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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  My 2016 Subaru - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Charlie - July 10 - 11:56 pm

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  Traded Envoy for Subi - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Troy - July 6 - 10:36 am

  We traded in our 02 Envoy for an 06 Outback Limited and are very pleased so far. Living in Chicago, the 4 cylinder (manual) has more than enough power (this coming from someone who went from 275hp to 168hp). And while our Outback cant handle the same "load" quantity as the Envoy, its more than enough for a family of 3 who packs "heavy" (I got an aerator in the back the other day). Looked at other "cross-over" vehicles, and Outback is the best (especially when you factor in price). So far gas mileage good, but not "rating" - more like 20 city, 26 highway (all around avg on Envoy about 15). A great car for someone looking for a replacement to their traditional SUV.

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  1st Subaru - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Gerard - July 3 - 12:46 am

  Ive had my 05 Outback XT for 12K miles now. Turbo is great but there is a lag from a standstill with the automatic. Love the "manual" shifting in the mountains. Brakes could be a bit better. Nagging rattle has developed behind the dash. AWD works great in Colorado winters. Handling is awesome. Gas mileage on the highway nears 25, city is closer to 17. Trip computer regularly overrates the mileage by 1 MPG. Rear leg room is only adequate. Reliability has been excellent. Rear cup holders are small and weak.

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  Great find! - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Lee2706 - June 29 - 8:56 pm

  Had a 1995 Legacy wagon that aspired to be an Outback. Years later, I bought the car I always wanted! My big feet took some getting used to in the footbox, not to say that it is cramped, but pedals are closer than my Honda. I am no WRC racer, but I do like how easy the clutch engages and shifting action feels great. Is surprisingly responsive when passing, especially for a four banger that is a bit heavy in the hips. Excited for the snow and rain, Id like to see how the AWD handles it. Mileage is better than expected, 27+ in 50/50 city/hwy (as long as the dash computer is correct).

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  Number Three - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By John - June 28 - 6:26 pm

  We bought two 2005 Outbacks for our children as used cars. We wanted safe reliable cars with all wheel drive for the New England winters. My wife and I were so pleased with these cars that we decided to add a third Outback this month. We purchased a 2010 Outback Premium model in Sky Blue. I am the daily driver and just love the car. It is an extraordinary value when compared with the new Audi A4 wagon which I drove with a price of $42,000 plus. The new Outback design is spacious and very comfortable and fun to drive. Prior to owning this Outback we have owned two BMWs and two Hondas. Frankly, Subaru was not a car we considered before this. Now we have three in the family.

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  My 2017 Outback Limited with pizzaz! - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Karen Taylor - June 27 - 1:01 pm

  Love the mileage after only 1000 mi. The ride is quiet and comfortable. Climate control is great. The only improvements I could recommend at this point is the angle of the screen and the side vents. When the sun sets, the light glare on the screen is awful! I made a cover for those times. Also the metal surrounding the side air vents also reflects the sun and affects the vision in the side mirror. It is spacious, comfortable, and easy to maneuver. The navigation isnt as good as I would like. My google maps is better, but perhaps I havent learned the correct use. Prior to this I had limited technology, and now have Eyesight, so I am still learning a lot. I made a lot of comparisons before purchasing this car. I would recommend darkening the front side windows a bit to cut the glare from rear headlights. The CVT causes a bit of noteworthy spurts at times. Starting cold causes engine drag until it runs a few minutes. The overlap of roof at the rear makes cleaning the rear window difficult. Overall I am happy with the car.

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  Love the car HATE the Nav and Entertainment system - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Jeff Z - June 27 - 12:33 pm

  I love my Outback. Ive got the eyesight and navigation system. The eyesight is incredible and one of the reasons I purchased the vehicle. I frequently travel the midwest for my job and wanted a safer car. The eyesight with auto adjust cruise control is probably the best feature of a car Ive ever owned and makes long trips much easier to handle. The front drivers seat is also SUPER comfortable especially when the butt warmer is on! The thing about the car that is absolute garbage are: 1) The navigation system is awful and at time unusable. It frequently has me getting on and off the highway for no freaking reason and says there are traffic jams ahead when there are none so how can you trust it. It completely freezes up on me when I am driving in Chicago and almost got me into an accident while I was trying to get it to work. 2) The entertainment system integration with your phone frustrates me to no end. The apps for the vehicle are an absolute joke and Subaru should be ashamed of what they are putting out compared to other car companies. The buttons on the steering wheel are not the best choices for me to have on the wheel and the voice system is utterly USELESS. 3) Gas mileage is nowhere close to what they advertise - I usually dont even get close to what they advertise for the city mpg when Im driving highway miles so that is very disappointing. Even with these items I would still buy the vehicle, although I wish that I could have turned down the navigation upgrade as for me it is barely usable.

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  Not quite a station wagon - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Subaru owner - June 27 - 12:13 pm

  Ive had many station wagons, but the Outback is much more. Higher ground clearance and a bit more room. Handles like a wagon, but acts like an SUV. Very happy with my purchase.

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  My First Subaru - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By transylvan - June 26 - 4:56 am

  I planned two years ago that my next car will be a white Toyota Highlander. It took two minutes to change that decision after seeing the new Outback 2010 in front of Costco one weekend last November. Styling is a personal matter, but for me this was the only car in a long while for which I couldnt find an obvious flaw or exaggeration. It was love at first sight. I purchased mine, a white 2.5i CVT last month and absolutely love it (the only white on the lot and ... didnt want to wait). I have 1200 miles on it so far and averaging 25mpg in the city and 30mpg hwy. The CVT is a blast, same as comfort, quietness and AWT performance.

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  Great Subaru - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Mt&SnowDriver - June 25 - 6:46 pm

  This is the third Subaru I have owned and it is the best yet. Really enjoy the added room inside. I can find no quarrel with appearance inside or out. Drives very quite and assertive. Appears to be built as well as all previous Subarus. Good maintenance and they just keep on running.