Outback moves forward

Subaru’s fifteen-year-old crossover marque, the Outback, offers new powertrains in addition to its body restyling.

The 3.6R trim tested here brings Subaru’s horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, now displacing 3.6 litres and capable of 256 horses (and 247 lb.-ft. of torque) to the relatively large, wagon-style body. The extra power is noticeable when you think back to the previous generation’s 3.0 boxer, and moves the improved-for-2010 body around quite well.

Coming as it does from the Subaru heritage, you can expect sporty acceleration and controlled stopping power; and though the 3.6R is slushbox-only, the gearbox responds well. While lower trim level Outbacks offer a six-speed manual or CVT transmission, the 3.6R gets a five-speed auto box, with sport mode and steering-mounted paddles.

I find the handling fairly ute-typical, it leans enough in cornering to remind you it’s a long, tall-bodied vehicle, but Subaru has done a good job of making sure it stays as stiff and flat as can be expected.

In a fortuitous piece of timing, out west here we have the good fortune to get hit with a day of wet, unseasonal snow and the Outtie acquits itself well in slippery conditions with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive. Also worth noting is that vehicle dynamics and traction control systems are now standard equipment across the Outback line, which helps keep a lid on things when the going gets icy.

It rides well on the straightaways, neatly straddling that balance of “car-like” ride for which crossover manufacturers strive; perhaps owing to the longer wheelbase of the 2010 design (stretched by 70 mm from the previous gen), the four-wheel independent suspension digests bumps and road irregularities easily.

The track is wider in the new-gen and the ground clearance has been raised, enhancing the vehicle’s rugged curb appeal. It looks good by crossover utility standards, with large windows and lower body cladding; and an overall look that distinguishes itself from many more generic-looking competitors.

The inside of my trial Outback is fairly Spartan (being the sort of entry-level into the 3.6R level), upholstered in a tough fabric and near-monotone charcoal throughout. The interior can be tricked out in higher trims - (3.6 Limited and Multimedia option), which can take the price into the low 40s - with leather surfaces and an upgraded stereo, but the base configuration doesn’t punish a buyer.

Both seat rows are roomy enough for larger-percentile adults, and the driver’s position offers enough adjustment to accommodate most people. The rear seats can be reclined for passenger comfort or folded to maximize cargo space (also enlarged for 2010).

The 3.6R fleshes out the cabin with enough minor comforts and tech to avoid complaints. The rearview mirror is auto-dimming, the stereo has an iPod/USB jack, Bluetooth connectivity is available for hands-free jabbering-on-the-phone pleasure, and the radio is satellite-ready. Major tech options like Harman Kardon speakers or voice-activated GPS navigation are found in the Limited and Multimedia packages, and will drive the MSRP up from roughly three to five grand.

In summary, Outback is an overall package of ability and convenience that hits all the marks of a well-done crossover; and while the sticker starts at an MSRP somewhat higher than more entry-level competing vehicles, pricing remains competitive.