Practical all-roader still going strong with 5th generation

The new Subaru Outback, the fifth-generation of the brand’s pioneering crossover, will go on sale in the UK this week priced from £27,995 (on-theroad).

I ntroduced i n 1 995 as the first ever crossover and spawning a whole range of copy cat models ever since, the Outback has continued to successfully combine the virtues of a tourer with those of an SUV, winning over drivers with its practical, all-road nature.

The on the road price range of £27,995 to £32,995 means the all-new

Outback stays in the same price bracket as the outgoing version despite having new exterior design, a more spacious and higher quality inte- rior and a range of advanced safety equipment and in-car technology.

The new Outback also boasts a very generous standard specification. EYESIGHT SAFETY ASSIST – A ‘SECOND PAIR OF EYES’ FOR DRIVERS

New to the latest model, EyeSight is Subaru’s advanced collision avoidance technology which acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers, employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards.

This is the first time the technology has been made available in the UK and Europe.

The system’s two colour cameras are located in front of the rear view mirror to detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards. EyeSight is fitted as standard to every Outback fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission, and includes autonomous Precollision Braking Control and Pre-collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure & Sway Warning. NEW OUTBACK GOES MORE UPMARKET

While clearly maintaining the distinctive Subaru Outback identity, Subaru’s designers strived to make the new model more dynamic while keeping true to its rugged cross-over roots. From the front, the bumper integrated hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights maintain consistency with other models in the Subaru family, while the profile is a subtle evolution of the existing Outback.

More significant changes can be found on the inside. The new model’s revamped interior uses a range of higher quality materials throughout, resulting in a much more premium cabin, complimented by a new range of factory-fit infotainment and sat nav systems.

The interior is also more spacious for passengers. TWO ENGINES, TWO TRANSMISSIONS

There are two engines available in the UK – a pair of horizontally-opposed fourcylinder ‘Boxer’ engines, fitted deep in the engine bay to ensure a low centre of gravity for improved handling, despite the car’s raised ground clearance. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, producing 150 PS and 350 Nm torque, or a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol unit, with power and torque outputs of 165 PS and 235 Nm respectively.

Diesel engines will be offered with either a six-speed manual t ransmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission; the 2.5-litre petrol engine is sold exclusively with Lineartronic. GENEROUS STANDARD SPECIFICATION

There are two trim levels available in the UK – SE and SE Premium – which both offer a generous level of standard equipment.

SE models are equipped as standard with automatic LED headlamps and head- lamp washers, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass, as well as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, incorporating satellite navigation, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera.

Petrol SE models also feature an emissions-reducing start-stop system and Subaru Intelligent Drive, which allows drivers to select different engine modes depending on road conditions for improved economy and performance.

SE Premium models add a sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate for added functionality.