2018 Subaru Outback Review

Detailed Review

Since 1994, the Subaru Outback has been produced in six iterations. The first generation, dubbed the BG, was manufactured from 1994 to 1998. The BH, or second generation, was produced from 1998 to 2003. From 2004 to 2009, the third generation, known as the BP, was in production. The fourth generation, known as the BR, was produced between 2010 and 2014, while the fifth generation, known as the BS, was produced between 2015 and 2019. From 2020 till the present, the sixth generation, classified as BT, has been in production.

The 2018 Subaru Outback comes with two engine options, a 2.5 L FB25 (Petrol), and a 3.6 L EZ36 (Petrol) linked to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

2018 Subaru Outback grades

1. Subaru Outback 2.5i- This grade has a 6.5-inch touch screen, cloth upholstery, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and a USB port.
2. Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium- This grade features a rear-view camera, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and an HD Radio.
3. Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited- This grade has heated rear seats, blind spot monitoring, lane change assist, and a Harman Kardon sound system.
4. Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited- This grade has heated front seats, power mirrors, power windows, traction control, a power-assisted steering wheel, and a rear-view camera.
5. Subaru Outback 2.5i Touring- This grade is fitted with a heated steering wheel, reverse automatic emergency braking, and an upgraded infotainment system with navigation.
6. Subaru Outback 3.6R Touring– This grade boasts dual-zone climate control, heated rear seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 12-volt power outlet.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Subaru Outback has a stunning cabin with a five-seat configuration. The first row features comfortable heated seats that can be adjusted to match a desired preference. The legroom and headroom are very generous. The second row is impressive and offers ample knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Subaru Outback features multiple storage compartments intended to improve the comfort of the passengers. The first row encompasses a glove box, a center console, two cupholders, and door panel storage. The second row includes two cupholders, jacket pockets, and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Subaru Outback boasts a spacious cargo room that can haul different sizes of freights. If more space is required, the rear seats can be retracted.

Exterior

The 2018 Subaru Outback has a sleek and stylish exterior design that will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes. The front end of the Outback is distinguished by a chrome-accented grille adorned with the Subaru insignia. LED daytime running lights and headlights lend it a modern look. The lower fascia incorporates fog lights and air vents. Some variants include a carbon fiber lip spoiler to enhance its sportiness.

The Outback’s side profile has a slightly longer wheelbase, resulting in a more spacious cabin and ample cargo room. Roof rails can be added depending on the owner’s preference and can be used to carry more cargo while also improving its aesthetics. The rear end features tail lights and turn signals. The front and rear bumpers, as well as the side skirts, are cladded with plastic to protect its body components, particularly when traversing off-road terrains.

2018 Subaru Outback Safety Features

The 2018 Subaru Outback features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.

2018 Subaru Outback Fuel Consumption

2018 Subaru Outback 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 11.6 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Outback 3.6 L petrol engine consumption- 9.4 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Outback Acceleration

2018 Subaru Outback 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.3 secs

2018 Subaru Outback 3.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.9 secs

The 2018 Subaru Outback Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Subaru Outback has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Subaru Outback has a power-assisted steering wheel that makes it adapt to road curvature without much effort. Its cabin is well-insulated to prevent unwanted noise from reaching the passengers. The suspension system fitted in the Outback is quite rigid and cushions occupants from experiencing any kind of jarring movements.

The Outback comes standard with an all-wheel-drive system that provides better traction and control especially when driving on uneven road surfaces. The braking system is very robust and can bring this car to a halt in a matter of seconds to avert any kind of collision. Its approach and departure angles plus its high ground clearance allow it to exploit off-road terrain.

Electronic brake force distribution, traction control, and anti-lock braking system are some of the technologies incorporated in the Outback to improve its stability.

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Outback is considered a reliable car. Its front and rear bumpers are cladded with plastics that prevent its body components from being damaged especially when driving off-road. Transmission issues are the most commonly reported problems by Outback owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such kind of issues.

Refer to the Subaru Outback buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Subaru Outback Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Rogue, and Chevrolet Equinox.

What we like about the 2018 Subaru Outback

More comfortable and spacious cabin

Excellent visibility in all directions

Off-road ability is above average

Ample cargo room

What we don’t

Weak acceleration with four-cylinder engine

Conclusion

The 2018 Subaru Outback makes a good choice for people residing in urban areas for it has a sleek and appealing exterior design and for those living in rural areas, they have no cause for worry as its clearance allows it to traverse any uneven terrain. Its spacious cabin and ample cargo area appeal to people with families. Owing to its high acquisition price, people on a tight budget may not be in a position to buy it.