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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  There is no No true competion for XT ! - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By sweet_subie - March 2 - 1:46 pm

  It is a sports car/wagon/suv/sedan/crossover/convertible (open that moonroof, you will know). 5 Star crash test rating, best AWD, 250hp/torque, drives like sedan, shorter/lighter than Honda Accord/Camry/A6, smaller turning radius (34 inches) than most sport sedans, panoramic moonroof, 8.7 inches of ground clearance (more than 40 SUVs), electro gauges, Subaru reliability, top notch build quality, Subaru-backed generous extended warranty. Can buy $3-5k below MSRP. There is NOTHING LIKE THIS!

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  Never Again - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Keith - March 1 - 4:50 pm

  I dislike this Subaru more than any car I have ever owned. I avoid driving this car rather than deal with the cars quirky and dangerous characteristics. Examples: Climbing a hill at highway speeds the car shifts between 4th & 5th gears every 4 seconds on average. The car responds to quick acceleration maneuvers with a 2-3 second delay before accelerating; not a good thing on busy Southern California freeways. The car has only 8K miles. After nine months as a Subaru owner I am ready to visit my Toyota dealer and eat the trade-in costs. I hate this car!

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  Very good car - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By Nakoosa - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Were I not so into off-roading, I would have kept this car. The ground clearance is great, the approach/departure angles significantly hamper the grnd clernce and AWD capabilities. AWD and cornering = fun! Premium sound system is Fantastic! Seat heaters are wonderful. Acceleration is very surprising (when gas is stomped). Gas mileage surprising not so desireable. I took this thing mudding, out onto the beach, rally driving on fireroads and Had A Blast!! Very versatile, very fun. But I can 4-wheel my 87 Pathfinder and it cost a lot less! If youre not into moderate to heavy off- roading, youll love all the features, safety and fun of this car.

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  Good to drive and reliable - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By tljake - February 28 - 3:36 pm

  This is my second Subaru (first being a 1986 Brat). Have put over 50,000 on it in three years, have had absolutely no problems. This car has been through winter snow, off road in the high desert, city traffic, and has never failed to perform. Its not the flashiest car out there, nor the fastest, nor the one pulling the biggest load, but it will get you from point A to point B with minimum worry.

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  Stability Control Requires Leather Seats - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By ruddyduck67 - February 26 - 7:56 pm

  Best midsize value on the market. I wanted stability control as an extra safety measure but was kind of annoyed that this requires a whole host of non-safety oriented upgrades like leather seats and a moonroof (which is actually very nice). The other wagons in the lineup require premium fuel!? Yeah, I wanna spend an extra 20 cents per gallon for the life of the car. Anyway, it is a very nice driving car, very tight for a wagon, and can carry anything when considering the interior and the roofrack. One more thing about the roofrack, take off your crossbars when not in use. That little effort will take 5 minutes and can save you on mileage.

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  Good choice - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By Ann_S - February 23 - 4:40 am

  We just purchased a 2011 outback limited 4 cyl and are very satisfied. Was concerned the steering would be too tight, the acceleration would not be good, the air would not be good and the radio reception would not be good. None were true. Car handles great, air cools the car quickly, acceleration is just what it needs to be, steering curves takes some handling because the car is designed to hug the road. No complaints. Did a lot of research on- line, several test drives and got a good buy. Made my deal on the phone after multiple e-mail. Recommend over the CR-V or RAV4. RAV4 seats were hard to push back but drove well. CR-V passenger was pushed around on curves and with braking

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  Best Subaru Yet! - 2013 Subaru Outback
  By poohbaru - February 21 - 3:11 am

  Had the car now since Sept 2012, my 6th Subaru and the best so far. My first was a 84 GL wagon and Ive been in love with Subarus ever since. They are more refined now and offer a lot more creature comforts but still have that unique character that makes a Subaru a Subaru. I have the 3.6R Limited with EyeSight (thought about the Special Appearance Package but opted for safety over a couple of additional gadgets). Very glad I did. The EyeSight system is AWESOME. It has saved me from a few close calls and actually prevented me from hitting a deer. I had a 06 LL Bean Outback (also a great car) couldnt believe how much roomier it was and love that I can use regular gas versus high test

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  50 hp more & $5k less itd be the best - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By daveB - February 21 - 2:00 am

  3rd subaru for me and everyone a winner. for solid reliable transport with tons of comfort and convenience features you cant go wrong. I paid $31K for my VDC wgn and happily did so even though it was too much for a subie. still i knew what subarus are all about & i was getting a 6 cyl, VDC, 2 sunroofs and the macintosh stereo plus heated seats etc etc..A Volvo XC/Audi Allroad for way less but now the A4 and Passat wgn are all over it for price hence my title. Turbo this motor and wed have a world beating winner.

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  50 hp more & $5k less itd be the best - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By DaveB - February 21 - 2:00 am

  3rd subaru for me and everyone a winner. for solid reliable transport with tons of comfort and convenience features you cant go wrong. I paid $31K for my VDC wgn and happily did so even though it was too much for a subie. still i knew what subarus are all about & i was getting a 6 cyl, VDC, 2 sunroofs and the macintosh stereo plus heated seats etc etc..A Volvo XC/Audi Allroad for way less but now the A4 and Passat wgn are all over it for price hence my title. Turbo this motor and wed have a world beating winner.

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  2012 Outback Limited Very Good But Noisy - 2012 Subaru Outback
  By sharon61 - February 19 - 4:23 pm

  I leased my Outback 33 days ago thanks to Subarus rewarding customer loyalty program and a great price from our local dealer. I love the moderate size and stylish exterior design and wheels, as well as the luxurious interiors heated leather seats and faux wood trim. The Harman Kardon stereo is great as is the Bluetooth connectivity feature between my cell phone and the stereo. Not having taken an extended trip yet, Im averaging 23.7 mpg in a combination of city and highway driving (no lead feet) here in the Blue Ridge Mountains. My biggest complaint is that the Outback is noisy, no doubt due to the boxer engine and CVT, but no vehicle with the word "Limited in its name should be noisy.