Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD snapshot

The entry-level version of the new-generation Subaru Outback 2021 range is known simply as “AWD”. Or, maybe more correctly, the 2021 Subaru Outback AWD.

This base model variant is affordable, with a list price / MSRP of $39,990 before on-road costs, which makes it a bit dearer than the existing model, but competitive with mid-size family SUVs with similar equipment levels.

Speaking of equipment, the standard features include: 18-inch alloy wheels and a full size alloy spare, roof rails with stowable roof rack cross bars, LED headlights, LED foglights, push-button start, keyless entry, electric park brake, rain-sensing wipers, heated and power-folding side mirrors, fabric seat trim, leather steering wheel, paddle-shifters, electric adjustment for the front seats, rear seats with manual recline, and a 60:40 split-fold rear seat with boot release levers.

Explore the 2021 Subaru Outback range

• Subaru Outback 2021 review
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD snapshot
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD Sport snapshot
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD Touring snapshot
• Subaru Outback 2022 review: Touring
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: Sport
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD
• Subaru Outback 2021 review: AWD Touring off-road test

It has a new 11.6-inch touchscreen media screen in portrait layout, which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring tech. There are six speakers standard, as well as four USB ports (2x front, 2x rear). 

There is extensive safety tech, too, including front AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and rear auto braking. There’s lane keeping technology, speed sign recognition, driver monitor, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

As with the models above, the Outback is powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine, which has 138kW of power and 245Nm of torque. It is teamed to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic, and it has all-wheel drive as standard. Claimed fuel consumption for the Outback AWD (and all models) is 7.3L/100km. Towing capacity is 750kg unbraked / 2000kg braked.