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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  10,000 mile review - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Chris - November 9 - 5:47 am

  The best all-around vehicle weve ever owned. The active cruise control and lane assist (along with a 400 mile/tank range) make long hauls a breeze. Theres so much cargo space that we decided to skip a rooftop carrier/basket, everything fits. The ride is smooth, and the sound system more than overcomes the moderate road noise at low speeds, and even the roof-rack wind noise at high speeds. The AWD handles everything from snow & ice to dirt tracks like a champ. (We swapped the OEM wheels and tires for Method rally wheels and AT tires.) In the daily commute the car is smooth and comfortable, easy to maneuver in heavy traffic, easy to park, and (thanks to the rear cross-traffic alert and camera) no problem when having to back out of parking into traffic. This replaced a Prius, so we wish the MPG was better...but the upside of a vehicle that is at home in both the city and backcountry takes a lot of the sting out of the cost at the pump.

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  Trading in my Outback on another Outback - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By danwatson - November 7 - 11:51 pm

  Ive been very satisfied with our 2011 3.6 Limited Outback. But, its approaching 70,000 miles and at some point it needs to be replaced. They are making changes to the 2015 model including a CVT transmission for the 3.6, six cylinder engine. The 14s still have a 5 speed auto in the 3.6 models. I dont like CVTs so Ive decided to trade in a well worn but reliable 11 Outback. With almost 70,000 miles on a 3 year old car, Im still getting $17,000 in trade for a new one that was discounted nearly 10% from sticker. This will be my third Subaru and Im very pleased with the brand.

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  Great all climate car - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By A Flyer - November 5 - 2:00 am

  This is our 5th Subaru and it is driven 60 miles round trip everyday and we use it to visit our daughters in Westchester and Fairfax counties every 3 to four weeks. This H6 is by far the best Subaru weve owned. The ride is very good, stable, responsive on the expressway and most of all reliable. An added plus is that it looks great. The car earned our confidence. Living in Rochester NY, we do get a lot of inclement weather; ice, snow, sleet, wind, etc. When that happens the Saab 9-5 stays in the garage and the Subaru becomes our workhorse. Cant say enought good things about the car.

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  Outback 3.6R Limited - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Juan Gomez - November 3 - 4:27 am

  This is my second Outback. First one is 17 years old , 170k miles and counting. Plenty of technical reviews out there so I will keep it to personal view. Ourback 3.6R is everything I wanted. It gives me that awesome feeling that I know I am in a Subi. The engine is definitely not sport tunned, but coming from 4 cylinder it feels strong. CVT feels ok. Not a huge fan of it, but also, does not bother me at all. It just goes about doing its job. As for the interior, This car feels more expensive that it was. I sat in many cars before deciding to buy another outback. Jeep GC felt big, yet cramped inside. Plus that V8 engine paired to that awful transmission felt like a caged gorilla fighting you at ever move. 4Runner, too bouncy. Audi Allroad, too small. No regular sized adult can fin in the back of those. Volvo wagon, was nice. Felt more upscale than the Subi, but surprisingly, the Outback feels better built. Heavy thump of the doors etc. I didnt expect that. At the end, the Outback reminds me of a farm donkey. Definitely not as sporty as thoroughbred A6 Avant, nor a robust as clydesdale Land Cruiser, but I know it will take me thru hell and high water, it is virtually indestructible, it will be cheap to maintain; and all of this while properly fitting 5 adults and boat loads of gear inside. There is a reason the Subaru Cult exist. These things just work. The ONLY negative I can give it is in regards to the driver side front seat. It is a tad too stiff for long rides for my taste. But then again, that is compared to the Honda Odyssey which we all know is more of a couch on wheels. This Outback is great. I look forward to many years of ownership.

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  Longtime Outback Owner - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By BBurgDave - October 31 - 3:20 am

  We purchased this Outback to replace our 2000 Outback (75K miles) which we really liked and are giving to our son who is off to college. Prior to that, we owned two Legacy wagons, so we are a Subaru family. Compared to the 2000 Outback, this one is a bit less "sleek" and stylish (this one looks a bit more like an SUV and less like a wagon)and the rear cargo space is 3 inches shorter from the back of the rear seats to the tailgate. The space for passengers, on the other hand, seems better over all. The gas mileage seems about the same, the ride is a bit smoother, but the handling is a bit less "nimble". So far, we like it!

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  CVT Noise? - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By derekonweb@yahoo.com - October 28 - 6:23 am

  High humming noise when running at low speed. Dealers technician checked and said this was due to CVT transmission and its normal. I used to own a car also with CVT but much quiet. MPG was about 15% lower that Subaru stated.

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  Our ninth Subaru. We take them to 175000 - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Gorbes - October 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is a barrel load of fun to drive. It is a real "sleeper"and this one has surprised many a kid in his lowered Honda with subwoofers. It has excellent grip on the Nova Scotia dirt roads we drive; the brakes are truly astounding and have kept us on two occasions from making venison with the bumpers. It has only one problem, in common with its fellow turbo Subies - turbo lag. Saab relegated it to the automotive history pile a few years ago.

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  Air Conditioning Problems!! - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By pitstaff10 - October 26 - 10:00 am

  Great looking car and fun to drive, as long as its not hot outside. Only 300 miles on car and has been in for repair already. Comfort takes a ding on this one due to the newly designed AC cycles constantly every 20-30 seconds between cold and warm making for an annoying sensation. Outside temp at 82 and inside still not all that cold. Subaru America says thats just the way it is designed and will have to live with it. Ive had better AC in cars 20 years old!! Beware of this "new" design!! Gas mileage seems to be great but can be uncomfortable to drive in hot environments, so much for a great commuting vehicle.

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  Was the right choice - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Cessna Driver - October 26 - 7:13 am

  Was replacing 2000 Explorer with 141K miles, and tired of the poor gas mileage. Looked at every crossover and small truck SUV available, and found the Outback to be the best combination of sensible size/mileage and cargo capacity. We ski and have a place in Durango, CO so we needed AWD. Very satisfied with the Outback - fit and finish are excellent, ride is superb, decent handling, 170 HP flat four is definitely adequate for us, mileage has consistently been 25 MPG. Interior is nice looking and functional - not the weird and techno-ugly stuff weve seen in other vehicles. Great drivers seat (the 2000 Explorer had the worst!), sound system is excellent.

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  First Subaru - Impressed - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Ginny Todd - October 14 - 8:58 pm

  Replacing a 2011 Acura RDX - was challenged to consider a Subaru and glad I was. Ranks high for safety, economical, practical, and a good value. Very happy with my purchase of a 2017 Subaru Outback- with same features/options on the Acura RDX would cost $10,000- $15,000 more.