Subaru’s Outback SUV will continue with sales and it will be one of the most popular choices in its segment. The 2020 Subaru Outback Hybrid is about to arrive and we can expect plenty of changes. Outback was firstly a station wagon before Subaru decided to turn things around. Giving an SUV-like styling and raising the ride height did wonder for this model.
Now, a new model debuted at the 2019 New York Auto Show. It is time for the next chapter and the sixth-generation of Outback. For that reason, we can expect plenty of changes in all categories. As always before, all-wheel-drive setup will be standard and performance will be better than before.
Exterior Redesign
Just like we predicted, the 2020 Subaru Outback Hybrid will feature numerous upgrades. On top of that, most of the changes are already seen on the 2020 Legacy sedan. Outback will ride on a Subaru Global Platform that underpins model such as Forester and Ascent. 8.7 inches of ground clearance helps this SUV to reach numerous terrains. The shape and proportions will stay intact.
Even the styling looks the same. However, some changes are taken from the Viziv concept. The front fascia comes with new lines and bolder bumpers. The rear end will get revised taillights and new optional wheels are available. The new platform will reduce noise and vibration. Under the skin, Outback will get new suspension as well.
Interior Features
Interior will also borrow plenty of stuff from the Legacy sedan. Every trim level gets a new 11.6-inch touchscreen. Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system will get an update. Now, the customers can rearrange the orders of icons and menus. A similar thing is available on every smartphone. Wi-Fi hot spot is standard and EyeSight suite is available once again.
This system offers numerous driving aids. That includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and directional LED headlights. On top of that, reverse automatic braking and head-up display are standard. An infrared camera is all-new, along with the facial-recognition system. This system will monitor the driver’s attention. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Outback Hybrid will be a more modern and safer vehicle.
Engine Options and Hybrid Drivetrain
New Outback will arrive with numerous drivetrain options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. Optionally, buyers can opt for a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged unit. This engine generates 260 horses and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are offering a CVT gearbox. Whatsoever, fuel economy with a standard engine is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine delivers 23/30 mpg. It looks like the only thing that Outback is missing is a hybrid drivetrain.
Outback Hybrid will arrive at some point in the first quarter of 2020. This version will arrive with an electric motor and battery pack. The hybrid system is attached to a standard 2.5-liter unit. Together, this output will offer around 50 additional horses. That means the Outback Hybrid will deliver around 225 horsepower. More importantly, mileage will be astonishing. However, Subaru is still silent on this topic. Further information will become available this fall. Of course, the hybrid version will also deploy a standard all-wheel-drive system.
2020 Subaru Outback Hybrid Price and Release Date
Subaru also didn’t say anything about the potential price changes. Of course, the new 2020 Subaru Outback Hybrid will cost more than the base model. Entry-level Outback will start at $27,500. A hybrid variant will cost at around $34,000. This SUV will go on sale in the last quarter of 2019.