In 2020, Subaru began marketing theOutback sixth generation. While we are probably halfway through this version, the Japanese manufacturer has made some improvements for the 2023 model year.
Just to see these meager novelties up close, The Car Guide traveled to the Muskoka region of Ontario to participate in the Canadian launch of the 2023 Subaru Outback. Here is the complete summary of our first impressions.
Timid novelties
It will take a trained eye to distinguish a 2023 Outback from a 2020 to 2022 model. Indeed, the changes might not be more subtle. Subaru partially redesigned the front end including the headlights, grille and fog lights. We also note that the plastic underbody and wheel arches are more imposing than before. Notice to lovers of black plastics!
Photo: Germain Goyer
Within the range joins the Onyx version, an appellation already seen on theAscent. Responding to current fashion criteria, this version is distinguished by its black exterior decorative elements, its 18-inch gunmetal gray rims and its easily washable two-tone gray interior. Speaking of price, the Onyx ($38,695) slips between the Touring ($36,995) and Limited ($40,995) versions.
Subaru says it improved the EyeSight system – which was far from perfect! – by adding a wide-angle camera. During a winter test, we will be able to see if the mess starts as soon as the first snowflake falls.
Two mechanics that are still just as effective
Mechanically, there are no changes to report. Convenience, Touring, and Limited trim levels continue to be powered by the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre flat-four engine. The same is true for the new Onyx. Simple and efficient, this engine is not there to impress the gallery. Power and torque are 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft, respectively. Let’s not be afraid of words, the Outback lacks a little breath with this mechanics which is not sophisticated. It is especially during the covers that we feel it. On the other hand, we are of the opinion that it will suit the majority of consumers who are not looking for thrills at the wheel of a family-oriented vehicle. Not to mention the fact that it has proven its effectiveness over time.
Photo: Germain Goyer
At the end of our test of the Onyx, carried out mainly on secondary roads, the on-board computer showed a consumption of 7.7 L/100 km over a distance of 169 kilometers. For its part, Natural Resources Canada has an average rating of 8.2 L/100 km.
As for versions Wilderness, Limited XT and Premier XT, they all get the turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine. Although we still miss the 3.6-litre flat six-cylinder, we have to recognize the very interesting performance of this engine. If we were perplexed as to its reliability when it arrived on the market, this mechanism has been able to prove itself since. With a power of 260 horsepower and a torque of 277 lb-ft, the Outback does not lack confidence.
Following a 90-kilometre test of a turbocharged XT version of the Outback, we recorded fuel consumption of 8.7 L/100 km. The federal body announces a rating of 9.1 L/100 km in combined driving. The manufacturer recommends regular gasoline with both engines.
Photo: Germain Goyer
Alas, an electrified version of the Outback is still long overdue. That being so, we should not repeat the mistake made with the Crosstrek plug-in hybrid which is nothing more than a bad joke.
A bit of misery in off-road driving
As part of this event, some off-road driving was planned on a side road off Highway 11 near Utterson, Ontario. While it had rained in the previous days, the ground was soaked and rather soft. It seemed daring to us to want to cross this course with an Outback Onyx which is not equipped for off-road driving of this caliber. Before we might even get started, the reporter ahead of us got stuck with the model he was driving. Although Snow and Deep Mud mode had been selected, there was nothing you might do. The car was stuck and didn’t move a millimeter in forward or reverse. It was amazing to find that the front wheel on the driver’s side didn’t turn while the other three turned…in butter.
Photo: Germain Goyer
So we had no choice but to turn back and get reinforcements… and a rope. This was attached to the tow hook of an Outback Wilderness. Much better suited to off-road riding, the Outback Wilderness got the Outback Onyx out of trouble in no time. Honor was saved. We didn’t have to ask a Jeep Wrangler owner to come and repair the vehicle!
What is the moral of this story? The Outback quickly gives us confidence, but there’s a limit to the four-wheel-drive system. When the underbody sits on the ground, don’t expect a miracle.
On a more personal note
Being a fan of family cars, I fall back in love with the Outback every time I find myself behind the wheel once more. And even more during the winter! This car represents a pragmatic purchase and appeals to a very Cartesian clientele. I appreciate its driving position which suits me perfectly. I also like its near-flat folding rear seat, because I often have to transport large objects.
Photo: Germain Goyer
The 2023 Outback is hitting dealerships across the province right now. As far as I’m concerned, although I’m particularly attracted to the Wilderness version, this one strikes me as somewhat radical for everyday use and a bit pricey even though it offers a lot for the amount requested. I think it would be more reasonable to opt for a Touring version, which can be had for just over $45,000 when fees and taxes are added.
Upon returning from the launch, I found myself, once once more, scouring the classifieds sites in search of the rare pearl on the occasion. Who knows!
In short, it continues to resist SUVs
Evolving apart from the others, the Outback represents the best – and one of the few – alternatives to SUVs. Moreover, it is put in competition with compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-50 by local consumers.
While waiting for an electrified version of this family par excellence, we continue to recommend it without any hesitation.
