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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  new to me subaru 1st time subaru owner - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By EDH - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I test drove 38 same type cars befor choosing the outback , I was comparing value , safety , style , fuel eccon. fun to drive , visability , history , and dealerships for service and the outback won , Im having fun , only wish I would have gone for the Limited , the stero needs help in the base model , missing leather and the sunroof , next time round !

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  Begin of an love affair - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By Wolfgang - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I had a high expectations in this car, coming from a SUV having driven before a 325ix wagon which was just too small. I have considered teh A4 wagon, but the value of the Bean Outback was just not to beat. Car is within 5,000 miles the second time in for repair for some minor electronics problems. Love the 4x4 handling, the build quality and the versatility for everyday use. The car does not feel like 212 horses, more like 150 below 4,000rpm, Subaru has to work on that. Fuel economy does not reach factory promises and stays around 20-22mpg. Otherwise I would feel comfortable to recommend this car as everyday 4x4 around-town-zipper.

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  Begin of an love affair - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By wolfgang - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I had a high expectations in this car, coming from a SUV having driven before a 325ix wagon which was just too small. I have considered teh A4 wagon, but the value of the Bean Outback was just not to beat. Car is within 5,000 miles the second time in for repair for some minor electronics problems. Love the 4x4 handling, the build quality and the versatility for everyday use. The car does not feel like 212 horses, more like 150 below 4,000rpm, Subaru has to work on that. Fuel economy does not reach factory promises and stays around 20-22mpg. Otherwise I would feel comfortable to recommend this car as everyday 4x4 around-town-zipper.

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  2005 Outback 2.5XT Limited - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Jim Hauff - July 1 - 3:36 am

  I absolutely love this vehicle. It pulls through snow, ice and wet pavements with very impressive handling. On dry roads it takes curves and corners better than any vehicle I have every before owned. The acceleration with the turbo boosted engine is very impressive and is probably quicker than the last "muscle car" I owned, a 1959 Ford Galaxie 500 with a 305 hp Police Interceptor 352 cu.in. V8 engine. The interior layout is very ergonomic and the instrument cluster is right where it should be and very visible. Everyone who has ridden in this or driven this car has had nothing but praise for it. I have seen a number of people "checking it out" when parked in lots. I am very pleased.

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  Excellent car, some minor issues - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By bhorek - June 29 - 12:50 am

  Traded down from an Acura MDX to save some $ and obtain better fuel economy. Our driving is mostly in suburban areas with some highway driving. The car suits our needs very well providing space for the occasional hauling of large items with much better gas mileage than the MDX so overall we are very happy with the car. Somewhat underpowered but we knew that before we bought and still find the car fun to drive with excellent handling.

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  The good and the bad - 2012 Subaru Outback
  By sailormex - June 26 - 5:19 pm

  I bought this Car new in feb of 2012. I had ordered the 4 cyl but ever came on promised delivery date. After going to the dealer to complain about the non fulfillment I drove the 4 cyl model again on hills and found it seriously underpowered, deciding to take the 6 cyl model. At first this car was great (1 month). Then I had to make an emergency lane change and almost lost control of the vehicle. After 16 months I almost lost control of this vehicle 4 times, and decided to sell before getting hurt or worse. This car is very quiet and smooth, and is great if you drive REALLY slow. The engine and tranny are the best Ive ever had (Ive driven Audi, VW, Mercedes, jeeps and more) the

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  Fun car - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By McD90 - June 24 - 6:24 am

  This was the first good car that I have owned and it is the only car I will ever buy again. I bought this car at 90,000 miles and am now at 106,000 and still going incredibly strong. My girlfriend and I do a lot of camping and mountain biking and this is perfect for that. I have made some modifications to my car (brush guard, fog lights, new wheels, roof rack, etc.) so that has made it more capable by far but even stock it is incredible for all activity. I live in Wisconsin so a car that can brrap in snow is a must and this does exactly that.

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  Subaru Wagon - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By wrh2046 - June 19 - 2:23 am

  This car is very tight, no rattles. It is a dream to drive on long trips.T he one thing I dont like it need to use premium gas. This is my third one- two L.L Bean wagons, and one Forester that my wife drives and she loves it.

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  stealth wagon - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By arizona - June 18 - 10:56 pm

  Car is pleasant to look at but doesnt attract attention. The turbo gives it a serious turn of speed. Has been comfortable on long (7 hour) highway trips. Has performed well on off road camping excursions. Did very well last year during a major snowstorm and snow covered roads in Colorado (where every third car seemed to be a Subaru). Holds a surprising amount of gear. Longer wheelbase gives it a more comfortable highway ride than the Forester.

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  Different strokes - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By mikeb - June 18 - 1:03 pm

  Obviously people have had differing experiences. Mine have been superb. I had a 2004 Outback with 100,000 miles; loved it, but decided it was time for a change. Tested the RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Acura RDX; kept coming back to the Outback. After 2000 miles, its nothing but delightful. The ride is firm but quiet. The transmission selection system works well; gear selection on hills is much better than with the 2004. Biggest surprise is the mileage; guided by the gas consumption guage, and trying to maintain a fairly light foot, Ive been getting 23 mpg in-town and 27 on the Interstate (contrary to the 17/24 official rating). The car is great fun to drive.