10 Reasons the 2017 Subaru Outback Wins Autoweb Buyer's Choice Best Wagon Award

2017 Subaru Outback profile ・ Photo by Subaru

Yes, the 2017 Subaru Outback did win the 2017 Autoweb Buyer's Choice Award as the No. 1 Wagon, yet shoppers should remember that this is one vehicle that can appeal to both car fans and those who prefer SUVs—or anyone looking for lots of technology in an affordable, all-wheel-drive package.

#10: Starlink telematics

Also available for the 2017 Subaru Outback is a wide assortment of Starlink telematics packages. These can provide access to a one-button “SOS” feature, automatic crash notification that works even if no one can press a button, enhanced roadside assistance, remote lock/unlock service, a remote vehicle locator, and monthly vehicle health reports.

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#9: Boxer engines

Two boxer-style engines are available for the 2017 Subaru Outback: The standard four-cylinder unit is surprisingly efficient, backed by an EPA grade of 28 mpg in combined driving. And don’t forget, that’s with all-wheel drive. The Outback’s available V6 then kicks out 256 horsepower for buyers who need more grunt.

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#8: A collection of comfort cues

The 2017 Subaru Outback certainly won’t shy away from hard work and challenging road conditions. However that doesn’t mean the Outback is without its share of luxury cues, including leather upholstery and woodgrain trim, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated seats in both the first and second rows.

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#7: Available Harman Kardon audio

If the 2017 Subaru Outback sounds good so far, you should take a listen to its available premium sound system. It comes from the automotive audiophiles of Harman Kardon and features a dozen speakers—including a subwoofer and a center-dash speaker—along with the equivalent of 576 watts of power.

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#6: Starlink infotainment

The 2017 Subaru Outback has a Starlink infotainment system as standard equipment even on entry models, complete with a 6.2-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity and access to select mobile apps (with a compatible smartphone). In uplevel grades, the setups can have 7-inch screens, navigation, voice control and SiriusXM services.

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#5: The new Touring trim

The 2017 Subaru Outback Touring edition becomes the most premium choice in the lineup for the new model year, wearing exclusive details like a dark gray grille insert, 18-inch machine-finished wheels, lower body cladding and silver-finish low-profile roof rails. The Touring cabin touts Java Brown leather with Ivory stitching.

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#4: The upgraded Outback Limited

Last year’s range-topping trim, the Limited grade, does remain on the menu for the 2017 Subaru Outback, and it adds extra safety technology. Now standard are automatic high beams, blind-spot detection, a rear cross-traffic alert and the innovative Reverse Automatic Braking system, which functions when the Outback backs up.

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#3: EyeSight driver assistance

Of course, that refers to the EyeSight driver-assistance technologies that are offered for the 2017 Subaru Outback, such as adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Eyesight’s ability to prevent front crashes was rated as “superior” by the IIHS—helping the Outback earn Top Safety Pick+ status.

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#2: Wagon-like cargo capacity

One of things folks have always liked about wagons is their ability to carry lots of gear, and the 2017 Subaru Outback won’t disappoint in that regard. After all, it can handle 35.5 cubic feet of cargo behind its rear seats. Fold the rear seatbacks and that jumps to 73.3 cubic feet.

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#1: Standard all-wheel drive

A hallmark of the Subaru brand is its symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology, and the specific system in the 2017 Subaru Outback is especially impressive. Among its standard upgrades is active torque vectoring, to help ensure the wheels with the best grip get the most torque, and X-Mode, which optimizes key vehicle systems for extreme off-road travel.

Read about the 17 Most Wanted Vehicles of 2016 for the full list of the 2017 Autobytel Car Buyer's Choice Award recipients.

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