The Subaru Outback is the Forester’s older, bigger brother. It was conceived only a few years prior and has grown to be equally, if not more successful in stealing the hearts of those who appreciate the unexpected, the wild, and unknown. The clue is all in the name.
While secretly a sedan, the Outback parades as a compact SUV. And it does well too. The 2020 Subaru Outback is brimming with the latest and greatest tech, safety features, and a few extra comforts that make driving this car as effortless as ever. The Outback clan welcomes a fresh face in 2020. The Onyx Edition XT, featuring an eager direct-injection turbocharged boxer engine. With plenty of exciting optional extras, the 2020 Outback is delivering the goods, at every price range.
What the latest tech means for your daily commute
The Subaru Outback boasts a highly responsive touch screen, six to eleven speakers, and Eyesight technology. You may be asking yourself, how will this technology actually affect my daily drive?
Touchscreen and STARLINK
The 2020 Subaru Outback comes with an impressive 11.6-inch touchscreen on the Outback premium and higher. With high resolution and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, this highly intelligent user experience will instantly make a busy morning more relaxed. No matter how long your trip, built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot connectivity means there’s never a dull moment on the road.
Outback premium and upward are now also highly integrated with the new STARLINK app. You’ll never be out of sync with Bluetooth, voice command recognition, and a host of entertainment options. If you’re considering the Outback Touring, you’re never getting lost again with an inbuilt satellite navigation system.
Surround sound
The Outback’s 6 speakers work together to create high quality soundscapes. On solo drives, while the hum of the boxer engine is gratifying, a good sound system is always a welcome thing. For those eyeing off the higher trims, a suite of 11 Harman Kardon Speakers featuring a subwoofer and amplifier make the Outback the real life of the party.
More eyes on the road
EyeSight Driver’s Assist is Subaru’s very own high quality and internationally renowned safety system. It includes adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision braking system, lane keep assist, and is constantly scanning potential threats to you and others. The Outback is already a very safe car, however, with the added EyeSight technology, an added layer of comfort makes driving even more hassle free. With the school run or grocery shopping always summoning a kerfuffle of waving arms, sliding bags, and general chaos, it is good to have a car that is watching your back.
How much can the Subaru Outback tow?
If you’re even thinking about bringing a camper trailer on your road trip, you need to know about your towing weight. The Subaru Outback can handle up to 1500kg for all trims except the 3.6R which adds an extra 300kg. With Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and X-Mode found in every variant, the Outback is a top favourite when it comes to tackling the unexpected.
Watch your weight
Before you even look at your dream home on wheels you’ll need to check its ‘tare’ weight: that is the camper trailer’s weight without your wardrobe, kitchen items, and other belongings. Don’t be caught out by false advertising by camper trailer companies or some private sellers – check the actual weight before making a purchase and double check it against the towing weight of your vehicle.
Does the Subaru Outback have CVT?
Yes, you guessed it. In true Subaru-style, the Outback flaunts a highly efficient Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT. This system eliminates the obvious break that is felt between shifts in gear and makes for a smooth and utterly seamless ride. However, it’s not just a smooth ride that makes CVT appealing to many drivers. On a more practical level, CVT is more efficient in delivering engine torque to the wheels – which saves power and is far more fuel efficient. While many drivers are blissfully unaware of the science, it’s a perk that continuously pays off at the fuel pump.
Does the Subaru Outback have 3rd row seats?
It’s the question that can make or break when buying a new family car. While the 2020 Outback does not have a third row of seats, it compromises well with a whopping 512 litres of cargo volume, or 1801 litres with the seats down. The added advantage here is the back seats are very roomy with a sensible 60/40 split-folding seats and 39.5 inches of legroom in the back. Say goodbye to those front/back legroom negotiations: there’s enough room for everyone here.
Read More: 2020 Subaru Outback Revealed
