The 2024 Subaru Outback: Stylish, Practical, But Room For Improvement
In the realm of versatile, adventure-ready vehicles, the Subaru Outback has always held a special place. Its ability to effortlessly transition from city streets to rugged terrain has made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike. Now, with the arrival of the 2024 Subaru Outback, Subaru has taken this iconic crossover SUV to new heights, offering a perfect blend of style, performance, and practicality.
Interior Elegance
The interior of the 2024 Subaru Outback is a testament to Subaru’s commitment to creating comfortable and well-appointed cabins. As you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the premium materials and attention to detail. Soft-touch surfaces, high-quality upholstery options, and refined trim elements create an inviting atmosphere that rivals luxury vehicles.
The infotainment system is also a significant part of the cabin for the Outback, as the 11.6 inch touchscreen provides a modern experience, offering access to an array of features including available onboard navigation and smartphone connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility ensure you can stay connected while on the go, and for some trims the Harmon Kardon premium audio system amplify the sound of your favorite music
Passenger comfort is paramount in the Outback. With ample legroom and supportive seats long journeys are a breeze for both driver and passengers. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space, making it easy to transport everything from camping gear to groceries.
Outstanding Performance
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Subaru Outback continues to shine. This SUV is available with a range of powertrains to suit different needs and preferences. The base engine is a capable 2.5-liter four-cylinder (producing 182 hp and 176 lb ft of torque), providing ample power for daily driving and weekend adventures. For those seeking more oomph, there’s an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (producing 260 hp and 277 lb ft of torque) that delivers impressive acceleration and towing capacity.
The legendary Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures exceptional traction and stability, making the Outback a superb choice for off-road exploration. Whether you’re navigating muddy trails or snowy mountain roads, this SUV can handle it with ease. Additionally, the standard X-Mode with hill descent control optimizes performance on challenging terrains.
Practicality Redefined
Practicality is at the core of the Subaru Outback’s DNA, and the 2024 model takes it to the next level. The generous ground clearance allows you to tackle rough terrain without worry, while the spacious cargo area provides plenty of room for gear, luggage, or even your furry companions. Roof rails come standard, making it easy to carry bikes, kayaks, or a rooftop cargo box.
Safety has always been a top priority for Subaru, and the 2024 Outback is no exception. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard across the lineup, offering advanced features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. This suite of safety technologies provides peace of mind on the road, whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or cruising on the highway.
Weak Points of the Subaru Outback:
Fuel Efficiency: Despite its many strengths, the 2024 Subaru Outback may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class. Its performance-oriented engines and all-wheel-drive system can result in slightly lower gas mileage compared to some competitors, which could translate to higher operating costs over time, especially for those with long daily commutes.
Interior Noise: While the Outback’s interior has seen improvements in terms of materials and comfort, it may still be susceptible to road and wind noise, particularly at higher speeds. This can affect the overall cabin serenity and may not be on par with some of the quieter cabins offered by rival SUVs.
Infotainment Complexity: While the infotainment system in the 2024 Outback has been updated, some users may still find it complex to navigate. The touchscreen interface, though feature-rich, could benefit from a more intuitive user experience, potentially causing frustration for those not accustomed to its layout.
Despite these weaknesses, the 2024 Subaru Outback remains a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. Its blend of style, performance, practicality, and standard safety features makes it a standout option in its class, offering a harmonious balance of strengths and areas for improvement.