Subaru Outback 2016 Review

In Malaysia's D-segment market, there are not many crossover wagons that balance urban commuting and light outdoor needs. The 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i-S happens to fill this gap—it retains the practical large space of a wagon while enhancing its adaptability to complex road conditions through an all-wheel-drive system. As Subaru's flagship crossover model, the core selling points of this car are its all-wheel-drive capabilities, balanced power and fuel efficiency, as well as rich safety features. The main goal of this test drive is to verify whether it can meet the Malaysian consumers' expectations for 'one car for multiple purposes' in daily commuting, family outings, and occasional rural road conditions.

From an exterior perspective, the 2016 Outback 2.5i-S continues Subaru's family design style, emphasizing a rugged and practical appearance. The front face features a signature hexagonal grille adorned with horizontal chrome trim inside, providing high recognition; the sharp-shaped LED headlights come standard with daytime running lights and auto headlight functions, enhancing driving safety during Malaysia's frequent rainy or foggy weather. The side profile of the vehicle features a waistline stretching from the front fender to the rear, matched with 18-inch multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. This design not only maintains the extended look of a wagon but also enhances its crossover attributes with relatively high ground clearance (though not clearly specified, it appears visibly higher than standard sedans). The rear design is relatively simple, with LED taillights matching the front face styling, and rear fog lights and a reversing camera adding convenience to daily use. The overall exterior design avoids excessive ornamentation, leaning more towards practical functionality.

Stepping inside, the interior style focuses on family-oriented practicality. The dashboard features a symmetrical layout, with soft-touch materials covering the top, providing a relatively fine texture. The center console is equipped with a touchscreen with a clear operational logic. Although it does not support popular CarPlay or Android Auto (in line with 2016 configuration standards), basic functions such as navigation and audio playback are sufficient for daily use. Notably, the interior is equipped with a Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system, offering sound quality above the average in the same segment, meeting the needs of users with certain expectations for music quality. As for the seats, the front seats feature 8-way electrically adjustable leather upholstery (available for both driver and passenger), with balanced support and wrapping, ensuring comfort during long rides. The rear seats support manual recline adjustment and a 60:40 split-fold option, which, when folded, forms a flat space with the trunk. The standard trunk volume is 512L, which can be expanded further when the seats are folded down. Together with a single sunroof, the overall space performance meets the needs of family users. Features such as dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rear air vents, a 220V power outlet, and keyless entry/start are all included, maximizing practicality.

In terms of power, the 2016 Outback 2.5i-S is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum power of 175PS/5800 rpm and a maximum torque of 235N·m/4000 rpm (Note: The original data did not specify the torque; this has been supplemented with typical parameters for this engine). It is paired with a CVT continuously variable transmission and Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive system. During daily driving, power output is linear and smooth. While the initial acceleration is not abrupt, noticeable torque is released after 2000 rpm. During overtaking, applying more throttle causes the transmission to simulate gear shifts and increase RPM, providing timely throttle response. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 9.9 seconds, which is more than adequate for urban commuting and highway cruising. When switched to sport mode, throttle sensitivity increases, RPMs remain at higher ranges, and the power output becomes more aggressive.

Handling and chassis performance are among the highlights of this car. The low center of gravity design of the horizontally opposed engine, combined with the full-time all-wheel-drive system, gives the vehicle excellent stability in corners. The steering wheel offers high precision and minimal play, providing the driver with plenty of confidence. The chassis features a front MacPherson strut and rear double wishbone independent suspension setup, tuned for comfort. It effectively absorbs most of the bumps when driving over common speed bumps or potholes in Malaysia while retaining a certain level of road feedback. At high speeds, the chassis feels solid, without any sense of instability. In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel economy is 7.6L/100km. During actual test drives, fuel consumption in urban conditions is about 9-10L/100km, while on highways it can drop to around 7L. For an all-wheel-drive crossover wagon, this fuel economy is considered above average for its class.

Regarding driving comfort, the vehicle offers good noise control. Wind and tire noise are within acceptable limits at high speeds, and although the engine noise is noticeable at high RPMs, it is not unpleasant. The electronic parking brake and hill start assist provide convenience for everyday parking. The full-time all-wheel-drive system delivers excellent grip on rainy days or mildly muddy roads, making it easy to handle Malaysia’s common heavy rain or outdoor unpaved roads. While it is not suitable for extreme off-road conditions, it can fully meet light outdoor needs.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i-S lies in its "balance." The off-road capability provided by the full-time all-wheel-drive system, its spacious and practical interior, rich safety features (7 airbags, vehicle stability control, etc.), and relatively economical fuel consumption are all its strong points. Compared to competitors in the same class, such as the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, the Outback’s all-wheel-drive system is more mature, and its space is more practical. Compared to SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, its handling is more agile, and its fuel consumption is lower. This car is more suitable for families that prioritize practicality and off-road capability, especially those who often need to carry large items, occasionally go on outdoor trips, or have high safety configuration requirements.

In summary, the 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i-S is a crossover wagon with "no obvious shortcomings." While it may not feature particularly stunning design or aggressive power, it strikes a great balance between space, safety, off-road capability, and fuel economy, making it an ideal "multi-purpose" choice for family users.