Very little has changed since the fourth-generation Outback debuted for 2010, and 2012 promises a bit more of the same. Last year a rear-view camera joined the options list and satellite radio became standard at the top of the line with the big V6 in the 3.6R Limited. This year sees a new standard audio system across the board, including Bluetooth, satellite radio and iPod controls. Premium trims - second to the top - get the multifunction steering wheel to go with the new Bluetooth functionality, and a new stereo upgrade joins the options list. Aside from that, the swinging crossbar roof rack was revised.
The new optional 9-speaker Harman Kardon display audio system includes a 4.3-inch screen, iTunes tagging and satellite radio. It's not clear whether this upgrade is available for every trim, but in either case the stereo is not the most common driver complaint. Actually, the stereo system is the least common complaint, with idle engine whine and steering shake taking the cake.
All-wheel-drive systems are notoriously difficult to keep balanced, and the boxer type of horizontally opposed engines also used in the Outback are likewise difficult to keep in perfect balance. Either one can start to behave off-kilter if just one thing isn't bolted in or aligned properly - so do be sure to call a spade a spade and bring it back for this manufacturing defect as soon as possible. Subaru does appear to be interested in making it right, even though service seems to vary from dealer to dealer.
Other driver dreams include headrests that lean back for more comfort, more of the car-like handling of the smaller third generation, a two-piece liftgate for transporting bulkier items, a turbocharged engine to compensate for power loss at high altitudes, and any amount of torque in reverse - unfortunately the 2012 Outback wasn't designed to overcome obstacles in reverse without first gathering some momentum, and mountaineering without that turbo could leave you high and, well, going a little backwards. Some drivers have noted powertrain issues like harsh downshifts, poor fuel economy and hesitant power, but so far nothing alarming, and most drivers feel confident in the laggard 9.4-second zip-to-60 time offered by the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer at the 2.5i level.
With the possible exception of the standard and optional stereo upgrades - since it's not known if the new display shows the entire song title or simplifies use - all of the 2012 additions seem to come from thin air, with no basis in customer feedback. Nevertheless, there are certain areas where this Outback really shines.
Elbow room, cabin materials, comfort, legroom, headroom and even crossover-best cargo capacity - the list of Outback positives goes on. The 2012 Outback is certainly cozy, and perfect crash test scores on a lightweight but super-durable high-tensile steel frame definitely help ease the mind, too. Each of the six all-wheel-drive trims to choose from offer either a CVT or 6-speed manual and a unique personality all their own - just waiting to be discovered by the right driver.
