News plainly superb
Lineartronic CVT with manual mode transmission, the combination of which brought strong performance when fully loaded with passengers and gear and an average fuel return only a couple of miles short of the official 38.7mpg figure.
Not only is the Outback’s load-carrying capacity immense but it also boasts a limo-level amount of interior space – with the rear seats lowered we were able to transport a wooden bed frame, old toaster, two expired microwaves,
Above: three large plastic cartons of junk and the contents of a garden shed to the tip.
With its slightly raised driving position affording an improved view for all, the Subaru is smooth and strong to drive even if it does feel a bit of a boat at first – something you become quickly accustomed to.
The real beauty of this car though is that it is a genuine all-rounder capable of transporting families on weekends away, kids and their mates to sports grounds, visits to DIY centres or just pottering round town. And when the going gets tough the aptly named Outback gets going.
Trim grades comprise SE and SE Premium, the former including automatic LED headlamps and washers, cruise control, active torque vectoring, 17-inch alloys, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass.
Buyers also get a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen info system with sat-nav, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera.
SE Premium variants add a sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloys, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate.