In Kenya, the Subaru Outback is a car with a well-known reputation. Whenever you see one on Kenyan roads, it could be linked to detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

The car has even earned the nickname Subaru ya Mambaru in Kenya due to its use in undercover operations and high-speed criminal chases.

Officers in the directorate commonly use these vehicles, along with Volkswagen Tiguans, Mazda CX-5s, and Subaru Foresters.

So, why did they choose this vehicle over others? A brand new 2021 Subaru Outback costs around Sh. 9 million, while a 2017 model goes for Sh. 3.5 to 5 million, depending on the trim and specs.

On most occasions, the Directorate leases these cars from local dealers for a period. To spot these SUVs used by the DCI, look for the classic trick of swapping number plates with old ones to conceal their identity.

The Subaru Outback stands out from other vehicle models for its versatility as an SUV, excelling on rough terrain and well-maintained roads alike. Its acceleration, rugged body design, and dependable performance also make it a top choice for the DCI.

The Outback, living up to Subaru’s ‘Confidence in Motion’ motto, blends the chassis of the Legacy and some functionality aspects of the Impreza for commercial use. The vehicle also has an All-Wheel Drive system.

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Its ground clearance, at 8.7 inches, is also a key selling point allowing detectives to reach remote areas and track down wanted criminals with ease. The Outback’s body shape and kerb weight of 1,602kg enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in about nine seconds.

The car is also a favourite due to its interior space and practicality. It can easily ferry more than 4 passengers during operations, with the bonus being that the seats are adjustable.

The car also features top-tier technology from Tokyo-based manufacturers, helping drivers in various situations.

For instance, many Outbacks come with Adaptive Cruise Control, which helps maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. Another handy feature is lane-keep assist, which gently guides the driver to stay in their lane while cruising.

Additional features include voice controls, a standard 7-inch screen, and climate controls. The Subaru Outback also boasts a Sport Sharp button that enhances throttle response for quicker acceleration.