Outback IV (BR) vs Passat Variant B7: which is better?
Subaru Outback IV (BR) (2009–2014) vs Volkswagen Passat Variant B7 (2010–2015): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Subaru Outback IV (BR)
Volkswagen Passat Variant B7Specifications
| Subaru Outback IV (BR) | Volkswagen Passat Variant B7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2009–2014 | 2010–2015 |
| Body | estate | estate |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.5 | 1.8 TSI |
| Power, up to | 167 hp | 152 hp |
| Torque, up to | 229 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | dual-clutch (DCT) |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 775 mm | 4 771 mm |
| Width | 1 820 mm | 1 820 mm |
| Height | 1 670 mm | 1 516 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 745 mm | 2 712 mm |
| Ground clearance | 213 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 65 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 29 450 ₸ | ≈ 15 075 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Subaru Outback IV (BR)
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.
Volkswagen Passat Variant B7
Pros
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VW/Audi EA888 (1.8–2.0 TSI/TFSI): oil consumption (piston rings) on second-generation engines
- Gearbox DSG DQ200 (7-speed, dry clutch): mechatronics failure (cracked accumulator, control board)
Engine (VW/Audi EA888 (1.8–2.0 TSI/TFSI)): oil consumption (piston rings) on second-generation engines; timing chain stretch and tensioner on early engines; plastic water pump and thermostat housing leaks.
Gearbox (DSG DQ200 (7-speed, dry clutch)): mechatronic failure (cracked pressure accumulator, circuit board); dry clutch wear; jerks when pulling away and in traffic jams.
Which one to choose
- Outback IV (BR) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase.
- Passat Variant B7 — if you care more about: torque, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
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: Outback IV (BR) or Passat Variant B7?
Outback IV (BR): up to 167 hp, Passat Variant B7: up to 152 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Outback IV (BR) — about 29 450 ₸, Passat Variant B7 — about 15 075 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.