Which Subaru Outback is better: diesel or petrol?
Pioneering in the station wagon space for ages, the modern-day Subaru Outback further proves that there are good alternatives to the typical family SUV. Which 2015 release model is better though? Petrol or diesel? We'll find out here.
Station Wagons are still cool and capable
The 2014-2020 model year Subaru Outback was touted as one of the best-equipped vehicles with regard to safety and safety systems. The Subaru Legacy (on which the Outback is based) achieved the highest possible rating of good in the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety in the USA for crashworthiness evaluations as well as a superior rating in front crash avoidance testing.
Related: Subaru Outback 3.6 R-S Premium - Video Review
Rest assured you're sure to be safe in the Subaru Outback. Adding to not only safety but performance too is Subaru's tried and trust symmetrical All Wheel Drive system. The Subaru Outback as an upmarket vehicle that's quite purposeful and can hold its own against the big boys in an offroad setting.
Which is better? Petrol or Diesel?
There is a range of engine options with the Subaru outback. We also compared which trims were the best. Whatever your flavour choice may be, the Subaru Outback can deliver.
| Subaru Outback 2.5i-S Premium Lineartronic CVT | Subaru Outback 2.0d Premium Lineartronic CVT | Subaru Outback 3.6R-S Lineartronic CVT | |
| Engine | 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol Boxer engine | 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel Boxer engine | 3.6-litre 6-cylinder petrol Boxer engine |
| Transmission | CVT Lineartronic | CVT Lineartronic | CVT Lineartronic |
| Power | 129 kW | 110 kW | 191 kW |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Claimed Fuel Consumption | 7.3 l/100km | 6.3 l/100km | 9.9 l/100km |
*The figures stated here were collected from a reputable resource and were correct at the time of publishing. However, said figures can potentially change at any moment and without notice.
Verdict
Looking at the figures here, if you want to strike a balance here with fuel efficiency and straight-up torque, the 2.0d is the way to go. If you're out for just pulling power, then the 3.6R-S is your ticket but lacks fuel economy. The 2.5i-S would seem like a happy medium but it's worth remembering that this is an All Wheel Drive vehicle and therefore the system can be heavy, so the 2.5i-S would suffer a bit in some situations.
If it were our choice, we'd go after the 2.0d, as it's also quite unique to see a diesel boxer engine. If you're keen on a Subaru Outback, you can search AutoTrader for used and new options. Maybe you want to sell your current car quick and easy to fund a new Subaru Outback, try out our new Instant Offer tool.
