Last week, Subaru of America provided its U.S. dealers with a first look at the upcoming 2025 Subaru Outback. The midsize SUV, which currently undergoes minor updates in its 2023 version, is set for a full redesign to rejuvenate its appeal. Dealers attending the private event expressed excitement over the next-generation model, signaling significant enhancements on the horizon. This glimpse offers a promising step toward elevating the Outback’s competitiveness in the SUV market.
Dealer Reactions to the Redesigned Outback
Dealers who attended the event were thrilled with the redesign, with Jeff Williams, a Subaru dealer in Michigan, praising the engineers and designers for addressing key issues with the current Outback. While specifics remain confidential, the optimism reflects a belief in the model’s ability to regain market dominance. The redesign appears to align closely with dealer feedback, boosting confidence in Subaru’s responsiveness to consumer needs.
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Despite its popularity, the current Outback has faced challenges, including a stop-sale for the 2023 model due to a malfunctioning SOS button. This issue affected the Subaru Starlink system, raising concerns among dealers and consumers. Additionally, the absence of a hybrid powertrain has limited its competitiveness against hybrid SUVs like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Ford Explorer Hybrid, which outsold the Outback last year.
Anticipated Hybrid Powertrain Integration
The 2025 Outback may feature a hybrid powertrain combining Subaru’s 1.8-liter turbocharged Boxer engine with hybrid technology co-developed with Toyota. This innovation would align with Subaru’s broader goal of electrifying 40% of its lineup by 2030. A hybrid Outback would enhance fuel efficiency and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, providing a crucial edge in the competitive midsize SUV market.
The redesigned Outback reflects Subaru’s commitment to its 2020 Vision plan, aiming for a fully electric lineup by the 2030s. If production constraints ease, the 2025 Outback Hybrid could drive the model’s resurgence as Subaru’s top seller. By addressing past shortcomings and incorporating advanced technology, the automaker is well-positioned to strengthen its foothold in the all-wheel-drive SUV market.
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