The Subaru Outback. A name synonymous with rugged reliability and adventurous spirits. But does the 2024 Outback live up to the legacy? We took it for a spin through the outback (and the suburbs, let’s be honest) to give you the low-down.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Fantastic Ride and Handling: The Outback glides over rough terrain like a couch on wheels, making long journeys a breeze.
• Oodles of Interior Space: Whether you’re hauling camping gear or the entire family, the Outback’s spacious cabin has you covered.

Cons

• Uninspiring Performance: The 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated flat-four engine lacks the punch of its turbocharged sibling.
• Shorter Service Intervals: Regular maintenance is essential to keep this adventure-ready wagon in top shape.
• Facial Detection Can Get Annoying: The safety feature occasionally mistakes your expressions for commands.

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2023 Subaru Outback AWD Sport starts at $47,190 before on-road costs. Victorian buyers can drive away with one for $52,703 (each state has slightly different taxes). It’s priced higher than the entry-level Outback AWD but more affordable than the non-turbo AWD Touring variant. For an extra $5,000, you can opt for the turbocharged engine in the AWD Sport XT trim.

Features and Benefits

The Outback AWD Sport boasts:

• Green Exterior Highlights: Stand out with eye-catching green accents.
• Black Alloy Wheels: A touch of sportiness.
• Heavy-Duty Roof Rails: Perfect for mounting adventure gear.

All exterior paint colors come at no extra cost, allowing you to personalize your Outback without breaking the bank.

Safety

Subaru’s commitment to safety shines through:

• 5-Star ANCAP Safety Rating: The Outback prioritizes your well-being.
• Eyesight Driver Assist Technology: Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking keep you safe on the road.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: No surprises when changing lanes.

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Running Costs: Keeping Tabs on the Budget

The base 2.5-litre engine delivers a decent fuel economy of around 7.3 litres per 100km. The turbo engine in the XT variants is thirstier, averaging around 9.0 litres per 100km. Factor in servicing costs, which are generally on par with other cars in this segment.

Facing the Competition: Does the Outback Stand Out?

The Outback faces stiff competition from the likes of the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4. While the Escape offers a more dynamic driving experience, the Outback counters with its superior cargo space and off-road prowess. The RAV4 matches the Outback on practicality and safety, but the Subaru boasts a more comfortable ride.

Conclusion

A Worthy Aussie Companion?

The 2024 Subaru Outback is a compelling choice for adventure-seekers and families who value space, safety, and comfort. It’s not the flashiest wagon on the road, but it excels where it truly matters.

Rating: 8/10

The Outback might not be perfect, but it offers a well-rounded package that’s perfect for exploring the great outdoors or conquering the daily commute. It earns high marks for its spacious interior, excellent safety features, and legendary AWD system. If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable wagon that can handle anything you throw at it, the 2024 Subaru Outback is a fantastic option.