Launched: 2024 Subaru Outback – 2 Variants, From RM280,390

Launched earlier today was the new sixth-gen Subaru Outback, which arrives with two guises available.

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the Malaysian distribution arm of Motor Image, saw its line-up for the local market expanded today after it officially launched the new sixth-generation Subaru Outback. The model arrives with two guises available.

Headlining things here is the range-topping Outback 2.4XT Touring EyeSight, and it’s joined alongside by the 2.5i-T EyeSight variant slotted below it.

Shown to local press today was the range-topping Outback 2.4XT Touring EyeSight variant.

As the trimline naming aptly suggests, the Outback for Malaysia sees two variant-specific engine choices available, making it only the second market in the region to have the Outback in this fashion – the other being neighbouring Philippines.

Previewed to local press at The Gasket Alley, PJ earlier today was the range-topping 2.4XT Touring ES guise. In terms of dimensions, the Outback sits 2,745 MM long with a 1,680 MM wheelbase, 1,855 MM wide, and 1,680 MM tall. It also boasts a rather high 213 MM ground clearance too.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Outback leans more towards the estate or 'wagon' category, but it boasts SUV-like lifted 213 MM ground clearance.

Said dimensions actually sees the Outback lean more at being an estate or ‘wagon’ if you will, thus explaining its offer of two rows of seats for five with a massive 561-litre standard boot space instead of three-rows for seven as per similarly-sized D-segment crossover SUVs would.

Separating the two variants are their respective powertrains. Starting with the range-topper, it packs Subaru’s signature 2.4-litre 'Boxer' 4-cyl turbo petrol mill lifted from the WRX sports sedan that outputs 246 HP and 350 NM.

In range-topping form, the Outback harnesses a 2.4-litre 'Boxer' 4-cyl turbo mill that's paired with a CVT automatic and AWD setup.

In typical Subaru fashion, said mill is paired with both its proprietary Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission and Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) setup. Altogether, 0-100 KM/H sprints are achieved in 7.5 seconds whilst enroute toward a claimed 221 KM/H V-Max in this range-topper specifically.

As for the 2.5i-T ES variant, it makes do with a familiar naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 'Boxer' 4-cyl mill instead. Outputting 185 HP and 245 NM, this variant also shares the same Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission and Symmetrical AWD setup as the range-topper mentioned.

Apart from the lifted ride height, the Outback's adoption of rugged black cladding and a set of roof rails adds to both its rugged styling and off-road abilities.

No matter which variant you choose, the driveline and high ground clearance offered in both promises the ability to tackle terrains effectively. Adding to which is the presence of Subaru’s dual-function X-Mode that offers Snow/Dirt, Deep Snow/Mud and Normal off-road drive modes.

Whilst on the subject of drive modes, both variants are also equipped with Subaru’s SI-Drive suite that offers Sport and Intelligent drive modes too.

In terms of design, both variants share the same signature hexagonal grille design flanked by full-LED headlights featuring Subaru’s distinct C-shaped LED DRLs. Added front and rear fog lamps plus tacked-on black body cladding are present and gives off rugged vibes.

On board, the Outback's innards mirror closely to both the Levorg and WRX models, merging both luxury and contemporary tech.

On board, the Outback mirrors the innards as seen in both the WRX and Levorg models as it merges both luxury and tech. Key highlights here include plush Nappa leather upholstery, a portrait-oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment, 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio suite, powered front seats, electric sunroof, as well as  dual-zone automatic climate control with rear passenger vents.

Other key amenities include reclining rear seats, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection, as well as premium conveniences in the form of a powered tailgate plus keyless entry and ignition.

Over on to safety and, besides basics such as eight airbags, ABS, and ISOFIX childseat anchors, amongst many, the Outback is also laced with Subaru’s latest EyeSight 4.0 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite that are uniquely powered by dual cameras.

Notably, this ADAS package enables arguably more effective operations for its Autonomous Emergency Braking and lane-centering functions apart from enabling things like Adaptive Cruise Control.

The recent switch to CBU-only model perhaps explains why the new sixth-gen Outback commands princely asking prices.

As per the announcement made by its principals earlier this year, both variants of the new sixth-gen Subaru Outback enters our market in fully imported (CBU) forms only. This perhaps explains the stiff pricing each commands:

Want to size up the new Outback in the flesh? You can do so through TC Subaru’s on-going roadshow that’s being held at The Gasket Alley, PJ on Sept 20 and 21. In the meantime, what do you folks think of the new Outback then? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and our social media pages…