Subaru Canada Outback Wilderness: Review & Adventure

Let's dive into the Subaru Canada Outback Wilderness, a vehicle that's been making waves for its rugged capabilities and adventurous spirit. For those of you who crave off-road escapades without sacrificing everyday comfort, the Outback Wilderness might just be your perfect match. We'll explore what makes this trim level special, focusing on its unique features, performance, and how it stands out in the crowded SUV market. So, buckle up, adventure enthusiasts, and let's get started!

Unveiling the Outback Wilderness

The Subaru Outback Wilderness isn't just your average Outback; it's a specially engineered variant designed to tackle tougher terrain. Subaru Canada has taken the already capable Outback and cranked it up a notch, adding features that cater specifically to off-road enthusiasts. One of the most noticeable differences is the increased ground clearance. The Wilderness boasts a higher ride height compared to the standard Outback, allowing it to clear obstacles that would leave other SUVs scraping their undercarriage. This is a game-changer when you're navigating rocky trails or deep snow.

Beyond the increased ground clearance, Subaru has also tweaked the suspension for improved off-road performance. The Wilderness features longer travel springs and retuned dampers, providing a smoother ride on uneven surfaces and enhancing wheel articulation. This means the wheels can maintain better contact with the ground, even when the terrain gets challenging, translating to more confidence and control behind the wheel. Another key upgrade is the inclusion of Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires. These tires offer a more aggressive tread pattern than the standard Outback's tires, providing superior grip on loose surfaces like dirt, gravel, and mud. The combination of increased ground clearance, enhanced suspension, and all-terrain tires makes the Outback Wilderness a formidable off-road machine. But it's not just about capability; Subaru has also given the Wilderness a distinctive look to match its adventurous personality. The exterior features unique styling elements such as a revised front bumper, blacked-out trim, and exclusive badging. These visual cues set the Wilderness apart from the rest of the Outback lineup and signal its off-road intentions. Inside, the Wilderness boasts water-resistant upholstery, ensuring that spills and muddy boots won't ruin the interior. The seats are also designed for comfort, providing ample support during long drives, both on and off the road. Overall, the Outback Wilderness is a well-rounded package that combines rugged capability with everyday practicality, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Canada Outback Wilderness doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER engine that delivers a healthy dose of power and torque. This engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that has been specifically tuned for off-road use. The CVT features a revised final drive ratio, providing more low-end torque for climbing steep hills and navigating challenging terrain. The turbocharged engine produces plenty of power for both on- and off-road driving. It delivers strong acceleration and ample torque, making it easy to pass other vehicles on the highway or power through obstacles on the trail. The engine is also relatively fuel-efficient, considering its performance capabilities, allowing you to explore farther without constantly worrying about refueling. The Lineartronic CVT is generally smooth and responsive, but some drivers may find it a bit less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. However, the CVT's revised tuning for off-road use is a definite plus, as it helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band when tackling challenging terrain. The Outback Wilderness also features Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which is renowned for its excellent traction and stability. This system constantly monitors wheel slip and automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, ensuring that the vehicle remains firmly planted on the road or trail. In addition to the standard all-wheel drive system, the Wilderness also includes X-MODE, which further enhances off-road performance. X-MODE features different settings for various types of terrain, such as snow, mud, and sand. When activated, X-MODE optimizes the engine output, transmission settings, and all-wheel drive system to provide maximum traction and control. Overall, the Outback Wilderness offers a well-balanced combination of power, handling, and off-road capability. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on the highway as it is on the trail, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, while the Lineartronic CVT and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensure smooth and confident performance in a variety of conditions. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or simply want a vehicle that can handle whatever the road throws at it, the Outback Wilderness is a solid choice.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the Subaru Canada Outback Wilderness, you'll find a well-appointed interior that blends comfort, convenience, and durability. While it's designed to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures, the cabin doesn't sacrifice everyday usability. The seats are upholstered in water-resistant StarTex material, which is not only easy to clean but also provides a comfortable seating surface. The front seats offer ample support and cushioning, making them ideal for long drives. The rear seats are also spacious and comfortable, providing plenty of legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The interior design is functional and straightforward, with logically arranged controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system, which includes features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The infotainment system is generally responsive and easy to use, but some users may find the touchscreen interface a bit distracting while driving. In terms of technology, the Outback Wilderness comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system. EyeSight includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents. Other notable technology features include a premium audio system, a power moonroof, and a hands-free power liftgate. The premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall driving experience. The power moonroof allows you to let in natural light and fresh air, while the hands-free power liftgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo. Overall, the interior of the Outback Wilderness is a comfortable and well-equipped space that's designed to withstand the demands of outdoor adventures. The water-resistant upholstery, user-friendly technology, and advanced safety features make it a practical and enjoyable place to spend time, whether you're tackling a challenging trail or simply running errands around town. The attention to detail and focus on functionality are evident throughout the cabin, making it a standout feature of the Outback Wilderness.

The Verdict: Is the Outback Wilderness Right for You?

So, is the Subaru Canada Outback Wilderness the right vehicle for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're an avid outdoor enthusiast who frequently ventures off the beaten path, then the Outback Wilderness is definitely worth considering. Its increased ground clearance, enhanced suspension, and all-terrain tires make it a capable and confident off-road performer. The water-resistant interior and durable materials are also a plus, as they can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures. However, if you primarily drive on paved roads and rarely venture off-road, then the standard Outback may be a better choice. The standard Outback offers a more comfortable ride and better fuel economy, without sacrificing too much in terms of capability. It also comes with a lower price tag, which may be a significant factor for some buyers.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Outback Wilderness is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel and experience its off-road capabilities firsthand. See how it handles on the trail and how comfortable it is on the road. Consider your individual needs and priorities, and weigh the pros and cons of the Wilderness against the standard Outback. The Outback Wilderness is a compelling option for those who want a vehicle that can handle both everyday driving and off-road adventures. Its rugged design, capable performance, and well-equipped interior make it a standout in the SUV market. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or simply want a vehicle that can handle whatever the road throws at it, the Outback Wilderness is a solid choice.