Subaru Included a Thoughtful Touch to the 2022 Outback
Andrew Koole
· 3 min read
Subaru
knows how to build a crossover. The Japanese automaker debatably invented the genre in 1975 with its 4x4 "Leone" station wagon. Since 1995, the brand has focused its car-based SUV energy on the Outback nameplate, and the latest model shows how far the segment has come.The 2022 Subaru Outback follows in its model’s footsteps while adding new accessories and a trim level to catch the eyes of its outdoorsy demographic. Critics especially loved the fancy new roof rack.
A few minor issues prevent the 2022 Outback from winning perfect scores from
car critics
, but overall, the all-terrain wagon earns its place in Subaru’s 50-plus year history in America. It just might be the model that convinces you to join the Subaru family.
What’s so great about the 2022 Subaru Outback?
Outback drivers have touted the car’s praises for years. Its perfect blend of street-ready handling and rough-it camper utility bring owners back year after year—just one reason why it holds its value so well.
The 2022 Outback will likely be no different. Buyers familiar with the crossover will recognize the standard AWD and sturdy, accurate handling, but the added ground clearance, rear-seat legroom, and new, extra-rugged "Wilderness" trim level will escalate their excitement levels.
Also noteworthy is the Outback’s new configurable roof rack, with its rotatable crossbars and designated stow-away space. This thoughtful touch helps to improve upon an already great SUV.
Are there any drawbacks to the new 2022 Subaru Outback?
Consumer Reports
(CR) and Car and Driver
(C&D) found little to complain about when reviewing the 2022 Outback, but it did fall short in a few areas.Both consumer resources found fault in the crossover’s fuel efficiency when compared to its sedan equivalent, the Subaru Legacy. CR’s test on the Outback yielded an overall score of 24 mpg. The Legacy scored 28 mpg, overall.
Otherwise, the two reviewers noticeably disagreed on their primary critiques. CR complained of a lagging infotainment system that C&D described as responsive. And C&D took issue with the Outback’s CVT transmission which CR said, "faithfully mimics traditional gear shifts." It might take a test drive to set the record straight.
Cost of ownership
While new cars are known as poor investments, the cost of owning a Subaru is generally good news. The 2021 model won
Kelley Blue Book
’s 5-Year Cost to Own Award for the 2-row midsize SUV segment.From its affordability compared to fancier rivals like the Volvo V60 Cross Country to its cult status among adventurous family-transporters, the Outback has just the right mix of qualities to keep the cost of ownership down. It even has lower-than-average
car insurance
rates!If you want cheap car insurance quotes fast, go to
Jerry
. A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and even will help you cancel your old policy.
