Flash Drive

2015 Subaru Outback

November 26, 2014 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited

The 2015 Subaru Outback is incredibly versatile both on and off the highway.
The 2015 Subaru Outback is incredibly versatile both on and off the highway.

Engine: 3.6-liter H-6 Boxer design, 256 horsepower 247 lb-ft torque

Transmission: CVT with 6-speed manual mode, all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 20/City—27/Highway—22/Combined

Base Price: $32,995

As Tested: $36,040

Performance:

Strong six-cylinder engine

Smooth transmission with welcome manual mode

Paddle shifters

Standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive

More car-like ride than traditional SUVs

Excellent off-road capabilities; 8.7-inches ground clearance

The flat H design of the powerful Outback engine allows for a low hood and excellent forward visibility.
The flat H design of the powerful Outback engine allows for a low hood and excellent forward visibility.

Comfort:

Quiet interior, excellent sound insulation

Stretch-out front legroom

Very good headroom

Heated front and rear seats

Roomy back seat; ample head and knee room

Soft-touch interior materials

Utility:

Flat cargo floor

Big, wide hatch opening

No lift-over

Power liftgate

HID headlamps

Voice-activated infotainment controls

Slick seatback releases located by rear hatch

Big seatback storage pouches

WOW Factors:

Very spacious interior, especially considering outside dimensions

Legendary Subaru all-wheel-drive, all-weather capability

Great sound system with excellent controls interface

Impression cargo capacity 

The Subaru Outback has excellent cargo space and a neat roof rail system that's perfect for skiing and other outdoor activities.
The Subaru Outback has excellent cargo space and a neat roof rail system that’s perfect for skiing and other outdoor activities.

Whines:

Tall floor hump limits back seat middle passenger legroom

Small rear door bins 

Bottom Line:

The all-new 2015 Subaru Outback is a notable improvement over an already fine sport utility wagon. It’s big enough for comfort and cargo capacity, but midsize for city commuting and parking. It handles all weather conditions effortlessly, but drives more like a sedan than an SUV.