6 estate III (GJ/GL) vs Outback V (BS): which is better?
Mazda 6 estate III (GJ/GL) (2012–2024) vs Subaru Outback V (BS) (2014–2020): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Subaru Outback V (BS)Specifications
| Mazda 6 estate III (GJ/GL) | Subaru Outback V (BS) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2012–2024 | 2014–2020 |
| Body | estate | estate |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Power, up to | 192 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque, up to | 256 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 805 mm | 4 815 mm |
| Width | 1 840 mm | 1 840 mm |
| Height | 1 480 mm | 1 605 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 750 mm | 2 745 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 213 mm |
| Fuel tank | 62 L | 60 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 29 450 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mazda 6 estate III (GJ/GL)
Pros
- Mazda Skyactiv-Drive gearbox (6-speed automatic): a reliable transmission
- Powerful versions: up to 192 hp
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Skyactiv-G engine: carbon buildup on valves in city driving
Engine (Mazda Skyactiv-G): few widespread problems; carbon buildup on valves in city driving.
Gearbox (Mazda Skyactiv-Drive (6-speed automatic)): reliable gearbox.
Subaru Outback V (BS)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- High ground clearance: 213 mm
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Subaru FB20/FB25 engine: oil consumption on 2011–2014 engines
- Subaru Lineartronic gearbox (CVT): torque converter and chain wear
Engine (Subaru FB20/FB25): oil consumption on 2011–2014 engines; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Subaru Lineartronic (CVT)): torque converter and chain wear; overheating when wheels spin.
Which one to choose
- 6 estate III (GJ/GL) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 6 estate III (GJ/GL) or Outback V (BS)?
6 estate III (GJ/GL): up to 192 hp, Outback V (BS): up to 175 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 6 estate III (GJ/GL) — about 29 450 ₸, Outback V (BS) — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.