2019 Subaru Outback Review

Detailed Review

The Subaru Outback has gone through six generations of production since 1994. The first generation, known as the BG, was produced from 1994 to 1998. From 1998 to 2003, the BH, or second generation, was produced. The third generation, known as the BP, was in production from 2004 until 2009. The fourth generation dubbed the BR, was manufactured between 2010 and 2014, while the fifth generation, dubbed the BS, was manufactured between 2015 and 2019. The sixth generation, designated as BT, has been in production since 2020.

The 2019 Subaru Outback is available with two engines: a 2.5 L FB25 (Petrol) and a 3.6 L EZ36 (Petrol), both of which are paired to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

2019 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 2019 Subaru Outback seats five people. The front seats are comfortable and supportive. Taller passengers have plenty of headroom and legroom in the front, and the seats may still be adjusted to meet a desired posture. The rear seats are also well-cushioned, and they are spacious enough to provide sufficient knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2019 Subaru Outback includes various storage compartments designed for better passenger comfort. The front row includes a glove box, a center console, two cupholders, and storage in the door panels. Two cupholders, jacket pockets, and door pockets can be found in the second row.

Boot Space

The 2019 Subaru Outback has 35.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats and 73.3 cubic feet with these seats folded.

Exterior

The exterior design of the 2019 Subaru Outback is stylish and attractive, and it will turn heads wherever it travels. The Outback’s front end is identifiable by a chrome-accented grille emblazoned with the Subaru emblem to stamp its authority. LED daytime running lights and headlights give it a contemporary appearance. Fog lights and air vents are located on the lower fascia. To further enhance its sportiness, a few models encompass a carbon fiber lip spoiler.

The Outback’s side profile features a slightly longer wheelbase, which results in a more spacious cabin and plenty of cargo space. Roof rails can be fitted at the owner’s discretion to carry more goods while also increasing the vehicle’s appearance. Tail lights and turn signals can be found on the back end. The front and rear bumpers, as well as the side skirts, are covered in plastic to protect the vehicle’s body components, especially when driving off-road.

2019 Subaru Outback Safety Features

The 2019 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.

2019 Subaru Outback Fuel Consumption

2019 Subaru Outback 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 11.3 km/l on average

2019 Subaru Outback 3.6 L petrol engine consumption- 9.2 km/l on average

2019 Subaru Outback Acceleration

2019 Subaru Outback 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.0 secs

2019 Subaru Outback 3.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.9 secs

The 2019 Subaru Outback Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2019 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 2019 Subaru Outback’s standard four-cylinder engine is suitable for city driving, but it struggles to push the Outback to highway speeds and provides little passing power.  The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is refined and smooth.

The suspension system utilized in the Outback is significantly sturdy and protects occupants from any jarring motions.

The Outback comes standard with an all-wheel-drive technology, which improves traction and stability, especially on uneven road surfaces. The braking system is incredibly strong and can bring this car to a complete stop in a matter of seconds to avoid any type of incident. Its approach and departure angles, as well as its high ground clearance, enable it to take advantage of off-road limitations.

Some of the technology used to improve the Outback’s stability include electronic brake force distribution, traction control, and an anti-lock braking system.

Reliability

The 2019 Subaru Outback is regarded as a reliable vehicle. Due to its high ground clearance, its body components do not risk any kind of damage when driving in off-road terrains.  Transmission problems are the most frequently reported by Outback owners. To avoid such problems, regular servicing and maintenance are essential.

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 2019 Subaru Outback

Standard all-wheel drive

Excellent visibility

Easy entry and exit

What we don’t

Weak acceleration with four-cylinder engine

Sensitive lane departure warning

Conclusion

The 2019 Subaru Outback is a fantastic choice for people who live in cities since it has a sleek and appealing exterior styling, and those who live in rural areas don’t have to worry because its clearance allows it to handle any uneven terrain. Its substantial cabin and large cargo area entice people with households. The Outback also boasts a good resale value. People on a tight budget may be unable to get it due to its high purchase price.