Outback V (BS) vs Passat Variant B8: which is better?
Subaru Outback V (BS) (2014–2020) vs Volkswagen Passat Variant B8 (2014–2023): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Subaru Outback V (BS)
Volkswagen Passat Variant B8Specifications
| Subaru Outback V (BS) | Volkswagen Passat Variant B8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2014–2020 | 2014–2023 |
| Body | estate | estate |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.5 | 1.4 TSI |
| Power, up to | 175 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque, up to | 235 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | dual-clutch (DCT) |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 815 mm | 4 767 mm |
| Width | 1 840 mm | 1 832 mm |
| Height | 1 605 mm | 1 477 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 745 mm | 2 791 mm |
| Ground clearance | 213 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 60 L | 66 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 29 450 ₸ | ≈ 8 650 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
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.
Volkswagen Passat Variant B8
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VW EA211 (1.2–1.4 TSI): water pump and thermostat module leaks
- Gearbox DSG DQ200 (7-speed, dry clutch): mechatronics failure (cracked accumulator, control board)
Engine (VW EA211 (1.2–1.4 TSI)): water pump and thermostat module leak; turbo wastegate rattle.
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 V (BS) — if you care more about: power.
- Passat Variant B8 — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, 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 V (BS) or Passat Variant B8?
Outback V (BS): up to 175 hp, Passat Variant B8: up to 150 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Outback V (BS) — about 29 450 ₸, Passat Variant B8 — about 8 650 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.