Overview & Reviews

Designed with the North American market in mind, the Subaru Outback wagon provides many popular SUV traits without the associated drawbacks. Based on Subaru's midsize Legacy, the Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive, a raised suspension for better ground clearance, and special interior and exterior styling details.

There have been four Outback generations. At its debut, the original Subaru Outback was pretty much the only vehicle of its type and was an instant hit with consumers. More recent iterations lost a bit of an edge as other automakers came up with similar crossover wagons and SUVs at the start of the new millennium, but the latest fourth-generation Outback is more like a crossover SUV than ever. New or used, the Outback is a strong contender for shoppers interested in a car that provides plenty of everyday versatility with the type of all-season capability needed for frosty climes.

Current Subaru Outback
The five-passenger Subaru Outback is a tall wagon available in a number of trim levels -- 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited -- distinguished by powertrain. The base engine is a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder that makes 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. It comes with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Also available is 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine good for 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, with a five-speed conventional automatic as the only available transmission.

Even the base Outback comes with roof rails, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-telescoping steering column, a height-adjustable driver seat and a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. Higher trims add niceties like alloy wheels, foglights, powered and heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, iPod/USB inputs, Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity and a Harman Kardon sound system. There's also an optional voice-activated navigation system.

More so than previous Outbacks, the new model is meant to appeal to more mainstream buyers by being larger on the inside. To this end, while bumper-to-bumper length has shrunk by almost 1 inch, the wheelbase has grown by nearly 3 inches, width by 2 inches and height by 4 inches, enlarging interior space considerably and putting the Outback on par with other midsize crossovers. With the rear seats folded, there are an impressive 71 cubic feet of cargo space available.

In reviews, we've commented favorably about the current Outback's roomier interior. Performance with the base four-cylinder is unremarkable, however; if you want some zip, you'll need to ante up for the 3.6-liter engine. We miss the previous Outback's turbocharged boxer-4, a boon for owners living in mountainous areas. Handling is also unimpressive, as the Outback's elevated ride height and soft suspension tuning do their best to obscure the vehicle's sedan roots. Overall, the latest Outback is a solid choice for utility-minded families, but it's not as enjoyable to drive as previous models.

Used Subaru Outback Models
The current, fourth-generation Subaru Outback was introduced for 2010. There have been no significant changes since then.

The third-generation Outback was produced from 2005-'09. There were several trim levels: base 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition, 2.5i Limited, 2.5 XT Limited, 3.0 R, 3.0R Limited and 3.0R L.L. Bean Edition.

For power, 2.5i trim levels had a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that made 170 hp. The XT level upgraded to a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 243 hp. The 3.0 R model came with a 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder (H6) good for 245 hp. All-wheel drive was standard across the board.

Models with either of the 2.5-liter engines could be equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic was available on 2.5i models, while 2.5 XT models got an optional five-speed auto. The 2.5i Limited models were four-speed automatics only, and the H6 came only with the five-speed automatic.

If you're shopping for a used model of this generation, there are a few items to note. An Outback sedan was offered from 2005-'07. Additionally, all Outbacks prior to the 2008 model year lacked a telescoping steering wheel and auxiliary audio jack. Horsepower figures were lowered for 2007 due to revised SAE standards, but actual performance was not affected. The luxurious L.L. Bean trim levels were discontinued after 2008, replaced by a single 3.0 R Limited model, and stability control also became standard.

In reviews, this third-generation Subaru Outback received praise for its standard all-wheel drive, long list of features, strong turbocharged engine, above-average build quality and balanced ride and handling dynamics. While it didn't quite have the off-road capabilities of a true SUV, it could take on light-duty terrain without complaint. Negatives brought up in reviews typically centered on the vehicle's smallish backseat and the sluggish response from the automatic transmissions.

The second-generation Subaru Outback (2000-'04) was also available as either a sedan or a wagon. In its first year, this model was available in base and Limited trims, and had a 165-hp, 2.5-liter engine. The following year, Subaru introduced the L.L. Bean Edition and the VDC trim levels. These featured the more powerful 212-hp six-cylinder engine.

Compared to the current car, the second-generation Outback is a bit smaller and not quite as refined or capable. Subaru made minor improvements to this generation during the years, but none are significant enough to make any particular model year stand out. In Edmunds.com road tests, reviewers liked its standard all-wheel drive and car-based comfort. Some felt that the four-cylinder models were underpowered, however, and that it was eclipsed by newer competition in its later years.

When the original Subaru Outback model debuted in 1995, it was little more than a trim package on the Legacy wagon. In 1996, the Outback (officially known as the Legacy Outback for this generation) gained its raised suspension, large foglights, SUV design cues and optional 155-hp 2.5-liter engine. Further improvements during successive years included the addition of a leather-lined Limited model, dual sunroofs and powertrain refinements. As the Outback was one of the first crossover wagons to be designed, consumers interested in this type of vehicle from the late 1990s will likely find it to be quite suitable, especially compared to SUVs from the same period.

User Reviews:

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  Update... - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By ywilson - August 5 - 5:56 am

  This is an update on my Soobie. Man I have to say that this is one great car. I have no complaints after 5400+ miles. No problems, great ride and the gas mileage is going up just like everyone said it would. My best to date was 33.7 MPG. I change my own oil and will do my others as well when the time comes. It is easy to work on this car if you are slightly mechanically inclined. Everything is reachable. This is going to be my 10 years car! Sorry Subaru but I am keeping this one for a long time. It is obvious it will last!!

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  Not My LEXUS, but we still like it! - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By J. P. Bacsick - August 5 - 4:52 am

  Expect to be looking for "RUST RESISTANT" brake rotors to replace factory installed. Factory specs for allignment not the best for breezy days on open road. Oh, and the water intrusion! Jammed driver door window, "premium sound system" really sucks. Constantly having to clamp loose heat shields from rattling. Going back to Toyota products.

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  Harmon Kardon USB port - what should it be able to play - 2012 Subaru Outback
  By zeffer51 - August 3 - 10:08 am

  Just bought a brand new 2012 Outback 3.6R Limited with the Harmon Kardon upgraded audio system. I tested the USB port at the dealer with a memory stick that has lots of computer files and few audio files. The audio kept cutting out. Now I own the car so I purchased a new 8GB USB flash drive and copied only a few audio files to it. But its doing the same thing. It plays for about 5 sec then cuts out, then plays a little and then cuts out. It does this sitting in the drive way so it cant be due to bumps. Anyone know if this system is supposed to play files on a regular USB thumb drive? It almost plays them so I figure it was designed to do so.

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  Worst car ever owned - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By david338 - August 2 - 4:38 pm

  My 2005 Outback is a money pit. I guess I got a lemon. Does the mfg. replace lemons? Head gaskets need to be replaced (poor design). I have had to replace both front axles, CV joints, hubs right rear and front, bushings bearings, etc...... already put $2000 in and expecting to layout another $2000 (no joke). I would recommend buying a HONDA. Oh yeah my father in law bought a new outback and already had to replace front right CV. At least his was under warranty. Maybe I am the isolated anomaly but it still hurts.

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  wrong-side gas filler - 2002 Subaru Outback
  By architr - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I waited one hour while the dealer lined-up the front end and its been out of line ever since even after I paid to have it re-aligned at 5k. Never accept a car as NEW with 280 km on it , it will probably always be out of alignment if some lead-foot who delivered it found a nice deep pot-hole for the rich SOB buying it. After 17000k there is a major rattle in the rear-end, the front suspension squeaks and the wire guard on one fog light is long gone.

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  The next big thing available today - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Artemus - July 27 - 5:03 pm

  Sports Wagons are the thinking mans or womens SUV as they are roomy, environmentally friendly and much more fuel efficient. The new Subaru Outback is tomorrows car, today; at an affordable price point , with lots of comfort, value, high quality fit & finish. The ride is smooth over bumps and New York being the pothole capital of the world, the Outback makes driving a relaxing and less jarring event. The fuel economy is decent, not the 30mpg we want,still the v6 engine is quiet and powerful. The car has surprisingly fast pickup conquers steep hills with a full trunk with ease, fits in any environment, from long islands gold coast, to uptown Manhattan, without causing undue attention.

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  Has Been Great - Time to Move On - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By Sitruk - July 25 - 8:16 pm

  Yes, this car has been wonderful to drive, however I have struggled with the maintenance end of the car/owner relationship. Since my purchase in March, 2003, I have averaged 9 cents/mi in maint costs since this car came into the word - highlighted by a head gasket replacement in 2005 ($2200) (might as well also do the timing belt at the same time!) Also, I am now after increased fuel economy based on my daily commute, thus feel it is time to part ways.

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  Great car to have in New England! - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Lee - July 21 - 6:30 pm

  This is my first new car, and first Subaru. My wifes car (bought new) is a Highlander 2005 2WD. I was deciding between the Outback in LL Bean trim and a Honda Pilot. The fuel economy difference was the deciding factor. I personally think the Outback is a beautiful car. Its also plenty peppy with its V6. I like the nav system, but wish it was integrated into the other components of the car, particularly the stereo. It would also be nice to have Bluetooth. Final gripe is that interior space is scant. There is enough, but more would be nice. This car in LL Bean trim is quite luxurious, in my opinion. The fit and finish are excellent, and the materials appear to be of high quality.

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  So far so good - 2000 Subaru Outback
  By mark york,pa - July 18 - 10:00 am

  Bought car new in 2000. Have 203k miles Passed down to college daughter. We had an infrequent problem with intermittent stalling and CEL. This had been occurring since new but could not solve the issue. Codes indicated MAP Sensor and replaced with used one for $50. Did NOT solve problem. Did an ECM reprogram for $90 at dealership and fixed problem! We do regular maint and car has been great. Great value, pretty good gas mileage but most importantly safe and reliable. Desirable combination. Would recommend you find a well kept one and go buy it!

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  Wanted to feel the love... - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Laura - July 16 - 11:30 am

  It took me over a year to get into this car...the mpgs and stability on the road were what put me over the top. I was sooooooo excited to get this outback, I mean super excited to take it camping and have a reliable and fuel efficient car to drive in town... I was so excited that 3 of my friends went out and bought Subarus, too (2 got foresters and 1 an Outback, too). This all being said, I am not 100% convinced that my experience is that of most Outback consumers, however I do now know Im not alone. It seems that the quality control of the outback is not consistent. Im speaking primarily when it comes to mpgs. Ive done everything I can to push this car to achieve greater in city mpgs to no avail..Ive done every trick in the book(and in the web) and still my in city mpgs hover between 17-18.5mpg. Now maybe on the 6cyl. I could get on board but I bought the 4cyl. with the expressed excitement that it could achieve much greater than that based on fuelly (and other wwws) as well as repeated assurance from the folks at Subaru dealerships("easily get 20-23mpg in your neighborhood") and other Outback owners in my neighborhood. The worst of it though had been the run around by the service departments and Subaru Corporate telling me off the record that its horrible mileage but that its considered within the secret specs by Subaru Corporate(that they wont share with me) so they wont be allowed to check the vehicle further...theyll make appointments to appease me but they will simply check for computer updates and call it a day with a car wash thrown in. To be sure its not a case of driver error, I can assure you I got much better mileage on a loaner Forester and another Outback and my highway mileage is great (28-32mpg) but once it hits a city street it tanks within minutes. My car just didnt get put together right but no one is willing to look inside of it, even though the shop manager confirmed the mpg himself by driving it for 2 days. Anyway, I wont be buying or leasing another Outback for fear Ill get another dud with no recourse because the company doesnt stand behind their mpg claims or their vehicles. Luckily, my other friends got great vehicles it seems, Ill just have to ride this lease out and see what pops up on the market in the next 2 years.