Ready for any weather5 seats
—MPG · EPA
—Safety · NHTSA
5Seats
—Recalls · NHTSA
About the Subaru Outback
A wagon that acts like an SUV. All-wheel drive comes standard, and it sits high for dirt roads and snow. Very practical for outdoor trips.
Comfortable and steady, like a tall car. The base engine is calm, not quick; the turbo (XT) is much stronger.
Tip: The turbo engine is much quicker. Test-drive both engines if you can.
Why people buy it
All-wheel drive standardEvery Outback has it. Great in rain and snow.
Sits high for dirt roadsMore ground clearance than most cars.
Lots of cargo roomA long wagon trunk for gear, dogs and trips.
Safety tech standardEyeSight driver assist comes on most.
Is it right for you?
✓ you drive in bad weather✓ you go to the mountains or trails✓ you have dogs or lots of gear
✕ you need 7 seats✕ you want the best gas mileage✕ you want a quick car (base engine)
Which version to get
2020–2025 trims, simplified · check at the dealer
Base · Premium · Premium adds comfort features for a fair price.Best value
Limited · Touring · Leather and more tech.
XT · Wilderness · Turbo engine; Wilderness is built for rough roads.
Buying used: which years
2026All new and more SUV-like. Check prices against a 2025.
2020–2025Good used pick. Some owners reported batteries that drained; ask about the battery.
2015–2019Older body. A bigger 6-cylinder (3.6R) was also sold. Check service records.
Questions to ask the dealer
- Is it the regular engine or the turbo (XT)?
- How old is the battery?
- Which trim is it, exactly?
- Any open recalls, and were they fixed?
- Can I see the service records?
Own a Outback? A light came on?Safety first, simple steps and real recalls for your year. Free in the Carvessa app.
Car help →Similar cars
Prices, payments and out-the-door totals are Carvessa estimates, not offers; check with the dealer. MPG from EPA (fueleconomy.gov) and safety stars and recalls from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-07, for 2020 and newer (older years: check nhtsa.gov/recalls with the VIN). Car photo: MercurySable99, CC BY-SA 4.0 (background removed).