Regular listeners to my show know that I recommend the Subaru Outback a lot. Oh sure, it is great where the weather is rainy or snowy a lot, but the truth is, it is just a great crossover SUV no matter where you live.
The 2013 got even better with a new engine, a new suspension system, and a refreshed look that included new headlights and grill among exterior changes that give the Outback a more rugged look.
Although the old engine and the new engine are both 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, the new engine has more horsepower and gets better fuel economy. This new engine is rated at 173-horses and comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that make it feel like it has over 200 horses easily. Acceleration is strong and smooth. There is a V6 available also.
My tester is the Limited model which gives you leather interior, all power, Blue Tooth, heated leather seats, power driver’s seat, Harman Kardon stereo system, and a whole lot more. It is a beautiful Red Pearl with tan interior that is very nice. It has an amazing amount of cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down.
For me, the attraction to them is the Subaru powertrain and all-wheel drive system. All Subarus use the boxer engine and that starts the symmetrical layout as the left side of the engine is the same as the right side and it is longitudinally mounted (crankshaft goes from front to rear). The transmission is also laid out longitudinally and two identical axle shafts emerge from the transmission housing, one on each side to drive the two front wheels. The driveshaft emerges from the rear of the transmission as usual to drive the rear wheels.
There are no external parts, axles or shafts on either the left or right to offset the symmetry as there are in other all wheel or four wheel drive systems. The entire drivetrain is along the center line of the vehicle and balances the weight and power distribution on both sides. The end result is superb handling in bad weather, and superb performance on good road surfaces.
Something new for 2013 Outback is the Eyesight system. This is an advanced safety system that includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and lane sway warning. All of this is set from the steering wheel controls. Most systems like this work on radar, but Eyesight uses two cameras mounted at the top of the windshield.
Eyesight comes in option package 20 for $3940 which also includes power moonroof, navigation system, voice activated controls, rearview handling, and upgraded stereo. For all those features, plus the Eyesight system, that’s a bargain.
Subaru took a great SUV, tweaked it, and made it even better. It drives great, the handling is superb, it’s quiet, and now it is more fuel-efficient without sacrificing horsepower. I liked it before, I like it even more now.
What I liked most: Handling and the new engine for 2013.
What I would change: I like the cargo space, would prefer a little more backseat room.
MSRP: $29,095 base, $33830 as tested.
Fuel Economy: 24 city/30 highway.
Warranty: 3 years/36000 covers everything. 5 years/60,000 on the powertrain.
2013 Subaru Outback in a few words: A great SUV got greater.
2013 Subaru Outback Car Pro Review,
Hi Jerry,
I’ve read your review on the 2013 Subaru Outback and was just wondering if you’ve had a chance to look at the new Subaru Crosstrek?
I’m interested in both. I’ve driven both. I do feel the Crosstrek may be a little under powered, but the gas mileage is great for a AWD compact SUV. Will you be reviewing the Crosstrek anytime soon? Any preliminary feedback?
-Robert
Robert, I’ve not had the Crosstrek yet, but have requested it. I’ve helped a few people get them and they love them.
Stay tuned too the show and newsletter, I’m sure I’ll have one soon. If you decide to make a move sooner, check out Certified Subaru dealers on our website, http://www.carprousa.com. We have good dealer partners in every market.
Thanks for listening to the show.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
Would the newer 2.5-liter 4 cylinder be suitable for mountain driving or would you recommend the V6?
If it is just occasional mountain driving, I think the 4 cylinder will be fine. But if it a common occurrence, I’d get the 6, I think it will last a lot longer for you.
Let me know where you are located if you need a good Subaru dealer! THANKS for listening to the show.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
I rented a 2013 Outback Ltd. with the 4 cylinder and CVT transmission and drove it for a few days. Down in the central valley of California on freeways it regularly returned over 30 mpg. When I drove it in the Sierra’s (where I live) the mileage dropped to the mid-high 20′s. As for power, I found there was plenty of power with the 4 and I was able to maintain the same cruising speed (legal) that I get with my 5.3L V-8 Suburban. If I lived and drove regularly at elevations of 6K or higher I’d probably opt for the 6 so unless you are a frequent driver at high elevations and very steep roads I think the 4 cyl would serve fine and return better mileage.
Try going to a dealers service shop and renting one. Better way to find out what works for you than the ’round the block test drive. After all, you’re going to be into about 30K so you might as well make sure.
It seems that the Forester has bigger wheels than the Outback. What are the other differences.
Thank you.
Marcy, good to hear from you. The Forester is much different from the Outback, and size is certainly a part of it.
You should drive both and see which you like best, both are great!
Let me know which market you listen to the show from, I am sure I have a great Subaru dealer near you.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
Office: (972) 755-7575
dear jerry, i have wanted a subaru outback for many years. the only issues holding me back are the gas mileage (i drive a pruis now) and the fact that the new models do not offer a panoramic sunroof that they used to offer. using your imagination and insight, how long will i have to wait for either.
Jane, thanks for listening to the show. Hard to say on the sunroof, but gas mileage is increasing every year. Subaru generally sticks to a 5 year cycle plan, which means 2015 will probably be the next really big change.
For it’s size, and the fact that it’s all-wheel drive, the current Outback actually does pretty well.
If you decide you want to look at the current version, let me know and I’ll set you up with Vince, the GM at Elk Grove Subaru.
GOOD LUCK
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
Hi Jerry
I own ’02 Subaru outback sport and I’m looking at getting a new 2013 outback in February. Can you recommend a dealer in San Antonio?
Thanks
Hi Sandy – Check out the Car Pro Certified Dealers for San Antonio here: http://www.carprousa.com/city/san-antonio/
Thanks for being a listener!
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
Can you recommend any Subaru dealers in Utah.
NO I’m sorry, I don’t know anyone in Utah.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
I was wondering,besides style and size what are the differences between the Outback and the Forester.
Steve,
I find the Outback to ride better, probably because it is longer and wider, but Forester is tall. Ground clearance is the same, Outback has more cargo area. Otherwise, they are quite similar. Outback is about $2000 higher. Both are great, they really are, just depends on budget and which you like better.
If you need a good dealer, you’ll find them all here:
http://www.carprousa.com/car-pro-approved-dealers/
Thanks for listening to the show.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
May I please have your opinion of CVT transmissions in general, and, in particular, in the new
Subaru Outback and Forester. Thank you.
I really enjoy your radio show on WOAI
Thanks for listening Ed, I appreciate you! Subaru’s CVT has been flawless, I drove the very first one in 1985. I know of no issues at all with them. Overall Subaru quality is exceptional, including the CVT.
I wish you all the best!
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
Jerry,
I know you like the Subaru Outback. The name and reputation suggest that it’s a rugged vehicle. How rugged is the Outback compared to your average car? Briefly list the difference in the mechanics of the Outback v.s. your average automobile. I just purchased one and the rough roads where I am make me wonder what the Subaru can really take compared to other cars.
Howard, you would be better served asking your dealer about the intricate technical aspects of the car, but I can tell you that in my opinion, their all-wheel drive system is the best in the industry. Not only does the symetrical all-wheel drive system perform terrifically, it is hard to wear it out no matter how tough the terrain is. It’s capable and dependable, I think you made an excellent choice for your type of driving.
Thanks for listening to the show.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks
Thanks for the review. One comment – there is no V6, it’s a flat 6 Boxer.
Thanks Max! You are correct. I am so in the habit of writing V6 it just rolled off! GOOD CATCH. THANKS for listening to the show.
Jerry Reynolds “The Car Pro”
President, Car Pro Radio Networks