Subaru Outback V (BS) (2014–2020) (2014 – 2020)

Reliability score : 8.0/10

The fifth-generation Subaru Outback (chassis code BS) was launched in 2014, continuing the brand's tradition of rugged, raised station wagons. Based on the Legacy platform, it positions itself as a spacious, comfortable family crossover particularly capable off-road thanks to its permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and low-center-of-gravity Boxer engines. This generation received a facelift in 2017 (for the 2018 model year), bringing aesthetic updates (bumpers, grille, headlights), interior improvements (materials, infotainment system), and technical optimizations (steering, suspension, EyeSight active safety system). It is renowned for its robustness, safety, and off-road capabilities, but its fuel consumption and the reliability of certain diesel engines can be points to consider. Over

✅ Strengths

Highly effective and safe Symmetrical AWD
Boxer engines (petrol) renowned for their reliability and low center of gravity
Generous cabin space and boot volume
Suspension comfort and off-road capabilities (high ground clearance)
Highly effective active safety (EyeSight system) on equipped models
Overall robustness and durability

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption for the 3.6R, and the CVT can be thirsty
Noise from the Lineartronic (CVT) transmission during strong acceleration
Diesel engine (EE20) reliability inferior to petrol engines
Interior material quality lags behind some premium competitors
Original infotainment system sometimes slow on early model years
Dealer network less dense than mainstream brands

🎯 Verdict

The fifth-generation Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for those seeking a spacious, safe family vehicle that is particularly at home on challenging or snowy roads. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive is a benchmark. For a worry-free purchase, prioritize petrol engines: the 2.5i (FB25) offers a good balance of versatility/fuel consumption, while the 3.6R (EZ36D) is a connoisseur's choice for its power and bulletproof reliability, despite higher fuel consumption. Be more vigilant with the 2.0D (EE20): it can be appealing for high-mileage motorway drivers, but requires rigorous maintenance and can lead to unexpected costs in case of DPF/EGR issues. In all cases, a complete service history and regular CVT fluid changes are essential to ensure the vehicle's longevity. The 2017 facelift brought notable improvements, making post-2017 models slightly more desirable.

Common issues

Problèmes de transmission CVT (Lineartronic) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 2 500 – 6 000 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien de la CVT, faire vidanger le fluide régulièrement.

Usure prématurée des roulements de roue Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 250 – 500 € par roue

Écouter attentivement les bruits de roulement lors de l'essai routier.

Consommation d'huile moteur supérieure à la moyenne Low

🔧 Dès 50 000 km, s'accentue avec l'âge

💶 Coût des appoints d'huile ; risque de dommages moteur si non surveillée.

Vérifier le niveau d'huile fréquemment et faire l'appoint si nécessaire.

Défaillance du système de climatisation Medium

🔧 80 000 – 160 000 km

💶 600 – 1 500 €

Tester la climatisation à fond avant l'achat, vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 300 (si remplacement nécessaire suite à une panne)
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.