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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  2013 Outback 2.5i Premium - 2013 Subaru Outback
  By rogerl3 - May 28 - 3:08 pm

  I purchased a 2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium after extensive research.This is my first Subaru and first AWD vehicle. After 2,700 miles of driving I have been very pleased with the performance, drivability, and features. The car handles extremely well on all roads. Acceleration is acceptable, with plenty of torque and power with the 4 cyl. Boxer engine. The CVT transmission takes a bit of "getting used to" as it does not shift through gears as a typical automatic transmission. The interior is quiet and comfortable, plenty of space for 4 adults and storage in the rear cargo area. The Outback is an exceptional value IMHO.

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  New Car Purchase - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By Phil - May 28 - 3:03 pm

  This is the true SUV, especially the "Utility" aspect, since it conforms to nearly all my needs. Also, theres great value here in all its added creature comforts and the great reputation for safety. In city driving, its peppy and its short turning radius is great for parking. On interstate drives it is wonderfully comfortable for me and an 85 lb collie. On the sport side, it can transport up to three sea-kayaks comfortably and cross-country skis can fit inside (over the front seat median). I do give up some things like having to slowing down on the curves, overall gas mileage (21) can be better and telescoping steer wheel and memory seats would be nice, but, overall, its a winner.

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  Disappointed. - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Dmitry - May 28 - 1:13 am

  Drivetrain: Rear suspension is too soft, (car goes up & down more than once after bump). 4-A transmission is the same slow as previous generation, but shift logic now is very stupid, kickdown is absolutely unacceptable. Interior: Well, finally they switched to better materials, but this is the only improvements - ergonomics is nightmare. At night the instrument panel and console look like Christmas tree! There are 5 different colors. Brightness of several things is not adjustable. Some controls are hard to reach, (eg. "horn button" is not reachable by thumb!) Exterior: Because they rounded down roof toward rear, visibility is affected. Headlights generate awful light distribution, high beam is useless.

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  Ill buy another - 2004 Subaru Outback
  By Steve - May 26 - 3:00 am

  My first Outback will not be my last. We love it. Well built, good performance, great styling, and excellent integrity of body. I do not like the padding in the seats; too thin with not enough support. I am 6 tall and 155 pounds so that is not an issue. Also, we have had the fuel door freeze shut numerous times. That being said, I can find no other things that I do not like. We have the 4 liter H6 and it is very responsive. Thus far, it has been fault free and if it continues, as I think it should, we will have the car we have been looking for. Subaru has done it for us.

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  First time Subaru owner - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By chip - May 25 - 6:23 pm

  This is my first Subaru after a string of Hondas and I am generally pleased after 2 1/2 years and 38,000 mi. of ownership. Its a lot of fun to drive and, other than the problems with the headlights and windshield, has been quite reliable.

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  Great Car, have owned it for 7 years - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By karl hoffmann - May 24 - 8:34 pm

  There is nothing bad I can say about my 2009 Outback. The car has been rock solid and would recommend a Subaru anywhere, anytime. I purchased it with 16K on the odometer and I put another 102K on it.

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  Big Bang for my Buck - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By Craig - May 21 - 6:33 pm

  I really dont know what is basic about my BASIC WAGON because its got all I need and more. This 2007 is a great deal. So far, with routine driving I am getting a solid 24 MPG! I am 5-9" with plenty of room for me and my family of 4. Easy hook-ups for my 2 year olds carseat, and my 15 year old daughter loves it, even though it a wagon. I am so happy with this buy. Safe, fun, loaded by my standards. I have the auto and love that sport shift for the curves. Good stereo for a basic feature too. Its early in the game, but I really think this car is a GREAT deal for the money. With rebate I paid $21,787. The steel 16" wheels are fine by me. Car feels and runs solid like my Toyota always did!

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  Mixed review - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By paul - May 21 - 3:00 pm

  While this car is great in snow and rock solid in a driving rain it has been a maintenance nightmare. We think it was built late on a Friday afternoon. Within hours of taking delivery the car wouldnt start. Bad fuel injectors. Within two months, bad brake rotors. Drivers door has never closed correctly without slamming it. New clutch within 24K miles... told Subaru clutches dont last long (wife asked if we they could install a Honda clutch instead - our accord clutch lasted until 75K....). Another new clutch at 45K. Blown tranny at 102K and now blown head gasket at 105K. Were done with Subaru.

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  2005 AWD 2.5i wagon - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By magin - May 20 - 12:23 pm

  Fun to drive, comfortable, nice lines, looks good. Base motor has adequate power. Lights are bright at night, good visabilty.

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  weak brakes - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By t.ed - May 19 - 10:00 am

  Just past the 1 year mark with my vdc. overall it is fun. the engine is great- very strong and quick. handling is also great especially in bad weather. stereo sounds great although the cd player skipped and was replaced. the only downside is the brakes. backing up and applying the brakes sounds like they are falling off. a shim kit has helped alittle. the rotors needed to be ground down because they were uneven. generally they are mushy and do not instill confidence.