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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  Initial impressions - some surprises after 300 mi - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Seattledriver - November 30 - 12:36 am

  With several hundred miles on the vehicle, I am surprised by a few things. First, when pulling up to other vehicles, you realize that the seating position is as high as some SUVs, and the vehicle is as long, also. It looks like a car, and I think the older versions were more car-sized, but its bigger than I thought, which for me is great. The seats are comfortable, but the heated area doesnt extend out to my outer thigh area which is weird and kind of uncomfortable. It did snow the week we got the car and I have been able to test out the x-mode, which supplies downhill engine braking and other assists - very awesome performance even without snow tires. Speaking of which - you may not be able to use chains even if you want to, due to lack of space between the tires and the vehicle, so if thats critical to you, Google that before you buy. Here in Washington state, if you drive a Subaru, the DOT apparently lets you pass when chains are required if you have a Subaru and you have chains somewhere in your vehicle for one set of tires (dont rely on this but that is what owners are saying online). Youll probably want unstudded snow tires if youre planning to ski a lot where conditions can get rough, especially if you cant find chains that work with the Outback. Remember even the awesome Subaru AWD system does nothing to help you stop the car on snow and ice. As for the navi and entertainment system, the new Impressa is apparently getting Apple Carplay so that system must be newer. It all works ok, especially the nice bluetooth pairing system, and you can use Siri through the system if you have that on your phone, but its not a great navigation system. Especially annoying is that you cant do much with the navi when the vehicle is moving. But, bottom line so far - its surprisingly comfortable and feature-packed in the Limited configuration and most of the surprises have been positive. Not a luxury vehicle, but close, and very practical as well. We were able to beat the Costco price by about $500, but I dont think any of the Seattle area dealers are having any problems selling these cars so youre prob not going to get a great deal on your trade-in. The vehicle is priced great already for what you get, in my opinion, and resale in my area is very high. You can sell a Subaru in 5 minutes around here if you dont like it, with little depreciation. But based on what we think so far well probably want it for a long time.

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  Great New 2011 OutBack 2.5i Limited - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By lgregor - November 28 - 10:28 am

  My wife & I bought a 2011 Outback 2.5i Limited to help keep the miles off our 2008 Jeep JK with 114k on it already. I love my Jeep and it truly is the best 4wd out there but since driving the Outback I have become spoiled. The quality of ride is something I didnt expect out of this vehicle. Driving the exact same roads and paths I have taken for the past 3 years its a completely different feel. Many bumps/dips that I knew were there in other vehicles seemingly dissapear or become so minimal its outstanding. I am pretty large and I fit very easily in the new Outback. At 61 I dont even have to have the seat all the way back to fit. The doors/seals are very very good. Very good fit n finish.

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  Very Pleased - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By rjnolfe - November 26 - 8:42 pm

  Moving from a Chevy HHR to the larger, heavier, AWD Subaru I thought we would get a little worse gas mileage, but NO, it gets better mileage. We typically see 30mpg in or rural area of Upstate NY. Very comfortable and a pleasure to drive. We feel very confident that we can travel just about anywhere in any weather without fear of getting stuck.

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  Nice Little Wagon - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By JCSschwartz - November 25 - 10:00 am

  I like the car and would consider buying another. Good MPG, ride, reliability.

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  Versatile and Fun - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By socalh2oskier - November 21 - 11:56 pm

  This is my fourth Subie. I have owned all sorts of cars, from a Mazda Miata to a Mercedes CLK AMG, Mercedes SL, Jaguar XK, Jaguar XJ8, Lexus and several others. Subaru is one of my all time favorites, especially the Outback. This is a reasonably quick, versatile car with reliability second to none. This is truly one of the most comfortable vehicles you would ever want for a long trip. The ride is quiet and smooth, and gas mileage is suprisingly decent. I average about 17-20 in city driving, with 26-30 highway. Handling is much better than most SUVs, the driving position is high with excellent visibility and it has character. Great value.

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  what fun - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Sterie - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This wagon is a stealth sports car.Excellent performance, fun to drive, great sun roof. Roof Rack is stronger we carry double kayak and tandom bike on top. Can also carry mountain bike inside with out disassembly. Wife had a hard time accepting payment for an ugly station wagon, but has since changed her mind and always wants to drive. Good cd player, great heated seats and individual heat controls.

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  Good Family Car - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By tm - November 20 - 4:53 pm

  Ive had this vehicle only a few weeks and already love it. I traded a Toyota RAV4 2007 for the Outback. The Outback is a lot quieter. I have an 8 year old and a 3 month old and swear the back seat is wider. I love the space in the back.

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  Great first impression - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By angelino - November 18 - 6:40 pm

  First time Subaru buyer. Attracted to Outback by its upscale and well executed look, and 4WD reputation. Stable and comfortable road manners. Well controlled noise levels at speed. Looking forward to driving this puppy up mountains and through snow this winter. Harmon/Kardon stereo puts out great sound from CD, but strangely weak and tinny FM sound. Car still in break-in period. Expecting performance to improve.

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  Turn off the Alarm Please! - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By E. Knight - November 10 - 4:43 am

  For a first time new car buyer, the Subaru Outback is great! The only thing I dont like is the seatbelt safety bell rings constantly when the car is running and you are not even in the car. The alarm goes off when no one is in the passenger seat because it was kicked back too far. The drivers seat even went off when I was driving down the highway and buckled up. That was scary! The other thing was that the rubber molding in the rear wheel well fell off. It needs more behind the seats pockets for holding goodies. The glove box never shuts on the first try.

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  Heads above the Pilot EXL - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Amy - November 10 - 12:51 am

  The only concern I had going from a 2013 Pilot EXL was the cargo room. As a direct sales business woman I have a traveling boutique. So far the decreased area has not been a problem. The controls are not even comparable. The Pilot does not even hold a candle to the Outback in the controls. The only down fall is there is no charging port for the back seat. There is a 12v charger in the cargo area. The Bluetooth system is MUCH clearer in the Outback. My husband said I no longer sound like I am in a tunnel when using the Bluetooth for phone calls. There is ample room for my tall husband. The seats in the Outback are wider than the Pilot. We live on a dirt road that is currently filled with potholes. In the Pilot I felt every bump and dip. The Outback has a MUCH smoother ride. The suspension absorbs most of the impact. Granted I am driving MUCH slower in the new car. I picked the 3.6r because I do not like slow response cars. When you step on the gas you know it right away! There is PLENTY of power in the 3.6. The lane assist takes some getting used to. The review from the editors said there is body roll in the Outback. My husband and I 100% disagree with the assessment. Once you go from the Poilot to the Outback you DO NOT feel ANY body roll. At first I was sad to trade in my Pilot. After I drove the Outback for a little bit and got familiar with the car I am no longer sad. We traded up FOR SURE! This is my forever car!