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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  Best car I ever owned in 50 years - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By panda - October 23 - 10:40 am

  Solid road car. Great engine, quiet, very good handling, brakes and steering wheel response. Great road shock absorption. Transmission very smooth. The car is tight at the shoulders and could be a little wider. The steering wheel needs to be adjusted higher to clear my knees.

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  Outback ech - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Outback - October 23 - 6:16 am

  Bought a Outback wagon 4 cylinder - Im not impressed. I had Saabs for 20+ years. This is smaller inside (almost tight - tough to impossible to take more than 3 golfing), inside design just a 4, the MPG is a major disappointment- 23-25, the ride is stiff, little to no driving feel or fun, all-wheel is good but no better than Saab with snows. So for the good - reliable so far, dealership service good, replaced radio -- odd? So far fairly inexpensive to service and maintain, just oil changes, more at major mileages. So overall: a 5 from 1-10. Next car: back to Saab (expensive to maintain); a domestic, Honda or Toyota wagon hybrid.

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  Love the new outback - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Peter - October 22 - 4:16 pm

  Traded up from my 02 Outback Sport. Great room for the family including a 6ft tall son in the back. Love the 6 speed manual, especially with the short throw shifter installed. Average city/highway is ~24 mpg (about the same as my smaller outback sport). Very quiet and the lumbar support is great. Looking forward to the next 100,000 miles

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  Great car for the money - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Chad Moll - October 21 - 7:56 pm

  This car continues to impress me. I purchased this car based on the size/fuel economy. I never thought that I would love it, it was to be an economy cruiser. The ride quality is good but a bit harsh. The upside is you feel in control in all circumstances. The 2.5 is far from powerful but is always adequate. The highlight of this engine is the fuel economy. I am getting a combined 28 mpg in mainly below freezing temperatures and short trips, hardly a recipe for great mileage. The two chances I have had to take the car on long trips have provided over 35 mpg. 35 on the first and 38 on the second. I have had the opportunity to drive in snow and Im pleasantly surprised at the cars ability. I believe the stock tires are not the best but will use the up before changing. I would highly recommend this car to anyone who values economy and capably above appearance, because in the end this crossover is a wagon.

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  My Outback - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By charli - October 20 - 11:00 pm

  I have had my Outback for a month. This is "moms car" and I love it! I have an 11 year old daughter and she and I go do a lot of outdoor things. I have already driven in snow and the traction was great! My neighbors were sliding on the snow and my Outback did fine! Im enjoying driving this car. I like that everything seems convenient to reach for me. My husband is 64 and he actually has headroom. I had looked at the Honda CRV too but I just kept coming back to my Outback and happy that I did! Love driving it, get a lot of comments on it, even the boys at the carwash told me they like the inside! Im driving mostly in the city. Im getting 22.8 and look forward to taking this camping!

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  Subaru for life - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Mike - October 19 - 2:53 pm

  This is my second Subaru. My first was a 2014 XV Crosstrek limited which was nice but I wanted something larger with a better ride. I have a 2.5i Limited fully loaded and couldnt be more pleased. Very comfortable seats unlike the Forester (even touring trim) and much, much better ride. I am 40 and initially my next car was going to be a WRX but I think the novelty would wear off in a month. I never thought I would be leasing a wagon because thats exactly what it is, but I am so very glad I did. Overall, nothing compares on the market to the Outback. I have driven my bosses Honda CRV that felt very unstable unlike the Outback that feels solid. Also, the AWD systems in the Honda are fake and I prefer the the true AWD in Subarus. The style both inside and out arent for everyone but it is slowly growing on me. I would not buy a Subaru unless its a limited model or above. Go see for yourself but just keep in mind if you do decide to go with the CRV or CX5 it may be me passing you in the snow.

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  Super Subaru - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Ross A - October 19 - 2:53 am

  I bought the most basic Outback wagon made, the only option being auto transmission. All I can say is "Wow". This car gives so much for so little I cant get over it. Heated seats, outside mirrors and w/s wipers standard. The quality of the fit and finish inside and out is terrific. The car is quiet on the road, very comfortable, and handles great too. This is one of several cars my family owns, and the others are much more expensive. I find myself in the Subaru most of the time. I had an Infiniti G35 coupe for about a year and a half. This Subaru is put together so much better.

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  Snow eater - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Deisel lover - October 18 - 5:56 pm

  Progress has been made. Still under powered but the cvt, hill brake, comfort added, mileage increased, interior enlargement all add up to a outstanding drive.This car is a great snow eater. There is no other car on the road that can compare. It tows well. In the past ten years Ive had six subarus, all various models. This is the best. On the road, mileage at 60/32, 70/30/31, and in the city 22.

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  After a month... - 2013 Subaru Outback
  By waskallywabbit - October 17 - 6:22 pm

  Like several others...Im a little disappointed in the mileage. My new Outback gets about 26 on my daily 27 mile (each way) commute. While that matches the "overall" mileage rating...I was hoping for better. My last vehicle, a Jeep Patriot, actually got its rated 27 mpg on that same commute. But the Outback is certainly more comfortable to drive. The steering takes a little getting used to...but only because its very tight and responsive. Before buying, I test drove everything in its class and its only real competition was the Forrester.

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  Super Wagon - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Caleb - October 16 - 3:49 am

  My car is a black Outback 3.6R Limited with Eyesight, rear cross traffic alert, all the front and rear and lower body plastic protective bits, rubber floor mats, cargo and seat back protectors, homelink, and auto-dimming/defrosting mirrors. Some user details: Ive put 6000 miles on this car thus far (purchased mid-october 2017, it is now January 17th). My commute of 25 miles averages 1.25 hours one way through some of the heaviest traffic in the US (Los Angeles), and it handles it perfectly fine, zipping in and out of traffic when I am in a hurry, or safely following the car ahead using Eyesight and nudging me back into lane if I get distracted -although MPG never gets over 20 no matter how I drive. Ive taken one road trip of 700+ miles in it with my family of four, two strollers, food, luggage, etc., and I was impressed with the quiet interior at highway speeds, the ability to pack everything we wanted, comfort of the front seats during long hauls, and the rear bench being able to fit my wife between the two child seats. I am coming to this vehicle from a power and suspension modified BMW 335i, so I find the driving dynamics of this Outback to be less than stellar, but that said, I have to say that for such a big, heavy, high ground clearance car, it handles remarkably well and has adequate acceleration at pretty much any speed. I think I will be adding the 19” rear sway bar to firm up cornering characteristics at some future date, but as it is, it performs very well. The CVT is the best Ive ever used with none of that weird rubber band lag, making it what I would consider acceptable in most situations, although it does have a bit of a wiggle/shake at lower speeds when quickly modulating the gas pedal. The paddle shifters and manual mode are great for keeping the engine from lugging up long ascents and are also good for getting the car into the optimum rpm range before quick passing maneuvers -but simply mashing the pedal does a quick enough job as well. The nav does a passable job with clear directions, and would be perfectly fine to use for small city, long suburban or rural trips, but in a dense traffic city like Los Angeles, it’s ETA’s are always off by 15 minutes, it can be inaccurate with traffic conditions, and it doesn’t usually give you the fastest route. I prefer using waze during my commute. I have Subaru’s ne plus ultra 12 speaker Harmon-Kardon sound system, and while I’ve seen more than a few complaints about it in the Outback forums, I find it to be pretty good for the price. The highs are clear, the mids are clean, and the there is strong bass. I wish the sound field in the driver’s chair were a bit more spread out, but if I want a stellar listening experience I will sit properly centered in an acoustically damped room using a true hi fi system, not wedged into one corner of a car putting out 65+dB of constant noise at highway speeds. Overall the infotainment system is good bordering on great. There can be a few layers to go through to get to an option you think should be one or two button/screen presses, it can be a bit slow to respond at times, and setting up a nav destination is unnecessarily button-pushy. I think pressing “go” once should be enough, not 2-3 times as it gives you more options or wants to make sure you really want to do it. That said, I love having a touchscreen rather than only a bunch of knobs and buttons, and the touchscreen hides or doesn’t collect fingerprints fairly well. The knobs and buttons offered are appropriate and function well, for example, a long press of the right knob will put you into split screen mode (I have mine set up with nav on left, music on right), a short press puts you fully into radio. Nav has its own dedicated button. In conclusion, after having done a ton of research and test driving several other vehicles (Mazda CX-5, CX-9, Honda CRV, Subaru Forester, and BMW X1, X3, X5, 5 & 3 series), I found the Outback to fulfill all my needs at least adequately if not very well, and a few of my wants in the bargain at a very attractive price. It is a roomy, with excellent safety features, decent tech, and good overall driving dynamics. I haven’t taken any dirt roads in it, but from what I’ve read it is a very capable light to moderate off-roader as well, with higher ground clearance than a Jeep Cherokee. After 3 months, I can say without reservation I am very happy with this purchase, and hope it lasts me a long time.