Comparing the Subaru Outback Vs the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

If they are considering buying a Subaru Outback 2016, Australia based drivers may be keen to know how it compares to the opposition. One of the key rivals for the Outback is the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, and it seemed only natural to pit them head to head against each other.

Which Models Did We Compare?

It was tricky, but we managed to find the two closest models in regards to price and specifications. We chose the Subaru Outback 2.0D Premium, which has a 2.0 litre turbo diesel four cylinder engine, paired with an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Volkswagen Passat Alltrack model we chose has the 2.0 litre turbo diesel four cylinder engine paired with a six speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

Powerplant Comparisons

On the face of it, one would expect very similar results in regards to performance and economy. After all, both of these cars have a 2.0 litre diesel engine, but the results were quite different. The Subaru Outback engine generates 110kW of power and 350 Nm of torque. The Outback fuel usage is stated as being 6.3L/100km combined but in road tests you may find it is a little more thirsty. The Volkswagen Alltrack engine generates 140kW and 400 Nm of torque. Volkswagen claim that the Alltrack fuel usage comes in at 5.4L/100km, but when road tested the figure was 9.8L/100km instead. As we can see from the raw figures, the Alltrack engine is slightly more powerful and has a marginally better fuel consumption.

The Driving Experience and Equipment Levels

Both the Alltrack and the Outback measure in at 4.8 metres in length and the Outback is the heavier vehicle at 1,683 kg by a mere 12 kg. The Subaru Outback is a quieter more composed ride, but the Alltrack extra power makes it quicker overall.

There is little to separate these cars in regards to equipment; both have foglights, an electric tailgate, front heated leather seats, satellite navigation, modern Bluetooth and USB connectivity, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot monitoring, 18” alloy wheels and adaptive cruise control. However, the Subaru Outback 2.0D Premium also has extra features, such as LED headlights, a sunroof, electric folding door mirrors and electrically adjustable seats.

Some of these features are available for the Alltrack, but they are part of a $3,500 luxury package which brings the total cost up to $52,790. This would make the Alltrack $7,800 more expensive just to match the features of the Outback. The Subaru Outback 2.0D Premium is priced at $44,990, and the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack is $49,290 both of these prices don’t include on road costs.

In conclusion, the Subaru Outback is slightly lower powered, but it wins in value for money with better equipment levels, cheaper pricing, and the overall driving experience. If they would like to know more about the Subaru Outback 2016, Australia based drivers should contact us. Here at Perth City Subaru we have a massive selection of both new and used Subaru cars for sale including the Subaru Outback my16. We would be happy to arrange a no obligation test drive for you at your earliest convenience. If you have any further queries, our sales team will be happy to answer them for you.

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