Automotive Fleet
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Next-Gen 2020 Subaru Outback Offers Distraction Mitigation System

Subaru's 2020 Outback will enter its sixth generation riding on a new platform with an optional driver distraction system, more standard safety technology, and an optional turbocharged engine.

April 17, 2019
Next-Gen 2020 Subaru Outback Offers Distraction Mitigation System

Subaru's 2020 Outback adds a new engine, driver distraction system, and high-resolution screen for its sixth generation.

Photo courtesy of Subaru.

2 min to read


Subaru's 2020 Outback will enter its sixth generation riding on a new platform with an optional driver distraction system, more standard safety technology, and an optional turbocharged engine.

Subaru unveiled the crossover to journalists at the New York auto show on April 17.

Ad Loading...

The 2020 Outback is the latest model to be shifted over to the Subaru Global Platform, which enables increased safety, driving dynamics, and quietness as well as reduced noise, vibration, and harshness.

Subaru is revamping its trim grades, and will now include base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT.

All XT models will be powered by a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine that will also power the 2020 Legacy midsize sedan. The engine will make 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. The Outback last offered a turbocharged engine in 2009.

The standard engine remains a 2.5-liter Boxer inline-four cylinder that has been reworked with nearly 90% new parts. It will make 182 hp and 176 lb.-ft. of torque.

Both engines deliver power through a continuously variable transmission with an eight-speed-manual mode supported via paddle shifters.

Ad Loading...

Subaru expects the 2.5L to deliver 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbo should deliver 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

The 2020 Outback will also offer an available DriverFocus distraction mitigation system and standard EyeSight driver assisting technology on all grades. EyeSight now includes lane-keeping technology. DriverFocus uses an infrared camera and facial recognition technology to identify signs of fatigue or distraction, and provides audio and visual warnings.

Other new features include a tablet-style high-definition 11.6-inch touchscreen for the Starlink system and hands-free power gate.

More Vehicle Research

Two Fiat Topolino models shown on a bluff.
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownJuly 9, 2026

What Should We Make of the Fiat Topolino?

This atypical low-speed vehicle is coming to the U.S. It's smaller than a Smart Fortwo and starts at $13,995.

Read More →
Graphic announcing the 2026 Autofleet Optimizers Awards winners, featuring headshots of leaders from USPS, DPD UK, Zipcar, Karmo, Dollaride, and Kari Ride Hailing.
Mobilityby News/Media ReleaseJuly 9, 2026

USPS, Zipcar, DPD UK, and Others Named Winners of The Optimizers Awards 2026

USPS, Zipcar, DPD UK, and other fleet organizations were recognized in the 2026 Optimizers Awards for initiatives involving route optimization, automation, AI, and fleet utilization.

Read More →
Green and black bar graphs showing 2026 versus 2025 fleet sales.
Vehicle Researchby Martin RomjueJuly 8, 2026

Commercial Fleet Sales Contribute To June, YTD Gains

The fleet sector has boosted its vehicle purchases at a reliable pace in the first half of this year compared with 1H 2025.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cherry blossoms frame James Madison University's Atlantic Union Bank Center in Harrisonburg, Virginia, host site for the Mid-Atlantic Advanced Transportation Summit & Expo (MAATSE).
Vehicle Researchby StaffJuly 1, 2026

Mid-Atlantic Advanced Transportation Summit to Explore Fleet Fuels, Infrastructure, and Transportation Innovation

Fleet Forward Conference expands collaboration with Clean Cities organizations as part of a broader effort to connect fleet leaders with emerging transportation technologies and strategies.

Read More →
Graphic featuring an American flag and the text "10 Vehicles That Have Defined American Fleets" with Automotive Fleet branding and a gold "250" anniversary graphic.
Vehicle Researchby Faith HowellJune 30, 2026

America's 250th Birthday: Vehicles That Kept the Country Moving Over the Years

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, Automotive Fleet looks back at 11 vehicles that helped shape commercial transportation.

Read More →
An Automotive Fleet podcast logo for episode 3
Vehicle ResearchJune 29, 2026

Can AI Really Make Fleet Drivers Safer?

Chris Brown and Wheels rep David Glines discuss how AI is reshaping safety for fleet drivers.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
GMC Sierra in desert
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownJune 26, 2026

GMC Previews Redesigned 2027 Sierra 1500 with New V8 Engines, Expanded Technology

The next-generation Sierra arrives later this year with new powertrains, a fully redesigned cabin, and trims aimed at the premium end of the full-size pickup segment.

Read More →
Yellow Slate pickup truck on a platform.
Green Fleetby Martin RomjueJune 26, 2026

Slate Debuts Colorful, Unique EV Models

A recent media and client event, studded with electric vehicles dressed up on platforms, planted a new position for the manufacturer in the wider EV market. Fleets will find cost-saving advantages.

Read More →
Yellow Slate Fastback on a raised platform in a warehouse.
Green Fleetby Martin RomjueJune 25, 2026

Slate Electric SUV, Pickup Switchable Model Aims For Light-Duty Fleets

Everything about this EV is counterintuitive and understated, making it stand out from the crowd.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Profile view of Polestar 3
Vehicle Researchby Chris BrownJune 25, 2026

Polestar Barred from U.S. Market Under Connected Vehicle Rule

The automaker loses its authorization to sell new vehicles in the U.S., starting with the 2027 model year. Polestar owners will retain access to the brand's service network.

Read More →