Free Guide to the 2027 Subaru Outback Features

Overview of the 2027 Subaru Outback Design and Structure

The 2027 Subaru Outback represents the seventh generation of this popular crossover vehicle, building on decades of development in the all-wheel-drive segment. Subaru introduced the original Outback in 1995 as a lifted version of the Legacy wagon, and the 2027 model continues this heritage while incorporating modern engineering and design principles. The vehicle measures approximately 188 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 67 inches in height, making it slightly larger than previous generations to accommodate more interior space.

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The 2027 Outback features a horizontally-opposed "boxer" engine design, which is a signature characteristic of Subaru vehicles. This design places the engine's pistons opposite each other in a flat configuration, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity compared to traditional inline engines. The result is improved stability and handling characteristics, particularly important for a vehicle designed for varied driving conditions. The platform uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear setup, contributing to a ride quality that balances comfort with capable handling.

The exterior design includes a redesigned front grille, updated headlight and taillight shapes, and a more streamlined body profile compared to earlier models. Subaru's design language emphasizes horizontal lines and a wider stance, giving the vehicle a more grounded appearance. The ground clearance sits at approximately 8.7 inches, providing better approach and departure angles than many sedan-based crossovers while remaining practical for everyday driving and parking.

The cabin layout has been reorganized to improve accessibility and functionality. The steering wheel can be adjusted for both reach and tilt, and the driver's seat offers multiple adjustment points including lumbar support. The dashboard features a more intuitive layout with physical controls for climate functions positioned within easy reach of the driver. Understanding the basic structural design helps owners understand how the vehicle's features work together to create its overall driving experience.

Practical takeaway: Familiarizing yourself with the Outback's basic dimensions and structural features helps you understand how the vehicle fits into your lifestyle, whether you're considering it for daily commuting, outdoor adventures, or family transportation needs.

Engine Options and Powertrain Technology

The 2027 Subaru Outback offers two main engine choices, each with distinct performance characteristics and fuel economy profiles. The base engine is a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder that produces approximately 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of around 26 miles per gallon in city driving, 33 on highways, and 29 combined. The engine uses port fuel injection and variable valve timing to optimize efficiency across different driving conditions, and it meets current emissions standards without requiring a hybrid system.

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The second engine option is the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which generates approximately 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This turbocharged variant improves acceleration and merging performance, with the turbocharger beginning to provide noticeable boost at around 2,000 revolutions per minute. The turbocharged engine achieves approximately 23 miles per gallon in city driving, 29 on highways, and 25 combined. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that adjusts its internal ratio continuously rather than shifting through fixed gears, contributing to smooth acceleration and consistent engine operation.

All 2027 Outback models come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which distributes engine power to all four wheels continuously. Unlike some all-wheel-drive systems that primarily send power to the front wheels until slipping is detected, Subaru's system sends power to all wheels at all times. The system includes an electronically controlled center differential that can adjust power distribution between front and rear axles based on driving conditions. The front and rear differentials include an electronically controlled limited-slip function that prevents individual wheels from spinning freely when traction is lost.

Both engines feature direct injection technology, where fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber rather than into the intake port. This allows for more precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engines also include stop-start technology that automatically shuts down the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop at traffic lights or in traffic, then restarts it when the driver presses the accelerator. This feature can improve fuel economy by approximately 3 to 5 percent in city driving situations.

Practical takeaway: Choosing between the naturally-aspirated and turbocharged engines involves considering whether the improved fuel economy of the base engine or the increased power of the turbocharged option aligns better with your typical driving patterns and distance traveled annually.

Interior Comfort and Convenience Features

The 2027 Outback interior accommodates five passengers across two rows of seating, with the front seats offering substantial adjustability options. The front seats include power adjustment with lumbar support in higher trim levels, allowing drivers to customize their seating position for long-distance travel. The seat cushions use a blend of materials designed to provide support without excessive firmness, and the backrests recline slightly to accommodate different body types. Heated front seats are standard on most trim levels, using heating elements embedded in the seat cushions to warm the seating surface, which many owners find particularly beneficial during cold-weather driving in northern climates.

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The second row of seating in the 2027 Outback features a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that can be configured to accommodate passengers or cargo depending on current needs. When the rear seats are in the upright position, they provide adequate legroom for adults up to approximately 6 feet tall. The seat cushions are higher than those in the front, making entry and exit easier, especially for elderly passengers or those with mobility considerations. When folded flat, the rear seats create a larger cargo area. Between the front and rear seating areas, there is a center console containing cup holders, storage compartments, and a power outlet for charging electronic devices.

Climate control in the 2027 Outback uses a dual-zone automatic temperature management system in higher trim levels, allowing the driver and front passenger to set different temperatures independently. The system includes automatic switching between heating and cooling based on the selected temperature, so the driver doesn't need to manually change settings when seasonal temperatures shift. Air distribution vents can be adjusted to direct airflow toward the windshield, dashboard area, or floor. Heated rear window defrost works quickly to clear moisture and frost from the rear glass, improving visibility during morning commutes or after rain.

The infotainment system centers on an 11.6-inch touchscreen display that serves as the primary control point for audio, climate, navigation, and vehicle settings. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, allowing drivers to connect smartphones wirelessly or via USB cable to access navigation applications, messaging services, and audio content from their phones. The system supports voice commands that allow drivers to control certain functions without removing their hands from the steering wheel. A backup camera displays a live video feed on the infotainment screen when the vehicle is placed in reverse, showing the area directly behind the vehicle and extending lines to indicate the vehicle's probable path.

Practical takeaway: Understanding the interior layout and climate control options helps you determine whether the comfort features match your driving preferences, especially if you spend significant time commuting or traveling long distances regularly.

Safety Technology and Driver Assistance Systems

The 2027 Subaru Outback incorporates an extensive suite of safety technologies collectively called EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which uses a pair of cameras mounted near the top of the windshield to monitor the road ahead. These cameras have a viewing range of approximately 300 feet in front of the vehicle and can identify vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in the vehicle's path. The system processes this visual information in real-time to provide warnings and intervention when necessary.

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Pre-collision system functionality represents one of the primary functions of the EyeSight system. When the cameras detect a vehicle ahead moving slower than the current vehicle, or a stationary vehicle in the path, the system first provides a visual and audible warning to alert the driver. If the driver does not take action to slow down, the system can automatically apply the vehicle's brakes with increasing force as the collision risk increases. The system is calibrated to avoid unnecessary interventions during normal driving situations where sufficient stopping distance exists.

Adaptive cruise control is another key feature enabled by the EyeSight camera system. When activated by