 630cc six-cylinder boxer engine, which features four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts per bank, and variable ignition timing on both inlet and exhaust camshafts. Headline numbers are 191kW and 350Nm.

This latest generation of an engine which has become synonymous with refinement and effortless punch features new connecting rods, revised electronic controls, and a new exhaust system.

Subaru’s FA20 1 999cc four cylinder turbodiesel Boxer – the only engine of this type in the world – is also offered, in a revised form. Power and torque remain unchanged at 110kW and 350Nm, but peak torque now starts at 1 600 rpm, as opposed to 1 800 rpm previously and remains unchanged until 2 800 rpm (2 400 previously).

Significant internal changes have been made, improving refinement and efficiency. This include a slightly reduced compression ratio (from 16:1 to 15.2:1) which lowers combustion temperature, increased fuel injection pressure (up from 180 Mpa to 200 Mpa), new injectors and improved glow plugs.

The variable nozzle mechanism of the turbocharger has been redesigned for improved torque and response characteristics and it has also been repositioned in the engine bay to lower the centre of gravity. The belt drive system for engine ancillaries has been changed, reducing mechanical losses, while a revised exhaust and catalytic converter/diesel particulate filter arrangement.

The third engine available in Outback is a revised version of the FB25 2 498cc, four-cylinder, Boxer petrol, with 16 valves, twin camshafts per bank and variable valve timing on the inlet side of the engine. In this latest guise output climbs to 129kW from 123, and to 235Nm from 229.

These improvements come about thanks to new cylinder heads with larger intake valves, revised inlet manifold, and an increase in compression ratio from 10 to 10.3:1. The engine block is lighter than before but with no loss of rigidity. Refinements to exhaust, cold air intake system, ECU, charging system and other areas all contribute to performance and/or efficiency improvements.

The Lineartronic Constantly Variable Transmission has been widely heralded as the best of its kind, and has been improved by reducing internal friction, and lowering noise/vibration levels of a transmission which is already a step ahead when it comes to refinement. A version with a higher torque capacity is fitted to the turbodiesel and H6 derivatives.

A new shift control unit provides a more linear feel, better integrated with engine sound and road speed. The use of paddle shift instantly allows the driver to manage the shifts for a more sporty and direct feel. When mated to the petrol engines the Lineartronic has six pre-defined ‘steps’, while the turbodiesel has seven, to take the different engine characteristics into account.  

 
Suspension/brakes/steering

• New front struts and rear dampers plus revised suspension geometry fine tune handling characteristics
• Quicker steering ratio for improved response
• Improved brake feel and faster pedal response thanks to a redesigned booster/master cylinder assembly

All Outback models are fitted with an electro-mechanical power steering system, but now with a revised ration of 14:1, down from 16:1 – this means less steering wheel movement for a given change of the front wheel position relative to the dead-ahead position. The result is a sportier feel, feedback and response enhanced further by the increased rigidity of the steering column, and the steering wheel itself.

As well as new shock absorber units, Outback gets revised anti-roll bar mountings and bushes all round, while the front anti-roll bar now acts directly on the strut unit. This has allowed for improved roll control, despite a reduction in the diameter of the torsion bar – which saves weight. The front control arms are stiffer than before and the rear subframe mountings have been moved further outboard.

Geometry changes include more toe-in at the rear, and additional front caster, which translates into better straight line stability.

Stopping performance has always been an Outback strong point and all three derivatives boast ventilated discs all round, as before. Acting on these discs are lightweight calipers, with the benefits of ABS, EBD and BAS to ensure maximum stability and minimal stopping distances in all kinds of situations.

The main change revolves around a high response brake booster, for significantly better performance in emergency situations. For the ultimate in convenience, the parking brake is activated/deactivated by a console switch, with the system incorporating a Hill Holder function.

 
Features/equipment

• X-mode improves all-terrain performance by optimising the integrated control of engine, AWD and brakes
• Powered rear tailgate for ease of access
• Multifunction roof rails that double as cross bars

Roof rails and SUVs go together like sushi and soy sauce, but Subaru has added a new dimension to the business of carrying things on the roof. When not in use the rails are exactly that – bars that run the length of the roof, but in an instant they can be turned 90 degrees transform into sturdy crossbars, to which all kinds of accessories can be added. So if your ride bicycles, paddle canoes or sail a windsurfer, you simply add your toys of choice. The flagship H6 version can be identified by the chromed finish of these rails while on other versions it is satin black.

In another clever touch typical of Subaru, the door sills act as treadplates, making it easier to load and secure items. 

Outback has always lived up to its name, and its all-terrain ability is a fact. While not designed for mountain goat antics its 213mm ground clearance and AWD system means it takes on the rough stuff with some aplomb. Hit the X-mode button and it becomes the most capable crossover by far.

At speeds of less than 40 km/h X-mode puts the engine control unit into a dedicated torque map setting, improving driveability on rough roads while the all-wheel-drive control unit alters settings to create a semi-locked state for the central differential. In addition, the transmission control unit selects a lower gear ratio than it would normally.

A limited slip function across axles also comes into play, adding traction by controlling brake pressures and aiming to maintain similar rotation speeds on both wheels. Hill descent operates in a similar way, kicking in at speeds below 20 km/h for steadier descents.

In internal testing, X-mode halves the time required to escape from simulated obstacles, comfortably outperforming key rivals in this regard. 

An automatic tailgate, released either via the key fob or with a soft-touch button under the rear garnish, automatically opens the generously-proportioned tailgate. A memory function allows owners to select the opening height however, to take their specific space limitations into account. It can be closed again via the key fob, a button inside the frame of the tailgate, or from a button on the driver’s console. When open, the gate handle acts as a hanger, capable of supporting a three kilogram load.

 
Interior

• More spacious: shoulder room +42mm, couple distance +10mm, tandem distance +7mm, hip room +35mm, hip point raised by 10mm
• Luggage space improved from 490 to 512 litres
• 6.2-inch touch screen acts as a command centre for voice activated climate control, telephone, audio, vehicle settings and driver information
• Superior materials used throughout for a sophisticated, upmarket feel
• Infotainment network that integrates various multimedia options, including Bluetooth, Aux and 2 x USB inputs, and 12 Volt outlets, and 12 speaker Harman Kardon sound for petrol-engined versions

With the base of the windscreen now 50 mm further forward than before, the cabin of the Outback has a palpable roominess – yet still feels secure and embracing. The sense of space is complemented by an upmarket ambience, created with the generous use of high quality materials, in tandem with Subaru’s established reputation for superb build quality.

Repackaging has been the name of the game when it comes to the cabin and despite an unchanged wheelbase, extra millimetres have been found. This has included redesigning the door panels (which nevertheless have a softer texture), rethinking the front seat slides to create extra footroom in the rear, and raising the hip points – both front and rear – for a more natural seating position.

An enlarged console box with a more generously-padded armrest cushion is fitted, and now has a flocked interior for a plusher look and feel.

The height of the tonneau cover has been raised and the boot floor made flatter to increase the luggage volume by 22 litres. A simple tug on levers either side of the luggage compartment collapses the rear seat backrests, increasing utility volume to 1 801 litres and providing useful length. A bigger load is a heavier one and cargo hooks are capable of supporting 50 kilograms.

The dashboard has an expansive feel, with different trim defining the models: the diesel version gets an embossed silver trim strip above the footwells, while a glossy black panel is used on petrol models. There’s leather door to door, which along with the redesigned seats, ensures maximum seating comfort. The asymmetrically split/reclining rear seats have come in for particular attention, and they’re broader than before, and have a longer cushion for better underthigh support.

A 6.2-inch touch screen takes pride of place and its graphical user interface (GUI) is the starting point for controlling almost all the non-driving functions of the car, as well as providing information such as the fuel efficiency history and X-Mode settings. It also displays the view from the reversing camera. The thin film transistor (TFT) screen mimics the swipe/flick/double-tap functionality that consumers have become so familiar with from smartphones and tablets and is intuitive and user-friendly.

The dual-zone climate control is either operated via voice control from a dedicated steering wheel control, or from a separate panel below the screen, with temperature changes now via dials, rather than switches.

Essential information is displayed on a customisable 3.5-inch liquid crystal multi-information display between the speedometer and tachometer, menu choices enabled by toggle switches mounted adjacent to the steering wheel boss. Drivers can also personalise the illuminated rings which surround the two main instruments and change their colour, depending on the Si-Drive settings and whether paddle-shift mode is activated. 

Meeting the needs of the gadget generation has been high on the priority list, and there is a lidded pocket ahead of the shift lever, which contains two USB, Aux and 12 Volt ports. Petrol-engined versions are equipped with 12-speaker Harmon Kardon audio.

Conclusion

• Outback version five emphatically lives up to new pay-off line: Capability Mastered
• More upmarket and efficient but with utility unimpaired
• Adventure never looked this good, or is so rewarding to drive

With the latest version of the Outback, Subaru takes what has long been acknowledged as the ultimate all-rounder and re-invents it for the second decade of the 21st century. It’s the perfect celebration of the 20th year of the nameplate.