Now in its sixth generation, the 2020 Outback offers a car-like ride and handling with all the attributes that make it a true Subaru SUV, including standard full-time Symmetrical all-wheel drive, 220 millimetres of ground clearance and standard X-Mode with Hill Descent Control.
The 2020 Outback is powered by the choice of new engines that offer varying levels of performance while placing an emphasis on efficiency. The first, a 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER engine, has been virtually entirely overhauled with 90 per cent new parts, as well as direct injection and auto start/stop for efficient operation and reduced emissions. The new 2.5-litre engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb.-ft. of torque.
The sixth-generation sport utility also marks the return of the turbocharged XT models to the Outback range, this time combining with the Subaru Global Platform to offer a sporty and engaging driving experience not typically found in the segment.
For those in need of additional performance, the 2020 Outback offers an available turbocharged 2.4-litre SUBARU BOXER that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. Turbocharged Outback models benefit from a broad torque curve, achieving peak output between 2,000 rpm and 4,800 rpm.
Safety is at Subaru’s Core
For increased safety and peace of mind, Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure and sway warning, lane-keep assist, lead vehicle start alert and more, is standard on all Outback models.
This latest generation of EyeSight also introduces Lane Centring Assist — a new lane-centring function integrated into the car’s adaptive cruise control system. While drivers must maintain control of the vehicle at all times and keep their hands on the steering wheel, this new functionality uses the EyeSight system’s stereoscopic cameras to recognize lane markings and the preceding vehicle to stay centred within the vehicle’s lane of travel.
Safety is elevated even further thanks to the available segment-exclusive DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. This award-winning system uses facial recognition software to identify signs of driver fatigue or driver distraction, works alongside Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist suite to reduce the likelihood of a collision. Utilizing a camera mounted atop the dash, DriverFocus can register and recognize as many as five drivers and remember their individual pre-sets for seat position and door mirror angle, among others.
Subaru STARLINK Connected Services
Placing a further emphasis on safety and convenience is the introduction for the first time in Canada of Subaru STARLINK Connected Services. Available on most trims, the system comes with a free three-year trial subscription and uses the nationwide 4G LTE cellular network — and completely separate from customers’ mobile devices — to allow customers to stay connected to their vehicles while also allowing them to receive important information to keep them safe.
Integrated directly into the vehicle, the system uses voice-response technology with the addition of live assistance for features such as Advanced Automatic Collision Notification in the event of a collision, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and Concierge Service.
Other features include remote services, such as remote engine start (including climate control and heated seats), remote lock and unlock, and remote vehicle locator, as well as vehicle alerts such as speed, boundary or curfew alerts that can all be controlled directly from customers’ smart devices.
The 2020 Subaru Outback is available in seven trim levels in Canada: Convenience, Touring, Limited, Premier, Outdoor XT, Limited XT and Premier XT.
We’re guessing that the trimmings aren’t what’s going to make you want to own one though, so click the TEST DRIVE button below and schedule a convenient time for you to experience everything the all-new 2020 Subaru Outback has to offer. We’re confident you’ll be impressed.
