As Subaru's sales continue to break company records, it's evident that more and more Americans
are drinking the all-wheel drive Kool-Aid.
And their second best-selling model, the Outback, drives into 2014 adding to its newfound swagger
from last year's redesign with the new Special Appearance Package.
If I was offered any Subaru model, I'd choose this one.
Though I don't own a dog, avoid camping when possible and have never entertained the thought
of becoming a rural mail carrier the 2014 Subaru Outback epitomizes Subaru's ethos more
than any other and I admire that.
It is Subaru at its best; utilitarian, extremely capable and no-nonsense.
OutbackThis is the first time in I-can't-remember-how-long that I've driven this jacked-up Legacy wagon
with anything more than 4-cylinders.
As you may know, Subaru has made their living on Boxer engines and mainly of the 2.0 and
now 2.5-liter sizes.
But the Outback I'm driving this week is a range-topping 3.6R Limited and what a delight
it is to feel more urgency behind this wheel.
Not that the 173-horse base engine is unlivable but this 256-horse 6-cylinder -- now you've
got some power to enjoy with your all-wheel drive.
It runs on 87 octane and returns 17mpg city/25 mpg highway.
Yes, gas mileage takes about a 25% hit and this motor costs $3,000 more, but its positives
include a much more energetic driving experience, a true automatic transmission and the ability
to tow 3,000 pounds.
Now if Subaru would get their decrepit 5-speed out of here efficiency would obviously improve.
At an added cost of $5,040, the Special Appearance Package + EyeSight blends all of the extras
you see here.
The bundle gives you 17-inch alloy wheels, gray finish exterior door handles, side mirrors
with integrated turn signals, and grille, keyless access and start, matte finish interior
wood accent trim, saddle brown leather, a 10-way power driver's seat with memory and
reverse camera.
Eyesight, Subaru's camera-based safety system adds adaptive cruise control, pre-collision
braking, and lane departure warning functions.
But sadly it's missing the most important -- side blind zone alert.
Base price of the 3.6R Limited is $32,920 while this one stickers for $37,960.
A smorgasbord of accessories, like remote start, a dog divider and rear entertainment
are available.
Aha infotainment software integration is new this year and is included with the optional
navigation package.
Once you download the free app and connect your phone to the Outback a world of internet
radio stations and audiobooks awaits.
In general this system is pretty good but in typical Subaru fashion doesn't break any
new ground and looks pretty cheesy when pitted against what the Detroit 3 are doing.
The rear seats are positioned theater style for excellent outward visibility, recline
and provide great space.
And with easy fold seats, the Outback's very spacious cargo capacity opens up wide to take
on even more.
Overall, it's a highly functional and comfortable space but as is typical for Subaru, it's missing
a few degrees of refinement and modernization.
Driving in a lot of nasty condition this week I continue to be sold on the benefits of Subaru's
symmetrical all-wheel drive.
It palpably seems better than everyone else's because it reacts quicker and finds grip more
easily...and that's without the added advantage of true snow tires.
Confidence in Motion is a very apropos tagline.
The 2014 Outback is a satisfying, do it all transportation solution even if you don't
consider yourself the Subaru type.