I'm often asked which model I would choose if I had to drive only one car for the rest of my days. It would undoubtedly be the Subaru Outback. Firstly, I am a big fan of family cars, and they are too rare in the market. However, what sets the Subaru Outback apart is its incredible off-road capabilities. It can outshine the majority of SUVs and even several ATVs. It's a pleasant car to drive, and it doesn't lack anything in terms of comfort and amenities. Yes, maybe I would feel like driving something else in the short term, but I know for sure that the Subaru Outback is the only car that can meet my needs and especially my whims until the end of my days.
The model doesn't change much for 2024, and that's a good thing because the Subaru Outback is already at the top of its game in my opinion. In fact, the manufacturer has made some small improvements to the Wilderness version, which is undoubtedly the most desirable of the lot. Otherwise, it's a car that's as functional and safe as can be. It's a model that several other manufacturers have tried to copy, but without success.
Range and Price
The starting price of the 2024 Subaru Outback is $36,663, which remains reasonable for a model of this size. The Japanese manufacturer's family car offers a total of seven versions, and its starting price can climb up to $50,063 for the Premier XT version. However, the most interesting model of the lot remains the Wilderness version with a price of $47,463.
Category and Competition
Although the Subaru Outback is a car, it is placed in the category of intermediate SUVs because that's where it finds some semblance of competition. In fact, I would tell you that there is no vehicle mentioned below that offers off-road skills as perfected as the Outback's, and that's even more true since the Wilderness version exists. In my opinion, the Japanese manufacturer's family car should always be part of your Top 3 when shopping in this category.
Rivals: Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Nissan Murano, Toyota Venza, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Design and Technologies
I know, family cars are not the most interesting models in terms of aesthetics. However, the Outback remains elegant nonetheless, and it's a model that manages to turn heads, especially in its Wilderness version, which is quite impressive. The Japanese manufacturer has made excellent choices in terms of exterior colors.
The interior of the Subaru Outback is spacious and roomy. The quality of finishing is generally good. However, I find that it lacks a bit of boldness in the finishing. On the other hand, this is what might make it age better than the majority of its rivals.
The multimedia system of the Japanese family car works well. It is intuitive and easy to use. The driving assistance technologies are very effective and not too imposing.
Performance
The 2024 Subaru Outback offers two mechanical options, starting with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, which is more than sufficient for the majority of people. Moreover, the towing capacity of the Outback is 2,000 pounds with this engine. Additionally, it comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive is standard.
If you want more power, the Japanese manufacturer's family car offers a spicier option in the form of a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Once again, the CVT and all-wheel drive are standard. With this engine, the towing capacity increases to 3,500 pounds.
Weaknesses
Some versions are a bit fuel-hungry. That's about the only thing one could reproach the Japanese manufacturer's family car for.
Strengths
It's a versatile car and it's capable of meeting the needs of the majority of people. The Outback is enjoyable to drive, and the off-road capabilities of the Wilderness version are absolutely phenomenal. It's a spacious and very comfortable car.
Signature Element
The Subaru Outback is the closest thing to the ideal car for a Canadian. It offers numerous advantages in all situations, and above all, its road behavior is sound in all seasons.
Closing Words
I'm not one to say things lightly when it comes to automobiles. If you've been reading me for a long time, you know that my opinion is well-founded and, above all, honest. Thus, you must realize how good the Subaru Outback is as a car. As I mentioned in the title, it's one of the few cars I could drive until the end of my days without regret. If, like me, you have a small family and a taste for adventure, you won't find anything better.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
