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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  Outback does everything - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Russ Lalicker - June 29 - 2:35 pm

  This vehicle rides smooth and solid. Plenty of space and places for my cups and phone.

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  No Audi, but the price is right - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By wepperson - June 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a very good car, but hardly "Lexus-like". For one thing, the comparable Lexus is the ES300, which is awful for torque oversteer. But the ride comfort and quietness of the Outback dont approach the Lexus, nor my old A4 Quattro. And the handling has always been disappointing--yeah, I know its a "sport utility sedan" and not set up for sport touring sedan handling like the A4, but I wish it was.

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  Never Again - 2002 Subaru Outback
  By Rachael - June 24 - 10:03 am

  I bought my Subaru with 40k miles on it 2 years ago, and this January it became a MONEY PIT...had a strong fuel smell and had dealer tighten plugs two times...the smell continued. I had my 60,000 tune up. Still smelled it. Found out my coolant was leaking, so I went in twice to have them put something in the car that would seal any leaks from the inside. Didnt work. Replaced my head gaskets, valve cover gaskets, the whole bit. NOW, Im burning 1 quart of oil every two weeks, and replaced 2 wheel bearings. Heated windshield broke windshield both winters. Seats uncomfortable for long trips. LOVE THE CARGO SPACE!

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  Sublime Subaru - 2004 Subaru Outback
  By Subfan - June 22 - 10:00 am

  After extensively researching and driving several crossover vehicles, the Outback seemed the logical choice. (Others considered: Nissan Murano, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Toyota Highlander.) I bought the top-of-the-line VDC model, and paid slightly under dealers invoice (whatever that means, given dealer holdback and other strategems). I needed a modest amount of cargo capacity and good handling of mountain roads; purchasing something larger just didnt seem necessary. Im very pleased with the result--fine handling, power, and visibility; a smooth, quiet ride; and an interior that matches that of more expensive vehicles.

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  Wonderful Vehicle... So Far - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Love IT!!! Good Job - June 14 - 6:00 am

  This was definitely one of the best purchases Ive ever made. The car is solid, whips around turns with superior handling. I love the paddle shifters for the manual mode. The premium sound is a plus (worth the extra $$). Easy latches on roof rails to swing them around.

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  Subaru is fun to drive - 2002 Subaru Outback
  By matt saxon - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This has been without a doubt the best car I have ever owned. It has everything anyone could want living in the midwest or any snow belt area. It rides very well, and feels comfortable, for a rugid vehical. The McIntosh audio system is a fabulous feature. Looks, performance and comfort/safety. Its well rounded and complete.

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  CANT BEAT IT ! - 2004 Subaru Outback
  By ROB - June 10 - 2:00 am

  WE TRADED A LINCLON NAVAGATOR FOR OUR NEW OUTBACK WHAT A RIDE ! THIS OUTBACK BELIEVE IT OR NOT GIVES A MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE RIDE THAN THE NAVAGATOR. I REALLY ENJOY FILLING THE GAS TANK WITH A $20 AND NOT A $50. THIS ALL WHEEL DRIVE IS THE GREATEST.

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  Best Bang for Buck! - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Feilo - June 10 - 1:30 am

  The OB has always been on my shortlist of cars through the years and I finally went for it when it came time to part with my (much loved and performance tuned) Passat wagon. The 2.5i is very well matched with the 5MT and I am enjoying true motoring again! Also appreciating AWD for the first time in the snow we have been having here in the Midwest. After ~6000 miles, fuel consumption has been reasonable - averaging ~26 mpg overall in 70/30 highway/urban driving, and have been trouble free. Had to upgrade the rear sway bar and tires to get handling to what I would like but then, thats not for everybody. Fit and finish is OK for what I paid for it. All in all, I am really happy with my 2.5i!

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  The best hybrid of Sedan, Wagon and SUV - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By CCJW - June 9 - 7:23 pm

  Even when Turbo kicks in, the noise level of the cabin is still rather low, but you will hear wind rush through roof racks. Cargo space is plenty with hidden storage rooms arranged nicely, however interior space of front seats somehow feels small comparing to our 2000 Prelude. Body lean is there but the car still feels confident with small hint of RWD like. My wife and I had tested drive other European wagons in the same price range ($30K - $33K) and this OB XT Ltd easily beats them all (V50 T5 AWD, Audi A4 1.8t and Passat AWD) in all areas. We both have been a big VTEC fan for 6 years in 4 different models but the fun factor out from this turbo engine has totally changed our belief.

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  Love it! - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By jcbasser - June 9 - 1:16 am

  Hello, Love the car. We purchased the car with 41 miles. I love the feel of the leather and the seats are very comfortable. The dual zone AC is great because I run hot so I always need the AC on. We just took the car on a long road trip with lots of hills and open roads. We averaged 31.5 MPG. Great! Around town I am at about 24 mpg. The fit and finish is great. No squeaks or rattles. My car does not have any vibrations others have noted. My other car is a 2004 Mazda 6 wagon which I also love. However, the finish, stereo, ride, of the outback is great. the power is less then the Mazda, but the Mazda averages only 19 MPG.