Is the 2.5L Subaru Outback Worth It? PROS and CONS
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 24 ก.ค. 2024
- Is the 2.5L Subaru Outback Worth It? PROS and CONS
I've owned my 2023 Subaru Outback for 6 months now and over that time I have put 10,000 miles on my Subaru Outback! My Subaru Outback Onyx has been one of my favorite cars I've owned. I share some of my favorite features on my Subaru Outback and some of the things that I don't like.
This video should help you answer the question, "Should I buy a Subaru Outback?" or at least help you learn about the cool features on the Subaru Outback
Comment below with any questions you have
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Thanks for watching!
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Remember! If you replace the CVT fluid every 50k (30k for the first replacement as a new cvt shaves off a lot of metal) the thing will last a lifetime. Remember also the PCV valve every 50k or so... Cheap insurance on those engines
Good info... I oped for the turbo and I'm happy I did. This is my second Subaru Outback, and after being a dedicated BMW owner for 45 years, I've come to love the Outback... It's a great car!
We just our first Subaru in over 50-years of driving. Bought a new 24 Outback Wilderness and really like the vehicle. Don't really care for all the technology, but we're getting old.
i have to agree with your negatives, but nothing ever is perfect in this world. Love your video's and they have been a great help. Take care
Excellent video as always Alex!
So many things to talk about but I'll focus on the headlights.
Since moving from a large city to the country I can really appreciate the turning beams. On winding roads with no street lights they are amazing! We also must be careful of deer, coyotes and dogs running in front at night (especially the deer!) Best is to spot them ahead so I drive with the high beams on. When an on coming vehicle approaches, the "auto beam" lights go to low at the perfect time. They change exactly when I otherwise would have to manually do it, its just PERFECT!
Finally, I've never once been "flashed" thinking my hi beams are on (owned my 2022 Outback Wilderness for almost a year now) Alex, have service check the beam "cutoff" it's just set a tad too high, I can see it in your demonstration.
Cheers!
Totally agree with the review. I've had a few flash the high beams at me when I don't have mine on. The seatbelt alarm thing is so annoying. They need to fix that with a software update if possible. Love the car though. The turbo would be fun, but not necessary for me.
This is such a good and honest review! Thanks Alex. Your videos are great and always so helpful. I have the 2022 Outback and have definitely had people flashing me at night thinking I had my high beams on when I don't! Good to know I'm not the only one lol. I also agree regarding the seatbelt alarm. It's a little excessive the way it's programmed right now. Sometimes my apple car play doesn't work. It'll suddenly disconnect even when everything is still plugged in. That can be frustrating and lately I find myself just connecting to bluetooth to listen to music that way. Otherwise I absolutely love this car!
If you think about buying the non-turbo Outback, be sure to not test drive the turbo model. We did this mistake and finally bought the turbo model. The car feel totally different with this additional 80 hp.
The outback with the 2.5 is PERFECTLY adequate... for driving a short distance to your Subaru dealer to trade-in for the turbo engine that is quieter, cheaper to run (real world fuel economy and maintenance is actually better for the turbo), and isn't underpowered!
It's way better!
I currently drive a 2015 charger with a 5.7 370 hp and I was thinking about getting a 23 outback(my charger has 141,000 miles and keeps having maintenance issues) with a 2.5 so I can take my paddle board around. With that being said, was the 2.5 really that slow?
@yoland5837 it's not a v8 that's for sure. But then again it's not really needed. Have a 23 onyx edition 2.5. Get 31 mpg and rides like a dream. Wife does miss having the additional 120 hp from her previous car but loves not paying for premium and only getting 23 mpg
@@_gramcrakka_82 that’s good to hear, I’ve had my fun with the V8 but a tank only lasts me 6 days and needs 18.5 gallons each time to fill, I look forward to having a gas tank that lasts more than a week again. I can put more money towards recreational activities like fishing and paddling
Great review, Alex. A really useful and helpful feature on your Onyx is the voice activated command system. Oddly, I have never seen a review of the Onyx which includes mention of this system. You just push the voice activation command button on the left side of the steering column while keeping your eyes on the road and say out loud what feature you want adjusted. "Set temperature to 72, increase (AC system) fan speed, tune to 99.5 FM" etc. The value in this system is that you can do all of these things without having to look over and reach for the admittedly awesome controls on the touch screen. If you are going 70mg on a busy interstate and you want to lower the cabin temperature, it is really more convenient and much safer to be able to keep your eyes on the road and say "cooler" and have the AC system set itself almost instantly to a cooler setting. Same for audio system settings. Your car almost certainly has the voice command system. Your reviews have all been wonderful. Thank you for them. Enjoy your Onyx. It is most definitely an awesome and fun machine.
Robert Henry, M.D. (2020 Outback Onyx owner)
Thanks Robert! I'll admit, I haven't utilized the voice command as much as I could have. I do use it for calls and texts through Apple CarPlay (using Siri) but haven't used the built in voice command much on my car. Happy to hear you're still enjoying your Onyx!
I didn’t know that you can adjust the climate control with your voice as well, I’m excited to try out this feature on my own car
Good feedback Alex. I have the same engine in my UK Touring, just wish we could have the turbo option, but emission regs dont allow this in UK/EU without penalising Subaru due to lower number of sales. But good to see that Australia have now got this option after asking for it for so long. Def needs all weather floor mats and boot liner. HBA also good. Gloss black is a PITA and always gets scratched. Agree phone location is crap, my Gen 5 has the 12V socket under the arm rest and i could stick my large phone in the cup holder (dust collection sockets). Acoustic glass is a good start (front glass only), but still wheel noise still loud and rear glass needs done too, plus the CVT noise on power still loud! I have added after-market, Subaru logo'd knee pad also for long journey comfort. Emergency Auto braking still is the no. 1 for me, its reacted faster than i could a few times now.
As always, appreciate your informative and honest reviews. Thanks, Alex!
Subscribed for more Outback videos, I have one myself and love to see someone talking about this specific trim level
I opted for the turbo on my '22 Onyx. I came out of a '99 300M that I drove for 23 years and preferred the extra power of the turbo. I have 12000 miles on my Outback with 23.5 miles/gallon of maybe 90% city driving. Recently got the update and really appreciate the changes. Really like that I don't have to hunt and peck to engage AVH and heated seat options. And it seem smoother and faster. A side point: My local Subaru dealer tried to gig me for $150 to do the update. I watched your vid on that and told them I understood cars under warranty were covered. After some discussion, they agreed and did it for free. I agree with all your negative points, but find it a positive that most are more irritant than defect. Love your videos and love my Subaru. Thanks
Impressive you got a 300m to last that long. Good on you.
Thanks for update, my 18 crosstrek LED headlights get less bright after around 3 years so you don’t worry about that.
Very helpful. I was going from 1 parking lot to another and didn't use me seatbelt. Did you know that after a short time the alarm increases, volume, on my 2020 Outback.
Keep up the good work.
I had a 2000 BMW 323i with a V6 and it had 170 hp. So much of all this is perspective. I had a Ranger turbo and got a 24 Outback Onyx 2.5 and I love it. It does what I need no problem.
I agree with you on the bright headlights😅, the gloss black trim…..and my phone gets stuck too. Rear seat passengers annoyed by seat belt alarm too😅
I have a '23 OB Premium white/black and love it! Great review Alex and I hear ya on the seatbelt alarm, I haven't had any issues with oncoming cars flashing lights at me though. Back in the day it was common practice/courtesy to flash your high beams as a warning that there is a cop ahead and to be careful so maybe that was what you were experiencing? 😊The headlights are nice and bright though and love the steering response.
I was getting it a lot in my '22. I lowered them a bit w/ a long Phillips screwdriver and I think they are less blinding to other drivers now.
I also have a 2023 Onyx. I appreciate your videos and love this car. There are some things I don't love, such as the keyless entry as it does not always unlock when you get your hand to the handle, and the apple car play. Sure big map is good, but you can't pinch and zoom or scroll around with your finger (I think you could on our 2018 OB Limited, but not 100% sure). To do this, there are cumbersome on screen controls that require precision aiming to hit the arrow keys to move around. I thought the whole reason of technology was to enhance safety, but it is merely a distraction from the road. The Star Tex material is nice; I am seeing problems with the leather seats on the forums and hope I don't have the same problems, but at 15,000 miles now, no issues. Subaru also could have given us hood struts. Love the car and my gripes are minor.
Appreciate the honesty. I forgot about the low beams issue. They are bright and I've had cars flash their lights st me. Also the silver strip framing the bottom of the touchscreen reflects bright sunlight obliterating a/c and hvac functions. The touchscreen in general is a big downer.
My long term average is 29mpg with a 2015 Outback with 132,000 miles in mixed driving, driven very gently.
I have the 2024 Outback option 15 trim level they have made a lot of changes from 23 to 24 . I don't care to spend much time in Walmart
while my wife shops , so I sit in the car I'm not sure about the seatbelt alarm with the motor running but it don't while ACC is on . I bought a
tempered glass protector for the touch screen , but the shiny surfaces do show dust and animal hair . I don't like the cloth on the door panels
on option 15 . I picked up some seat covers that just fit the middle of the seat and have swade front sides easy to remove and wash when you
get a bit of mud on them . Also bought a rear seat cover for the dogs covers the backs of the front seats it's also washable . Amazon and
Ebay both have a lot of extras for your outback like the back hatch tent and fitted air mattress and much more I picked up a set of traction mats
for mud and sand also works to scoop sand or mud from in front of the wheel , great if you do much back road driving to get to those hard to reach
places . I wouldn't try to take it where my 67 IH Scout will go but at 67 years old I'm not big on playing in the mud either . Hope this helps some of
your followers find goodies for their Outbacks , and a blessed day to all .
Great feedback and overall review, I felt the same way about the wireless charger and the headlights! however, I disagree on the seatbelt being "faulty". The feature is there to alert you the seatbelt is off regardless of if you stop or not, while is bothersome its a safety feature that is native to the car and to its all operations. I understand this may be an issue for some, but think about it, the car doesn't care if you are stopping for mail for example and is only meters from your front door, even if you stop perhaps the chime can be less loud? but the idea that your seatbelt is not on has been a safety feature for almost every car brand, even my Mercedes does the same thing but my reflexes always are to put on a seatbelt even if its a short distance away.
I’m getting 28 avg mpg and I have an XT!!! Getting my update on Saturday btw! Can’t wait!
The available seat belt clip/alarm stopper are a nice accessory to have handy.
A simple click into your seat belt keeps the nagging warning chime from going on & off during short, quick in town trips.
I'm not an Outback owner, I settled on ordering a '21 Crosstrek Limited with the 2.5 .... I'm averaging right at 32 - 33 mpg on a mix of city and highway driving.
What is this device 🤔 When we stop at our mail kiosk ,and leave the door open, the alarm becomes extremely annoying, and it keeps getting LOUDER 😢
Hey Alex great video, I have a 2023 Legacy, I also love the keyless entry and the push button start it's great. And I agree with the headlight opinion, they are very bright, and about the seatbelt issue. I would like to ask your opinion on the latest update on the touchscreen for the 2020 to 2022 Outback/Legacy models. Are the 2023 Outback/Legacy models going to get the cool feature with the AVH button right next to the Auto Start Stop shortcut.
I'm with you on the gloss/piano black trim. I might have mine wrapped, thinking matte black wood trim or matte carbon fiber.
I had to get my headlights adjusted down and in. I was getting flashed constantly (not the good kind of flashed). But all great points, most of which I agree with for my '21 Legacy Limited, that I LOVE!
Regarding the headlights, I believe Subaru did have an issue on some models where they did not meet regulations and needed to be re-aimed. Not sure if that applies in your particular case, though. TBH, the LED headlights in many cars (not just Subarus) are searingly bright these days. They're fine to view if you're above the cutoff line, but if you're below the cutoff line, goodbye retinas. This is not a Subaru specific issue - just the world we live in now.
I recommend all OB drivers lower their headlights a bit. It's easy to do you just need a long (like 5") phillips screwdriver. As someone who also has a small sedan I hated being blinded by larger vehicles so I don't want to be 'that guy'.
hello, thank you for the series of video about new Subaru,. i just bought a 2023 Forester/limited in canada, i do not know whether all subarus in canada is not available for remote start and/or extra service for this function. thank you for you time to answer my questions.
Had my 23 Onyx for a few weeks and we love it. The 2.5 won’t win a race by a mile but it’s plenty of power for daily drives. I wasn’t too sure about going to a CVT, but I honestly don’t have a problem with it now. My only real dislike is a lack of physical AC controls and just don’t like them on screen. If that screen ever fails it’ll be a problem. They could’ve just shortened the screen and place some knobs in the space occupied by the touch controls. Other than than it’s pretty quiet, smooth driving and gets decent mpg. Our sales rep said subaru was raising their prices across the board $2K for 2024’s so I’m glad I grabbed a 2023.
Glad you're enjoying it! This is my first car with the AC controls in the display. I too am one that typically prefers the simplicity of the knobs but so far I've had a good experience with the display controls,
@@alexpmo They’re fine, but I would’ve happily gone with a smaller screen and physical controls if there was a choice.
I have a 2018 Forester 2.5 Premium that has been an excellent vehicle for me. I only have 49,000 miles on it so its a baby still. But, I really love the Outback and am considering trading at some point in the near future - the trade in value on mine is still crazy good! There is a white 2.5 Onyx like the one on this video at my local dealer that I am tempted to go look at. I am concerned about the big iPad like control screen and, like you, the A/C system being touchscreen electronic really concerns me if something goes wrong - I live in Florida so A/C most of the year is a matter of survival not convenience! I am sure out of warranty, it would be an expensive repair. I am fine with learning the controls as I use iPhones and iPads daily in my everyday life so no issue there but the reliability of the thing concerns me coming from a Forester with much simpler controls. Did you consider the extended warranty for this reason? I usually don't but its a thought with the complicated electronics of a 2024 Outback....I also would love the Turbo but the difference in price is thousands higher and I am not sure if its worth it....
@@rickj9615 I didn’t buy an extended warranty as my intention was lowering my car payment. Having had this vehicle for a few months I can’t say the big tablet screen has grown on me lol. It’s ok. I just still don’t like how the AC and X mode stuff is integrated into it. The system itself is honestly kind of dated. The graphics aren’t the best but it’s functional. So far my biggest gripe about it is that it can be very laggy. Sometimes it’s fine and others it’s like push a button and wait several seconds. I’ve also had it fail to wirelessly connect to my iPhone a few times for whatever unknown reason where Apple CarPlay won’t boot up. So it hasn’t failed at all, but it’s definitely a bit laggy and buggy at times.
Your videos are great! I hope you get to 100,000 soon!!! ❤
I have a 2010 Outback 3.6R 180K still runs great. Not going away any time soon. Has a few performance mods :)
Love your weekly videos. I have a 2017 outback legacy, can I get LED daytime running lights installed to match headlights?
Great review as always Alex. My '23 Touring XT now has 11K. My loves are the steering wheel heater, and quiet and comfortable ride and the turbo. I've gotten the hang of getting the motor and transmission to cooperate and it really scoots! I also agree with your dislikes. The center console pocket is to small and so awkward to reach anything in there, and I especially hate the seat-belt alarm, alarm, alarm,, ALARM, ALARM, ALARM! Mine has been trouble free once the original battery was replaced by the dealer.
The adaptive cruise control works great but it wish it would alert you that it has slowed below set speed because of a car ahead. I sometimes don't realize I've slowed and could simply change lanes to return to my set speed.
Sounds like you an I both drive a lot. 10k plus miles in 6 months was more than I expected to do 😅 But hey, I love driving it so that's what it's for!
@@alexpmo
The Standard Industries on averaged Driving ─ has been 20k miles Annually ─ so you are about right on your Outback.
We/I can make comments about Subaru as we own many of them since 1980 ─ let's focus on the Outback ─ our 2007 Outback 2.5 Made in USA like yours? Bought New and has been good except the Head-Gasket Problem due to Made in Mexico HG/ Lucky we only paid 1000.00 for repairing and had some Manufacturer's Coupon about the HG problem ─ since then 2008, only Oil Changes and Tires Changes.
Other 1992 Subaru Legacy Made in Japan J# Serial Number ─ Could say Perfect ─ The Original Timing-Belt last 1992-2018 = Changed Timing Belt in 2019 ─ Oil Changes and Original Tires/Rims for Winter Made in Japan last until now 2 are in our Garage. Except CV-axles changes and one time Automatic Transmission Fluids Change. Everything Original including Brakes/Brake-pads -
Bad News 1992 Subaru Got Stolen in May last month.
Subaru Built for Winter Roads and to Last ─ TCO on both Vehicles like $2000.00 Annually including Premium Gasolines. ($500.00 for Vehicle and $1,500.00 for Gasoline.) ─ some years less on Gasoline if we had flown by Airplanes for Vacations.
Cheers
I have a 2022 Subaru Legacy XT Touring sedan and you are completely right about the wireless charging pad. It doesn’t really chill charge the phone well, and it is in a very awkward position. I actually downloaded the climate control and heated seat software update, and was able to do it myself at home. No problem now I have the updated software and it’s great. It was also nice to not have to go to a dealership to pay or wait around for it to be installed. It was harder formatting the flash drive than it was updating the software in the car.
glad you were able to get the new update. So much better!
@@alexpmo It’s such a huge improvement. Makes heated seats and AVH so much more user friendly. I definitely appreciate your videos and tips as I’ve been waiting on that update. 😊
Your channel is very informative. I watch all your videos. What do you think, should I wait for 2024 Forrester or get the 2023? Thank you.
I got 2023 Outback 2.5 Limited, it is getting between 29 and 34 on my daily commute that combines some city and freeway driving of about 15 miles every day. Many things depend on the air temperature and the the gas quality (much better with no alcohol in the gas). Also, in the first 500 miles ,milage was not great during engine break period.
I have this exact trim level ('23 OB Onyx Non-T). Agree with all the major points. Love the Startex faux leather, its easy to clean, doesn't get super cold, feels great. But the real amazing feature that will be hard to live without is the adaptive cruise control. It is just stupid good and transforms longer drives. Being able to set the cruise control and have it automatically adjust to the car in front of you is a game changer. No more clicking up and down constantly as the person in front of you goes up and down +/- 10mph haha EDIT Does anyone have any recommendations for removing those microscratches on the plastic glossy surfaces? Even being careful I'm starting to notice them.
Totally agree with all you said Jom.
Ill bet aftermarket pieces are made or will soon be made by a company to replace that "piano black" trim. Really surprised Subaru used that in a vehicle designed for the outdoors! Even my Ouback Wilderness has it! Should have used, like Alex said matte or even better, matte with a light texture.
Unfortunately no way to fix Piano blacks scratches. Keep a microfiber cloth in the car to wipe down surfaces.
You can polish minor scratches out with some paint correction compound. There’s a lot of videos on TH-cam on how.
I love my cruise control. (2020 Limited Edition) drove from Seattle to Fairbanks in 2 days. never a hiccup.
We’re talking about the scratches in the cupholders I gave up I’ll just buy those two new cupholders and replace them. They’re easy to replace.
In Canada this particular trim for 2024 is reasonably priced considering how many features it actually has.
Plus this colour combination might be the best of any current Subaru model, it looks so good.
Had a loaner today for a outback wilderness, surprisingly the gas milage is above my expectation averaged at 23 in city driving and 28 in free way. I realized the tire pressure on the OBW is at almost 40 psi, weather is warm too. My 2.5 onyx on the way back reach 30mpg for the first time on freeway. Previous only around 25-27 on freeway. Tire pressure is 34-35. I plan to pump it up to 37 and see if it improve the gas milage
I upgraded to the turbo on my 2024 Outback. Enjoy it so much more from my old Outback.
I have the '23 Outback Wilderness and i have to agree with the negatives... However, in the 4 months we've had it, so far I haven't had any oncoming traffic complaints on my lights, maybe the people here in Vancouver are too timid to confront 😂.
But yeah, I've already got scratches on the center console, the wireless charging is pretty much useless (luckily, it wasn't a feature I had opted for, it's standard on the Wilderness, at least in Canada it is).
But one thing that's been a bit disappointing at times is the hands free liftgate opening feature. It works sometimes and not other times. Sometimes it works when I don't want it to work because I got a little too close to it when I wasn't trying (I back my car into a tight space and a few times, it started opening because I was a little too close to the emblem and it started opening, almost pinning me to the wall 😒).
Our family has both a 2023 Wildeness 2.4 turbo and a 2023 Onyx 2.5 non turbo, both without sunroof and gps. We live at sea level in the Pacnw. If you live at higher altitudes or load the vehicle down get the turbo, otherwise the 2.5 is adequate with better mileage, and for $35K a great deal. Another plus is that the front headrests can ratchet forward or back into 3 positions. My smaller iPhone SE fits perfectly on the wireless charger. The position of the blind spot monitor is superb! We have had 6 Subarus since 1996. Subaru, please make this car a hybrid and ad a Birds Eye view monitor.
Thanks for the valuable input! That's a great point if you live at higher altitudes
totally agree,I'd even wait some extra time if I could get an Outback in a hybrid!
One thing I do not like about my headlights on my Forester is that with my Jeep Liberty, I was able to see the road because the headlights were higher up, pointed more directly in front and the light was dispersed with more effective fog lights. With these headlights, it has an actual line of delineation that is pretty stark. It’s light, and the just above that, it’s pitch black. I have to put my brights on (the auto brights NEVER EVER turn on for me) in order to see! I think that sensitivity needs to be adjusted. I am going to get an Outback next purchase because I drove an Outback as a loaner and it drives more like a Jeep, which I prefer.
I have the same car (Onyx edition) purchased last October. I love the car but have had to get used to non turbo power. My last Subaru was a tuned Legacy GT. The Outback gives up almost 100 hp, so I often miss the extra power especially in the mountains and merging or passing traffic. I really like the better mileage though. With over 7K miles on the car, I'm averaging almost 29mpg and I don't have to use mid or high grade fuel as I did with the legacy. I would prefer a "real" automatic transmission like the 5EAT in my Legacy instead of the CVT which takes some getting used to. I really like the Apple Car Play interface and use it a lot for navigation. I don't like the lane excursion feature and have it turned off. The adaptive cruise is absolutely great though. I second the dislike of the seatbelt warning. There was a trick to turn it off in the Legacy and I will research a similar method for the new car. Overall, I'm very pleased with the Outback and expect it will give me long years of good service.
I got flashed by other drivers in my 2021 Outback Limited. I had to adjust them down using the adjustable screw under the hood. No issues after that.
Yesss! I’ve had my new Subaru for a little less than 2 months and wondered why people were flashing their light at me and then realized it was the brightness of the lights; ( i can from a near 16 year old Hyundai Santa Fe and the headlights were so worn i could barely see at night)
I have outback limited xt, my third Subaru, love it, wish they had 360 view or at least front end sonar
I agree with you re: the seat belt alarm. It’s like it screams at you at an increasingly aggressive level and actually gives me anxiety. I can only imagine how the person who is triggered by stress will react to this complete nonsense. The car is stopped? Then there’s no need for a seat belt alarm. They apparently didn’t put a lot of thought into it. I have a 2019 Forester Limited, and I decided not to get the top level because of the exact reasons you outlined, didn’t need the RAB and didn’t want the navigation. The only thing that I wanted was the driver seat position saving, but it wasn’t worth spending $1800! One question: does using the touch lock engage the alarm? I thought you had said in a previous video that you have to press the lock button on the key three times(with the audible beep) to engage the alarm, so I’ve been doing that. Please let me know! Love your videos and your sweet doggie, I grew up with a German SH Pointer they are such sweet dogs. ❤
Twice i've gotten my finger pinched while opening the car door. Ouch. Blood blister.
Love the warm steering wheel.
The hands-free rear entry isn't consistent. Sometimes, even with the fob in my waving hand, it takes 4-5 waves to get it to open. Ugh
I agree about the charging pad. Awkward, very slow charger.
Agree about the seat belt alarm.
Quite truthfully I still have trouble getting the technology to work.
The seat & mirror adjustments, set for two users, don't go back to the positions you set them when you re-enter, so I have to adjust my side view mirror EVERY TIME I enter the car because I lower the seat every time I exit. VERY frustrating.
I installed my Garmin because I can set up files of different addresses, one for family, Healthcare addresses, grocery stores., etc. So I don't have to keep scrolling and scrolling to find an address I haven't used for months. Better maps too.
Enjoyed your comments & I have to totally agree with your pros & cons on the Outback. I've had 2 a 2018 Touring Series & now a 2020 Limited Series. I have been pleases with both. I agree with both your positive comments and the negative as well. Appreciate your videos as I learn from them more about how to better utilize my Outback. 👍👌
I have a real gripe with the infotainment system on my 2023 OB. I listen to most of my music loaded on a “USB jump drive”. I like to have my music in folders with specific names for what I might like to listen to at a given time. I also create playlists (m3u8) files. When I select a folder or playlist to play, the music will stop when it has reached the last track instead of proceeding to the next folder or playlist, forcing me to fumble with the display screen while trying to keep my eyes on the road. The preset/skip control on the steering wheel will only advance to the next track or return to a previous track, holding the control will only fast forward or rewind the track which is a totally useless feature. My 2014 Outback used the switch now called the “arrow switch” (p 18 Getting Started Guide) to advance to the next track or return to a previous one by using a quick push up or down. Pushing the switch up or down and holding for a second would advance to the next folder or return to a previous folder, or could be pushed in this manner repeatedly to advance through multiple folders. If I did nothing the system would go ahead and play the next folder when it finished the current one playing. This made it much more convenient to play my music and SAFER to drive. Other than this issue I love the vehicle.
I have to agree seatbelt alarm can be a nuisance. With the increase in phone sizes the area near the shifter is a bit too small.
I bought a new 2024 Outback Wilderness a couple months ago. The seats are great, the turbo doesn’t kick-in unless you really have a straightaway where you can increase your speed or an on-ramp to a highway. It’s a solid and stable, ride, soaks up bumps well, honestly I have not done much with the giant computer infotainment screen, I don’t particularly like “seeing” the hood when I’m driving. I’m used to driving an XC 60 Volvo where I don’t see the hood of the car when I’m driving and the visibility is much better in the Volvo SUV. Overall, I feel more comfortable with the all-around driving position of the Volvo XC60 that I’ve had since 2012 (V6), and I continue to drive the XC 60 a lot because I just can’t part with it! The Outback wilderness turbo engine noise is noticeable at start up. And I can feel the torque of the engine kind of rock the car a little bit when you first start up, which is odd to me. The Harmon Cardin stereo system is good, but when my arm is laying on the driver side armrest, the speakers is vibrating all the way up the door into my arm. So I just don’t play my radio at a higher volume. The overall feel of the car is a good quality, but not on the level of Volvo. The door panels aren’t as thick. The paint job is not as good. I realize the two cars aren’t at the same price point, so I guess you get what you pay for. The overall outback wilderness styling is kind of “quirky cool” but could be so much better looking. And a ton of black plastic on the Outback Wilderness that I hope is easy to maintain and will look good for a long time. Would I buy the Outback Wilderness again? Haven’t decided yet. I’m about to take a six hour trip in it next weekend and I think I’ll have a better idea of how I like it on a longer trip versus just around town.
My lights were also very bright. First time driving it I was flashed at. I went in and lowered them.
Just reserved an incoming 24 Onyx 2.5, love my Forester Wilderness, but I wasn't expecting to adopt a pup only about a year into it. I'm excited to have all the features that were made standard for 24, since I've gotten so used to having them; I'd say I'm mostly excited about wireless carplay, but I'd bought an adapter to have it on my FW, so now it's just not going to require that; I ultimately bought a higher capacity USB C charger that goes into the 12V, but I'll see how the standard 3A USB C works by comparison. Worst case scenario, I move that 12v charger to the outlet behind the glovebox. I'm managing some pretty decent economy out of the FW, with 25.8 being my display average, with plenty of high 20s even a few 30 mpg fills in there too. I was really hoping to see Forester redesigned this year, but it still wouldn't have worked out as I load up myself and the dog for a few near month long trips to dogsit for friends in Florida; So all my stuff to work that remotely, clothes, him and his stuff; That extra 7 inches in cargo depth is going to make a huge difference. Honestly, one of my biggest gripes with my 22 Legacy XT Limited was driver monitoring system. I learned the quirks, but it really wasn't worth having imo... for the few convenience features that I actually used with it.
Thank you for the video! Really helpful as I am deciding between A4 allroad and subaru outback - atm subaru is winning, cheaper, more practical... and here in EU we have just the non turbo versions.
When I got my 21 outback I thought the keyless entry was stupid and didn’t understand the point. Now I never want to be without it. Same with push button start and steering responsive lights . These features seem pointless until you experience them. I also think the extra couple grand for the turbo was WELL worth it. Mpg honestly sucks. Never get over 21 personally but I don’t drive like a typical outback owner. Lol the price you pay for speed. I sold mine already but I am really loving the photos of the 2024 wilderness refresh front end. Seriously considering getting another one.
The main reason I sold mine was all the CONSTANT beeping. When you turn off the safety features to get rid of the beeping the dash is lit up with amber lights that look like check engine lights that don’t go away. Just sucks. Other than that I loved it and the only real issue I encountered were warped rotors due to being stuck behind a slow car coming down Teton mountain pass. It’s my fault for not using engine braking but I was scared to do that with a cvt. Probably should have just done it. That being said the rotors are very thin and they were glowing hot by the time I got down the mountain and they were warped.
All in all I still want another one lol
The mpg difference is the main reason I went with the non turbo outback. If my wife and I didn't drive so much we would have gotten a wilderness edition.
Hi Alex! Fantastic video and great explanation! When do you think 2024 outback ordering will start this year?
Thanks! 24 Outback orders are open now!
I got my new 2023 Outback (Premium, non-turbo) in February and so far its been great. The lumbar support of the seats has been wonderful. Performance on the highway is just fine for me. And the Navigator voice actually gave me a little crap which made me laugh out loud!
How's acceleration on highways? What mpgs have you noticed?
@@SyrupCanuck I have a '22 2.5NA and I think it does great on the highway. No issues accelerating to 75MPH, climbing passes, or passing. But like Alex said, perception has to do with what you're used to. I'm coming from a 2010 civic. Plus I'm a boring old-man driver at heart haha
@@warrengrabenstetter1484 I currently have a 2019 kia sorento ex v6 awd. 3.3l v6 8 speed has like 295 hp 260ush torque. But it's a heavy SUV so I'm sure it's a high 6 second run vehicle. Passing power is insane but my 22 crosstrek has the 2.0l and I find that fine with 155hp 😂
Just coming up to 5000km in our MY23 OB Sports NA (Australia) and averaging 30 US mpg!
I agree with the seat belt issue. I found out about that on my own and really don’t like that.
My complaint about the seat belt chime is that it starts sounding when I start the car, before I put it in gear. My routine is to start it first, then put on my seat belt. If I take the car out of park and it isn't buckled, sure, then remind me. But don't remind before I'm even trying to drive.
I agree except that the aotohold should be static as the auto start as I use them together all the time
I have experienced the same, people flashing lights on me even when I am on low beam.
Vis-a-vis the charging platform for the iPhone. I find this feature overheats my iPhone. Understand that the one major enemy of battery failure in your iPhone is heat. Therefore I do not use the platform. I use a cable connected from the rear console connections.
You can turn the seat belt alarm off by latching and unlatching it seat belt 30 times fast
I just have my Forester 2023, I am interested where did you get your cargo tray
The seatbelt alarm and the bad gas mileage on our Forrester sport is what made us switch to a Volkswagen ID4
Alex, with respects, get your headlights aimed. The first time I drove my 2022 Outback Premium at night, "everyone" was flashing their lights at me. I did some research and found out how to check where the headlights were aimed and my car came out of the factory with the headlights set "way" too high. Since I've had them properly adjusted, I have not had anyone else flash their lights at me, and, I can see better because the lights are pointed down the road where they're supposed to be instead of up in the air. I've seen this conversation on the Outback forums a few times. Subaru really does need to look into how they're aiming the headlights in the factory, if they're even doing that at all.
Thanks for the info! I’ll check with our service dept to see if mine need adjusted.
@@alexpmo - please let us know what they say!
Nice review. Thanks! BTW, it's Cleo's Subaru. You're just her chauffeur. 🙂
Nice review. I agree $300 is way way too much to pay for a wireless charger.
So I have the 2022 model of this car and your complaints are the exact same ones I have. Especially the seatbelt alarm. I also have a 2015 outback and the seatbelt alarm on that one is much better as it cuts off after you lower your speed past 8 mph.
There's pre cut vinyl overlays you can get for the interior black. I'm looking at getting some myself.
might have to check those out. Thanks!
I have a 2020 Onyx XT turbo. Overall I love the car but the two things I do not like are the infotainment system and the auto start/stop. The infotainment system is already outdated and has lots of bugs. The navigation system is terrible as are the voice controls. I wish they would have made it so that I could permanently turn off the auto start/stop feature and not have to turn it off every time I start the car. It is really annoying. Mechanically the car is reliable and drives great.
I have the 2023 outback onyx in white. I am having difficulty keeping the cell phone signed in. I have to connect it every time I get into the car. In Canada by the way :)
Just bought a 2024 Outback Limited in Maginitte Grey, black interior. Chose dark grey to minimize contrast with black cladding which IMO is overdone and stands out too much on light color models. This is my sixth Subaru, three Outbacks and two Foresters. Design and tech has come a long way! Cars seems more upscale, quieter and better ride. Bought Limited with 2.5 vs Turbo for better mileage and lower maintenance long term. Traded a BMW X3 so XT turbo was tempting, but wife drives it an premium gas is $4.50/gallon here vs $3.50 for regular!
you may just need to adjust your lights to be lower , and seat belt chime going nuts because you took it of as you still driving
Thanks Alex, I live in Brisbane Australia. I like your input on Subaru. I've decided to buy a Outback Sports Turbo,... turbo for extra power, because I'm going from a V6 Holden Commodore 'S' Model. I took an Outback for a test drive last week & noticed the lack of power compared to my V6. My Outback comes in July 23.... I'm looking forward to it.
Great Videos as always. We own a crosstrek and a highlander. We were thinking about upgrading the crosstrek to outback. But MPG disappointed me !😢 My V6 highlander has 26.6 miles per gallon after 27000 miles! If non turbo 4 cylinder has 25 miles. It will make no sense to get this outback.
I have a 2022 Touring Model and agree with your assessment of pros and cons. I’m glad you said that you experience people flashing their high beams at you as I’ve experienced the same thing. I thought that my headlights were not aligned correctly but it’s just that they’re so bright! I love the car though!
They might be a bit too high. You can lower them with a long phillips head screwdriver. I did and get flashed less
For your mpg, was it mainly city driving ? Also do you use the cruise control when driving highway?
Subaru seatbelt alarm had that issue for the past ten years in my Impreza.
Great video! New subscriber
I just bought my new 2023 Onyx with 2.5L engine and so far after owning it for two weeks, I love the car. I traded in a 2019 Outback Ltd with a 2.5L with 92K miles. So far, the one thing I dislike about the car is the wireless charging feature. My iPhone 11 gets very hot after about an hour in the charger port and I have to switch to the USB cable if I am on a long road trip using Apple Car Play with Waze and music apps. The wireless charger I use at home, works perfectly with my phone so I'm thinking Subaru could have done better with wireless charging. Otherwise, I am very pleased with my new Onyx edition and it has all the features I need for long road trips.
How's highway mpg? How's merging with the 2.5? Passing power on highway?
@@SyrupCanuck I’m averaging 30.6 on the highway. No issues merging on to highways. Just back from a 1500 mile trip to Montreal and down to Toronto and home in CT. Very pleased with my Onyx
@@swkohnle08 ok that may settle for me. I drive for work 124km round trip and want more space from my Crosstrek. I avg 7.9l ish. Turbo be fun but can't imagine it beating 30mpg highway.
I agree with you on all your points, both good and bad. I was wondering if I needed to bring my Onyx XL in to have the headlights adjusted downward some because so many drivers flash at me. The one other thing that I think is actually a mixed blessing is that the big open view that you get with all the windows in this car also makes mine act like a greenhouse/oven when I park in the sunshine. The easy clean fabric on the seats is great, but it also gets really hot in the sun. Glad you're enjoying your new car, but ya shoulda got the twin turbo. Man, does it ever run.
That center screen can really wash out in direct sun, esp. if there is an open sun roof.
I have a 2020 non turbo and a 22 turbo wilderness. The 20 ha s the phone charging, the Wilderness does not. I found I don’t use it because it is so slow. I like the turbo and notice a big difference in performance.
Alex there are youtube tutorial videos to turn off the seatbelt chime permanently!
I traded a forester for an Outback Wilderness and I stinkin’ love it. So much fun- more room for my dog and outdoor gear, fast…which is great getting on the hwy, and the seats are so much better! Thanks for these vids Alex!! They are great! 😎🐾🐾🥾🥾
I still love my 2016 limited OB but I disabled the seat belt alarm.
If people flash you even when on low beam it may indicate the headlights are not adjusted properly. Manufactures and dealers dont adjust headlights on new cars anymore. They just sell the cars as is these days. Properly adjusted headlights can make a big difference.
I'd like to see a comparison of maintenance cost between the 2.5L and 2.4L turbo.
I do believe 2.5 will be less maintenance and cost long term.
th-cam.com/video/0UvHXOe5Ceg/w-d-xo.html
U might be interested but this applies to Aussies
That keyless entry auto unlock would make me always doubt whether I had actually locked it. The car should auto lock if all the doors are closed, windows are up and the fob goes out of range.
Apparently it can auto-lock if the fob's signal isn't clear. There's a story about a woman putting her fob into a thick-sided leather purse, leaving it in the car, and the car locking itself when she closed the door. Car treated the fob as out of range due to the poor signal.
What is the difference between outback 23 & 24 im thinking about getting a limited or touring
There is a trick to turn off/disable the seat belt chime turn the car to Accessory mode unbuckle/buckle 20 time fast - start the car and turn it off
Fun fact about the seatbelt alarm; you can disable it by putting the car in accessory mode and bucks/unbuckle the seatbelt 20+ times in thirty seconds or so and you simply don’t have to deal with it
How do you put it in accessory mode?
Or wear your seat belt 😅
There is a way to disable the irritating seatbelt alarm, or at least the repetitious nature of it. I can't remember the exact procedure but it's something like hitting the brake pedal 50 times or something weird like that.
How do you increase the sound on the turning signals for Subaru touring 2020???
Looks like it will be better to wait until the end of the year before ordering or getting another Outback? Are cash buyers still heavily penalized in the current market? If so that will have to end if the Dealers want to "move the Metal" with the credit squeeze.