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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  Improve MPG and Wind Noise - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By Curtis Culwell - February 3 - 3:20 pm

  I purchased my Subaru used in 2004. I have been extremely pleased with its handling and performance. However, its mileage is abysmal. I got a SCAN II computer and began hypermiling last April, and started to see decent numbers (30-31+) but with a lot of effort. Then I noticed winter temps and (Ive read) winter fuel mix REALLY brought numbers down, to around 23+. Also that wind noise is a nuisance. By just tapping the switch a bit Ive achieved prompt, temporary relief. Buy this car for snow and ice, but for warmer climes, a lighter FWD car might be better.

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  Do Everything - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Ron Boller - February 1 - 3:06 am

  Have a 2002 WRX, wanted a vehicle with power and handling that had more room, more ground clearance and more comfort. The Outback XT fit the bill. The WRX is fun and to this point bullet proof. The Outback does not corner as well, but is a fast and much more comfortable. So far so good.

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  Lives up its reputation - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By TP - January 31 - 9:53 pm

  Very pleased with my Outback LL Bean H6 Wagon. Although it produces annoying wind noise (apparently a Subaru trait), and can use a five speed auto transmission to move it up hills easier, the H6 is very smooth and moves well on the highway. I find it enjoyable and fun to drive. It handles well, and I like the ride. The posi rear hinders the performance in snow as compared to non-posi Subarus, but you still feel secure. My brothers had 7 Subarus and talked me into buying this one. Im glad he did. It was between this and the 4Motion VW Passat Wagon, but after talking to former and current VW owners, and reading that the VWs reliability reviews were horrific, it was an easy decision.

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  Never again - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By larry - January 31 - 5:46 pm

  This car is the worst used car Ive ever owned and Ive new bought a new car in my life. Ive had trouble with the alarm going off for no reason for months and the dealer not being able to figure it out then finally they discovered the rear hood latch was faulty. Ive had several sensors replaced one cost three hundred and one around four hundred. The rear wheel bearing went out and the heater fan needed to be replaced. It blows headlights constantly and has a horrible squeak in the dash. All these repairs in less than a year, and the car doesnt even have 70k on it - seems ridiculous back to toyotas for me.

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  Good All-Around SUV - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Matt - January 31 - 2:26 pm

  Extremely satisfied so far - wanted an AWD vehicle with manual transmission that was good on gas and could haul my bike and kayak. Also have two small children, so ride quality was also important. Outback has met or exceeded all of these requirements. Comfortable on long trips - averaged 33 mpg highway; getting 24.3 mpg in mixed driving. People have commented on how they like the dark gray color, and that it looks like a more expensive vehicle.

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  SAFETY FIRST - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By JG - January 27 - 10:43 am

  I was hit head on by a drunk driver going about 50 mph. I just got my Subaru two months earlier, and if it werent for that car and the grace of God, Id be dead. I want another one just like it. The safety features worked very well, and kept all of us from being seriously injured. Consider this type of car as one of your top picks. And NO, I do not represent Subaru. This report is straight from the heart.

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  I like it - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By tom - January 26 - 5:23 pm

  My last new car was a 1989 Range Rover. After twenty years I traded it, cash for clunkers, for the Outback. I travel on dirt roads to get to my home. The road clearance is a very important feature. Off road ride is excellent. On pavement it drives like a sporty sedan.

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  Realy Nice Car - 2013 Subaru Outback
  By kkeppel - January 26 - 11:49 am

  I have driven full size American 4x4 pick-ups for the last 25 years. Divorce and gas prices caused me to down size. I love this car, it gets great gas mileage and can still get me to my hunting cabin in Maine. I must say that 30 MPG is not quite accurate. I am averaging 25.5 with mixed driving. I can get 28 on highway at 70 mph. The car is comfortable, nice riding and capable. I would buy another Subaru without question and I recommend one to anyone who needs a fun car thats good in snow and a little off roading.

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  Subarules - 2004 Subaru Outback
  By Long Hot Summer Days - January 24 - 5:00 am

  This is my 3rd Outback. They are the most reliable cars. They are very versatile; you can haul the wife and 3 kids or drop the back seat and move desks, filing cabinets, etc. They are very desirable. Buy in the spring and sell at the first snow fall.

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  Dependable - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By Vincent - January 23 - 1:26 pm

  We own a bmw 7 series and Mercedes E Class and I have to say I am impressed with the quality of the interior. I think its on par with the Benz. Harmon Kardon radio is excellent. Leather seats are nice. Im not tall, Im 5,7 so I have no complaints sitting anywhere in the wagon. We needed a car that would serve as our daily commuter to work from the suburbs to Manhattan. This is our 3rd Subaru for this purpose. If youre looking for a car that will protect your family and keep you on the roads no matter the road/ weather conditions, then this is it. We are extremely happy with this car. IMO, this is a good alternative to those large SUVs because its easier to navigate and park in the city.