2020 Subaru Outback: Off-Road Capability and Modern Tech at a Bargain Price
The cultish Subaru Outback, which first appeared as a lifted off-road wagon, has grown into something more. Today, this vehicle is an impressive Subaru SUV that continues to add more capability and quality to the mix. The 2020 Subaru Outback is the first model year of the current generation of this SUV. If you’re looking for a great way to get modern tech and driving qualities without paying 2023 prices, the 2020 version of this Subaru SUV could be the answer.
What’s new for the 2020 Subaru Outback?
Although the surface doesn’t look much different, changes to the Outback can significantly impact your driving experience. On the outside, gray cladding was added to protect the body when taking this SUV on tough trails. The fog lamps were replaced with vertically stacked LED lights for better visibility during low-light conditions. Most importantly, a new engine powers this Subaru SUV, giving you more power and fuel mileage.
When engines power this Subaru SUV?
If you’re familiar with Subaru, you know that all models (except the BRZ) come with Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system as part of the standard package. The base engine of the 2020 Subaru Outback is a 2.5-liter flat 4-cylinder engine. This engine makes 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque while delivering 26 city/33 hwy mpg.
The new engine that replaces the deleted 3.6-liter flat-6 engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-4. This engine is available in the XT trims and above. Power from this new engine reaches 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque while also returning 23 city/30 hwy mpg. The only knock on this new powertrain is that it requires premium fuel to operate properly.
How much cargo room does the Outback include?
The Subaru Outback is an off-road crossover SUV through and through. With that in mind, you need enough room for your outdoor gear when it’s time for your next adventure. The 2020 version of this Subaru SUV delivers 32.5 cu-ft of cargo room behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.7 cu-ft with the rear seats folded.
If this isn’t enough room for you, the Outback comes with a standard roof rack and can haul up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the turbocharged engine.
How good is the off-road system of the 2020 Subaru Outback?
Kelly Blue Book tells us every model of this Subaru SUV includes a brake-based active torque-vectoring system and X-Mode traction control with hill-descent control. An additional automatic vehicle-hold system ensures the Outback holds its position and doesn’t continue to drive down a slope once you bring it to a complete stop.
If you want more off-road capability in your Outback, look for the Onyx Edition XT model. This version includes a dual-function X-Mode system that adds features designed for deep snow and mud.
Is this Subaru SUV a good daily driver?
The 2020 Subaru Outback has been redesigned to be more comfortable for passengers. This new model fits five people comfortably with plenty of head space and legroom. This gives your family a great place to drive together. If you need to use car seats, the Outback has standard car-seat connectors in the outboard positions of the rear seat.
As you find higher trim levels, you may discover some versions of the Subaru SUV offer Nappa leather upholstery and heated front seats, making the drive more comfortable.
The 2020 Subaru Outback can be an excellent choice when you want this SUV in its current generation but don’t want to pay the higher price for a brand-new model.
