2018 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited

2018 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia

Overview:

This is the 2018 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited. When you head out to the OUTBACK you have options. I like Jeep a lot but if I were buying an off-road vehicle Subaru and Jeep come to mind. Jeep is more rugged in appearance and for me I feel more protective in the Outback that is more of a passenger vehicle more suited to Beverly Hills than off-road hills if you get my meaning.

More importantly and unfortunately only manual transmission vehicles may be towed behind motorhomes, so not possible with AWD Subaru’s. So, for me, that narrows my choices to Jeep. And although it could be trailered it is not an option for me. Obviously, it doesn’t affect all that many people.

General Information:

Class- SUV; Cars from Subaru- Accent, BRZ,Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy,Outback, WRX& WRX STI.

Handling & Performance:

A very nice ride that is comfortable and with adequate power with the advantage of AWD on all Subaru products is a big plus. All good.

Since 2015, select Subaru models feature a new yaw-control system called Active Torque Vectoring (ATV). Not to get too technical this relatively new technology makes handling more precise and enhances the vehicle’s agility while cornering by using the braking system to help turn the vehicle. With ATV, you can push driving to new levels of performance while also feeling a sense of command while driving.

Styling:

Traditional Subaru.

Fit and Finish:

Subaru quality is second to none.

Cost:

Very well priced.

Conveniences and comfort:

As equipped at $32,000 it has all the hot items I like to see. When I’m on the road a lot, especially for those long-distance trek’s I like to add Smart Cruise Control.

Consumer Recommendations:

If you are safety conscious and are an outdoor kind-a family this is a must for comparison with what else is out there. The outback is my choice out of the competition noted except for the VW Atlas that is new and I will be testing it next month.

Recognised Competition:

Good News:

Smooth, comfortable, AWD safety, good fuel economy SUV.

Bad News:

It only seats 5 if more is important.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter horizontally opposed (Boxer) 175 horsepower 4 cylinder engine, CVT – continuously variable transmission with 6-speed manual mode, AWD – all wheel drive, Hill descent control, active torque vectoring, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, hill holder, cruise control, electronic parking brake, auto power door lock, power windows and exterior mirrors, remote keyless entry system / ignition key, security system with engine immobilizer, roof rails, tire pressure monitor, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio, Bluetooth and cruise control switches. Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert, keyless access with push button start, power moonroof, fog lights, 18” alloy wheels, foldable side mirrors with turn signals, All weather package with 3-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer, dual mode heated rear seats, 10-way power driver seat and 4-way power passenger seat, perforated leather trimmed seats, woodgrain pattern with matte finish accent trim, power rear gate with memory height, illuminated inner door handles and overhead console, Harman/kardon premium audio system with 576 watt amplifier and speakers, auto up/down driver and front passenger windows with pinch protection, dual zone climate control, rear seat air vent outlets.

Gas Stats:

$3.49/ Gal avg. June 18, 2018

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

25 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $32,695.