As the world’s very first Sport Utility Wagon, the Subaru Outback has arguably become a lot more stylish and premium throughout its more than 20-year history. From a no-nonsense raised station wagon, it has transformed into a rather upscale number. One thing that does remain, however, is the ruggedly handsome appeal and the all-terrain capability that most other cars and off-roaders can only dream of.
The 2018 Subaru Outback, which debuts at the New York International Auto Show, features a more striking front fascia, with a lower front grille, C-shaped headlights with Konoji-design daytime running lights, and a revised bumper. The wheels likewise get a tweaking, with sizes remaining 17- or 18-inches, depending on the variant.
The premium touches continue inside the more luxurious cabin, with genuine stitching on the dash and seats. The center stack now gets an available 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with an updated Starlink Interface. New apps even feature more connectivity and lifestyle options for both city-slickers and the outdoorsy types. There is even a Bird Watch app called eBird that (we kid you not) informs uses of local bird sightings.
While the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter six-pot horizontally-opposed boxer engines have been carried over, the Lineartronic gearbox has been tuned to provide smoother and quieter operation. Other enhancements like a new exterior sideview mirror design likewise help reduce wind drag and noise. And brakes and steering are now more responsive, Subaru claims. Needless to say, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is part of the mix.
With Subaru being a stickler for safety, EyeSight is part of the package. This adds goodies like Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and the like. The 2018 model ads Reverse Automatic Braking and Steering Responsive Headlights. Al these make for a truly worry-free drive on any road or in any weather condition.
The 2018 Subaru Outback will go on sale in the US market beginning in the 3rd quarter of this year.
