2020 Subaru Outback Gets Modest Price Increase, New Features

Subaru redesigned the new 2020 Outback from the ground up, and has announced pricing for the upcoming version of its hot-selling crossover-ized wagon. Of course, every Outback gets Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, and either a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter or turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine linked to a CVT. The sixth-generation Outback features myriad mechanical changes, and different trim levels highlight the vehicle’s practicality, comfort, or off-road readiness.
Starting with the $27,655 base model (up $335 from the 2019 model), the new Outback makes 182 hp and 176 lb-ft from the 2.5-liter engine. Auto engine start-stop and eight manually selectable simulated gears are new powertrain features. It rolls on 17-inch aluminum wheels and has LED headlights with automatic high beams. Roof rails include tie-down points and integrated retractable cross bars to accommodate gear. A dual 7.0-inch screen infotainment and climate setup is installed in the center stack, which has two USB ports plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Subaru makes all Outbacks more capable with X-Mode traction control and automatic brake hold. Safety is also emphasized on the 2020 Outback, as all versions come standard with a revamped EyeSight driver assist system that now includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering. Also new is an eight-airbag arrangement which has a knee airbag for the driver.

One step up from the base model is the $29,905 Premium trim, which notably replaces the base dual-screen infotainment system with a tablet-like 11.6-inch touchscreen. Convenience features such as keyless entry with push-button start and auto up-down functionality for all four door windows are added, while a moonroof lets occupants enjoy some sunshine. Like the base model, seating surfaces are cloth-covered, but gain heating in the front.
Subaru showcases the Outback’s 260 hp, 277 lb-ft turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and off-road capabilities in the $35,905 Onyx Edition XT. It’s visually distinguished by its blacked-out grille, side mirrors, wheels, badges, and headlight bezels. Inside, it gets trim-exclusive water-repellent urethane upholstery in gray, plus green stitching on the dashboard panels. Making it more trail-ready is an enhanced X-Mode system which adds settings for snow, sand, and mud. A full-size spare tire helps in case of a puncture. Onyx Outbacks also get the 180-degree front-view camera.
Additional driver assist features come with the $34,455 Limited trim, including blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. Headlights gain height and steering response to enhance their functionality. Subaru’s new interpretation of hands-free liftgate opening, in which the driver waves a hand or elbow near the rear emblem to pop the liftgate, is part of Limited. Side mirrors gain power operation and automatic tilt-down while reversing. Looks-wise, Limited gets 18-inch wheels and silver guards on the bumpers. Inside, seating surfaces are leather-trimmed with contrast stitching, and the dashboard trim is upgraded to a silver-black finish. The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, indicated by XT designation, is available for $4,300 extra.

For $38,355, the Touring trim adds a facial recognition camera, which automatically changes seat and mirror adjustments to pre-programmed settings for different drivers, and monitors the driver for distraction or drowsiness. Front seats gain ventilation, and the seats and steering wheel also feature upgraded leather trim. A 180-degree front-view camera aids with navigating off-road obstacles, or simply squeezing into a tight parking spot. The rear cargo area gets eight integrated tie-down hooks, and the roof rails get silver tie-downs and cross bars. Turbocharged XT power is also available on Touring for $2,350.
The 2020 Subaru Outback hits dealerships this fall. Keep an eye out for our driving impressions of the new Subaru Outback later this month.
Source: SubaruThe post 2020 Subaru Outback Gets Modest Price Increase, New Features appeared first on MotorTrend.