The biggest change on the upcoming 2022 Subaru Outback will be the new model. The Japanese company introduces the Wilderness model with special equipment. Well, this package is going to make the Outback pretty expensive. However, it also draws the attention, especially of younger buyers. The Wilderness model will make the SUV, sometimes considered as a wagon, becoming a rival to Toyota Rav4 TRD Off-Road and Jeep Wrangler 2-door with 4×4 drive. Although the first appearance caused strong impressions, experts are not so confident that Subaru can catch up with leaders in this class immediately.
The rest of the lineup will be unchanged. The 2022 Subaru Outback rides on the platform introduced in 2020. The SUV is in the sixth generation, while the first model rolled out from factory lanes in 1994. Of course, the Boxer engine provides the power and do we have to mention that 4WD is standard? We could see a kind of off-road model coming when the company launched the SUV with nearly 9 inches of ground clearance. Now, the gap is going to be used perfectly. Another reason why you should go after the Outback is its safety. EyeSight technology is standard. On the other hand, engineers should fix lags on the start/stop system, which might become annoying.
2022 Subaru Outback Engines and Specifications
According to multiple sources, Subaru is thinking of bringing another engine to its offer. A six-cylinder unit is a wish of many buyers, but the carmaker still relies on a flat-four mill. Boxer technology makes them very popular. Once you try a Subaru vehicle, you will fall in love with the performance. But, there are many other reasons why Subbie is not converting this into the high sales records.
The 2022 Subaru Outback will keep a 2.5-liter flat-four engine. It is paired with a CVT gearbox that simulates the transmission of the eight-pace box. Outputs are 182 hp and 175 lb-ft. As said, four-wheel drive is standard and the vehicle returns 26/33 mpg. This is not bad at all for this type of vehicle, especially the one using 4×4.
The alternative, for now, is a turbocharged 2.4-liter drivetrain, available with the 2022 Subaru Outback XT model. In this case, the vehicle is delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, while still keeping high gas mileage numbers – 23/30 mpg. A hybrid unit is on the fans’ wishlist. Subaru is already delivering such a setup for Crosstrek in the US, and Forester in other markets.
Models
Four standard packages will still be on the offer for the 2022 Subaru Outback. The Base version is already equipped with nice off-road equipment, such as an all-wheel drive and hill-descent control. Outside, you will notice LED lights, roof rails and 17-inch wheels. Inside the cockpit, a 7-inch screen sits at the center of the control panel, and multimedia is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Climate is automatic, while the driver’s bucker is power-adjustable. The Premium trim brings fog lamps with LED lights. The De-icer system is standard at both ends. Inside, you are getting a leather steering wheel and dual-zone climate. Driver’s bucket is adjustable to more positions. The Starlink infotainment gets a larger screen and offers USB ports for passengers at the back.
Limited edition is a premium offer with larger wheels and steer-responsive lights. Plus, the company adds some of the advanced options, such as push-button start, hands-free power tailgate, leather seats with heating, and Harman Kardon audio. A blind-spot monitor and automatic reverse brakes are added to the safety options. The 2022 Subaru Outback Touring is top of a class option with a power sunroof, heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, Nappa leather, navigation, and many other upgrades. The Outback XT is available with the Limited and Touring package. We’ll see if the Onyx edition is coming back, as the optional upgrade for the Premium trim.
What is the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness?
The newest member of the lineup will be the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness. The company lifts the vehicle by 0.8 inches. So, the total ground clearance is now 9.5 in. Plus, shocks and suspension are tuned to provide balance and stability in tough weather and especially terrain types. Engineers will use smaller wheels with all-terrain rubber Yokohama Geolander. Approach and departure angles are increased by 10 percent, making the Outback Wilderness an interesting 4×4 ride for off-road adventures. Skid plates will protect the underbody. A turbo engine is the only option for the new trim.
Read more at MotorTrend
Prices
The pricing list for the Outback stays put. The new model will be available for $38,000. This is not the most expensive configuration, since the Outback XT Touring is the premium offer, with an MSRP of over $40,000. The Base version starts at $28,000 with the destination fee. All other models will be above $30k.
