2024 Subaru Outback trim levels Connecticut
The 2024 Subaru Outback continues to be a popular choice for Connecticut drivers, offering a perfect blend of versatility, comfort, and capability. With several trim levels available, it can be challenging to determine which one best suit your needs and lifestyle. We sat down with Buddy Blichfeldt, an expert from Quality Subaru in Wallingford, CT, to break down the features, pricing, and performance of different Outback trims to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Outback Lineup
The 2024 Subaru Outback trim levels Connecticut comes in various trim levels, each catering to different preferences and needs. Buddy Blichfeldt explains, “When we look at the Outback, I think its two main competitors are actually vehicles that would be more comparable in size to it. So, I would compare that with the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which are two very popular sport utility vehicles that would match up more along the lines of the Subaru Outback size.”
Let’s dive into the different trim levels and what they offer:
Base Trim: The Essentials
The Base trim is the entry-level model, but don’t let that fool you. It comes packed with features that make it an excellent value proposition. Buddy highlights, “The starting MSRP on the Outback is just over 30,000, it’s $30,240. So you have a $5,000 gap there [compared to competitors].”
Key features of the Base trim include:
- 2.5-liter BOXER engine
- Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- STARLINK Multimedia system with dual 7-inch touchscreen displays
Premium: Stepping Up in Comfort
The Premium trim adds more comfort and convenience features. Buddy notes, “You have a choice of which trim level, starting from a more basic trim level all the way up to our top of the line touring level. You have a huge range of pricing to fill what needs and amenities you’re looking for in the vehicle.”
Additional features in the Premium trim:
- Larger 11.6-inch touchscreen
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- All-Weather Package with heated front seats
Limited: Luxury and Technology
The Limited trim focuses on luxury and advanced technology. Buddy emphasizes the value proposition, saying, “I think our vehicle compares superior to everything in its class because we offer such a broad range.”
Standout features of the Limited trim:
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Hands-free power rear gate
Touring: The Premium Experience
The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most luxurious features. Buddy explains, “If you want to enjoy top of the line amenities at every turn, we suggest looking to the Limited or Touring variants of the lineup, allowing you to relax in Nappa leather on every outing in Delmar.”
Exclusive features of the Touring trim:
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- 180-Degree Front View Monitor
- Power moonroof
Onyx Edition: Rugged Style
The Onyx Edition adds a touch of ruggedness to the Outback lineup. Buddy points out, “The Onyx Edition now comes standard with a Power Moonroof and Reverse Automatic Braking.”
Key features of the Onyx Edition:
- Black exterior accents
- Water-repellent StarTex upholstery
- Dual-function X-MODE
- 18-inch alloy wheels in black finish
Wilderness: Off-Road Ready
For those seeking adventure off the beaten path, the Wilderness trim is the perfect choice. Buddy enthusiastically shares, “The refreshed Outback Wilderness has a starting price of $39,960. The rugged trim level builds off the Onyx Edition XT including the 2.4-liter turbo BOXER engine.”
Unique features of the Wilderness trim:
- Increased ground clearance (9.5 inches)
- All-terrain tires
- Advanced dual-function X-MODE
- Upgraded suspension for off-road performance
Performance and Capability
One of the standout features of the Subaru Outback is its performance and capability, especially in Connecticut’s varied terrain and weather conditions. Buddy emphasizes, “The Subaru in the city gets the same gas miles that Hyundai would get on the highway and they don’t even come near 32 miles per gallon on the highway. So it’s not even a fair comparison.”
Engine Options
The 2024 Outback offers two engine options:
- Standard 2.5-liter BOXER engine: 182 horsepower, 26 city / 33 highway MPG
- Available 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine: 260 horsepower, more robust performance
Buddy explains the advantage, “The Subaru Outback, you have a choice. You can get a regular four cylinder engine or you can get a turbocharged if you’re looking for more power. So right off the bat, what that means is you have a choice if you want more power or if you want better fuel economy.”
All-Wheel Drive
Every Outback comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Buddy points out the competitive advantage: “The other thing is just in terms of the drive system, the Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with front wheel drive and Subaru, it’s all wheel drive is the standard feature for that. So, when you’re looking at that right off the bat, you have to pay extra to get all wheel drive in a Santa Fe where it’s standard in the Outback.”
Ground Clearance
The Outback’s ground clearance is a significant advantage, especially for Connecticut drivers dealing with snow and rough terrain. Buddy elaborates, “Our ground clearance is 8.7 inches, where the ground clearance on the Santa Fe is only seven inches. So we have 1.7 inches more. And then if you chose the Subaru Outback Wilderness model, now you’re getting a vehicle that has 9.5 inches of ground clearance.”
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Outback’s interior is designed for comfort and practicality, with advanced technology features across all trim levels. Buddy emphasizes the importance of experiencing the vehicle firsthand: “You really need to sit in the vehicles to really get a true appreciation for them. I think that comparisons for these two vehicles are gonna be pretty much identical, but it comes down to your body type and how you overall how you feel that when you fit into it.”
Seating and Materials
Buddy highlights the quality of materials used in the Outback: “The type of foam that they use in the seats and the overall interior materials is of such high quality, and to me, is superior to the competition. When you sit in it, and especially if you take a long drive, you’re gonna see the difference between the Subaru and our competitors.”
Infotainment System
The Outback’s infotainment system is designed for ease of use and minimal distraction. Buddy praises the design: “I really like the Subaru design versus our competitors. It seems that the competitors are all going toward a infotainment system where they place all of the infotainment much higher up on the dashboard. It’s almost like a tablet, you know, that’s sticking up out of the dash. Whereas in the Subaru it is in a much better position so that you have a much broader view of the road.”
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and the Outback is no exception. Buddy emphasizes, “With the Subaru, everything that we have is pretty much standard in the vehicle. All of the safety features that you have, they’re not optional, they’re standard.”
Key safety features include:
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
Value Proposition
When it comes to value for money, the Outback stands out in its class. Buddy states, “I think with the competition, the way they keep raising their prices, Subaru has the best value proposition in the market right now. And they kind of understand their market and Subaru hasn’t, they’re not greedy, they’re not just raising prices because the market is so strong for Subaru, they’re keeping their prices very, very low.”
This pricing strategy also positively impacts resale value. Buddy explains, “That’s the big thing, keeping their prices in a great place from the beginning really helps the resale value because the demand is so strong for the vehicle new. It makes the demand strong for a used.”
Choosing the Right Trim for Your Connecticut Lifestyle
Selecting the perfect Outback trim depends on your specific needs and lifestyle in Connecticut. Consider factors such as:
- Daily commute and driving conditions
- Off-road adventures and outdoor activities
- Desired comfort and luxury features
- Budget constraints
Buddy advises, “It comes down to you know, overall, how do you feel comfort wise? How does the seat the seat fit your body? What are your vehicle needs? Quality Subaru can help you in your decision as to which Outback is best for you.”
FAQ
Which Outback trim is best for Connecticut winters?
All Outback trims perform well in winter, but the Wilderness model offers the highest ground clearance for deep snow.
Does the Outback have good fuel economy?
Yes, the standard engine offers up to 33 MPG highway, outperforming many competitors.
Is the Outback good for off-road driving in Connecticut?
Absolutely, especially the Wilderness trim with its enhanced off-road capabilities.
What’s the price range for the 2024 Outback in Connecticut?
The Outback starts at $30,240 for the base model, with higher trims ranging up to around $42,000.
Does every Outback come with all-wheel drive?
Yes, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on all Outback trims.
