SOME say big is beautiful. Other maintain the best things come in small packages.
Well, Subaru’s fourth generation of the crossover Outback may not be beautiful, but it is certainly big.
Longer, taller and wider than previous models, it is robust, reliable, well-equipped, extremely roomy and practical. And in the case of the 3.6-litre petrol version, offers rapid performance.
The Outback was relaunched last year on a new platform offering more cabin space, a longer wheelbase and with a choice of petrol or diesel engines that offer better economy and reduced CO2 emissions - although they are nothing to write home about.
First launched 14 years ago, the big off-roader is a thoughtful alternative to the likes of the Range Rover Discovery that offers a distinctive road presence.
The engine in the petrol model I tried delivers a meaty 256bhp through the six-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, which gives rapid acceleration through a sweet shifting five-speed automaic gearbox.
To boost performance, and exclusively fitted on the 3.6R, is Subaru’s engine and transmission management system, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) – which offers three driving modes.
Intelligent Mode provides normal levels of power for city and long-distance driving. Sport Mode delivers increased acceleration, and Sport Sharp Mode takes throttle response to the next level – ideal when the driver wants to get the most out of the power on tap.
In this mode it is a bit of a beast and can accelerate from 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and has handling to match.
That is the fun side, the down side is that if you are to heavy with the right foot the fuel gauge head south faster than migrating swallows.
I struggled to get 25mpg and that was with fairly cautious driving.
Conversely, this is also a serious off-roader and to supplement the symmetrical AWD drivetrain, it features a combination (depending on model) of mechanical and electronic systems, to improve control and stability in almost all conditions.
These include active torque split, variable torque distribution, centre differential with viscous limited slip differential, and vehicle dynamics control.
Sitting a further 200mm off the ground, the vehicle is well-equipped to deal with the rough stuff, while the re-engineered all-steel unitary structure improves ride and handling on the road, as well as improved safety and allows good cornering stability.
Comfort and refinement are now boosted by mounting the engine and the front and rear suspension system on their own sub-frames, reducing vibration and noise.
The double-wishbone rear suspension is a more compact layout that gives the benefit of interior space, notably luggage capacity which grows to 526 litres, up by 67 litres over its predecessor, with the seats in place.
The car feels huge inside with space to seat five adults comfortably, with acres of leg and head space.
The improved interior trim is robust rather luxurious where the car's plastics give it a less expensive feel than some competitors. But they are well built and long lasting.
The vehicle in any of its guises is not cheap, but even the so-called base model is comprehensively equipped with cruise control, electric sunroof, dual-zone, fully automatic air-conditioning, a premium audio system with six speakers, a Bluetooth hands-free system, automatic lights and wipers, and a powered driver’s seat.
The range-topper adds goodies like reversing camera, satellite navigation.
There are five models of the new Outback, including a choice of one diesel or two petrol engines and three trim levels. The line-up starts with the £27,995 2.0-litre diesel SE model and is topped by the £35,795 petrol 3.6R.
FAST FACTS
Subaru Outback 3.6R automatic
Price: £35,795
Mechanical: 256bhp, 3,630,cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via automatic gearbox
Max speed: 140mph
0-60mph: 7.5 seconds
Combined mpg: 28.2
Insurance group: 29
C02 emissions: 232g/km
BIK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles