The Ultimate Rough-Roader? | 2021 Subaru Outback
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024
- Live in the country? Own a golden retriever? Are you a lumbersexual? If so, then the Subaru Outback is the wagon, er, SUV for you! Also also apparently for me! Seriously, I don't think there is another crossover on the market today that isn't more directly targeted at my theoretical demographic: middle aged, lives in the country but works in the city, likes AWD and drives on unpaved roads daily. Hmmm. Is Subaru trying to tell me something?
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You have some of the best and most comprehensive car reviews out there. Without fluff and stupid shit.
Well said
The paddle on the lest side allows you to use engine braking in slippery conditions.
Great braking assistance in snow and ice, which is most of our Minnesota winters.
My brother and I both got matching 2020s. It is amazing car. Seriously don't regret buying it. This car is extremely comfortable on roadtrips with the safety features.
Alex. You should also mention the Outback's excellent safety ratings, it should not go overlooked with the demographic buying these vehicles and transporting their kiddos around.
Which cars are not safe today?
Volvo used to be the safest.
@@normt430 Not all cars have driver assistance tech like this one does. But many new ones do have them.
@@joeferreira4992 you don't know what you are talking about. All cars are safe today as evidence by IIHS tests. The newer the vehicle the better the rating because of features that work.
The scoring is so close that they have gone to headlight ratings. What is next taillight and turn signal ratings?
@@joeferreira4992 Um Hyundai was the safest vehicle for a long time. Still are. That’s their motto because of kiddos
If people are referencing iihs ratings, keep in mind that the ratings are for that class of vehicle. A top pick of a small car is still going to be less safe in a collision than an suv with lower scores due to physics. However, I do believe Subaru is a safer brand, not just for its collision avoidance systems, but because of the way the car crumples in a wreck. The low-sitting boxer engine is designed to be shoved under the car in a wreck instead of into the firewall, giving you a greater survival space in an accident.
I recently bought a new-to-me 2019 Outback Limited. I am completely happy with it. It has the standard 2.5L engine and I find it has enough power. I have no problems merging onto LA's speedways, you just have to put your foot into the throttle and off you go. The size is right, I can haul my 2 Rotties and stuff with room to spare. I haven't taken it off road but it's nice to know I have the ability to explore dirt roads if I want. I never considered an Outback before. I was looking for a pickup but the prices for new or used trucks are insane. So while exploring other options at Carmax I found my Outback.
This is a great comment to read sir!! Congrats on the new to you Outback! I think you made a great choice for you and the fur babies and you are accurate about trucks being so crazy high! I’m in truck country in Oklahoma. Good luck with her!
I too have been shopping for a truck, but the prices in that segment are truly absurd which rules it out entirely for me. An Outback XT certainly can't do everything a truck can do, but it's still a very practical vehicle and is at least $6000 less expensive than a comparably equipped midsize truck. I wish the Forester XT was still available because I like the more compact footprint of that model, but the base 2.5 engine is not for me.
Ive just got a 2016 Outback in the UK. Fabulous car. Hope to keep it a very long time with plenty of fun to be had.
Hey Alex! At the beginning of January we actually bought a 2021 Subaru Outback Touring and we love it. We found the seats to be extremely comfortable and the top trim gets and extending thigh cushion for the driver. We also love the Apple CarPlay improvement which was hindering us from the 2020 model. Love your reviews man, keep up the great work!
I purchased the 2020 Outback Touring XT model early last year and the CarPlay situation was rather frustrating. Regardless, Subaru has since released a software update that provides the 2020 model with the full screen features that is shown here in this video and I agree, it is a huge improvement. I went with the Touring model specifically for the leather seats and I'm pretty impressed at the amount of luxury for the price.
@@makopolo234 good luck stewing in your own sweat because you cheated out of the ventilated seats, jk.
I’m thinking if the onyx myself,
Listening to Men at Work Down Under in an Outback. Sneaky little reference there ;)
...ick...
Teehee
@@AAutoBuyersGuide Edmund's long term test has had their teething issues with late model Honda's including CR-V and the latest Passport.
Now I want a Vegemite sandwich.
@@BobMar1964 no you dont
This is a my kind of crossover . Not too tall but same time not ground hugging. Perfect for most situations.
Subie......I love my Subaru Ascent ! The turbo is powerful and the AWD system is great in snow. Peacefrom510 .
Ford awd systems overheat very quickly and go into 2wd to protect itself. A lot of manufacturers have a similar issues. Subaru does not have that problem so keep that in mind if your planning on doing any type of off roading.
thanks!
13:59 "I find paddle shifters on a vehicle with a CVT about as useful as paddles on a French poodle".
They have their uses, choosing different levels of engine brake, preemptively "downshift" for passing, etc.
I use the paddles for engine braking-especially longer hills. That helps reduce the need to ride the brakes. I never use them to accelerate ‘faster’.
I also use them for "downshifting" They work well on twisty down hill roads.
@@cocoyc495 Do they work that way on a CVT? I've always used downshifting for hill driving / engine breaking, but that was mostly on a manual and more recently on a slushbox. Can CVT take that without long-term damage?
@@mountainhobo Yep. I use it when driving in the snow. The adaptive cruise control also uses downshifting to help control speed as well.
I appreciate the comparisons at the end. I think many more people do as well.
My favorite transmission is an 8 speed. It’s a good balance of complexity and performance. It would be great if a lot of CVTs were retired and replaced with 8 speed units across the industry.
Toyota has a well executed planetary CVT. Their newer Corollas have a launch gear in lieu of a torque converter. Honestly once they start making everything hybrid you have instant torque at your fingertips anyway. Curious if they would start Atkinson cycle everything like Toyota started.
The manual is still superior as far as fun, durability, longevity and simplicity, bring back manual availability on all trim lines
CVT sucks!
@@MacTechG4 Good to see the bigger picture and I agree totally. Why don’t car makers offer a 6 speed manual at a high trim level? Do they really see a manual as a cost saving rather than pure driving pleasure that it is?
We have a 2017 3.6 with the low profile roof rails. I think we'll be happy with it for many more years. No low profile roof rails in this version is a deal breaker for my wife, etc.
Alex, I love your videos, please include closed captioning for those of us that are hearing impaired. Thank you!
Thanks for an excellent review. I really like the additional graphical information you add to the video. It adds the sort of comparative information I want to know.
I just bought an Onyx Edition XT and it is Subaru #4 and the best car I have ever owned. It is so good! I would love to have a hybrid or plug in electric option, but this is great for everything I need my vehicle to do.
I don’t think I can go back to the NA 2.5 after this.
MPG average on fuelly dot com is about 23 mpg for 2.4t.
I think you're probably right about the gearing. The Outback with the turbo has a low ratio in the CVT of 3.23:1 and a final drive of 4.11:1 which isn't terrible for an automatic transmission. However, from doing a little research I found that the torque converter clutch is designed to lock up at very low RPM. Good for fuel economy, but you'd normally be getting additional multiplication while the TC is doing its thing (typically ~2:1 - manufacturers haven't published TC ratios for decades, sadly).
Years ago, Jeep had an optional CVT in the Patriot that could do a 19:1 (!!!) ratio. I'm not exactly sure how that was accomplished (whether the pulleys themselves could yield that ratio or if there was a underdrive gear), but it wasn't very expensive so it couldn't have been all that complicated. I'm surprised Subaru has never done something similar.
70K on my 2016 3.6R and going strong in all regards (and I tow my camper a lot) and 26mpg average. I've owned two chevys that kept slipping before having complete transmission failures and a jeep cherokee that shifted hard and hunted for gears. The Subaru 3.6R w/CVT is quiet and smooth. CVTs lack the bottom end gitty-up a regular transmission has, and to each their own, but most buyers will be happy with it. I'm thinking a lot of the CVT hate in the comments comes from people who have never owned one/owned a Nissan CVT.
This was an absolute amazing review! Thank you for taking the time
This review has been very helpful to me as I am leaning toward the Outback 2.4L Turbo 260 HP version to eventually tow a teardrop camper. I love the safety features, seats and features on the dash LCD. Wondering if you can get a factory installed tow package on the Outback 2.4L Turbo 260HP? Love the comparisons to other similar SUVs too. Keep up the great job!!
I had a 2016 Nissan Murano that had the 360 degree camera - it NEEDED it. Visibility was not that great. I now have a 2020 Outback Touring XT and I rarely even use the front camera - it doesn't need it. Visibility is fantastic!
I used it a lot especially in cities
Visibility in Subarus has always been one of their best features.
@@SakuraSakura8596 - I would LIKE the Outback to have a 360 camera, I just don't feel it's necessary, unlike with the Murano which would very hard to park without one.
First time I’ve seen the ground clearance chart in a while. Lol
Can’t wait for the Wilderness Editions!
That’s what I’m waiting for!
Are they supposed to handle the Wilderness the country is headed for?
Yes the wilderness edition would be nice but what exactly would it include to make it special? A 2 inch lift would sure be nice but that's something you can already do with any outback and it's not too expensive and its rather easy to do. To me a wilderness edition should include a 2 inch lift with under body protection, tow hooks front and back and should include all terrain tires, and should be based on the Premium trim to keep the cost down with the turbo engine being optional.
These are great where your State and County can't be bothered to maintain the roads in bad weather...at all...and potholes are left go...occasional visits to national parks and beaches...
Just purchased the 2021 Subaru Outback touring xt. I have only 150 miles on it, but so far so good. Love the interior seats and 11.6 screen and the leg extender for the driver.I would only get the XT
Easily the best color and best trim. Wish my wife would have gone with the turbo on her 2020. With all the updates to the infotainment system that make it less buggy I have zero complaints about this car.
I love this color also
Not a fan of the green, prefer abyss blue, white & silver
The competitive statistics shown in the video are informative and helpful. Nice presentation and excellent descriptions provided with your narrative!
Bought a STI (with those, ahem, locking differentials) in the Fall, but the Outback XT was a close second with practicality in mind. I suspect that I'll migrate into the Outback in several years. The Outback is such a great car that can readily haul four adults and chew through highway miles with ease. The cargo capacity is perfectly fine and the length is a real plus for tools.
Got that 2020 turbo. It eats up the road, snow, ice, ruts, mountains, whatever is thrown at it. Such a beast.
@K H...2020 Onyx xt...35K and fine...not the info center, tho...but the way the car drives makes up for the aforementioned poor design. Have fun!
@@darrellborland119 yeah the info center is unfortunately mediocre. Also which the seat heat buttons were physical buttons in the winter. But the driving performance is great.
Great vehicle. Having had other SUVs over the years, the Outback XT is definately the best we have owned.
Yeah our 2014 Outback has been very sturdy. It's sort of an appliance, but it's very reliable and we enjoy it a lot. Will probably buy a 2021 or 2022 Outback in a year or so.
As an owner of two CVT Subaru's with paddle shifters, a 2015 and a 2017 impreza, I still use the paddles everyday, mostly to blip down a couple ratios for overtakes or acceleration. Yes I can drive stick and enjoy it, but can't beat a cvt for daily driver fuel economy. Auto reviewers do give them a lot of grief. Btw, this is my favourite review channel
Agree. I use the paddle shifters routinely primarily for engine breaking. From time to time slip into full manual shifting. But it’s a much appreciated feature for someone that spent many years in sports cars.
@@srmtn1 how'd I not mention that. You're so right. The programming was improved as well between the generations to smooth out the engine breaking as well.
this is the perfect car camping vehicle, great for drinking beer under the star studded night sky far away from civilization.
My 2011 Outback purchased new 10 years ago still runs great. Alex, thanks for pointing out the benefits of a low roofline for loading cargo. Comments like these distinguish your excellent reviews from the rest.
How many head gaskets later? Engine rebuilds due to oil consumption? How many cracked windshields and is it currently cracked?
@@normt430 My 2010 Outback has a bad head gasket I need to get replaced and no engine rebuilds yet. Ugh.
@@normt430 I bought my 2011 in 2010; no head gasket issues thus far (100K Miles); oil consumption when new was noticed, but I then changed to synthetic oil and no problem since. I do have a cracked windshield, but I live in Alaska where cracked windshields are referred to as "Alaska windshields" they are so common. For me it has been a great car, drive it mostly on snow/ice covered roads; its been driven the length of the Alcan Hwy 3 times without issues. I did replace the rear stabilizer bar with a thicker one; the Outack (2011) was too floaty on curves (went from 16 mm to 19mm), it helped. The headlights though have sucked (recalled) but still an issue.
My better half has a 2012 Outback approaching 100K....only issue was a worn wheel bearing at 60K. Looking to get the wife a 2022 next year.
@@Carlos-ig6oo I just recently learned Subaru makes a heavy steel gasket, but they only put it in the turbo XT models. I read another review where someone asked Subaru how much to put the turbo model steel gasket in their car $2,000. he bought the steel gasket from Subaru and had a friend put it in for $500. I hope this helps you. The steel gasket eliminates blown head gaskets.
Your reviews are outstanding! Greetings from Cincinnati!
This guy has done his research, I really appreciate his comparisons as will. Very well done!
Regardless of other things, a big credit to Subaru for making active safety standard on more models!
And led lighting on the cheapest model. No one seems to focus on illumination when talking snout safety,tech. Some high end cars like Mercedes and porsches are still fitting their cuv suv with halogen projectors.
Fantastic review. Thanks for being so thorough.
I have a 2014 with the 2.5 liter (175 horsepower at the time). I never feel it's underpowered at all. Loaded up with family for roadtrips - not a problem. And I would never take it true off-roading. It's great in the snow and wet. It's great on log roads, rutted roads, muddy roads, etc. Just don't go rock climbing, it's a station wagon.
You're completely right,I really don't understand these guys who are trying to do these kind of things with an Outback........ it's not made for that,buy a jeep.
Subaru Outback: the SUV for people who don’t want an SUV. It strikes a nice balance between a sedan/station wagon and a crossover/SUV. My only reservation is the towing capacity, but it would handle 100% of my current needs while still being able to pull a small camper or trailer.
I've had my Onyx XT for nearly 10K miles now and I LOVE this thing. Appreciate the video!
It’s good to hear a real world view! Thank you! I’m considering one of these
@@2004cyrus You can not go Wrong with Subaru cars..... It can Handle In All Weather Conditions with proper tires.
I own 2014 for 7 years now with little to no issue. Most Auto have 3-5 recalled on them...
But Subaru only One recalled.
@@Honestandtruth007 that means a lot to helping me with a decision! Thank you so much for taking the time to help me!
@@Honestandtruth007 Only one recall or one model per their whole lineup? There is a growing concern about the windsheilds on the Outback, Legacy and Ascent. I"m not sure about the last two but the Outback is of particular interest of mine and some are getting very fragile cracking on these. It has to do with a manufacturer they used for the glass. No recall for this issue but probably warrants one.
@@2004cyrus m/
I looked at all of those and bought a Forester XT. (2018)
How is the road noise with your Forester? I've heard it doesn't have the sound insulation like the outback has.
on a cvt the manual mode can help for towing. leave it in auto mode to get to speed, then used fixed gear while driving to smooth things out. the cvts can be jerky under load.
Towing? With a CVT?? Enjoy your transmission exploding on you...
...no, wait, that’s normal CVT behavior...
CVT sucks
@@MacTechG4 cvts are fine if you take care of them
@@triarii_00 still boring as shit and destroy driving enjoyment
14:00 Those paddle shifters are the literal difference between life and death in certain parts of the country. On icy, curvy mountain highways, they allow you to slow the wheels if your studded snow tires and brakes aren't gripping on steep, icy descents. Looking at you, Idaho side of Lolo Pass.
Exactly! I don’t know why people hate on simulated gear shift functionality on CVTs... being able to gear down for steep descents to save brakes, or for staying in the power band on steep ascents is useful no matter what kind of transmission.
My gripe isn't that you shouldn't be able to control the ratio, but why stepped gears? I would MUCH rather have paddles that commanded say a specific engine RPM and the transmission varied ratios around that. The result would be excellent and smooth engine braking downhill, sort of like variable regen braking on an EV.
@@AAutoBuyersGuide I think Nissan tried that with some of their CVTS with a L Selection on the gear lever, raised the rpms and still functioned with its Continuous Variability. Personally, I use my stepped ratios in our CVT all the time and I think it is very useful; holding in peak power and engine braking while making moves in traffic, Up & Down Grades, downshifting into corners & twisties. Very Handy
Your reviews are the best out there.
Only negative for me is the CVT ofc. And a WRX "Rally" version would be fun.
I just got a new 2021 Outback Premium. I love it. Your video is very good. I wanted the XT but it was 10g more. I really wanted to get the WRX, I have a need for speed. I am 59 years old now so I cant deal with the clutch on the WRX. This car is a company car.
The automatic start/stop defeat switch being right there next to the home button might make the Outback a strong buy for me. That remedied a big problem I had with the 2020 model.
Alex's review on the Outback was very well done, as usual. AOA is probably the best channel for new car reviews. This youtube-based clear and unbiased format is making car rags like Motor Trend and Car and Driver obsolete.
I absolutely love this car! This is so practical in all the ways:) Still it has some Japanese sci-fi design in it. Perfection!!!
FULL SIZE SPARE!
Not in every country !
Never have i once needed a full aize apare in my 30 years of driving. Ill take a donut. Especially if i have to replace all four tires anyways if one is destroyed
@@Hallowsaw then you're very lucky, even in the middle of the Sahara desert I got a flat one because of a huge nail.
You need a full size spare for the symmetrical AWD system. A wheel of different size would damage it.
Very comprehensive and professional review resulting in a new subscriber.
Alex, This is the last mainstream wagon left on the market. I expect many potential customers are looking forward to the day Subaru adopts reliable powertrain components from their corporate overlord Toyota. Just imagine a near 40 mpg Outback with the Highlander Hybrid's 243 hp drivetrain. BTW I am sure we all hope you get a garage with a hoist soon as we can't wait for detailed suspension analysis to be added to your video workload ;-)
If Alex started doing an underbody view and analysis, Savagegeese would likelly retaliate by climbing in every trunk and referring to his " favorite winding mountain road" in every video despite being in Illinois...
@@alanhorn8253 I am confident they are both up to the challenge.
You don’t consider Volvo “mainstream”?
@@afcgeo882 Volvo isn't the same since Chinese took over
Volvo is in the luxury/near-luxury demographic. It’s not considered part of the mainstream auto segment.
Why no mention of the Mazda CX-5 with the turbo and a non-CVT? Is infotainment really that important? Seem like reviewers spend way too much time dwelling on infotainment. I completely agree on your viewpoint on paddle shifters on CVTs. I have them. Didn't want them and if you need to mimic low gear, just put it on the console shifter. I also wonder why Subaru won't let you turn off the fake shifting with maybe a switch in the dashboard?
Took delivery of my first Outback in December, and have been loving it. 2021 Onyx XT and this thorough review made me feel even better about my Outback. I’m 6’5” and not comfortable in many mid-sized vehicles, but am super comfortable in these seats with the great legroom and headroom. (I went without the moonroof for extra headroom.)
I beg to differ on the build quality and quality of interior components in the Outback. I have a 2012 Acura TSX Sport Wagon, which I love, and is a well built machine. My 2021 Outback Limited XT rivals or surpasses my Acura. I'm falling for this Outback very quickly.
The new outback looks great, almost identical to the previous generation especially in the front end when you compare it to the 2018 refreshed model with the new for 2018 LED daytime running lights which are the same as the new 2020 generation, however in my opinion those new LED fog lights look a bit out of place on the outback......i feel like the outback has always been recognized for having big round fog lights in the front, its something that always stood out since the first generation of the outback.....
My wife drives a Forester & loves it after driving Honda’s for years - could well spring for Outback next - really liked interior amenities of the Touring. Great review - have TH-cam on my 65” smart tv - engine revs sound great on the sound bar! 😂. Really great review, guys - you two look like stars on the big screen!! 😎
Who is you two? Alex and ?
Great vídeo, Alex!
I don't know if the wireless charger is standard now but in 2020 it was optional, even on Touring models, and that little pocket fits my Note 9 just fine since the wireless charger isn't there. I LOVE 360 degree cameras but the Outback doesn't really need one - it has amazingly good outside visibility.
Great review as always Alex. Currently driving 2015 OB Ltd 2.5i its a great car. 2021 OB is a notch up. The only thing OBs lack is better mpg, especially in town.
Looking to replace or 2015 , our small garage is a limiting factor. Looking for a car with equal or greater utility (needs to be able to swallow my bike), comfort, reliability, and better fuel economy than current beloved 2015 Subaru Outback; but not larger outside dimensions. Definitely want a Hybrid which unfortunately Subaru doesn't make. Visually Sorento a S Fe look larger compared to Outback but dimensions are not larger.
Looking forward to you Santa Fe review, hoping it will be the Hybrid model.
Cross shopping Sorento (don't really need 3 seats, but the overall size fits), Santa Fe, and Honda CR-V. CVR looks like the least expensive cost to own, Santa Fe looks like it has the best equipped of the bunch and I am willing to pay for 360 view and blind spot cameras, 8 - 10 adjustable passenger seat... I'm waiting till the PHEV versions are out then will start test driving with my tape measure in hand. I'm hoping PHEV will have all the goodies and the $7,500 tax credit.
Regarding the low torque curve, I'm guessing Subaru knows the low torque limit of CVT ,and they're trying to dial down the torque load on it.
They should take a lesson from Toyota’s Direct Shift CVT with an actual 1st gear and then switch over to CVT Cones & Pulleys.
@@brodiwheeler7583 or just do away with the bloody CVT entirely, CVT SUCKS.
@@MacTechG4 We knew you’d show up... well done and good on ya for the trendy CVT hating community! You are furthering their agenda like a good little soldier, keep trying and writing comments where ever you can and maybe one day you all will have victory! Good luck 🍀
would be good to see on-screen prices when doing the competitor model comparisons
I have a Limited XT on order. I should have it in my possession in about 5 weeks. I'm anxiously waiting and watching every video that I can find. I'm an older gent with cognitive impairment due to MS so modern technology can be a bit intimidating. The big screen looks a lot like my iPad so it will hopefully be a bit more intuitive.
Since you should have your Outback by now, I'm interested to know what you think. Leaning toward ordering a Touring 2.5L myself.
this is a great and well done review. thank you.
He can fight his way out of his paper when he transitions between the bad to the good. Once a salesman always a salesman’s
You see a lot more decade-old Subaru Outbacks still on the road than similarly aged Hyundai Santa Fe’s.
Love your work! Really like the comparison segment that you do.
I wished my Forester had a similar front face. The new gen Forester has a strange styling.
I like the looks of the Outback, but it's too long for Japanese roads and my usecase. I am rather happy with the Forester e-boxer though :)
We liked they 2019 Forrester and Legacy, yet did not want another cvt vehicle, and was still reading about current oil consumption issues, so we went with the Santa Fe. Haven’t regretted the choice yet.
Thanks for the great review. I'm getting a Premier XT next month!
Alex I Daly drive a 13 Legacy 3.6 R I get about 27 mpg mix driving here in Sacramento. It's been a great car and engine , but I keep on maintaining it with reg oil changes ect. The new 2.4 is over built and will be showing up in other Subaru platforms. What worries me is CVT longevity in Japan Subaru calls for 30 k trans oil changes but here the dealers say the fluid is lifetime... .....Now I know the CVT doesn't have clutch packs like the trans I have in my 13 model but.....
reliable like the sunrise 🌅
In 2019 was"...the biggest recall Subaru has ever seen. Some 1.3 million Subaru Forester SUVs, Impreza sedans and wagons, WRX and STI sedans, and Crosstrek SUVs were recalled in March for an issue apparently stemming from contaminants in common household products such as cosmetics, fabric softener and car polish that could cause a brakelight switch malfunction. Word to owners should have been passed along starting in late April, but if you still haven’t repaired your Subaru, know that dealers only have to replace the brakelight switch as a fix." Cars dot com
"...70 percent of new Subaru vehicles are now the object of recalls or service campaigns within two years of being purchased, noting that the “permissible limit” should be around 10 percent." Thetruthaboutcars
Man Subaru is awesome
My poodle has paddles amd i find them quite useful thank you Sir! 😂
So...is it a Standard Poodle?
You said that no Subaru has a locking center differential, but that's not exactly true. The STi's center diff can be locked (and has LSDs both front and rear). Sure, it's an outlier in the lineup, but it still counts.
Although most people drive on roads, the road quality for a lot of people is so broken that it's like offroading or rallying.
An Outback will be superior over a Santa Fe when having to go slow over rocks or loose dirt.
If you are planning even moderate off-road, you should avoid a dual-clutch and get something with a torque converter.
Your review pretty much sums up why the Outback is so popular and if I lived in the snow belt I would have one. But I live where it rarely snows so I prefer my front wheel drive Golf wagon that holds lots of stuff, gets over 40 mpg and the last thing I need is a giant infotainment screen. 🙂
Getting your dogs in and out is a big deal for many buyers too.
Subie Love ❤️ ✌🏻 *Best* car I’ve ever owned. #OnyxXT
Subaru has literally admitted that CVT is a terrible idea in a heavy vehicle with a torquey engine by doubling the drivetrain warranty on 2014-2015 cars. It's an odd decision for a brand people buy to own long-term, you just have to hope they will be as generous when the 2020 models start failing in five years. Then again, Subaru has now recalled most of their production for various mechanical issues related to cost-cutting engineering so if you want an unreliable Japanese brand, there you go.
It's a shame 'cause the looks and practicality are great in these.
12:40 This is a gripe that I have with a lot of cars. What is the point of a wireless charging mat if Apple CarPlay and android Auto require a wired connection to function?
Vehicles need both wireless charging and wireless Carplay...and not just on top trim levels. (But that’s probably what they’ll do)
Wireless charges my phone when I don't need carplay or android auto.
@@wyw201 I only don't need it on short trips. The wireless charger for my iPhone charges at 5W which is not enough to make a difference in a 15 minute drive. On a longer drive when charging matters, I also want the phone integration.
I just install an android heat unit in my car. With offline navi app installed I just need bluetooth to use phone calls and anything else I just install apps directly on the head unit. Not sure why people make such a big deal on apple play or android auto to use the apps on their phones while driving.
@@ibmtpx24 Siri hands free texting is the one reason I will never buy a car that does not support Apple CarPlay. I works so well and means that I can actually communicate via text in the. Another reason is that switching between cars with CarPlay is super simple. No pairing required for all of my settings and contacts to transfer between vehicles. It is simply the best way to use an iPhone with a car.
My wife is on 5th Suubie over 30 years. Snow country gravel road, they really dig in and go. I also finally got a 16 Outback new, still have it, 42,000 miles is all, higher off ground, easy out. Had to have that Eyesight after she got it. Her new Touring is finally pretty quiet inside. At last some refinement. Love the heated steering wheel. And they gave more power to the power steering, like that a lot and the gas pedal doesn’t tip in as fast, easier to smoothly drive in town. The biggest bumps still hit spine more than I like. I’m old and liked Oldsmobile smoooth ride, but not floppy bouncey like old Buicks. Her 2011 Outback 1st Gen CVT had no "virtual gears", it whined and droned endlessly and felt like a rubber band. Next generation hugely improved. We are rather stuck on Suubies now. All around everything, especially safety. Slowly they become more refined and not just excellent deep snow traction. I actually as old guy put a keen eye on new Wilderness, but I suppose the lower gearing increased fuel, I shall go Touring, possibly Touring XT in next couple of years. Everyone likes to carp on CVT, but if not trying to seriously off road, are fine enough, they did bump up mpg’s instantly 5 mpg’s better than older Subarus. That is significant savings over life of car, and less pollution. Being able to get close to 30 highway when AWD, I find important. I do love a power motor, but I suppose for myself, will be hard to justify the turbo as long as we don’t drive in a large city and need to merge quickly. Keep costs down and MPG’s as good as can. Cuss. Less fun !! I recall big block V8’s and four barrel carbs, 2nd gear rubber with automatic and a huge sled. 11 or 12 mpg’s max-best, too !! 15 was almost remarkable. 20, maybe 22 was a manual with overdrive and probably 6 cyl. And hard starting problems hot and cold before fuel injection. Very good we are beyond that !!
Cross shopping this with the Santa Fe in the Calligraphy trim.
Santa Fe kills this! I own a 19 2.0 Ultimate and it's great. New Santa Fe 280 HP and beautiful
Santa Fe doesn’t have a bloody CVT, it wins by default.
@@MacTechG4 Bingo!
So Subaru Australia has finally announced we're getting this new Outback. Yay! only with the 2.5 litre naturally aspirated petrol. Fail! No 2.4 Turbo for us :( F Sad I'm already watching reviews of updates for a car that hasn't even got here yet too.
I purchased a 2021 Outback Limited in early November and so far am pretty happy with my choice but wish I had gone for the XT. I think the extra 2 grand would have been well worth the upgrade. The base engine seems at times to be underpowered when merging onto a highway or going up a steep hill. I was surprised to see that a recent software update now includes an auto start/stop button on the bottom of the main screen to the right of the car icon. I wish my car had that feature.
The Ford Edge has the Optiobalturbo V6 - I want it! Must be new type of engine!
@@joeferreira4992 Do you say ANYTHING here other than idiotic, imbecilic lies?
@Alex on Autos - interesting to watch this as I found your channel when I was shopping for my '19 Outback a few years ago. Seems like the major changes are to the infotainment system and engine choices. Frankly, hate the infotainment system. It is really a poor implementation and connection to iOS device for CarPlay is very unreliable. Not a huge fan of the CVT either until it comes to stopping for fuel. On a long haul trip (before Covid 19) I got 31 mpg average roundtrip! Battery also too small - I suspect to save weight and cost. Mine also outright failed and was replaced under warranty. I think there was a lawsuit about that specific issue. Those are the cons. Overall, far far more pros. Nothing is perfect and I very much do like the car. Battery issue aside, it has been reliable (but there was a recall for a fuel pump which was handled by the dealer). My fuel pump did not give me any trouble before it was replaced.
I am currently considering ordering a 2023 Outback Onyx XT, but Subaru has raised the price by $3000 on the refreshed model. It now starts at $38595! Configured with the accessories I want and including the destination charge it's $40640...and this is the least expensive trim to get the turbo engine. I'm still leaning toward pulling the trigger, but it's definitely not as attractive at that price.
Wow yeah that is pricey. I'm considering a used XT and going a little older to avoid the "eye sight" tech. Here in Colorado windshields get cracked a lot and will need replaced, that system makes that pretty pricey!
Hi Alex
we have a 2004 suburu impreza wagon with many miles on it. we usually get a crosstrek or outback for the a loaner when its being serviced.
the only thing we dont like about the new suburus is that they have the CVT in them. while i dont mind that when under way , parking and other slow speed maneuver are a pain due to the jerkiness of the CVT at these slow speeds. Glad to hear that you can turn that 'engine stop' feature off when you stop at a light. I will be looking at that for the next loaner.
thanks for the info !
You can also buy & install a device called Auto Stop Eliminator - then when you turn off ASS, it STAYS off unless you turn it on. It works VERY well, and is made for several other car manufacturers, too.
This would be an almost ideal vehicle for me, but the oil-devouring boxer engine and particularly the CVT are keeping me away. Why not a normal engine and a manual transmission if Subaru wants to stay cheap and simple?
The manual won’t work with their EyeSight safety system since it controls throttle inputs and braking. It could cause you to stall I guess.
The XT transforms the car so I would suggest you check into that. I have now owned 4 Subies and not a single one burned oil. Do you oil changes on time and break in the engine properly, that’s got to help.
There's nothing wrong with the engine configuration, just poor Subaru engineering historically. They're a small company, but it still shouldn't have taken long to fix that.
Then it wouldn’t be a Subaru! the boxer motor is not a oil Drinker another myth ! The low center of gravity has great advantages some isolated issues throughout the years and the symmetrical all wheel drive system is fantastic and the CVT Is way better than people think
@@pilot1226 "The manual won’t work with their EyeSight safety system" -- None of the cars I ever owned has a safety system like that. It would be nice to have a choice -- yes, you get a manual but without EyeSight. I suppose most people live in flat lands, so controllable transmission does not mean that much.
The CVT holds the Outback back.
A traditional AT would be a slam dunk.
I prefer the CVT. I've never liked traditional AT that changes gear just when I don't want it to.
Unless I am unique, I really think all of this CVT hate is from the past. I have had zero issues with my 2019 Ascent Touring and I am around 35k miles. Not saying that is a lot, but I have heard people with new Jeeps that have had multiple transmission issues in the first 10k miles. I LOVE the turbo 4 too. Averaged over 30 mpg on a 1300 mile road trip to Florida and that is in a 7 seat AWD.
The 4EAT wasn’t more reliable and had its issues. But it was cheaper to repair if it had a problem.
@@perilsensitive I would prefer the CVT more if it had an actual scheduled maintenance interval on the fluid. Not lifetime.
I find it interesting how in your 2020 acceleration test of the 2020 Outback XT you got 5.7 seconds 0-60 but in this test a year later in the same car you got 6.3 seconds 0-60mph. Maybe it doesn’t account for the one-foot rollout.
Alex did have a ringer with sub-6 second Acura RDX 2.0T that has never been matched or repeated. Reviewers are all reporting in the 6's.
@@normt430 If you check out Alex’s 2020 Outback XT review he got 5.7 seconds 0-60. In this review he seems to have not included the one-foot rollout. Either that or he tested this 2021 Outback XT at a higher altitude above sea level
Turbos are weird
I have an xt, at times it's a rocket and others it's sluggish
Not consistent like my naturally aspirated experiences
@@theo21021 that might be the iffy CVT at work
Very good video thanks so much.
Ever since the rav4 prime came out, i cant even look at other suvs the same way
Subaru's demographic would have Loved a hybrid Outback.
@@normt430 add plug-in version while you are at it. Though it is a good question if Subaru would keep the boxer engine for battery recharging or completely replace their symmetrical all wheel drive system with electric motors. The more I see electrifying cars the more I doubt ICE has a future.
@@ibmtpx24 an inline 4-cylinder would be smoother in frequent starting and stopping of a hybrid than a boxer design. Not sure how Subaru will make the switch to EV but they may be one of thr last ones to do so.
May God have mercy on all of those SUVs when wagons come back with a vengeance
Thx as always for another excdllent review Alex. For those 'few' of us with Android phones... Does the infotainment system render the same large screen for Android Auto as Apple CarPlay?
th-cam.com/video/6EOCu2ikSqs/w-d-xo.html Regarding Subaru's AWD system being 'not different' than other competitors' - uh, yes, it's actually quite different from "other crossovers." For one, it's always on; it has a 90-10 front-rear torque split that immediately becomes 50-50 when you floor it, due to the mechanical wet plate clutch in the front. This is different than the front-wheel-drive-based, transverse-mounted engine competitions, which has a software-based and electronic-only clutch system for front-back power splitting, and often a less than 50-50 maximum front-rear torque split. There's also the dual open-diff systems for left-right torque splitting, which can not only do individual wheel braking like other crossovers to transfer power across the same axle, but can coordinate with the other clutches to do so diagonally, or even power just one wheel at a time, if necessary. The truth is, Toyota's newer hybrid system AWD, Mazda's as-needed 'on or off' AWD system, and those of a lot of CUV competitors operate quite differently, because they're meant for different environments. For those interested in the engineering of Subaru AWD systems, see this: th-cam.com/video/YIY392Qtu0I/w-d-xo.html
This is good man! I think I learned something if I didn’t misunderstand you. Are you saying this car Does have an LSD? You mentioned “diffs.” I am new to car mechanics as I’m a young guy not familiar with Subaru’s yet. I’m starting my research and your link will help a lot. Thanks!
For comparison the Legacy sedan scored 70db over the same roads as the Outback's 72 db. I wonder if this is due to the shape and aerodynamics of the Outback, tire differences or something endemic to the off-roady Onyx trim.