2016 Subaru Outback

2016 Subaru Outback Highlights

The 2016 Subaru Outback continues to build on its reputation as a versatile and capable crossover SUV. While changes for this model year are minimal, they include enhancements to safety features, steering responsiveness, and ride comfort in certain trims.

Key Details

• Midsize crossover SUV body style
• Wagon-like styling
• Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) across all trims
• Two engine options: 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter six-cylinder
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• 8.7 inches of ground clearance

Benefits

• Standard all-wheel drive
• Fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine option
• Generous ground clearance
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Strong safety ratings and available advanced safety features

Related: How Long Do Subaru Outbacks Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

2016 Subaru Outback Overview

Performance

The 2016 Subaru Outback offers two engine options:

2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine (2.5i trims):

• 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Standard all-wheel drive

3.6-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine (3.6R Limited):

• 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Standard all-wheel drive

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving while prioritizing fuel efficiency. It's well-suited for most drivers' needs, offering a good balance of performance and economy.

For those seeking more power, the 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine in the 3.6R Limited trim provides stronger acceleration and improved towing capacity. This engine is particularly helpful for drivers who frequently carry heavy loads or tow trailers.

Both engines use Subaru's distinctive Boxer configuration, which places the cylinders horizontally opposed. This design contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing the vehicle's stability and handling characteristics.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard across all trims. While some drivers may miss the feeling of traditional gear shifts, the CVT helps optimize fuel efficiency and provides smooth power delivery. The transmission features a manual mode with paddle shifters, allowing drivers to simulate desired gear changes.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Outback a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also named the 2016 Outback a Top Safety Pick+, its highest designation.

Standard safety features across all trims include:

• Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag
• Vehicle stability control with traction control
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
• Rearview camera

The Outback also offers Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology on most trims, which includes:

• Pre-collision braking (forward collision warning with moderate-speed automatic emergency braking)
• Lane departure and sway warning
• Lane keep assist (new for 2016)
• Adaptive cruise control

Additional available safety technologies include:

• Blind-spot monitoring with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
• Steering-responsive fog lights

Driving

The 2016 Subaru Outback offers a driving experience that balances comfort, capability, and practicality. The vehicle's all-wheel-drive system and generous ground clearance (8.7 inches) provide confidence in various driving conditions, from snowy roads to light off-road trails.

For 2016, Subaru has improved the Outback's steering feel, resulting in more responsive and precise handling. The suspension balances comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining stability during cornering. The Limited trim also receives a recalibrated suspension to provide a smoother ride.

The 2.5i models provide adequate acceleration for most driving situations, though the car may feel strained when fully loaded or during steep climbs. The 3.6R Limited, with its six-cylinder solid engine, offers more robust performance and easier highway passing.

Interior

The 2016 Subaru Outback interior blends functionality, comfort, and durability into a spacious cabin for five adults. In addition, the dashboard and center console are straightforward and user-friendly, with controls logically arranged for easy access. The Outback has 35.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 73.3 cubic feet with the back seats folded.

Key interior features include:

• 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks
• Reclining rear seats
• Tilt and telescoping steering column
• Available ten-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support
• Available leather upholstery (Limited trims)
• Dual-zone automatic climate control (Premium and Limited trims)

Technology

The 2016 Subaru Outback comes equipped with a range of technology features centered around the Starlink infotainment system. Standard and available features include:

• 6.2-inch touchscreen display (standard on base 2.5i)
• 7-inch touchscreen display (standard on Premium and Limited trims)
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
• USB port and auxiliary input jack
• Available navigation system
• Available 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system
• Available rear-seat entertainment system

Subaru introduced a new Starlink Safety and Security package for the Premium and Limited trims 2016. This system includes automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, and enhanced roadside assistance.

Fuel Economy

The 2016 Subaru Outback offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class, particularly considering its standard all-wheel-drive system. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine:

• AWD (mpg): 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined

3.6-liter six-cylinder engine:

• AWD (mpg): 20 city / 27 highway / 22 combined

2016 Subaru Outback Reviews

2016 Subaru Outback consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are pretty favorable, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. Owners give the Outback high marks for quality, reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Standard all-wheel drive across all trims
• Generous cabin and cargo space
• Excellent safety ratings and available advanced safety features
• Good fuel economy, especially with the four-cylinder engine
• Capable light off-road performance

Problems

• Base four-cylinder engine may feel underpowered for some drivers
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT) may not appeal to all drivers
• Infotainment systems can be less intuitive than some competitors
• Higher starting price compared to some rivals
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims

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CoPilot's Take

The 2016 Subaru Outback excels as a versatile and capable crossover SUV. It successfully blends the practicality of a wagon with the capability of an SUV, offering a mainstream take on something usually associated with upscale European brands. Its strengths lie in standard all-wheel drive and a spacious interior.

While the base four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most situations, those who frequently carry heavy loads or want more spirited performance may want to consider the six-cylinder option. While efficient, the continuously variable transmission may take some time for drivers accustomed to traditional automatics.

Lastly, the Outback's safety features, particularly the available EyeSight system, are impressive and contribute to its excellent safety ratings. However, it's worth noting that some of these advanced features are only available on higher trims.

2016 Subaru Outback FAQs

Is 2016 a good year for Subaru Outbacks?

Yes, 2016 is generally considered a good year for Subaru Outbacks. The 2016 model benefits from updates introduced in the 2015 redesign, including improved interior quality, enhanced technology features, and refined driving dynamics. It also introduces minor improvements, such as adding lane keep assist to the EyeSight system and a recalibrated suspension for the Limited trim.

What are the main problems of the 2016 Subaru Outback?

A review of records from NHTSA and carcomplaints.com shows 2016 Subaru Outback problems include:

• Numerous owners complain of electrical issues, with many involving a drained battery
• There are dozens of reports involving the engine, including loss of power while accelerating and surging
• To a lesser extent, some 2016 Outback owners have experienced steering system troubles

Does a 2016 Subaru Outback have a timing belt or chain?

The 2016 Subaru Outback uses a timing chain in the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter six-cylinder engines. Timing chains are generally considered more durable and longer-lasting than timing belts, and they typically don't require replacement at regular intervals as timing belts do. However, it's always best to consult the vehicle's manual and follow Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity.

What trims are available for the 2016 Subaru Outback?

The 2016 Outback has four versions:

• 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i
• 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
• 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited
• 2016 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited

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