Subaru Outback Touring (2023) Review
When it comes to blending the rugged practicality of an off-roader with the comfort of a spacious family car, the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring stands tall—literally. This high-riding estate (or crossover SUV, depending on who you ask) packs in Subaru’s signature engineering focus: versatility, reliability, and off-road capability. But does it deliver enough excitement for its price tag? Let’s dive in.
The 2023 Subaru Outback Touring may not win drag races or top SUV popularity charts, but it carves its niche as a dependable, capable, and versatile workhorse.
Powertrain and Performance
The Outback Touring comes equipped with a 2.5-litre boxer engine and a CVT gearbox, delivering 169 PS of power, 252 Nm of torque, and a 0-62 mph time of 10.2 seconds. While it’s far from quick, this engine offers enough grunt for everyday driving and towing—especially with its impressive 2-ton braked towing capacity.
However, performance enthusiasts might find it lacking. The engine feels underpowered, particularly when paired with the always-reliable but less-than-thrilling CVT gearbox. For a car priced at £41,500 as tested (starting at just under £36,000), a bit more “oomph” wouldn’t go amiss—200 PS seems like a sweet spot Subaru missed.
Exterior Design
Finished in a distinctive metallic green—somewhere between “army surplus” and “baby’s nappy”—the Outback Touring’s styling may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, its utilitarian design speaks directly to Subaru’s target audience of caravanners, farmers, and outdoor adventurers. Sturdy roof rails with an easy-to-use adjustable mechanism add practicality for roof boxes and racks.
Interior Comfort and Space
Stepping inside, the 2023 Outback Touring impresses with its spacious cabin and clever design. Rear passengers are treated to heated leather seats, adjustable backrests, USB-A ports, and generous legroom—even for those over 6 feet tall. The middle seat, though narrower, is serviceable for short trips.
The front cabin is equally welcoming. Quality leather seats, decent lumbar support, and a thoughtfully designed steering wheel with durable controls contribute to a sense of longevity. The 11.6-inch infotainment screen, while functional, feels slightly dated in 2023—but it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so connectivity isn’t an issue.
Practicality shines in the boot space, with a wide square opening that makes loading a breeze. With 561 litres of capacity (expanding to a cavernous 1,750 litres with the seats folded), it can handle everything from grocery hauls to camping gear. Subaru’s refusal to include under-floor storage in their official measurements is a refreshing touch of honesty.
Driving Experience
On-road, the Outback Touring is competent but uninspiring. The steering is well-weighted, and the lack of body roll—thanks to its low-slung design compared to traditional SUVs—is a pleasant surprise. However, the CVT gearbox and modest power output limit the fun factor.
Off-road, however, the Outback Touring is in its element. Subaru’s permanent all-wheel-drive system, combined with terrain-specific drive modes for mud, ice, and rough surfaces, transforms this car into a beast capable of handling unmade roads and slippery tracks with ease. It’s a dream for rural drivers who regularly face challenging weather and terrain.
Safety and Technology
Subaru has loaded the Outback Touring with a host of safety features, including a driver attention monitor that alerts you if your gaze strays too far from the road. While some may find this intrusive, it’s undoubtedly a boon for distracted drivers. The suite of cameras and parking aids further enhances usability.
Fuel Economy and Verdict
Subaru’s famed reliability comes at a cost: fuel efficiency. The Outback Touring achieves 38 mpg on a motorway run, but combined figures drop closer to 30 mpg, which is disappointing for a car of its class and power output.
Despite this, the 2023 Subaru Outback Touring excels in practicality, off-road capability, and durability. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, rural dwellers, or families who prioritize space and reliability over excitement.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged all-wheel-drive performance
- Spacious and practical interior
- Minimal body roll for a high-riding car
- Excellent boot space and clever roof rail system
Cons:
- Modest engine power and lackluster CVT gearbox
- Below-average fuel economy for its class
- Infotainment system feels dated
Final Thoughts
The 2023 Subaru Outback Touring may not win drag races or top SUV popularity charts, but it carves its niche as a dependable, capable, and versatile workhorse. If your weekends are filled with towing caravans, navigating muddy fields, or simply escaping to the countryside, this car is well worth a look. For those craving more power and excitement, let’s hope Subaru revives the WRX spirit in future Outback iterations.
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