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Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium (2014-2020)
Also referred to as: Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium 2019 and Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium 2021.
ELKSydney, NSW
Designed for city driving
Two months in and thought I'd jot down some of my thoughts on the 2022 Subaru 2.5i Premium.
Good:
:) Most of the safety features are good
:) Looks good
:) Interior is nice and it's comfortable to drive
:) Good visibility
:) Enough power (in S mode) most of the time
:) Entertainment unit & GPS are well thought out and fairly intuitive
:) Cruise control is great
...Read more
Not so good: :( Headlights are terrible for country driving, in fact I would say they are dangerous. The beams are directed at the ground and you can only see about 15 metres ahead on a dark road - enough time to see the roo or wombat just before you hit it. SRH (left/right) works fine and is effective, however the self-leveling headlights do the opposite of what you want them to do - when you're going downhill, they point straight down onto the ground and when you're going uphill they point into the sky. There is no manual adjustment (from within the car) and turning on the fog lights doesn't help. Regardless there is just no way to get good visibility without turning on the high beams (see next point) which you can't always do. :( Still on headlights - the auto high-beam is entirely useless - when you flick on your high-beams (usually because there is something on the road that you want to see) they will not come on immediately. when they do decide to come on they do so slowly, left then right - no hurry just because you're rushing at something you can't see at 110 kmh. Then, because they respond to all the reflectors on the road, they switch themselves off, on, off, on continually. The only way to use the high-beams is to manually switch on the headlights and bypass the entire auto high-beam functions. :( The rear-vision mirrors have a hole in the front which allows the driver to see their own indicator (what were they thinking?) which is hugely distracting - I've had to put tape over them. :( The rear-vision mirrors can only be folded in/out while the car is running and can't be set to fold automatically. :( I think I'm pretty tech-savvy, but two months in and I still don't know why the car beeps at me half the time - no indication is given on any screen - just beeps. :( This car should have a bigger petrol tank - it guzzles fuel and I'm constantly refilling. :( 2.5i Premium model and it has no reversing sensors - this is a major omission in terms of safety - I haven't had a car with no reversing sensors for over 15 years. None of the other safety features make up for this and we've had some very near misses. :( Auto intermittent wipers are very hit an miss - come on unexpectedly when it's dry and don't come on when it's raining. :( Handling is sloppy on country roads - this was a surprise for me as I expected the Outback to be much better than an SUV proper, however it just does not handle well on winding country roads at speed. As a city car, the Outback has no real issues, however on country roads it struggles and just doesn't feel safe. Perhaps I've been a little harsh in my assessment of this car, but I really was expecting much better thought out design and implementation.
Purchased in August 2021.
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fdsajAU
- 26 reviews
Not good enough
We have a 2017 model and after about 6 months the engine started rattling and hammering on cold starts with a major loss of engine power. Subaru fobbed this off as normal due to the cold oil not running into the engine on start up?? After about 5mins of driving the noise generally dies down as the oil finally does its job. I reminded them it was built in 2017 not 1965! But Subaru Sydney don't give a damn.
Also the CVT tends to over rev going up hills and the stop start braking only works rarely.
The other annoyance for such a large car is t...Read more
he lack of proper storage areas compared to other cars. There are no storage areas in the boot except for 2 useless cavities. All together simply not good enough with issues I never experienced in my Foester which I rated 4 out of 5. Oh and I forgot to mention the GPS is useless! Use Google instead.Purchased in November 2021.
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JimboCentral Queensland, QLD
All 4 the Driver is SO TRUE
Second hand purchase from SA and return drive to Mackay Queensland was a dream drive. Used daily great for trips to Cairns, Emerald and Gladstone. The eyesight is a great.
Purchased in January 2021 at Private.
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Find out how Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium compares to other Large / 7 Seater SUVs
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Quality vehicle with a Subaru design fail
I bought a Subaru Outback 2.5i premium new after the 2018 facelift. My last Subaru was traded in 2003. I came back to the brand after a succession of various overseas vehicles that never quite matched the Subaru experience, and because Subaru were designing better looking vehicles. However, my 2018 model had the Harmon Karman head unit design failure; the unit could not be re-booted because the screen died and there was no USB socket on the unit for uploading software. So, for the price of a USB socket, the whole unit had to be removed from the...Read more
car and a brand new one put back in. It took 3 months to get a replacement head unit and not one word of apology or compensation from Subaru Sydney or my Melbourne dealership. Apart from that issue, the Outback is a class leading vehicle. I am glad I returned to the brand.Purchased in March 2021 at Subaru Docklands.
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batcheeSouth East Queensland, QLD
- 19 reviews
Safety & practicality. There's not much the Outback won't do.
The 2017 Subaru Outback Premium is my daily ride. I needed a car that would transport all my work kit without stuffing the rear space, with no room to spare.
Maybe one day, I'll own a WRX. For the time being, the Outback is perfectly practical for shunting me and my bits around the city and across country.
My annual kms is around 35,000. The Outback has nice long legs for comfortable journeys. Even after several hours behind the wheel, back and bum support is excellent. My wife and I road-tripped to outback Queensland and western NSW over a cou...Read more
Purchased in February 2021.
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SilverbackSouth East Queensland, QLD
- 7 reviews
Quality, usability, funtional and great value.
2015 Subaru Outback premium this is a great car for the family. Funtional and roomy inside with cup holders, rear folding seats, USB ports, sunroof and leather seats. Big roomy rear wagon with quick release handle to fold seats. Ecomonical engine with good smooth power and transmission. Funtional roof rack option which fits neatly into the top plastic roof tracks. Love this car. Great japanese build and quaility. Best valued family wagon on the market.
Purchased in May 2021 at Subaru Dealers for $28,500.00.
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Liron nehmadiGreater Melbourne (Inner), VIC
- 2 reviews
Good but not as reliable as I would expect
We purchased a Subaru Outback MY18 10 months ago. Since then we travelled 17K with the car.
The Good:
Handle more like a car than an SUV
Spaces, practical and very nice inside
Active security systems are best in class
The bad:
This car has a lot of electronics in it. With so much tech come the issues. Our multimedia screen died and it will take nearly THREE MONTHS to replace
The battery died after the car has been parked for a week
I guess brands like Kia will be more reliable today than Subaru...
Purchased in March 2021 for $43,100.00.
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MuzzaMelbourne
- 2 reviews
- 4 likes
Excellent Allrounder
My MY16 Subaru Outback is the second Outback I have purchased. My original MY03 was traded in at 283,000 km for the new MY16 Premium in October 2016. I considered a few other cars at the time, but none compared with the Outback.
So far I have driven the new car 40,000+ km.s without any issues at all. Having been a manual driver for 37 years, I thought I might get bored in the automative (CVT) car, but that has yet to occur, with all the new technology in the display to play with.
I love all the new safety features, and make use of the Ada...Read more
ptive Cruise Control in both city and country driving. I have added a nudge bar and LED Light bar, converted the high beam to LED, added a bash plate, added a Tyre Pressure Monitor system, and purchased an additional spare wheel and tyre for when I go off road. On a recent holiday, from fill-up in Broken Hill to fill-up in Port Augusta, I achieved the best fuel economy so far of 6.43 l/100 km. over a 422 km. distance. The car cruises beautifully at 100 kph sitting on around 1800 RPM. (My old Outback sat on 2800 RPM in 5th gear at the same speed). I like to manually add the current distance driven since fill up to predicted time to refill, just to gauge how I'm going. On a couple of occasions of purely flat, open road driving, it has predicted just over 1,000 km.s on a tank. (Of course as soon as the city driving begins, this quickly reduces to a more realistic figure). So, as you can tell, I love my new Outback, and do not regret my decision to buy another.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
AustaureanJerrabomberra
- 4 reviews
2015 Subaru Outback 2.5 Premium
So we went for the 2015 Outback as it had the updated engine, it was a year old second hand car with about 19,000klm on the clock - the car has performed extremely well over the 2 years we have had it for, we picked it up on Australia Day January 2017, my only real concern was that I feel the steering seems a little vague, not direct enough for me, but whether thats the car or the tyres, I do not know.
With the tyres,I just changed them at 61,000klm, I went for a different brand over the OE Bridgestone Dueller Sport to Pirelli Scorpion Verde A...Read more
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Find out how Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium compares to other Large / 7 Seater SUVs
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GKBSydney
Complete failure of Infotainment system - beware
I bought a new Outback in January 2018 and have been happy with the general operation of the vehicle until recently. We do quite a bit of touring.
Seven weeks ago the Infotainment system and screen - which provides radio, navigation, cameras and phone (Apple Car Play) failed completely. As usual it took two weeks to get into the Subaru service centre, and they stated the obvious - that needed to be replaced. They need to order the part. After a week I called and they advised it would take 2 to 4 weeks to get the part. It is now 4 weeks and n...Read more
o advice about when. I contacted Subaru Australia (by social media) and told the same thing - it does not come from Subaru and they didn't know when they would get it. Checking online there are lots of instances of this happening and in the USA a class action is being proposed over this matter. Subaru seems to have a global issue and yet they can't organise themselves to have enough replacement parts available for quick repair. So beware. No phone, no radio, no navigation, no reverse cameras for months at a time!Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
NickAU
Built for highway cruising but just as comfy in the city.iI
I purchased my Outback 2.5 Premium in 2018 as new in Brisbane for $42,000 with all weather mats and a boot liner.
I have owned German luxury cars and this is by far the most comfortable car I've bought. The reviews are right. It is extremely comfortable. The engine is not underpowered as some reviews say. Change the mapping to sports and it gets off the line fine.
The sun roof and heat seaters are great. The car is quiet. The audio quality is great. The fuel economy is solid...about 6.9L I'm averaging in the first 5000kms so it will only ...Read more
get better. The radar cruise control is great in the city and country. The lane departure system grows on you and all aggravating alarms can be turned off at the press of a button. There's enough storage and the roof racks are a great addition as is the automatic tailgate. The back seat is very roomy and wide for three kids. Speaking with others, this car will easily go to 600,000km when looked after. It feels like it too. Even the car tint man said that when putting tint on, Subaru fittings are so much better quality than anything else out of Japan.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
glennl003South East Queensland, QLD
- 9 reviews
- Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium (2014-2020)
- Verified purchase
A vehicle for all seasons
Having owned some 40 plus (sedans, coupes, wagons, 4WDs, GTs etc) over as many years, I've not had a vehicle as complete as this one. Without a doubt this crossover can't be matched for value in nearly every respect. Having researched this vehicle (and many others) for a number weeks I couldn't find anyone giving it a bad review or even any criticism for that matter. I purchased the 2018 2.5i premium and was in two minds about opting for the 3.6r and I think I made the right choice. However the proof of the pudding will come when I go to tow a ...Read more
small poptop or boat. Just to shed some light on my vehicle history I've owned (new) everything from Porsche 911 turbo, Jaguar XKR, Audi RS5, A6 Allroad, BMW M3 (6&V8)X6, X5 just to name a few of the 40 plus purchases. So I believe I give a subjective point of having had so many diverse cars. Out of all the vehicles I don't recall any of them coming so well equipped as the Outback. You won't find another car that has more safety tech than this one. Apart from a towbar and rear scuff plate there's not much you can add to this vehicle. Probably the only thing I can see missing is a head up display (I tend to think it could be a distraction). What I love most is it is quite nimble and drives like a car but has all the benefits of a larger 4WD ie legroom, and a feel of spaciousness. Whilst not designed for HD off roading it can certainly handle itself through mud, sand and excels in the snow. I looked at and tested many SUVs including Nissan xtrail, Mazda, Skoda Octavia, Ford and none of them held a candle to the Outback. If you are serious about a family wagon then pay a little extra and get the best value for money SUV wagon on the market. For those folk that live in South East Queensland you need to visit Von Bibra Southport and see Charmaine and Steve they treat you like royalty even after the initial sale. Thank you Von Bibra.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Cassie TAdelaide
- 5 reviews
Mummy car
I bought the Subaru Outback in 2017 premium version and couldn't be happier. The main reason i bought it was because of all the safety features. I tested the safety features out, it will beep if you start to swerve into another lane, slow down if you are driving too fast when car infront has slowed down which could be good if you get distracted with a screaming child. Able to take car up dunes without need to charge tyres. Can open/close boot via car remote, handy when carrying groceries/ baby. Plenty of leg room for front passenger even when you have baby car seat in the back. Has a great sun roof too. Great all round car!
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BelmakovSydney
- 4 reviews
- 1 like
Great Family SUV
Ample Space, Rich Looks, Great Ride, fantastic road grip, can go on and on and on. Symmetrical 4WD is just awesome and you cannot question Subaru's eye to safety. The Eye sight and lane departure features are cool additions. Great sound system and excellent leather quality used for seats.
Now why 4 stars then - Dashboard looks quite basic, their inbuilt entertainment system is supposed to be playing video files as well but none of their technicians could make it work
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4.2(57)RudolphSydney
- 5 reviews
- 1 like
Great family car
Highly recommend this car, it's a pleasure to drive. Leather seats feel luxurious, with power seat adjustments. We took it to the snow and it was very comfortable and quiet, lots of power, plenty of room for skis on the roof, plenty of room for luggage and skit boots, and the front seats are heated. Did our research and you get a lot of premium features for the price.
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Find out how Subaru Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium compares to other Large / 7 Seater SUVs
Know better, choose better.
DesBallarat
- 2 reviews
Perfect family car without the bulk
Purchased new 2017 Subaru Outback premium 2.5. After many large bulky 4x4 this is a breath of fresh air, as smooth as a Lexus, lovely ride and handling .and so quiet..... Fuel efficient 8.5 lit/100 town running, no rattles beautiful solid build quality .
Massive leg room compared to, cx5 Mazda, jeep, Hyundai.
Most definately recommend,
1 comment
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LaneNorth West, QLD
- 6 reviews
- 5 likes
All the bells and whistles
A beautiful car to drive, smooth, easy and quiet. The cruise feature is excellent if not a little space age. The car drives and brakes itself. Lots of room inside front and back. I especially like the electric controls for adjusting the seat and I love the seat warmer excellent for a bad back. Average running costs, however services are expensive.
The only problem I've come across is now and again I can't gain access to my car. It is keyless using a hand print and it simple doesn't work, frustrating but eventually it gives in. A lovely car that I love but I wouldn't get a keyless car again.
Purchased in April 2021 at Suburu, tweed.
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JohnAdelaide
- 12 reviews
- 9 likes
Great all round family car
I've had the car coming up about a year. It's been a great daily driver. Boot is plenty for a family of 4. Back seats have plenty of room and so do the front. Engine is adequate for every day drivingand returns 8.5ltr per 100km in suburban driving. Eye sight is a breath of fresh air and I'm thankful for buying a car with it.
Sound system could be better other than that it's a good reliable buy.
The only vehicle that i could see coming close to this would be a kia sportage in diesel form.
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allenacBelmont North, 2280
- 3 reviews
- Outback 5GEN 2.5i Premium (2014-2020)
- Verified purchase
Highly recommended
When I looked for my new car two years ago, my criteria were: brand with history of reliability, functionality to suit my need, the style, comfort and the running cost. The Subaru outback (Premier 2.5i) gave me all that and more. The seat can be set higher than expected to get a better view of the traffic, the car felt very sturdy and handled very well and the fuel economy was better than expected (around 7.5 km/100L) on 95 oct and mostly suburban driving. The Intellect driving mode gave me smooth, quiet and comfortable ride and the Sport mode ...Read more
gave me that extra kick on rough terrains and on slippery surfaces with ease. This car can accommodate bulky items if you fold the back seats forward and the leg room at the back seats are very generous. I used it to tow my fully loaded trailer frequently with ease. The dealer gave me a fixed cost services ($310) for 10 years. After two years, the engine always starts first go and humming quietly and reliably. The Eye sight gives me that extra security. Some minor issues are loose nuts and interior fittings but sorted by the dealer. I don't like the auto engine stop for the saving on fuel was negligible and the Sat Nav map was out of date when I bought it. Apart from the petrol and 6 monthly services, I haven't spent a cent.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Tim
- 6 reviews
- 5 likes
I love this car
I have the premium model which along with leather seats and sunroof has a few extras which are great to have. So far the car handles perfectly and would be my choice for people looking at a reliable car at this price range. Have previously had a Subaru Forester and was happy with the engine over time so not expecting any issues there.
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Questions & Answers
Rodasked
Anyone with problmens/noise when opeming power tail gate?
1 answer
Mine has been ok but only had the car one week. How has the steering been on yours? Mine wanders at highway speed. Taking it back to the dealer tomorrow
Iggy Popasked
Have just purchased a 2022 Subaru Outback, and first drive on the highway I find the steering extremely poor. I stopped at first service station and found tyre pressures ranged from 190 kpa to 260 kpa. I adjusted them to the recommended 230 front and 240 back and did improve but the steering still veers to the left. I did investigate a bit more and found the US model has a bunch of complaints similar to mine on the steering. It seems you have to concentrate and drive with continual corrections as soon as you go over 80 kmh. Interested if any one else has had similar issues with the car. We now have 100 km up on the car and I am extremely disappointed. Wondering if I have purchased a lemon??
1 answer
Thank you Iggy, I dont drive much the car, its has 35Kms, i had the car for almost 4 years now and as i dont drive above 100kms p/h haven't noticed anything weird on steering. Hoerver picked up my attention that OEM tyres are already low, when i had my first liberty back in 1995 OEM tyres last 80Kms! there are many complains in the use for faulty motor on the power lift tail gate.
Himonefellaasked
Our M2017 after the twenty four month service (only 25500kms) has developed the shakes when the aircon and aux fan start up on a hot day under idle at traffic lights. Her idle appears to be set at the 750/800 mark and she drops back to 650 when both of those items kick in. My service dept states that the shake is normal?????
1 answer
yes, poor answer. i have some noises when i pass form P to R or D, at subaru docklands they said is normal. I believe while under warranty, they dont see extra $$$, so its normal
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Des
Whilst it was a very good car, I have since sold it .... CVT auto transmission just annoyed the crap out of me in the end .... No defined gears, found engine to be very underpowered.... Vague steering and no feel.... However very well built vehicle