The cabin of the Subaru Outback is longer, wider and taller than that of its predecessor, allowing improvements to be made in comfort and practicality. The interior also demonstrates lessons learned in Subaru's latest 'packaging innovation' research programme.

Larger seats are fitted to make best-use of the increased space around each occupant. The space between the front seats has increased by 30 mm and the space between the front and rear seats is increased by 62 mm. The rear seat backrest is split 60/40% and folds flat to offer the best people/cargo carrying versatility. With the rear seats upright, cargo capacity is increased by 67 litres to 526 litres, compared to the previous model.

Larger rear doors result in improved access to the rear seats, and detailed attention to the window shapes and pillar layouts ensures a greater feeling of space and light for the rear seat occupants in the new Subaru Outback.

While the width and height of the luggage bay were increased, the depth of the lip between the rear bumper and cargo was reduced slightly to ensure it is easier for users to load and unload heavy items when lifting them into the interior. The tailgate, which is 33 mm wider and 45 mm taller than before for easier access, features an electromagnetic switch for easy opening with a light touch, aided by twin supporting gas struts.

The new front seats have concave backrests to provide extra knee space for rear seat occupants. The rear seat features a folding centre armrest with twin cup holders, and the backrests can be reclined for greater comfort during long journeys. A remote one-touch mechanism conveniently located in the cargo bay side panel enables the backrests to be folded flat in one simple operation from the rear tailgate when loading long items.

Inside the new Outback designers also paid attention to create generously sized, easy-to-use storage space for smaller items - with capacity increased by 39 litres over the previous model.

The glovebox will accept 31 CDs, while the new double-decker centre console, which can accommodate 22 CDs, incorporates a 12V power supply and AUX audio input socket.

Two cup-holders are provided alongside the centre console, while a 500 ml plastic bottle can be stored in all door pockets. A 50 mm thick box of tissues can also be accommodated in the front door pockets. A central overhead console is provided for storage of sunglasses and small items.