Inside Story: 2010 Subaru Outback 3.6R

2010 Subaru Outback 3.6R. Click image to enlarge

An auto-dimming mirror with compass is joined by an oversized sunglasses holder, backlit vanity mirrors, and visors with sunblocker slide panels. The auto-slide sunroof gets a beefy deflector. The roof rails hide a unique secret, with integrated swing-out crossbars that require no twist dials or tools to lock in place.

Full power glide and recline is joined by power lumbar on the driver’s seat. Heat is two-step for front passengers. Rear seats can achieve respectable reclination.

The cargo area is big on security, with a removable retractable cover and an additional spring-loaded panel to meet the seatbacks. Seatback release/recline is located at the bottom of the upper seat cushion, with a spring-loaded drop-down that wakes you up like hi-test java. Once lowered, the seatback’s flat is all that. Cargo tiedowns, bag hooks, and a 12-volt DC powerpoint are included. The cargo floor stays aloft with a built-in tether, allowing access to additional storage in a removable foam biscuit.

When we last left the foam biscuit, it was covering the temporary spare tire, with tools housed in an anti-rattle foam biscuit cousin. Subaru will change that spare for you, during the first three years of ownership, with no mileage caveat stated.

A 3.6 litre 256-horsepower boxer six resides under this cover, which still presents itself well for future maintenance. The accessory drive belt is within reach, as are all fluid fill points, including an oil ‘centre’ of sorts. Of particular note beneath this bonnet is the attention to electrical wiring protection, with an overabundance of protective taping and heat shrink tubing. City mileage is rated at 11.8 L/100 km city, and 8.2 highway. A mix of urban and highway during the test period returned an impressive combined cycle of 10.4 L/100 km. It should be noted that this feat was accomplished with the recommended 87 octane fuel, and a throttle pedal that seems to be mapped as on/off. Note to Subaru; consider an eco mapping switch to calm this boxer down, for days that IS doesn’t feel like dusting milk can muffler Honda Civics.