Is it an SUV, is it a station wagon? The 2023 Subaru Outback Touring is the best of both worlds: a station wagon body with a lifted ride height and all-wheel drive. The Outback is set up to take the path less traveled but is equally as comfortable on a daily commute.
For 2023, the Outback gets a subtle facelift, incorporating fresh plastic cladding beneath the headlights and around the wheel arches. Additionally, there is an enhancement in the in-car technology, primarily with an advanced infotainment system that enables one to wirelessly link a smartphone to the central 11.6-inch touchscreen, eliminating the need for a USB cord.
There are nine trim levels to choose from: Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT and Touring XT. This review will focus on the Touring trim.
With nifty extras like a NAV system, sunroof, digital rearview mirror which allows the driver to see what’s behind them even if there is stuff in the way, leather and special stitching, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, there’s sure to be something to love.
The Outback Touring is powered by a lackluster 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horses with 176 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that performs remarkably well. All wheel drive is standard across all trims. Expect to get 22/city, 29/highway and 25/combined MPG.
On the inside, the Outback excels. While some may prefer a more upright SUV-style seating position, the Outback offers ample seat adjustability. Passengers in the back will appreciate the generous head- and legroom, and the cabin feels spacious and airy. Plus, the large windows provide excellent visibility all around, eliminating blind spots.
However, in Subaru’s quest to simplify the driver’s experience and reduce button clutter, most of the Outback’s controls are integrated into the touchscreen. Unfortunately, this interface can be slow to respond and highly distracting, requiring multiple menu navigations for even minor adjustments. Nevertheless, the Outback offers exceptional comfort for its price point, with front seats that are soft yet supportive, boasting a comfortable amount of bolstering without feeling restrictive.
The Outback delivers an impressive ride quality. The vehicle easily absorbs potholes, speed bumps, and drainage ditches, yet still maintains excellent control without feeling floaty.
The climate control system functions well at regulating cabin temperature. However, adjusting anything beyond temperature requires using the complex touchscreen interface.
While the Outback’s acceleration is not exactly inspiring, the transmission does perform valiantly with smooth shifts. The steering provides great road feel with little body roll. Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect is that the Outback has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches and comes equipped with standard all-wheel drive, enabling it to traverse almost any terrain that its SUV rivals can and then some.
Is it a station wagon or SUV? Doesn’t matter what you call it, the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring is the best of both worlds.
