Subaru Outback 2.0 diesel Premium 2015 review

The difference between the previous Subaru Outback and the new, generation five model is positively huge.

You'd expect a new generation car to be better but in this case, it's chalk and cheese... the new one is light years ahead in every respect.

We have driven a couple of new Outbacks in the past few weeks; the 3.6R petrol six and the 2.0d diesel and frankly, the latter is the better vehicle on a number of scores not the least price and fuel efficiency. The 2.0d starts at $35,490 for the manual rising to $43,490 for the CVT Premium model driven. These prices represent a reduction on the previous model thanks in part to import duty changes.

The Outback 2.0d uses a mildly revised version of the previous boxer 2.0-litre turbo diesel with a choice of six speed manual or CVT auto.

You'd go for the Lineartronic CVT every day - it's the best transmission of its type going right now, and feels more like a dual-clutch automatic in operation.

Engine

The diesel engine is good for 110kW/350Nm - sufficient to push the weighty (about 1600kg) Outback along with plenty of purpose. Most of the engine's torque is available low in the rev range translating into strong throttle response and acceleration.

And it sips fuel at a claimed 6.3L/100km - we saw better on the highway and it's significantly less than the 3.6 petrol which is noticeably thirstier, and has about the same level of performance.

Design

Subaru heeded criticism over the cheap, hard interior in previous Outback giving the new model a more premium, soft touch feel and look. It's also stylish and functional inside - a good place to be.

The Outback rides as well as any car on the market for all-round applications

They also included plenty of new technology and more safety kit including a reverse camera, improved connectivity and tech features, a better audio system, electric park brake, better seats and rid/handling improvements to the stage where the Outback rides as well as any car on the market for all-round applications.

You get 17-inch or 18-inch alloys and the Premium model scores a powered tailgate (too slow) along with engine stop/start and LED low beam headlights. Highbeam is a dull yellow halogen glow in contrast.

Torque vectoring to the wheels with the most grip aids grip and drive feel, while a decent amount of driver assist stuff has found its way even onto the base model 2.0d.

Safety

It scores five stars in the ANCAP crash test and the diesel passes EU6 emissions regulations due to the particle filter in the exhaust and other efficiency technology inside the engine. X-Mode all wheel drive gives the Outback better off-road driving characteristics.

The EyeSight safety tech is currently not available in diesel variants, however Subaru has said it is being worked on.

The CVT transmission offers paddle shift and smooth quick 'shifts' between 'ratios'.

We'd have one without hesitation

It has a whole new look to the body which is infinitely more attractive than the previous generation Outback.