The sixth-generation (BT) Subaru Outback has finally been launched in Malaysia, five years after the lifted wagon (the brand prefers to call it an SUV) made its global debut in April 2019. Unlike in the United States, we’re getting the pre-facelift version of the Outback which is also what’s being marketed in Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia as well as Japan (it is known as the Legacy Outback there).
Two variants will be offered here, with the headliner being the Outback 2.4 XT Touring EyeSight that is currently being previewed at The Gasket Alley in Petaling Jaya from September 20-21, 2024. Priced at RM310,390 on-the-road without insurance, the XT Touring ES is joined by the Outback 2.5i-T EyeSight that goes for RM30,000 less at RM280,390.
As the ‘XT’ in the name suggests, the range-topping variant features a turbocharged petrol engine, specifically the FA24F that is also found in the WRX. The 2.4 litre boxer-four unit is rated at 249 PS (246 hp or 183 kW) and 350 Nm of torque, with drive going to all four wheels via Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT (with eight virtual modes) and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with Active Torque Split. Performance-wise, XT will get from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 221 km/h.
The drivetrain is the same for the 2.5i-T ES, but the boxer engine in this variant is a FB25D 2.5 litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder making 188 PS (185 hp or 138 kW) and 245 Nm. Malaysia is one of two ASEAN countries to get two engine options, with the other being the Philippines. Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia only get the Outback with a NA engine, and the same also applies to Singapore, which welcomed the model in April 2021 but it has since been removed from the line-up.
Like other recent Subaru models, the Outback rides on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) that provides increased rigidity for improved safety, dynamics and NVH. Dimension-wise, the latest model is just slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring in at 4,870 mm long, 1,875 mm wide, 1,675 mm tall and with a wheelbase that spans 2,745 mm.
For those planning to take the Outback over more challenging terrain, there’s 213 mm of ground clearance and dual-function X-Mode, the latter offering Snow/Dirt, Deep Snow/Mud and Normal off-roading modes to choose from. Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) is also standard with the Outback, providing Sport and Intelligent drive modes.
Key design cues on the Outback include a hexagonal-shaped grille flanked by angular LED headlamps featuring C-shaped daytime running lights, black body cladding as well as front and rear fog lamps. The XT variant in particular stands out from the non-turbo option with its dual exhaust tips, six-element front LED fog lamps and tailgate badge.
As for the interior, it mimics the design seen in models like the WRX and Levorg, with the highlight being an 11.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen in a portrait orientation. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported here, with audio playback being handled by an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Other features include Nappa leather seat upholstery, powered front seats (10-way driver, eight-way passenger), an electric sunroof, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and start, reclining rear seats, a hands-free powered tailgate and a driver monitoring system.
In terms of driver assistance systems, the Outback is equipped with EyeSight 4.0 that still uses dual cameras, but they have a wider field of view and are mounted even closer to the windshield. This enables more advanced functions such as Autonomous Emergency Steering, while existing functions like Adaptive Cruise Control is improved with lane centring.
Lane Departure Warning also gets better as it now includes Lane Departure Prevention, while returning functions are Pre-Collision Braking (autonomous emergency braking system), Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert) and High Beam Assist.
The kit list is identical for both variants of the Outback, so the only differentiator between them is the powertrain. The Outback comes fully imported (CBU) from Japan, which is how all future Subaru models will arrive here moving forward as announced by TC Subaru in May this year.
Wagon options are rather limited in Malaysia, and the Outback has a leg up on other (sometimes more expensive) options by being more adventure-ready. Have you been eagerly waiting for the Outback to land on our shores? Will you be opting for the turbo or NA variant? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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