The 3 Best 2023 Subaru Outback Features And One They Missed

The 2023 Subaru Outback arrives this fall with three new features that upgrade the midsize SUV. But it's still missing a key feature.

The 2023 Subaru Outback gets a refresh with new features that give the midsize SUV extra levels of safety and new technology. Three upgrades stand out, and one component is still missing on the midsize SUV.

A new wide-angle Mono Camera is added to 2023 Outback Touring trim levels

The new wide-angle Mono Camera is one of the best features added to the 2023 Outback. It works together with the dual-camera EyeSight system. Subaru says, "The additional camera further expands the field of view to recognize pedestrians and bicycles sooner when the vehicle enters an intersection at low speed. EyeSight alerts the driver and, when necessary, applies brakes to avoid collisions with crossing bicycles and pedestrians."

Outback Onyx Edition now offers the 2.5-liter engine

The second upgrade is the 2023 Outback Onyx Edition trim level will now be available with two engine options; the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine is added to the Onyx Edition trim level in addition to the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.

The Onyx Edition is the trim level for those with active lifestyles who will use the SUV to escape civilization. It offers a hands-free power rear gate, a front view monitor, dual-function X-Mode, and a full-size spare tire. The 2.5-liter engine has better fuel mileage than the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. It will be an excellent addition for those who don't need the extra power of the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.

What is the 2023 Outback fuel mileage?

A new report from the EPA reveals the refreshed Outback midsize SUV now gets one mile per gallon less than the 2022 models. The EPA fuel mileage rating of the 2023 Outback XT 2.4-liter turbo is 22/29 city/highway mpg and 25 combined mpg. The estimated fuel economy of the standard 2.5-liter engine is 26/32 mpg city/highway and 28 combined mpg.

Outback with W3W

The 2023 Outback is Subaru's first model for integrating what3words (W3W), an innovative location technology. Subaru says it provides a simple way to communicate precise locations using just three simple words. W3W has divided the world into a grid of 10-foot squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, a what3words address.

Subaru says customers can navigate to and share trailheads, scenic overlooks, and other hard-to-find places "with precise accuracy" using just three words. The feature is standard on models equipped with the Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Navigation system.

Outback is still missing a head-up display

The refreshed Outback offers customers standard safety-first features like driver assist, surround-view cameras with blind-spot detection, and visual indicators in the side mirrors. Still, it doesn't provide a head-up display (HUD) system that projects information onto the windshield.

A head-up display is more than a luxury feature. It's a needed safety feature because it allows the driver to keep both eyes on the road by directly putting essential information in the driver's sight. Many automakers like Mazda and Hyundai now offer a head-up display on lower trims, and you don't have to buy a luxury car to get it. It's the one feature Subaru should provide on the 2023 Outback midsize SUV.

The 2023 Subaru Outback will be available in U.S. showrooms this fall. Look for the refreshed Outback to get a significant price increase. Stay tuned.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru USA