Subaru claims an average fuel consumption of 9.9L/100km, and while that’s likely achievable, you’re more likely to get closer to 12L/100km or above, at least in the suburbs.
For this generation Outback, the engine is mated to Subaru’s proprietary Lineartronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), and while I’m yet to be convinced of the benefits they deliver over a conventional automatic, this particular example is very good.
Unlike those we have previously encountered on different makes and models that tend to produce a hideous high-pitch noise under sustained loads, Subaru’s version has been tuned to mirror standard gear ratios up the rev range. It will fool most people into believing it’s a standard six-speed auto, but best of all, it’s quiet and more refined than any other I’ve tested.
Drivers can also switch between several drive modes; Intelligent, for linear power output; Sports, offering the sweet spot between economy and performance; and Sports Sharp that offers the most direct throttle response and fastest acceleration.Â
We found Intelligent to be perfect in slow stop/start driving offering a smooth take off, while the Sports and Sports Sharp settings provided more excitement when the road opened up.
Drivers can also use the paddleshifters, which I found myself reverting to, more often than not, and mostly in the Sports Sharp mode. It’s the place to be if you want hesitation-free acceleration off the line.Â
It’s also got a noticeably quicker steering ratio that its predecessor, so the latest Outback feels more agile and drives less like a large car. There’s decent weight and feel to the steering, so there’s a tendency to want to have some fun in the twisty sections. That’s not something that ever came to mind in the previous model.Â
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