New Subaru Outback Sales Drop Like A Rock - It's Being Upstaged By The Substantial Ascent

I'm disappointed. Having issues with many of the advanced features. Dealer explained that there are 41 computers, and there is nothing they can do. The map system typically creates routes that take 1-3 hours longer than Google Maps. The satellite radio reception is much poorer than the FM radio. The automatic engine shutoff restarts in less time than the manual says you need for it to save gas. The driver recognition system is a joke. The Eye Sight system is so bad that it's useless. And it makes so much noise for no reason.

I've had a ton of problems with my infotainment system in my 2018 OB. Not sure why someone shopping for an Outback sized SUV would scale up, either you need the room or you don't.

I think the new OB design is really ugly too. Glad I got their last 3.6R.

Or maybe it's because the Outback isn't a wagon anymore? The Outback is a crossover now for Subaru, with the Forrester being the "compact" SUV (and still kinda big for that category) and the Ascent being the their full size SUV. If the Outback had maintained it's "sport wagon" size and feel then maybe it would be doing better since, essentially, no one else in the U.S. makes one. Subaru made the Outback big and boaty, I saw one sitting next to a BMW X3(compact SUV) and the Outback was BIGGER. I won't by an Outback at it's current size and stature but the old TRUE Wagons that were Outbacks are still some of my fav cars.

Loved the Subies over the years. I’ve had every 6 OB models since 2003, I’ve been following the OB Forum, unfortunately too many dislikes of infotainment system, start stop, windshields cracking, everything is touch screen-no knobs or buttons, no more storage pockets like before and almost $40K if you want more HP via the turbo, even looks so similar to my 2010 and 2012! Looking to move onto a larger Honda Passport with a V6 for the same price range and options, Subaru is not a $20K value car anymore.....

Happy owner of 2011 and 2017 outback 3.6R but declined 2020 outback. Overly intrusive warning bells, abrupt stop-start system, terrible turbo lag in the optional engine, lack of buttons and dials which forces use of too many menus on the infotainment screens. Needs fixing.

Fix the infotainment in the Outback, recall everything for some serious software and possibly even RAM upgrades, and then see what happens. Also seems priced to fail with how the pricing on turbo engines matches up with the Ascent.

As an owner of two subarus I can tell you im done with Subaru after these two. Shoot luckily the resale value is high so i may just get rid of them soon. The 2011 legacy 3.6r has had a timing cover leak since 65k miles which would cost a great amount to fix. The 2017 outback 2.5i has a cam carrier case leak at 61k miles. Its bull. Just outside of the warranty and getting major leaks that are unacceptable in my opinion. Its not like these are high powered cars, they shouldnt be leaking especially at 60-70k miles. Btw i have only followed the severe service intervals on my cars and yet this happens. Not only that but the vast majority of new subarus have the same fb25 engine that is in my outback. So good luck with that engine guys. Not only that but the rediculous infotainment systems are an absolute atrocity. Subaru owners are about practicallity and safety so why are you going to put some shiny piano black, highly distracting and non intuitive controls in your best crossover. I 100% will not buy a car that does not have physical controls for all the following; lights, volume, tuning, hvac, seat heaters, and all the traction/stability/awd controls. So essentially im going to a mazda, kia or hyundai.