We say The Outback is uneventful but represents a reasonable and practical family car. Expensive for the sector.Performance Three engines are available for the Outback, with the S and SE trims offering a 164bhp 2.5-litre petrol engine as well as a 147bhp 2.0-litre diesel. The petrol unit has a slighter better top speed, 123mph compared to 121mph, but the diesel offers better pulling power. 0-62mph with the diesel is achieved in 9.4 seconds compared to 10.1 with the petrol. The top-spec R trim outback is even quicker though thanks to its 3.5 litre petrol engine with 256bhp.Emissions The 2.0-litre diesel does reasonable in this category, offering 44mpg in fuel economy whilst emitting 167g/km in CO2. The petrol engines don’t favour well however with the 2.5-litre unit emitting 194g/km, whilst the 3.5 litre unit emits 232g/km with a fuel economy of 28mpg.Driving Despite its large size, the Outback is easy to drive. The four-wheel drive powertrain which comes standard provides lots of grip and traction.Feel Comfort is prioritised over performance, so it feels forgiving but there is a lot of body lean through the corners.Space The Outback’s cabin offers lots of headroom and legroom for both front and rear seat passengers. The boot meanwhile is a practical size at 526 litres, a capacity which increases to 1677 litres with the rear seats folded flat.Equipment The Outback is packed with standard equipment with climate control, cruise control and a telephone all included. Higher-spec trims throw in some extra luxuries as well like satellite navigation and parking sensors.Price Current pricing ranges from £26,870 to £35,895.Quality The Outback’s exterior and interior may not look exciting but it at least all feels sturdy and built to last.Safety Features like six airbags, stability control and the four-wheel drive system will help protect everyone onboard. While the Outback has not been rated by Euro NCAP, the car is based on the Subaru Legacy Tourer which earned a maximum five star rating.Pros Four-wheel drive standard, lots of standard kit, very roomy inside.Cons Comparatively expensive to run, dull looks and interior, drive lacks excitement.Alternatives Skoda Octavia Scout, Jeep Patriot
