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:

• 

  Riding the Outback - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Les Foster - August 14 - 10:38 pm

  Having had the Subaru Outback Limited for only twelve days Im still in the learning stage regarding the technology of this vehicle. I seem to be finding new things with each drive. This car has so many positive safety features, I.e., Eyesight, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, etc. It alerts the driver of possible road icing on cold days. If daydreaming at a traffic light it alerts the driver that the vehicle ahead has moved. The ride is smooth and handles road bumps with ease. Acceleration is amazing for a four cylinder vehicle. Steering is very responsive. While not as luxurious as my former Toyota Avalon, the interior is stylish and attractive, however the drivers seat is not as comfortable as I have enjoyed in previously owned vehicles. Theres ample rear seat legroom, and the reclining rear seats provide passenger comfort for long rides. Overall I am very impressed with the Outback. As to reliability, that remains to be determined as the vehicle ages, but Im optimistic given Subarus overall record.

• 

  Great Vehicle, No Regrets - 2010 Subaru Outback
  By Former Truck Driver - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Coming from a Nissan Xterra to the Subaru was exceptionally easy. The 2010 Outback offers the greatest value, safety, fuel economy, and quality for a discriminating buyer. The 6spd is clean and crisp with close ratios for easy shifting. The AWD system performs exemplary with the only problem being slight cases of over confidence (a few trips around an empty parking lot to get used to the car is a smart move!). Subaru hit the mark with this car. The appeal of the vehicle is with a wide range of buyers with styling that is simple yet great for a family. Some have had issues with recalls on the vehicle but that shows a company willing to listen and improve their products.

• 

  Cost effective car - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By leousa - August 12 - 10:00 am

  This is the most cost effective car on the market today. It is a luxury universal in the city, fully capable SUV in rural areas, yet fuel efficient and affordable. Was shopping for a crossover for at least 4 month. Test drove Venza, Rav4, HR-V, Sportage2011, Forester, InfinityEX35. Almost bought the Infinity for the driving impressions and design. But ended up with Outback. No regrets. Did 2700 miles so far in the Salt Lake City area. Mileage as advertised 24 to 32. Climbed the hill where Ford Explorer has to backed up, and crossed the deep river where only serious SUV has courage to go. Accelerate to 100mls/hr and had no vibrations with avg noise. Roomy, comfortable, well thought vehicle.

• 

  Battery Problems - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By David Chapman - August 10 - 4:07 pm

  I have had persistent problems with a dead battery. If I dont drive the car for at least one-half hour each day,the battery will be dead the next day. So far Subaru Roadside Service has jumpstarted my 2 1/2 month old car (1850 miles) three times. The poor quality battery has changed the way I use the car. I am looking into either getting a replacement heavy duty battery or carrying a portable battery jumper in the car. I have read the manual to be sure I have not left some on. I verify each time I turn the car off that all internal lights and power is off. I sometimes do not use some of the equipment because it might drain the battery. I would not buy this car again.

• 

  Great Car, Great Value - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By riverdriver - August 4 - 4:35 pm

  We traded our 2014 Outback for a 2015 and it is a completely different car. This car is much closer to the Volvo we traded for the 2014 at a fraction of the cost. Things we like: - It handles and tracks great - No jackrabbit starts like the throttle on the 2014 - No harsh suspension feedback like on the Volvo - Quieter ride - Big improvement in the GPS/infotainment system. Improved ergonomics of controls. - Great fuel efficiency for this sized vehicle - Better than my 4WD truck in snow and slippery conditions. - We continue to find features we didnt realize it had.

• 

  New car - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Susan broyer - August 4 - 9:57 am

  Much more luxurious than one would imagine. Very quiet drive.

• 

  Subaru finally has technology - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By mflook17 - August 3 - 9:11 am

  I live in Michigan and this is my third Outback. Last winter we got 190 inches of snow, we live in the middle of the forrest up a hill, on a dirt road, and we never ONCE got our driveway plowed and these Subarus are the only things that get up it. (No not even those over rated Jeep Grand Cherokees) This 2015 model is outstanding. I have the limited 6-cylinder model and it is very quick. It does 0-60 in just over 7 seconds and the engine noise has been COMPLETELY taken away (Once you get up around 70 mph the side-mirros create a little wind noise). The inside of the car has complete changed. The 7 inch touchscreen display is amazing and the voice control is even better. The whole car is 100%.

• 

  Well engineered, manufactured car for city/Sierra - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Jeff Puschell - August 1 - 12:25 am

  Shop around

• 

  Best car for the money out there - 2009 Subaru Outback
  By Gary - July 30 - 1:43 pm

  Have had 6 Subarus before this one and this is the best of the lot. My first 6 cylinder and it doesnt disappoint. Its a sports car, take it to the supermarket, it will do anything you want. Its well built, so far trouble free and handsome. The engine purrs like a kitten and the exhaust has a sound like a Jaguar. I guess you can tell I love this car. We are keeping it over a new 2010. Did I say its fun to drive!

• 

  Outback is Outfront - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By Jim Hauff - July 29 - 12:03 am

  Ive owned several 4x4s in the past, but never an AWD. I bought the Outback after extensive research and test drives against several other comparable mid to full size SUVs. I have not, for a moment, regretted my decision to purchase this little gem. I bought an 2.5FX Limited wirh all the options and an auto 5 speed Sport Shift transmission. I still havent gotten over the power this vehicle exhibits. When the turbo kicks in, its like going into hyperdrive. The interior is excellently finished and ergonomic. The exterior fit and finish is like cars costing much more. The only problem -- gas mileage goes down when you hit the turbo, who cares? Its too much FUN!