DRIVEN + VIDEO: Consumer Reports Weighs In On The REFRESHED 2020 Subaru Outback — Is It THE SUV Alternative?

Honestly, I don't think I can think of a better product for Consumer Reports to evaluate. Refreshed for the 2020 model year, Subaru has given the Outback a nip/tuck on the outside and refined its interior in a big way.

Now home in its center stack is a massive touchscreen that's clearly inspired by the work Tesla and Volvo have done. In addition, there's a bit more panache on the inside with its trimming and seating.

Clearly, this isn't your grandma from Vermont's Subaru, folks.

So, what do the boys and girls over at Consumer Reports have to say about the anti-sport-utility vehicle? Check out the clip below.

It seems like Consumer Reports is really getting nitpicky and subjective these days rather than remaining objective. Perhaps it's me. Let us know what you think, Spies!



The Subaru Outback has been redesigned for 2020, including an available 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, redesigned infotainment screen, and a number of advanced safety features standard.

atc98092 - 9/27/2019 12:06:41 PM

+1 Boost

No, it's a lifted station wagon. Potato, potato, I know. My 2018 Outback was no different, and the Niro I have now really too is just a slightly lifted wagon.

TomM - 9/27/2019 12:49:37 PM

+2 Boost

ALL Suvs and Crossovers are essentially Station Wagons - some today are only 2wd as well. Most are unibody - built on FWD Car platforms - and the "original" Truck based Suv - the Suburban - was sold as a Heavy Duty station wagon for years

TOday - the title "Station wagon" has a bad connotation - making Crossovers - simply because of their design - more desirable in most people's mind - but they are basically a station wagon.

Car4life1 - 9/27/2019 1:14:38 PM

+2 Boost

Hmmm anytime I got wagon fever I’ve always opted for a certified pre owned E 6 cylinder or a super cheap used 8 cylinder primarily for moving business supplies around in a still fun commuter car that would be up for the task of giving a client a ride too if a meeting came up.

Every time I tested the outback I always wanted for more power and better driving dynamics. I know the added ground clearance is slightly better for off-road but in that case I’d just have an SUV with no worries of clearance issues

MDarringer - 9/28/2019 10:31:28 AM

-2 Boost

Ugly styling, nasty rattly engine, horrible CVT and man oh man the bastard doing to review is annoying to listen to. Hopefully his partner is deaf and always points him away during festive times.

skytop - 9/28/2019 12:23:42 PM

0 Boost

I had an Outback and it was nothing more than a more pricey, mediocre station wagon. Period.

MDarringer - 9/28/2019 12:36:26 PM

-1 Boost

Subarus are grossly overrated and their supposed high quality is a myth. They have many issues. The engine and the CVT are massive issues for them.