The Subaru Outback V (BS) 2.5i, produced between 2014 and 2018, represents the fifth generation of Subaru’s popular all-wheel-drive wagon. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the BS generation Outback lineup, the 2.5i model aimed to balance affordability with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a comfortable driving experience. It served as a key volume seller for Subaru in North America, competing with crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, but offering a distinct wagon body style and standard all-wheel drive. This variant featured a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Outback |
| Generation | Outback V (BS) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i (175 Hp) AWD Lineartronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 161 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 175 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 4000 rpm (173.33 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | FB25 |
| Engine displacement | 2498 cm3 (152.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 559 l (19.74 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1848 l (65.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4815 mm (189.57 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm (108.07 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Lineartronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7Jx17; 7Jx18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.5i Outback is the FB25 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer-4 engine. This engine is characterized by its horizontally opposed pistons, which contribute to a lower center of gravity and reduced vibration. The FB25 utilizes multi-point fuel injection and features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 175 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 173 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Paired with this engine is Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, a continuously variable transmission designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. The Lineartronic CVT simulates gear changes through a series of stepped ratios, offering a more conventional driving feel than some earlier CVT implementations. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system contribute to balanced handling.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5i Outback with the Lineartronic CVT delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9.7 seconds. However, it’s noticeably slower than the 3.6R model with its six-cylinder engine. The CVT prioritizes fuel economy, and while it offers simulated “shifts,” it lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic transmission or a manual gearbox. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, making the Outback a capable vehicle for all-season use. The CVT’s programming is tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising, contributing to quieter operation. The gear ratios are continuously adjusted to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but aggressive acceleration can result in the engine “drone” characteristic of some CVTs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5i Outback typically came standard with features like automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, rearview camera, and Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology (including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking). Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with available upgrades to leather in higher trim levels. Optional extras included a power moonroof, premium audio system, and heated front seats. The 2.5i Premium trim added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and a larger touchscreen display. The base 2.5i model was aimed at buyers seeking a practical and affordable all-wheel-drive wagon, while the Premium trim offered enhanced comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The Outback V (BS) utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The 2.5i models typically featured disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. Rear drum brakes were not offered on this trim. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, with a focus on absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The Outback’s relatively high ground clearance (7.87 inches) allows for moderate off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5i Outback was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, safety features, and standard all-wheel drive. However, some reviewers noted that the engine and CVT combination lacked the performance of competing models with turbocharged engines or traditional automatic transmissions. Fuel economy was considered good for its class, averaging around 33.6 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 3.6R model, the 2.5i offered significantly lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The 2.5i was often seen as the sweet spot in the Outback lineup, offering a good balance of features, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
Legacy
The FB25 engine and Lineartronic CVT pairing in the 2014-2018 Subaru Outback have proven to be relatively reliable. While some owners have reported minor issues with the CVT, such as occasional hesitation or shuddering, major failures are uncommon with proper maintenance. The FB25 engine is known for its durability and longevity. On the used car market, these Outbacks represent a good value, offering a practical and capable vehicle at a reasonable price. Their reputation for reliability and all-weather capability continues to make them a popular choice among buyers seeking a versatile and dependable wagon.
