The 2023 Subaru Outback Goes Bold for New York

Subaru updates the Outback’s styling for 2023, which includes a revised front fascia and more wheel-arch cladding. Powertrains are unchanged from current models and both the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated and 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engines are available.Pricing is to be determined but is expected to come closer to the Outback’s fall release. Subaru’s sixth-generation Outback might only be a few years old, but it’s already gone under the knife. The updated Outback debuts at the New York auto show with a host of styling and tech updates to make it more competitive in the crossover-hungry marketplace. Subaru reshaped the Outback’s front fascia and added some extra cladding to make it look more rugged, while adding some interesting new consumer tech for good measure.Diving under the hood, Subaru keeps its powertrains the same as the 2022 models. That means base-model Outbacks will use a 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder that sends 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque through a continuously variable transmission. The higher-performance XT models sports a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer that ramps power to 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. That more powerful engine also feeds a CVT, which pushes power to the wheels by way of the standard all-wheel-drive system. While the powertrains might carry over from the current models, the styling pushes the ’23 Outback in a more rugged direction. From the front, the Outback sees a new bumper cover, grille, and LED headlights. This new front styling is joined by extra cladding around the wheel arches, which might give you more protection when hitting the trails on your weekend escape. While this styling update might seem minor on paper, it does give the Outback a more striking appearance than the reserved stance found on Outbacks at your local dealer. It should be noted that Wilderness models won’t see these styling updates.Joining these styling enhancements is some new tech. Subaru added wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment for the Outback, which is controlled by the 11.6-inch Starlink media screen. Subaru’s media system promises improved on-screen controls for the radio, climate control, and other vehicle features. In addition, Subaru adds driver safety features such as standard adaptive cruise control with lane-centering and the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation camera system that makes sure you’re watching the road. You can also tack on an optional Front View Monitor that Subaru says captures images within the driver’s blind spots and displays them onto the media screen, which helps you in parking or off-road situations.Subaru hasn’t released pricing but says the numbers will come closer to its on-sale date this fall. Considering inflation, new car scarcity and the new features, you can almost bet on the price rising from the current $28,320 base price.