Subaru has pulled the wraps off the all-new 2020 Outback at the New York Auto Show, giving us a first look at the sixth generation of the popular crossover wagon.
As ever, the 2020 Subaru Outback is a jacked-up wagon version of the also new Legacy, adopting the same design but with added ruggedness, featuring plenty of body cladding and model-specific bumpers to show off its more adventurous character.
By switching over to Subaru’s latest global platform, the Outback will benefit from better rigidity and more refinement, as well as improved handling. The new model also features 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is greater than most competitive SUV models in the market.
The new generation of the Subaru Outback has ditched the six-cylinder powetrain of the outgoing model in favor of the turbocharged 260hp 2.4-liter unit found in the Legacy and the Ascent. Base models will get the naturally aspirated 182hp 2.5-liter flat-four unit. Both powertrains will be paired to the company’s latest CVT gearbox that also features an 8-speed manual mode.
The 2.4-liter turbo XT models deliver a 3,500-lb towing capacity, the biggest ever in the Outback’s history. In addition, fuel economy is estimated at 26/33 mpg city/highway for the 2.5-liter and 23/30 mpg city/highway for the turbo.
Perhaps the biggest highlight of the new Outback can be found inside; the cabin is made out of better quality materials and features a huge 11.6-inch high-definition infotainment display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and over-the-air updates.
Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist system with Lane Centering Function is standard fit, with systems like DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation system, Front View Monitor, LED Steering Responsive headlights and Reverse Automatic Braking to be optional.
The range of the new 2020 Subaru Outback will include the Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT and Touring XT models. The Onyx Edition XT features black detailing on the exterior, with matching 18-inch alloys and badging over an exclusive gray two-tone interior.
Subaru will announce the pricing details of the new 2020 Outback closer to its market launch this fall.
*Article updated with live images from the New York Auto Show