Subaru Outback Hybrid on the horizon

A hybrid version of the popular Subaru Outback could soon become available in Australia as the Japanese manufacturer looks to broaden its petrol-electric mix.

Ever since the current-generation Outback was launched without a diesel variant in 2021, Subaru has relied solely on a naturally-aspirated boxer petrol engine to anchor its high-riding wagon range.

The introduction of the turbocharged Outback XT (pictured) earlier this year went a long way to filling the void left by a frugal diesel option, however, it seems Subaru Australia is still eyeing more alternatives

Speaking with carsales this month, Subaru Australia general manager Blair Read indicated a hybrid version of the Outback could soon materialise as part of an extended petrol-electric model range.

Subaru has been working on an improved series-parallel hybrid system in its vehicles following a so-so reception to the current mild-hybrid technology offered in the Forester and Crosstrek.

“For our hybrid system, 2025 is what the factory has publicly stated and they’re preparing the factory and capacity for that,” Read said.

“We’ll see that come on stream in about 18 months’ time in terms of the model range.

“There’s nothing I can commit at the moment with model specifics and which of our models will get the new hybrid [system]. I think the expectation will be that it will be the hybrid models we currently offer as a start.”

As we’ve previously reported, the new Subaru Crosstrek is expected to be among the first recipients for the new hybrid powertrain.

Asked specifically about a hybrid version of the Outback, Read said: “The plan is that you’ll start to see our hybrid offering broaden once we have capacity up and running. Hybrid will play a greater role across the whole product portfolio.”