2024 Subaru Outback MPG & Performance

Explore the Versatile Performance of the 2024 Subaru Outback 

The 2024 Subaru Outback continues its legacy as a versatile and dependable midsize crossover SUV, perfect for those who demand performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Known for its ruggedness and reliability, the latest Outback model brings together advanced engineering and thoughtful design to deliver a driving experience that's as efficient as it is enjoyable. 

You can choose the Outback in Base, Premium, Onyx Edition, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Touring XT trim levels, each with increasing features and amenities. At McGrath Evanston Subaru in Skokie, Illinois, we're excited to delve into the specifics of the Outback's mpg  ratings and performance attributes.

Engine Options and Efficiency 

A 2024 Subaru Outback by J Dean licensed with Unsplash License

Under the hood of Base through Touring models is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque to the standard all-wheel-drive system. For those seeking more power, the Wilderness and XT trims come standard with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

With the base engine, the Outback rewards you with up to 26 mpg for city driving and 32 mpg on the highway. In XT trims, the turbocharged engine returns up to 22 and 29 mpg for city and highway driving, while the off-road-oriented Wilderness trim does 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Performance Enhancements 

All Outback models come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which enhances handling and stability in various weather and road conditions. The system's symmetrical design contributes to even weight distribution and a lower center of gravity. Power and torque are delivered continuously to all four wheels, and the system instantly adjusts power delivery to counteract the loss of grip of any wheel and sends power to the wheels with the most traction.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) constantly monitors wheel speeds, steering and brake inputs, lateral g-forces, and vehicle yaw rate. If the system detects the vehicle deviating from the driver's intended path, it can apply the brakes and reduce engine torque to help bring the car back on the correct path. VDC incorporates a traction control system and works in tandem with Active Torque Vectoring for sharper and more confident handling through corners.

The Outback features Subaru's Lineartronic CVT which uses a belt, chain, and pulley system instead of the traditional gears in an automatic transmission. The CVT offers a wider range of ratios and seamless shifts. It continuously adjusts to keep the engine running at the optimal RPM and at its most efficient. This results in smoother acceleration and increased fuel efficiency.

Advanced Driving Technology 

X-MODE optimizes engine output and transmission ratios to improve driving dynamics on challenging terrains. It increases the AWD system engagement and enhances the VDC for optimum traction on slippery surfaces. X-MODE incorporates hill descent control for added stability and control when driving down difficult grades.

Onyx Edition trims feature dual-function X MODE with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud modes. The Wilderness trim adds even more off-road capability with dual-function X-MODE, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, a front skid plate, and an upgraded AWD system with a low ratio setting.

Towing and Utility

The Outback's spacious cabin seats five people in comfort. With a full complement of passengers, it offers 32.6 cubic feet of space for your gear behind the second row. When you've got more gear than people, folding down the rear seats gives you a generous 75.6 cubic foot cargo area. Loading all your cargo is easy with the available hands-free power liftgate.

If you need to take bigger toys on your weekend and vacation adventures, with the base engine, the Outback has a towing capacity of up to 2,700 pounds, when properly equipped. The more powerful turbocharged engine increases the maximum towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. 

That is sufficient for towing a small teardrop or A-frame camper, a canoe or kayak trailer, a motorcycle or jet ski trailer, or a small fishing boat. The standard raised roof rails enable you to load items like bikes, kayaks, skis, and cargo carriers on the Outback's roof. Built-in tie-downs make it easy to secure your load. You can fold away the integrated roof crossbars when not in use for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ride Quality and Comfort Suspension System

With its four-wheel independent raised suspension, the Outback is designed to offer a comfortable ride on highways as well as competent handling when you hit the trails.  The vehicle features engineering enhancements aimed at reducing road noise and vibrations to enhance the overall comfort levels during long drives. 

Safety Technologies 

The Outback comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology. It includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, sway alert, automatic emergency steering, and pre-collision braking. A standard brake override system reduces throttle operation if both the brake and accelerator pedals are pressed at the same time to prevent accidental acceleration.

Depending on the trim level, available features include blind-spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross-traffic warning, and automatic reverse braking. Limited and Touring models offer the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, which alerts the driver if it detects distracted or drowsy driving. Some of these technologies not only increase safety and help prevent collisions but also contribute to the vehicle's efficient performance. 

Test-Drive the 2024 Subaru Outback at McGrath Evanston Subaru in Skokie, IL

At McGrath Evanston Subaru in Skokie, Illinois, we have an extensive range of Subaru vehicles, including the 2024 Outback. Browse our inventory online or in person at our conveniently located dealership. When you find an Outback model that interests you, our sales team will be happy to demonstrate all its great features and amenities. 

Contact us to schedule a test-drive of the Outback today and discover its superb driving dynamics and off-road prowess. The friendly team in our finance department works with a network of lenders to find you an auto loan with the best rates and flexible terms.