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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  Lots of research paid off. Very impressed - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By flfoofighter - May 1 - 1:51 am

  Before I ever saw the 2015 Outback in person, it was at the top of my list when comparing all the features for the price. The model had a history of safety, reliability, good resale value, amongst the most room, best gas mileage, and best all-wheel drive system. In most comparisons, it was actually the best price too. The ground clearance was also the highest. When I went in for a test drive, the first thing that struck me was the quality inside and outside and the attention to detail. It could easily be confused for something more expensive than a luxury Acura. It drives very much like a car and only when fully loaded with friends do you notice its size. Very happy with this purchase.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2006 Subaru Outback
  By JM94 - April 28 - 11:10 pm

  Traded my 92x for the 2.5I with Navigation; Ive had it a few weeks and love it. Vehicle is very solid, absolutely hugs the road and rides much smoother than I expected. It feels safe as a tank, and already Im getting 27-28 mpg on the highway. The navigation system is cool, the guy has a slight Australian accent. You wont win any drag races with this car, but it is more than adequate for every day life on the highway. I had a car with 227 hp before and found it was an utter waste; great I can floor it for 3 seconds before I have to stop again in traffic. Thinking of an SUV but worried about gas, check this car out, you wont be disappointed. You will save on insurance too, very low risk.

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  Hi Miler Bargan Mover - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By Dilbert - April 28 - 4:43 am

  OK, So I wanted ONE car to replace my three: MR2, Miata, & F250 4x4... Was looking at many options in the Small SUV market including the Forester [like driving in a fish bowl and under powered w/o Turbo] and with a very limited budget [darned economy] I was very lucky to find mine [priced low because it had 169k miles on the clock] 1. The power is very adequate even surprising at times. The trade-off is a few MPG and having to buy Premium fuel, but annually for me this only amounts to $150, and no Timing Belt worries or Head Gasket problems with the H6! 2. It handles better than an SUV, but no MR2. 3. Ive moved a ton of bricks [with trailer] about as much as the F250 could w/ trailer.

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  CVT REVERSE POWER PROBLEMS!!!!! BEWARE!!!! - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By mpp1234 - April 26 - 9:36 pm

  I purchased a 2011 Subaru Outback in June, the car seems to be fine except that I bought the car for highway and off road driving. Unfortunatley I found out that the NEW SUBARU IS NOT CAPABLE OF BACKING OVER A 5" CURB FROM A STOP!!! THE CVT DOES NOT PROVIDE REVERSING POWER TO GET OVER CURB. A supervisor at Subaru America has stated that the car is not expected to be able to clear objects 5" tall in reverse without having momentum to car the car over the object. If you shift into reverse and try to back over a curb the pedal will go to the floor and the car will go NOWHERE without starting momentum. The car has severly limited torque in reverse and cannot be trusted!!!!

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  One Very Happy Subaru Owner - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By Scott - April 25 - 5:16 pm

  This is my second Subaru. I purchased this one at 112K miles, currently over 160K and other than front brakes & tires, I havent spent a dime!! Every tank of fuel exceeds 25 MPG, it has yet to burn one drop of oil, and even they are shocked!!! Subarus have outstanding reliability and economy. They dont take abuse well. For example if someone is a rookie at driving a clutch, could you wear one out at 88K? Yes, easily. Thats not a knock on Subaru, thats the driver. Buy a Subaru, you wont regret it.

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  Great car - not your moms old Subie - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By POL - April 23 - 9:03 am

  Just picked up my 2010 outback. Drove it once, had to have it. It was the last car on my list and Im glad I waited. Far and away better than competition, CVT is impressive, and makes the old Outback...Outdated. Its the new Tribeca!!! First 100 miles averaged 23 mpg. Looking forward to snow. Gotta get it or get gotten by the competition. Drove Toyota, Honda,VW, Suzuki, and Ford. Other dealers should be worried, the Outback is going to leave a lot of cars on your lots.

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  Worth the wait - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By nchesanow - April 20 - 6:55 pm

  Ive only had the vehicle for 4 1/2 days. I was able to mate my iPhone to the car on the first try. I used a voice command to change the temperature on the first try. The radio comes with 36 presets, instead of the usual six. In 28 degrees, the heater heats the entire vehicle in 5 minutes flat. Some auto writers feel its looks are ho-hum. When I pulled into the first shopping mall, three store owners came out to admire it. Great-looking metallic paint is standard ($550 extra on a BMW). The speed appears in large numbers in the dash over the steering wheel, so you dont have to look at the speedometer. The nav system directions also appear over the steering wheel. No need to look at the map.

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  Utility meets Luxury and Reliablitity - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By FXOFFROAD - April 19 - 7:46 pm

  This is a blast to drive. Mileage is good and the sport shift truly rises to the occasion. Hard to believe this is 4 banger that cost under 30,000 for the 2.5i Limited. I trade a 2003 Ford F250 so it was a dramatic change, but definitely for the best. Test drove Honda CRV, Ford Edge, Escape & Explorer, Audi wagons. But for the value, the Outback was truly the best choice. Extremely satisfied. Taken up to the Colorado Rocky Mountains often and its performs extremely well. Compared to my 07 Lexus ES, this vehicle is truly a great value for its outstanding build quality, AWD, and economy.

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  2012 New Outback Limited 2.5 - 2012 Subaru Outback
  By oldhollow - April 18 - 3:04 am

  Just got the Limited 2.5 with sunroof, naviagtion and I’m really impressed with the fit and finish of the car. Everything works as designed, and the quality of the paint is excellent. I am coming from an 2008 MDX that had a terrible paint job from the factory, the paint was very thin and would mark very easily. I got the car for the gas millage and was concerned that I would not have enough power. That is not the car, no need for the 3.6 for me.

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  Very satisfied in Ohio - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By lvjohn - April 17 - 4:36 am

  Weve had our Outback almost 2 weeks now and we are delighted with it. It is so much better than I remembered our test drive car ever being. I have owned 7 new cars in my 45 years of driving and this is clearly the best of them all including our 2000 Outback. We love the versatility the Outback provides. It can haul a fair amount of stuff and it can transport 5 in comfort and quiet. It gets reasonably good gas mileage; we got 24.8 mpg in mixed city and freeway driving on the first tank. The build quality is the best Ive seen in any new car.