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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  2011 2.5i Limited - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By Chris K - September 15 - 7:36 am

  Heres an honest review- this car is not a 9.2 out of 10. Negatives: It handles like an SUV (slow, top heavy, and no where near nimble). The fit and finish are a little off (hard plastic dash, some spacing is a little off on dash parts, etc.), and the only desirable option (the v6) is WAY overpriced compared to other manufacturers. Positives: Comfort, ergonomics, storage, all wheel drive, safety. and gas mileage. Arguably styling as well, from my point of view the less "wagony" looking the better. Overall: you are not getting a BMW ride/performance, or Mercedes plush, what you are getting is a safe, dependable, sure footed, practical car for the modern family.

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  Will drive forever - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By Zachary - September 10 - 3:21 am

  This car is the most reliable car I have owned. I have not had a single problem with it yet. It plows through snow and accelerates on icy roads without a problem. I have never had a vehicle grab the road like this one. Also, it is perfect for an occasional off road excursion to find a new fishing or hiking spot and holds all of my equipment perfectly. I will never let go of this car.

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  216k no problems on Outback - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By Mike - September 9 - 5:03 pm

  I just traded in my 5 speed manual 2000 Outback. It had 216,000 miles on it. The only thing I did was change oil regularly, replace the clutch at 140,000 miles and a timing belt. Besides normal wear maintenance such as brakes. The car was never in the shop. The car easily had another 75,000 to 100,000 miles left but the dealer gave me an incredible trade-in offer. Now on my fourth Subaru.

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  they dont make them like they used to - 2012 Subaru Outback
  By subienut - September 9 - 7:38 am

  Just bought my 5th subaru wagon. My 2003 is getting a bit rattly, and my 17 yr old needed a car, so for the first time, I didnt have a valuable subaru trade in, but she has a great car. In fact, every time I see that car, or others of that vintage, I feel a twinge of sadness. Those were the good ones! The 2012 doesnt have the same zippy pick up, the six speed has very short ratios in lower speeds, they dont offer a manual in the best edition, so had to add after market leather seats and interior wood trim, but these dont really look so hot. Handles like an SUV, interior is not well designed at all, and the dog barrier is a dangerous, clunky contraption that could injure a dog!

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  First Subaru - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Powmaster - September 8 - 11:53 am

  The Outback was my first Subaru purchase; had Hondas and Toyotas previously. With the manual tranny, I achieve 26 mpg - not bad for a 4wd station wagon. Two recalls, both for the ECU and both were fast fixes and covered by Subaru. No major issues with anything. Headlights do burn out fast (once a year or so). Some minor rattles from the dash, depending on the temperature. Bad wheel alignment from the factory and wore out the tires in less than 28,000 miles. Dealer refused to do anything about it - told me it was my fault which is totally untrue.

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  An SUV that wont break your bank - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By Subaru66 - September 6 - 10:00 am

  After my sister test drove the Legacy, i was impressed and had to have one. Needed the space of the Outback, so traded my 10 Altima. Great Seats, backup camera. Gas mileage from MD to FL was 29 MPG at 70+ mph. I dont drive a true city, but getting 23-24 in and around, good for a car that weights 3500 lbs. I have about 2500 miles on it now. Got the Black, yea, i know, FL, hot, humid hard water, but it looks sharp. Car floats into turns, guess due to the weight and the tires. Wonder if a set of Mich. will resolve this?

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  Seats hurt - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Gary Wexler - September 5 - 12:23 pm

  I am 511 and the steering wheel is too far away (doesnt telescope) when I have the seat back almost all the way. The seats are too hard and there is lousy foot/leg room. It handles very well and is quiet. Average 20.4 mpg over 8,000 miles. Not enough passenger compartment storage. Transmission does what it wants to do, not always what you want. Brakes sometimes feel soft, but still do the job. Ride is good except over uneven surfaces, when it becomes too bouncy, like a Jeep. Overall, a solid car, but not a very comfortable car.

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  1st time subaru owner - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By s Kaiser - September 5 - 11:57 am

  if you are going to use the roof rack, there are a couple of options for the rails. be sure to look at each type for the one that best suits your needs. check out the tires. not sure if a particular model always has this same tire brand but worth checking it out depending on your driving conditions you are most concerned about.

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  GREAT SEDAN - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By dfw outback - September 2 - 2:53 pm

  this car does it all. I love to drive it when my wife finally allows me to have the keys... we have two children and have taken some family trips with plenty of room for everyone. great car.

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  The Outback LL Bean Rocks - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Newly_Loyal - September 1 - 9:30 am

  This is my second Outback. My first a 2001 was fun to drive - handled well and made me a Subaru Believer. Alas, the flat four was not powerful enough when I needed it. Now the 2005 LL Bean is a different story. The 6 cylinder at an improved 250 horses is just what the doctor ordered. It is slow off the line, but once moving, look out. I am not into a lot of auto froo froo. The leather seats are more of a nuisance than fabric. It is a shame that the Suby execs in their (in) finite wisdom insist that the "good" engine only gets installed in the uberdeluxe models! Some of us need the real utility of a workin wagon!