CarGurus Senior Editor, Matt Smith, offers his first impressions of the all-new 2020 Subaru Outback on a drive through California’s Mendocino county.

For more information on the 2020 Outback, read Matt's full first-drive coverage on the CarGurus Blog: https://cargur.us/w4Ygg

With the return of the XT badge, Subaru has reintroduced turbocharged engines to the Outback. With 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, the 2020 Subaru Outback XT represents a 4 horsepower and 30 lb-ft increase over the departing 3.6-liter H6 engine. Moreover, the new turbocharged 4-cylinder ponies up more fuel economy: 23 mpg city, 30 highway.

The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder in non-XT Outbacks has been reworked as well, providing slightly more power and fuel economy. Inside, all but the base Outback will also receive Subaru’s stunning 11.7-inch touchscreen infotainment display, which features large, crisp icons, dual processors, and can run either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

A head-up display is notably absent, and while other Subaru models like the Ascent and the Forester feature panoramic moonroofs, the 2020 Outback preserves rear-seat headroom by offering only a standard-size sunroof. Cargo space, however, remains an Outback selling point. The 2020 model offers 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat, and an impressive 75.7 with the rear bench folded.

Attractive pricing helps the Outback stand out, too. Starting at just $26,645 for a base trim and $39,695 for a top-tier Touring XT trim, the Outback delivers plenty of content no matter the specification.

Editor's note: The graphics display I4 for both engine specs. These are incorrect; the correct engine specification for both the 2.5-liter and 2.4-liter engines is H4.

Subscribe to the CarGurus Channel:
   / cargurus  

Crossovers & SUVs
   • Crossovers and SUVs