The 2018 Subaru Outback has been officially launched
in Malaysia, and with it comes the brand’s long-awaited EyeSight suite of
driver assist systems. If you want one, there’s just one CBU variant – 2.5i-S
EyeSight – and you’ll have to fork out RM 246,188.40 (OTR without insurance),
but TC Subaru notes that this price includes a simulated 10% sales and service
tax (SST) in anticipation of its return.
Under the bonnet, you’ll find a a 2.5 litre boxer
four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 175 PS at 5,800 rpm and 235 Nm of
torque at 4,000 rpm. As is customary with Subaru, drive goes to all four wheels
through a Lineartronic CVT and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Visually, the new Outback gains a wider hexagonal
grille (with active shutters) and redesigned LED headlamps with C-shaped LED
daytime running lights. A reprofiled front bumper is another part of the update
along with a new design for the 18-inch alloy wheels (wrapped with 225/60
profile tyres).
Inside, the dashboard layout remains reassuringly
similar although improved materials are used for the trim and in other areas. A
few USB power ports in the back centre console and an eight-inch touchscreen
infotainment system have also been added. The latter comes with Android Auto
and Apple CarPlay support, with a Harman Kardon sound system to boot.
The rest of the equipment list includes keyless
entry and start, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, 60:40 split-folding
and reclining rear seats, powered tailgate with PIN code access, power sliding
sunroof, paddle shifters and an eight-way powered seats with memory function
for the driver.
On to safety, and the big ticket item here is the
EyeSight suite of systems that features adaptive cruise control, lane sway and
departure warning, pre-collision braking system, pre-collision throttle
management and lead vehicle start alert.
To go along with EyeSight, the Outback also features
Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection, front and side view monitors, Vehicle Dynamics
Control, steering responsive headlights, seven airbags (dual front, side,
curtain and driver’s knee), blind spot monitor, hill start assist and Active
Torque Vectoring.
Along with the existing colour scheme, there are now
three new finishes to choose from, which are Wilderness Green Metallic, Crimson
Red Pearl and Oak Brown Pearl. A five-year manufacturer warranty and free
service labour package come as standard.
