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Johanneburg - Set to continue its growth for the brand in 2018, the updated Subaru Outback has made its debut here in Mzansi.
Exterior design enhancements
The most significant design updates appear at the front of the Outback with a revised bumper design that has sharper edges and less accentuated fog lamp surrounds. Larger front cladding now enhances protection from the onslaught of mud and stones.
The hexagonal grille still features three blades but now only the first blade is finished in chrome while the two below are now finished in a matte black coat.
Also incorporated within the front grille, is a camera lens for the new Front View Monitor.
Image: Quickpic
Small revisions on the signature 'Hawkeye/C-shaped' LED headlights lead the eye down the flanks of the Outback where new mirror housings have been designed with integrated LED turn signals as well as a new side view camera for negotiating curbs and steep drops says Subaru.
Outback also features new 18-inch wheel designs in a two-tone contrast of high gloss silver and black inlays.
There are to new colours to the Outback range, namely Crimson Red Pearl and Wilderness Green Metallic.
Engine line-up remains the same
The engines on the two Subaru Outback variants in South Africa remain unchanged. The Outback 2.5i-S ES delivers 129kW/235Nm.
The flagship model Outback 3.6R-S ES employs the EZ36 3 630cc six-cylinder BOXER® engine, which features four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts and variable ignition timing. It's a powerful motor that produces 191kW/350Nm.
Both engines are mated with Subaru's standard Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) with a seven-speed manual mode and paddle shift controls behind the steering wheel. The CVT now offers an even smoother response thanks to a reworked ECU.
Image: Quickpic
As with all Subaru's sold in South Africa, the Subaru Outback combines its 213mm ground clearance, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Active Torque Vectoring systems. Using an electronically-controlled continuously variable transfer clutch, torque is distributed to where it is needed most, depending on traction and power to each wheel says the automaker.
When the terrain gets really challenging, the Outback's X-Mode feature further optimizes engine output and improves the all-wheel drive management and enhances the stability system (VDC) to reduce wheel spin for maximum traction and control. When X-Mode is selected, Hill Descent Control is also activated and uses engine braking to help maintain a constant vehicle speed when traveling downhill.
For the MY2018 models, the level of comfort has been taken up another level says Subaru. NVH levels have been significantly improved: New sound-insulating glass has been used for the front side windows as well as thicker insulation on the rear wheel wells results in a quieter cabin with less wind noise intrusion. Unseen but definitely felt by the occupants, the air-conditioning system has also been improved to distribute air to the cabin faster and more evenly.
Interior Upgrades
The interior of the new Outback has received a significant aesthetic makeover with a fresher, more contemporary cabin layout. The expansive dashboard is awash with new panel inserts in piano black and silver surround contrasts.
The steering wheel has been updated with the new Subaru leather wheel with new multi-function controls for the infotainment system, 'eyesight' system as well as the on-board multi-function vehicle display screens. These changes are more appealing to the eye and an improvement on ergonomics and intuitive ease of use of the cabin controls.
Eyesight now available
The most noticeable difference to the interior design, is the all-new 7-inch Infotainment system. The system is carried through to the Outback from the all-new Impreza and XV models that were launched in South Africa in 2017.
Featuring a touch-sensitive panel, the screen is the key to all entertainment, connectivity and Satnav functionality. The system is faster, more intuitive and now offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity for a safer driving experience.
Image: Quickpic
The voice-controlled system now uses two microphones and technology by Nuance (maker of Dragon Dictation apps for computers and other devices) for a significantly improved interaction with voice calls, Apple Siri or OK Google voice commands. Sound quality and enjoyment is thanks to an eleven-speaker system and amplifier by Harman Kardon.
Improving the connectedness of passengers, two additional USB ports have been added to the back of the centre console for use by the rear seat occupants, and these are now 2.1Amp ports compatible to charge not just smartphones but tablets too.
Located just underneath the Infotainment system, the new climate control panel has also been updated with new soft touch materials on the control dials, new controls and new graphics.
Pricing
2.5i-S ES - R579 000
3.6R-S ES - R649 000
Both models are sold with a 3-year or 75 000km full maintenance llan and a 5-year or 150 000km warranty.
