2021 Subaru Outback Arrives In Europe With A Single N/A Engine Option

Subaru has revealed the European version of the all-new 2021 Outback, which is due to arrive in dealerships in April.

The new wagon crossover, which also acts as Subaru’s flagship model in Europe, will be available with a single powertrain; a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine paired to a Lineartronic CVT and of course the trademark permanent all-wheel-drive system.

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The 2.5-liter engine features 90 percent redesigned parts while the CVT transmission also got an expanded gear ratio coverage that’s equivalent to that of an eight-speed automatic transmission. Subaru didn’t talk about any output figures, but US versions of the same engine produce 182 HP and 176 lb-ft (238 Nm) of torque. The all-wheel-drive system also features a torque vectoring system for better handling and more grip as standard.

The new sixth-generation Subaru Outback is based on the Japanese carmaker’s latest Global Platform, which utilizes more high-tensile steel for a lighter body and improved safety, offering not only a 70 percent increase in torsional rigidity but a 40 percent increase in energy absorption efficiency and impact load transmission as well.

Thanks to the new stiffer platform and suspension, the new Subaru Outback promises to offer better handling and ride comfort. The cabin is also more quiet thanks to the more rigid underpinnings and the inclusion of sound-insulated windscreen and front-door glass.

Subaru is introducing a new ‘X-Mode’ for off-road use in the 2021 Outback; the new X-Drive comes with dual functions of ‘snow/dirt’ and ‘snow/mud’, altering the settings of the powertrain accordingly. The Subaru Outback’s ground clearance stands taller than ever, at 213mm, and features an approach angle of 19.7 degrees, a departure angle of 22.6 degrees, and a ramp break-over angle of 21 degrees.

The 2021 Outback also comes with Subaru’s next-generation EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which utilizes a pair of cameras, with a nearly double angle of view compared to the previous system, and a new image recognition software to operate 11 active safety systems. These include adaptive cruise control with lane centering, lane departure warning with steering wheel vibration, and lane departure prevention, among others.

EU-spec models of the 2021 Subaru Outback offer an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment system as standard, featuring a newly designed interface, as well as Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. In addition, there’s a facial recognition camera mounted inside that identifies individuals in the driver seat to automatically adjust the seat position, door mirror angles, and air-conditioning preferences.