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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  Room for improvement but still a very good option - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By kathy kraholik - July 30 - 11:53 pm

  very comfortable road ride. great mileage for class. over 34 mpg on highway. very loud engine noise. lots of road noise. blind spot monitors not good in bright sunlight, need a larger warning sign, power rear hatch is very finickey needs improved would like to see a foot activated hatch like the ford escape, engine is underpowered, bluetooth constantly disconnects the phones, hard to hear stereo due to road noise, seats in front need a little more support in seat, headlights are not good would like to see bi-xenon headlights, turn lights work well, adaptive cruise control needs work, does not return to speed soon enough almost caused me to get rearended several times, do not like to be forced to purchase a sunroof to get eyesight system, needs front and rear parking sensors, radio controls and options need improved. mainly not enough torque when accelerating and way too much road noise are the biggest drawbacks for me, my ford escape was much better in these areas (2013 titanium) as well as having better headlights, nav system, audio system, front and rear parking sensors and RCTA were all much better and also had a foot activated rear hatch

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  Never EVER thought Id own one! - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Frank V. - July 30 - 1:20 pm

  Had a 2010 Nissan Rouge with 140k miles when the CVT transmission went. NOTE: Previous vehicles were a Lexus and Infiniti - now more value conscious. Narrowed search down to: Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Toyota Highlander, and the Subaru Forester. When looking at the Forester I drove the Outback and was sold immediately. Post two months of average use and one 1,500 mi. road trip, its actually beat all expectations. EyeSight rocks! Came loaded with everything except the keyless entry - still have to put the key in which is a minor annoyance. Have the green exterior with light color cloth seats which Im somewhat concerned about keeping clean. Cargo space and access (to) are exceptional. Front seats are very supportive. Cargo and back of the back seat protective mats come in handy. Am looking at purchasing the black plastic wheel arches. Tips: Spray glass cleaner onto a cloth rather than directly onto the inside of the windshield so as not to get any cleaner on the EyeSight cameras. Have Subaru tech walk you thru EVERY button and its use - they can be "quirky". When using the UBS cord with your phone, dont expect to keep the cover closed - itll really crimp (the cord). Dont attempt to run it on empty nor "overfill" when fueling. The performance information provides all that youll need. Cant wait until the first snow!

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  Not too bad - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Ted - July 30 - 11:56 am

  I have been driving a civic hatchback for the past several years. I loved the civic, but with a growing family, I had to buy something a little roomier. The Outback was a good compromise between the civic that I loved, and the SUVs that I hate. It has enough room inside for me, my wife, and two small children in the back, with car seats. Being a family car, I also like the various standard safety features . The cargo area along with the roof racks, make the outback a great "errand runner". My only complaint is the the lack of power. I describe the outbacks power as barely adequete. It could really use about 10-20 more horsepower. Not terrible, but noticable. Overall I do like the car alot.

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  lovely to look at lovely to drive - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By c.j. taylor - July 30 - 11:16 am

  A fine car, thoughtful and energetic. Not too bad on gas and really sure footed on any surface.

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  Quattro-killer - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By stoweman - July 27 - 12:20 pm

  I absolutely love this rig. Mileage is so-so, but that is what you get for driving a car that absolutely is fearless in Northern Vermont winters. I switch the stock Potenzas for Hakkapalita RSIs mounted on simple, cheap 16" aluminum wheels in the winter to save the nice 17" stock wheels but also to avoid the wobbly feeling snow build-up that often plagues nice rims in winter. I bought this car to replace a VW Jetta VR6, and am completely happy with my decision. I commute through some of the nastiest roads and weather around, and have NEVER felt that the car would let meet down. It started right up after 24 hours parked in -33 F, and has yet to disappoint me. And its faaaast!

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  Im back to Subaru - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Nancy - July 25 - 1:26 am

  I had two prior Subarus that got up to 185,000 miles before any problems. In 2008 I needed a new car and bought Toyota Highlander because I did not care for the suabru designs. Traded for 2010 Outback and love it. Have only 900 miles so far, but handles like only a Suabru can with its AWD. My daughter drove it and now shes thinking of buying one, although she wants to go with the 6 cylinder.

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  All round great vehicle! - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Sabina Spencer - July 24 - 1:59 pm

  This is a very sound and sensible car not exciting and sexy but safe and reliable. Id highly recommend it.

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  I came back to Subaru! - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Tammy P - July 24 - 3:43 am

  After having Mazda buy back my 1st CX 7 and now finally getting out from under and trading in my 2nd CX 7 with many problems, my 08 Subaru XT Limited is GREAT. I get 23 miles to the gallon and yes it takes premium but what would you expect when buying a turbo? I drove home in a snowstorm and the car handled like a dream, unlike the car I traded in. I dont know why I didnt stay with Subaru. I would definitely recommend if you are looking for an AWD buy a Subaru!

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  Subaru Outback Limited 2000 - 2000 Subaru Outback
  By dewitmartin - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Overall, my subaru is excellent. Reliability has been excellent. I would appreciate a little more room in the width of the car. Reaching for the drivers seat controls is cramped, and is the major reason for wanting a little more room. Otherwise, the car has been a good car and a great alternative to an SUV.

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  four doors automatic locking system - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By kiran - July 21 - 2:10 pm

  I have done the subaru outback 2016 test drive. I found doors are not lock by itself and drivers need to press the lock button to lock the doors.Its better to have automatic lock system for safety and to be hassle free. We expect automatic lock system in 2017 models.Thank you.