Subaru Outback X strictly limited

Subaru of New Zealand will only have a limited number of the new Outback X to sell as its US counterpart gobbles up many of the new SUVs coming off the production line.

The new model in the marque’s 2020 line-up is built upon the success of earlier Outback versions and will be available here from late January

“Outback has evolved to be the vehicle most Kiwis now recognise the Subaru brand by,” says Wallis Dumper, managing director at Subaru of New Zealand. “It’s a stalwart SUV for us in what we call ‘Subaru Country’, so this new Limited Edition X model is a great addition to the 2020 line-up.

“Our challenge is actually getting production allocation, as Subaru Corporation in Japan are very aware of the global sales trend towards SUVs and have the reality of a strong Subaru market demand in the United States to satisfy.

“That said, by us accepting the Outback X as a Limited Edition for New Zealand, it also helps with stronger residual values.”

For the first time in an Outback, the new model features dual-function X-Mode, which helps drivers negotiate challenging roads, slippery surfaces and inclines by constantly monitoring the traction available to each wheel and centralising control of the engine, transmission, brakes and other components.

The Outback X also features water-repellent seat fabric, protective strips in the boot and the 2.5-litre model comes in five different colours – crystal white pearl, crystal black silica, dark blue pearl, magnetite grey and wilderness green.

It is equipped with satellite navigation, crash-avoidance technology, an electronic sunroof, rear power tail gate and a combination meter with white lighting rings and white interior illumination.

The Outback X will be available from $49,990 plus on-road costs.