Review: The 2020 Subaru Outback is Ready for Adventure In its sixth generation, the Outback becomes more impressive off pavement than on

Review: The 2020 Subaru Outback is Ready for Adventure

In its sixth generation, the Outback becomes more impressive off pavement than on

I had no choice. I couldn't reverse; behind me was a line of 2020 Subaru Outbacks like mine, ready to proceed. Ahead, the steep trail vanished over a crest. I exhaled, pulled the shifter into drive, and released the brake.

The Outback has been a runaway success for Subaru, tallying over 1.8 million sales from the launch of the first generation in 1995 to the model now on its way out. Although Subaru North America would have liked more revolution than evolution in design, decision makers in Japan chose to stay the course. Still, parties on each side of the planet are proud of the completely re-engineered underpinnings, which are stiffer and allow for crumple zones designed around future NHTSA crash tests.In idyllic Mendocino, California, along the Pacific coast, Highway 1's sweepers, hairpins, and rolling elevation demonstrated the 2020 Outback's stiffness, though the suspension allowed some roll. That said, it was free of bounce or jiggle on this glass-smooth asphalt. The repositioned side mirrors and insulated windshield helped minimize wind and tire noise.

It wouldn't be an Outback without standard all-wheel drive, here featuring brake-based torque vectoring. The setup proves competent, but combined with electric power steering, it results in a light and lifeless feel. A surprise test of the reassuringly firm brakes came when a deer leaped onto the road, followed by her fawn—you never know what might show up in this neck of the woods.

Subaru upped its game again with the new Outback's interior. Cloth seating surfaces are plush and grippy; available water-resistant upholstery feels like it could handle muck (though isn't very breathable). Contrast stitching and thoughtful trim selections add an upscale feel. Subaru's adventurous, dog-loving clientele will appreciate the Outback's increased cargo capacity with the rear seats folded down, wider cargo floor, and easy-fold rear seats