2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i Sport Review
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2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i Sport Review by Justin Pritchard / Auto123.com |
Key benefits are to refinement and noise levels. Power delivery is excellent on hilly terrain, and mileage is kept well within acceptable limits. In fact, modest drivers should be able to achieve combined consumption of 9L / 100km or less.
Ultimately, there’s no notable difference in operation during gentle driving. Problem is, the CVT does feel like a manual transmission with a badly slipping clutch when drivers jam the throttle. For that reason, it’s not a hit with enthusiasts. Thankfully, smack-talking CVT haters can opt for Outback's standard six-speed manual. Easy hauler Most shoppers will be impressed by the Outback’s readiness to accommodate in virtually any situation. Appreciable are the comfortable ride, commanding forward view, good visibility and surprisingly tight turning circle. Darting through traffic is handled easily, as is parking. On the highway, wind and road noise are nicely muted until speeds exceed about 110 km/h. There’s an overall sense of laid-back, all-condition comfort imparted in most situations, and the easygoing experience is furthered by a simple layout to most controls. Extra confidence comes by way of the relatively generous ground clearance and stable AWD handling. Despite the tall, soft suspension, Outback’s rear end follows the front closely in panic manoeuvres. During emergency ‘brake and evade’ tests, the Outback delivered less drama than expected. Comfortable new cabin No issues to note with entry, exit or spaciousness in either row of seating, and there's adequate at-hand storage space for smaller items, too. That’s partly due to a new electronic parking brake, which replaces the console-mounted lever with a small button on the left side of the dash. In back, the cargo hold can accommodate 2 dog kennels or a weekends worth of camping gear with ease. Need to haul some stuff on the roof? A clever quick-release roof-rail system can be oriented along or across the Outback's top in a matter of seconds.
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