Subaru Outback 2.5I Touring AWD 2021 Review

2021 Subaru Outback AWD Touring Road Test Review

Subaru has launched the 6th generation Outback and we took the Touring version for a drive. Latest model has revised styling with LED fog lights, wider rear door and 18 inch alloys as well as a full size spare.

Subaru MY21 Outback AWD Touring Exterior SideInside the major difference is an 11.6 inch touch screen for almost all functionality and its intuitive and easy to use. Other highlights are dipping passenger external mirror in reverse, heated rear outer seats, one touch windows front and rear as well as reverse camera washer.

Subaru MY21 Outback AWD Touring Interior

Powered by a 2.5L boxer engine that delivers 138kW @ 5,800 rpm and 245 NM @ 3,400 to 4,600 rpm and drives through a revised CVT with an 8 step manual mode. Every Outback features the premium Active Torque Split AWD that distributes optimal torque to the front and rear wheels, depending on road surface and driving conditions.

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They also feature dual-mode X-MODE that enhances Outback’s AWD off-road performance.

I’ve always been a fan of the Outback, for obvious reasons, and the latest model takes an exceptionally good vehicle and makes it even better.

For the price it’s an absolute bargain and you’ll get nothing that has the same level of safety and comfort features or AWD capability anywhere near that price in its competitors.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Subaru MY21 Outback AWD Touring Exterior Front safety

What is good?

  • Active torque split AWD System and capability
  • Adaptive Cruise control is selectable
  • Class leading towing capacity

What is not so good?

  • No Head Up Display
  • Central Screen can lose clarity in sunlight
  • No turbo version

Also Look At

 Subaru MY21 Outback AWD Touring Exterior Front

Model   

Subaru Outback Touring AWD

Model Price$47,790 MLP*
Engine2.5L Boxer 4 Cyl
DrivetrainCVT 8 Step manual mode, Active Split Torque AWD with X-Mode
Power138kW @ 5,800 rpm
Torque245 NM @ 3,400 to 4,600 rpm
SafetyFive Star ANCAP
CO2 Emissions168 g/km
Economy ADR7.3 L/100km
Tow Capacity/Tow Ball2000 Kg / 200kg
Servicing12 Months / 12500 km  Service Plan
Warranty5yr/ Unlimited km with 5 Yr. roadside assist

*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.

 

Overall Rating    

88/100

Behind the Wheel9
Comfort9
Equipment9
Performance8
Ride and Handling9
Practicality10
Fit for Purpose10
Towing Capability7
AWD Capability7
Value for Money10

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Subaru Outback Touring AWD Wagon
  • 9/10
    Behind the Wheel - 9/10
  • 9/10
    Comfort - 9/10
  • 9/10
    Equipment - 9/10
  • 8/10
    Performance - 8/10
  • 9/10
    Ride and Handling - 9/10
  • 10/10
    Practicality - 10/10
  • 10/10
    Fit for Purpose - 10/10
  • 7/10
    AWD Capability - 7/10
  • 7/10
    Towing Ability - 7/10
  • 10/10
    Value for Money - 10/10
8.8/10

Summary

I’ve always been a fan of the Outback, for obvious reasons, and the latest model takes an exceptionally good vehicle and makes it even better.

For the price it’s an absolute bargain and you’ll get nothing that has the same level of safety and comfort features or AWD capability anywhere near that price in its competitors.

About Rob Fraser 2488 Articles
Rob Fraser – General dogsbody & Director Rob is the founder of the business. He constantly mutters something about way too many red wines one evening being to blame. Often known for taking the 4WD in the driveway over the sports car, he has travelled pretty much everywhere in Australia and when he is bored goes for a drive. He first learned to drive on the farm in a left hand drive WW11 Jeep when he was 11, and was hooked on 4WDriving way back then. In addition to 4WD he is an avid motoring enthusiast and has maintained a strong interest in the industry ever since his teens. He has owned way too many cars in his time as well. Having previously lived at the top of corporate life he retired in 2000 and hasn’t put a suit and tie on since. Cars are his passion so why not have a business doing what you love he figures. He has towed either a caravan or camper trailer to most parts of Australia, has run guided tours for camper trailers’ and instructed drivers in off road towing.