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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  Up-Date Major Defect - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By Bill - June 16 - 12:40 am

  Up-date to my 7/28 review. Subaru came out with a TSB for the steering wheel shake finally which included new front and rear bushings, new steering wheel with dampener, new mount for the trans and a bunch of other parts. Car was at dealer for 2 days for the repair. It drives a lot better now without the shake however the steering wheel vibrates above 70 mph., kind of like operating a power tool. Called dealer and told him the problem and was told nothing more they can do. Car rides well, plenty of power, comfortable, and fun to drive as long as you stay below 70. Envy those of you without the shake or vibration. For me, my first and last Subaru.

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  as expected - 2007 Subaru Outback
  By spencer - June 15 - 4:30 pm

  Our family has had at least one Subaru in our fleet for more than a decade. The 2007 basic Outback features a nice combination of performance, comfort,and versatility. The fact that Subarus feature AWD, solid reliability, and good resale value keep us coming back. Subaru also partners with Chase Bank to bring you a Subaru credit card that makes purchasing and maintaining your Subaru less financially burdensome. Subaru continues to move forward with quality and design improvements. I wouldnt say the 07 Outback deserves to be called "luxurious", but it is not far deserving that moniker. Price of this car goes up quickly with the addition of creature comforts.

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  Scooby Bean - 2002 Subaru Outback
  By dude - June 14 - 4:16 pm

  Great handling and very smooth engine. Very fun to power around corners. Subarus dont seem to mind being driven hard.

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  consecutive day recalls - new mod curse - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By bergerb2 - June 14 - 2:13 pm

  The plague of a new vehicle. A first - back-to-back recalls on consecutive days. The car is living on a reputation it no longer deserves dealer still tries to bleed 3,000 mile oil changes - when manual is 7500 miles.

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  Great choice - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By Marc Lobell - June 13 - 10:00 am

  After careful research, we opted for this car. Coming out of 2 Saabs, this is a totally better built and better thought-out machine. The Saabs were more fun to drive, but had serious reliability issues. We expect to have this Subaru for years and years and cant wait to take a long trip. The car has so much room inside and aside from the extra height, drives like a car, not like an SUV. The only critique is that lacks a bit of oomph getting on highways, but the paddle shifters are a good remedy for this :-)

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  recalled after one week of ownership - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By rufus - June 12 - 4:07 am

  We owned this car for a week and it has been recalled for a steering column defect. Subaru did the right thing with the recall and they gave us a rental car, but it has been four weeks and they keep saying we are waiting for the part. I hope this review draws attention to the problem. Follow up--It has been 25 days since our defective car was taken to the dealer. They told me it would take a week to 10 days to fix this. The car is now repaired. After 4 weeks I called the dealer and mentioned I posted on Edmunds. That seemed to get their attention and the car is fixed. THANK YOU

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  Solid Wagon - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By SeattleDrvr - June 9 - 10:13 am

  Bought it new. Extras include premium sound, heated seats, heated mirors and heated windshield. Manual transmission does well even with Seattles steep hills. No problems that werent covered by the warranty. I plan to keep it for many years to come. My only majior complaint is that the air conditioning isnt cool enough. There are only vents in the front seats so my passengers and dogs bake in the back or we freeze in front to keep them cool.

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  Reliable. Good value, gas mileage & off road. - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By jcricket - June 9 - 9:35 am

  I have a 2011 base model Outback with 27,000 miles. No issues except the headlights burned out at 25,000 (I keep them on all the time). Gas mileage ranges from 23 in town (in winter) up to 34 on the highway (in summer). High ground clearance is helpful for off-roading and deep snow. With snow tires on it goes everywhere, all the time - no stopping it. The interior is surpassingly spacious, particularly the back seat space. Consider avoiding the choice of white upholstery. In Alaska the car is ubiquitous - Outbacks and Forrresters are the most popular cars on the road here.

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  Dont believe the hype - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By TL - June 9 - 12:34 am

  This car is a POS. Blown head gasket, rods, timing chain......all before 100,000 miles. Bought it brand new and every maintenance visit was scheduled on time. Just bought another Subie and wish to God I hadnt. Last Subaru Ill ever buy,

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  Awsome cars - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By rotcfancy - June 6 - 1:25 pm

  I upgraded to an 05 Outback sedan from a 95 Legacy. Whether looking for a reliable car for a new driver, older driver, daily driver, or road trip. This is dependable in the rain, snow, sun, extreme cold, you name it. Its fun ( I have gone mudding with trucks)and towed them out) Its classy, comfy, and quick. Its the best car for the price. Other cars in the same year are the same price but this WILL get you to work in the snow. If you want to call off of work b/c of weather get something else. I am now a full blown Subaru Lover.