Subaru Outback VI (BT) (2020–2025) (2020 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The sixth-generation Outback (BT code) is based on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP), offering a significant leap forward in rigidity, soundproofing, and safety (EyeSight v4). IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION REGARDING DIESEL: As an expert, it is crucial to specify that Subaru definitively abandoned the Diesel engine (the famous 2.0D Boxer EE20) at the end of the previous generation (BS) in 2018/2019. The BT generation Outback (2020-2025) was NEVER produced in diesel, in any global market, due to anti-pollution standards (Euro 6d) and development costs. The lineup is built exclusively around gasoline Boxer engines (naturally aspirated and turbocharged). This model remains the absolute benchmark for lifted station wagons, offering superior off-road capabilities compared to many SUVs thanks to its per

✅ Strengths

Unmatched Symmetrical AWD all-wheel drive in its class
Exceptional ground clearance (21.3 cm, up to 24 cm on Wilderness version)
Suspension comfort and soundproofing significantly improved (SGP platform)
Top-tier active and passive safety (EyeSight v4 as standard)
Very generous interior space and trunk volume
Overall mechanical reliability of gasoline blocks (end of head gasket issues from older generations)

⚠️ Weaknesses

TOTAL ABSENCE OF DIESEL ENGINE (penalizing for high-mileage European drivers)
Absence of hybrid powertrain (HEV/PHEV) leading to a high ecological penalty in Europe
11.6-inch infotainment system slow and buggy on early model years (2020-2022)
Fragile windshield (frequent cracks at the slightest impact)
Mandatory CVT gearbox (smooth but lacks dynamism)
High urban fuel consumption (especially on the 2.4 Turbo)

🎯 Verdict

The 6th generation Outback (BT) is an exceptional vehicle for those seeking the comfort of a station wagon, safety, and true winter/off-road capabilities. However, buyers looking for a Diesel must turn to the competition (Audi Allroad, VW Alltrack) or to pre-2018 Subaru models (with caution given the reliability of the EE20 block). In gasoline, the 2.5i is a pragmatic and mechanically very reliable choice. The main annoyances of this generation are electronic (capricious infotainment on early model years) and hardware-related (fragile windshield, weak 12V battery). Favor a 2023 or later model (Facelift) where the majority of software bugs and early issues have been corrected at the factory.