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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  CVT Noise? - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Dennis - December 23 - 12:26 pm

  Really like this car but our model has a noise that is present at low rpms and speed. It seems to disappear at higher speeds. The noise is coming from the front end engine compartment such as pulley system or CVT transmission. Similar to noise you hear from pistons/cylinders that rattle when not enough fuel octane. Dealer says its a normal noise for these models but I have not heard anyone on the site indicate a similar noise/problem. Dealer does agree that noise is louder than other models on the lot that they have tested. I personally think the noise is from the CVT transmission which is a chain drive system or combination of the smaller pulley system for this model.

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  Great Car With Flaws - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Paul - December 23 - 6:36 am

  I just hit 5k miles and and remain extremely satisfied with my purchase of a 2017 Outback. The car serves as my primary vehicle and I commute with two other adults. The spacious interior has plenty of leg room in the backseat for adults. The cabin remains quiet at freeway speeds, though there is a distinctive wind noise from both the front driver and passenger windows. When multiple people are in the car, acceleration is sluggish. I like the eyesight and lane departure safety features, but have had a few growing pains. I live around curvy roads and the audio alarm I get everytime I cross the line on a curve can get a little irritating. I believe you can silence the alarm but I prefer to keep it on as I have two teenage children that also drive the car. The eyesight braking system activated a couple of times as I closed the distance gap too quickly on a car turning right. Also, when backing up in a grass parking area, the tall grass confused the system causing the car to break suddenly. My biggest complaint is the STARLINK system. It is useless with the iPhone. Really wish the car had Apple CarPlay instead. STARLINK is the vehicles biggest flaw. While the Bluetooth system works well, not having full access to my iPhone features will likely keep me from making another Subaru purchase in the future. And while I do use the cars navigation system, its not as intuitive as Google Maps or Waze and have to rely on my phones smaller screen rather than the larger car monitor. Again, CarPlay would give me more options. Beyond the obvious STARLINK flaw, I really like the vehicle and look forward to putting the all wheel drive to the test as the first flakes of snow begin to fall in a few weeks.

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  This is my last Subaru - 2002 Subaru Outback
  By Doug - December 22 - 8:20 pm

  Ive had many Subarus, and this is my last one. After replacing the head gasket 4 times, Im done. (The tranny went on another one I still own). These cars dont spend much time in the shop but when they do, it costs me 5-6 car payments. Also, after reviewing options now (in 2009), the OB has not kept pace with other makers improvements. Its still the same car in 2009 as it was in 2002 with a few different options. Same engine, same power train, same reliability issues until someone proves otherwise. Also, the engine is underpowered for its size.

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  Some improvements, some problems - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By sb_sweetie - December 22 - 9:26 am

  I owned my first Outback (95) for 10 years before replacing it with the updated 2005. I love the look and some features of the new version, but am annoyed by others. The car handles well and the transmission is great. It drives much like the 95, but feels much more solid and safer. What annoys me is the cabin; it seems to have shrunk a few critical inches in all directions. The fit is tight for me and my 62" husband. I never felt this way in the 95. Also, the rear-view mirror is set too low (Im 57") and obscures my view through the front. Maybe Ill get used to this, but for now, it annoys me (Ive only had the car for a week). I guess Im somewhat disappointed in the 05.

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  4th sub - upholstery quality ba humbug - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By bgbFL - December 17 - 2:56 am

  Upholstery - fabric fit and finish leaves something to be desired. 2002 legacy outback wagon was better at trade in than this is new. Loose fitting in one area "bunch" up in several areas. Mileage is good. Seats firm and comfortable. Rides well. CVT takes some getting used to - at times its seems like its not "c". Paddle shifting a fun to try. Visibility very good.

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  Solid Vehicle - 2000 Subaru Outback
  By jkwcivil - December 11 - 4:46 am

  I purchased this car used in September 09 with approximately 41,000 miles. Since then Ive driven 10,000 miles in different conditions, including ice and mud, and Ive found this to be a solid and reliable vehicle. It has the four cylinder engine. I get 23 to 24 mpg with 50% highway and 50% in town. I admit that Im not an aggressive driver. Most others would probably get a lower gas mileage reading. The suspension is very much like an SUV when traveling off-road or over rough pavement. The all wheel drive gives a secure feeling when the roads are slick. I can see why Subarus are popular in northern states.

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  Dont see the quality - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By stevenm5 - December 7 - 11:00 pm

  I am writing this for my sister, because I end up dealing with her problems and doing all the maintenance. She bought it new, the windshield leaked, and leaked and leaked, five trips to the dealer before it stopped. The wiper motor, two on the front, one rear, under warranty, but still. Leaked oil out of the sending unit, the valve cover gaskets, the drain plug, separate incidents. Chews through tires, 25-30K Bridgestones, not expensive tires, but not cheap either. Wheel bearings: at 100,000 miles she has had to do all four, the first ones at 50,000 miles. Now the head gaskets are leaking. This car is history, If she buys another one, shes on her own.

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  Satisfied - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Ted - December 6 - 7:36 am

  Ive had my Outback for 6 months and have put over 8000 miles on it. Initial impression of quality is good. I bought the car due to its safety features, additional room for my family, and reputation for quality. I havent been let down. My only real gripe about the car is the lack of horsepower. This car could really use an extra 20 hp. Not a big deal since Im not out to win any races. However, the car is slightly under-powered in my opinion.

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  Limited limitations - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By nornet - December 1 - 11:40 am

  There are few limitations of this vehicle. During the first 6 months of ownership the AWD with its amazing cornering has got me out of 2 very tight situations where I was cut off by vehicles doing 40 mph less than myself (I wasnt speeding, they pulled out). About the only thing I dont like is the leather heated seats. They are cold up north and the heated area is a little narrow.

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  Solid ride - 2000 Subaru Outback
  By MOutback - November 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is solid, but needs more power and refinement. The ride is smooth, handling is balanced, interior is comfortable, traction is superb, and ergonomics are decent. Of course, the key selling point was the AWD and Subaru dependability, which have proven their worth. Plus, its good looking. After 38K miles, the only problem Ive had was a bad AC compressor, which was covered by the warranty. But Im glad I dont have the McIntosh stereo (what a loser). Id gladly buy another, especially the 2005 model, which promises to be an excellent improvement.