With no changes confirmed to its mechanical setup, the 2023 Subaru Outback continues with two engine options. The base unit is a 2.5L flat-4 option, which is typically found in most vehicles from the brand and produces 182hp and 176lb.-ft of torque. On the higher trims, however, a beefier turbocharged unit of the same engine assumes importance. It is good for 260hp and 277lb.-ft of torque and with the kind of power it bestows, the wagon can smoke most of its competitors. With the standard engine, the vehicle takes 8.8 seconds to hit the 60 MPH mark, while the turbocharged unit can achieve similar results in 6 seconds.
In all other aspects, the mechanical components remain similar. Both engines come mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which is not the most refined option in the segment. Together the duo transfer power to all the wheels of the vehicle, which is a typical setup for most Subaru offerings. As for general performance, the base engine is underpowered, while the optional unit is cogent.
Model
|
2023 Subaru Outback
|
2022 Ford Escape
|
2022 Toyota RAV4
|
2022 Kia Sorento
|
MSRP
|
$29,000
|
$26,760
|
$26,975
|
$29,950
|
Engine
|
2.5L flat-4
|
1.5L turbocharged inline-3
|
2.5L inline-4
|
2.5L inline-4
|
Drivetrain
|
AWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
Transmission
|
CVT
|
8-speed automatic
|
8-speed automatic
|
8-speed automatic
|
Power (hp)
|
182 hp @ 5,800 RPM
|
181 hp @ 6,000 RPM
|
203 hp @ 6,600 RPM
|
191 hp @ 6,100 RPM
|
Torque (lb.-ft)
|
176 lb.-ft @4,400 RPM
|
190 lb.-ft @3,000 RPM
|
184 lb.-ft @5,000 RPM
|
181 lb.-ft @4,000 RPM
|
0-60 MPH (seconds)
|
8.8 seconds
|
7.7 seconds
|
8.5 seconds
|
8.6 seconds
|
Quarter-mile (seconds)
|
N/A
|
15.9 seconds
|
16.4 seconds
|
16.4 seconds
|
Top Speed (MPH)
|
130 MPH
|
122 MPH
|
119 MPH
|
120 MPH
|
In comparison with the class, the 2022 Ford Escape with its turbocharged inline-3 unit delivers best-in-class performance. It completes the 60 MPH sprint in 7.7 seconds and breaches the quarter-mile mark in 15.9 seconds, making it quicker than all of its rivals. On the other hand, SUVs from Toyota and Kia deliver diminutively better performances only and are one-tenth of a second quicker. Apart from the statistical differences, all adversaries come with a standard FWD setup and make use of an 8-speed automatic transmission unit.
2023 Subaru Outback Ride and Handling
With no changes listed about its mechanical setup, we expect the 2023 Subaru Outback to uphold an easy-going aura like most of its previous models. The station wagon will remain a potent option, both on and off the road, and be one that can take on any road conditions without a minimum of fuss, thanks to its all-wheel-drive setup. However, for city drivers and family-oriented buyers as well, the Outback’s agility and athleticism will provide an enjoyable experience, every time you take the vehicle out for a spin. Though there might be a slight body roll at higher speeds, Subaru’s tryst with perfection will ensure that the riding experience does not become overwhelming for any occupant.
2023 Subaru Outback Braking Performance
The braking statistics of the 2023 Subaru Outback have not yet been revealed. Neither the rotor sizes nor the halting distance information is currently available to the buyers. Nonetheless, keeping in mind past performances, and a cogent setup that includes 4-wheel ABS and front and rear disc brakes, we expect the vehicle to be efficient in its performance.
Model
|
2023 Subaru Outback
|
2022 Ford Escape
|
2022 Toyota RAV4
|
2022 Kia Sorento
|
Brake Rotors (front) (in)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
12 in
|
12.8 in
|
Brake Rotors (rear) (in)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
11.4 in
|
12 in
|
Curb Weight (lbs)
|
3,641 lbs
|
3,298 lbs
|
3,380 lbs
|
3,794 lbs
|
60-0 (-ft)
|
N/A
|
128 ft.
|
122 ft.
|
116 ft.
|
As compared to its adversaries, the largest option in the class, the Kia Sorento, has the best figures in its class. It manages to come to a halt from the 60 MPH mark at 116ft., which is at least 6ft shorter than the 2022 RAV4. It also makes use of the largest brake rotors, which measure 12.8 and 12 inches, respectively. At the bottom of this table, however, lies the Ford Escape, which despite its impressive acceleration falls short in deceleration.