Used 2021 Subaru Outback Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) Consumer Reviews
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2021 Outback Limited - the good and the bad
I had a 2016 Outback Limited for 5 years and traded it in for a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland so I could be cool. I didn't like the Jeep for various reasons (mostly the unbearable road noise) so I traded it in for a 2021 Outback. I test-drove the XT as well but didn't notice enough of a difference to warrant the extra cost and worse gas mileage. I mostly like the Outback but here are my (nit-picky) complaints: you can't put the visor all the way up b/c of the Eyesight Driver Assist thingy blocks it, so it only goes 3/4 of the way up. Subaru didn't think that one through; no cap-less gas tank? Sheesh, Subaru; base engine is underpowered, but that's what you sacrifice to get good gas mileage; the auto-stop start is rough (Jeep's was smooth); too much touch screen and not enough buttons: heated seats and auto stop-start should ALWAYS be a physical button (are you reading this, Subaru?). You have to go into SUB menus for both, which is a pain (especially when it's cold and there is a huge delay when navigating through the screens); rear-camera picture quality is so-so; advertised gas mileage is false: my combined average is about 24 mpg (slightly better than my 2016 Outback) and that's driving like a normal person; there is a slight vibration when the car is idling in drive. I hope that goes away. Here's what I LIKE: overall, the value is good. I got mine basically loaded for about $36k; rear leg room is good and the back seats recline; the cargo space is great; the liftgate is awesome; the safety features are great - you basically can't do anything wrong without the car yelling at you (each of these features can be disabled); the "leather" is nice; if you have kids, get the rear sun shades. I love being able to start the car and adjust the temp from an app on my phone. The AWD is awesome. Overall, it's a good car. My friends make fun of me for driving a wagon, but whatever. It's the overall quality of this car that makes it worth it. The guy who sold me the car told me today that Subaru will have an update in the summer of 2021 for wireless Apple CarPlay, so that's cool. So this car is worth it if you're a "big picture" person who cares about overall quality and function.
AGAIN!
Two months ago we purchased a 2021 Outback with 14 miiles. Aprox. one month in...the car's lights came on...check engine,etc. and started making an odd sound. Off to the dealer we went. We went without this car for over 2 weeks. Then this week(Tuesday the 17th) my husband was planning to visit his family and while going up a little hill...it started jerking and the lights all came on again and died. He was able to get the car going again and headed into a parking lot. There he called for help...got towed and here we are...three days and our NEW car isn't here! I don't trust this car at all. I want a new one...this is ridiculous! We sadly traded in our Subaru that was over 10 years old...that RAN!..What a mess...we now have a lemon...oops...we have it when it runs!
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- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $22,000In-stock online
- Limited XT 4dr SUVMSRP: $24,121In-stock online
- Limited 4dr SUVMSRP: $24,952In-stock online
2021 Subaru Outback nightmare
Purchased brand new Dec. 2020. Within 80 miles TPMS ⚠️ and lights came on. Tire pressure and tires were fine. Around 100 miles a recall on the computer system was told would fix TPMS issue. I have taken it 3 times for this issue. Horrible leak in the front, large puddles of water in floorboard and under mat on passenger side next to gear shift. Was told molding was bad needs to be replaced, but this doesn't explain the water in the floorboard by the center console. Car engine stop's/starts at will without changing any settings, i.e. engine should shut off when stopped at proper setting but does so irregularly. Now all dash lights saying eyesight off, lane assistance and crash avoidance all come on then few miles down the road all warnings disappear. TPMS will stay on for several trips then randomly disappear, then reappear. I have documented with video and pictures. I have less than 1600 miles on a BRAND new, rarely driven 4.5 month old vehicle and is scheduled for 4th trip for service. No accidents, no driving on anything but well paved suburban roads. I HATE this vehicle and Subaru for all the time I have spent in the service department. I am scared to drive it.
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Everything I was hoping for
I love my Outback! I bought the Limited model and it has everything I wanted and more. I won't be without AWD in Michigan winters and the Outback exceeds in all respects. Comfort, safety, technology, convenience features, fuel efficiency. There's little I don't like about the Outback. This is my sixth Subaru and I wouldn't have any other brand. I've had difficulty with the android auto disconnecting and it seems to be a common issue on outbacks with the cable/phone/head unit interface that's very annoying. Also, I'd like to see a wireless interface with the android auto and full-screen view of google maps. The "my Subaru" remote start app is slow and could be improved. The OEM navigation is not live and must be updated and has no ability to warn of speed traps and traffic problems. Voice navigation is poor compared to google maps so google maps through android auto is what I use. Other than those few minor issues, I wouldn't change much of anything.
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Laptop on wheels!
Great car and my 4th Subaru Outback. The 2021 Outback Limited is a MAJOR upgrade from my 2011 Outback Limited. This one has lots of bells and whistles. There is car homework - must read the manual. Many features! Options exist to turn off some of the digital features - and I appreciate that - not all of the are need for a one owner/driver. Eye-sight takes a bit of getting used to but I can tell it is a great addition. 2021 with 18 inch wheels delivers a heavier, sturdier, smoother ride. Road noise much improved. Interior redesign is wonderful. Feels/looks like a car the next class up. So far I'm very pleased. Dealer I purchased from offers a "re-delivery" two weeks post purchase to meet with digital tech to answer any questions and go over all the features one more time. My appointment is next week and that should be very helpful! I'm hoping the 2021 becomes what my 2011was - my most favorite of all the Outbacks I've owned. I'm sure it will. I think the Subaru Outback is the best car on the road in this price point and category. 4 cylinder delivers plenty of power. Buy one - you will never regret it!
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