The Subaru Outback is a standout in Subaru’s lineup, perfect for family adventures. It’s a practical choice with ample space for everyone, including pets, and features an exceptional all-wheel-drive system. Its performance on various terrains combined with smooth road handling makes it a favorite among midsize SUVs.
2025 Subaru Outback Changes | What’s New for 2025?
The 2025 model brings exciting upgrades, especially to the Limited trim. New features include a power sunroof, a heated steering wheel, driver attention monitoring, and an upgraded 11.6-inch infotainment screen with navigation. Additionally, the Limited trim now offers the XT package, which includes a more powerful turbocharged 260-hp 2.4-liter engine, enhancing overall performance.
2025 Subaru Outback Review Price
The 2025 Subaru Outback starts at $30,290 and can go up to $44,190 depending on the chosen trim and options. The model lineup includes:
- Base: $30,290
- Premium: $32,590
- Onyx Edition: $37,500
- Limited: $39,250
- Limited XT: $39,250
- Onyx Edition XT: $40,755
- Wilderness: $41,255
- Touring: $41,740
- Touring XT: $44,190
Recommended Trim
The Premium trim is particularly notable for its value. Priced just above the base model, it offers features that balance cost and functionality effectively, including a standard 182-hp engine suitable for the Outback’s laid-back drive style, and a well-equipped interior featuring modern technology and comfort options.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance: Understanding the Subaru Outback’s Capabilities
Engine Options and Performance:
Outback enthusiasts have two engine choices: the base model’s 182-hp, 2.5-liter engine, and the more robust 260-hp, turbocharged 2.4-liter option. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and feature all-wheel drive as standard. Subaru has tweaked the CVT to mimic a traditional automatic transmission, reducing the often annoying engine drone associated with CVTs. However, during tests, the base engine struggled with lackluster acceleration and a somewhat sluggish transmission response. On the other hand, the turbocharged version showed notably better response and quicker acceleration, though the transmission performance was still a bit underwhelming.
Ride Quality and Off-Road Capability:
Most buyers are likely more interested in ride quality and the Outback’s ability to handle light off-road scenarios rather than raw speed. The standard all-wheel drive shines in bad weather, and with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Outback manages well on worn paths and even some rougher terrain. For those looking for even more rugged capabilities, the Wilderness model steps it up with skid plates and a sturdier suspension, boasting 9.5 inches of ground clearance. It also introduces Snow and Mud drive modes, enhancing performance in specific conditions.
Towing and Practicality:
The Outback also holds its own in practical terms. The standard engine has a towing capacity of 2700 pounds, while the turbocharged model can handle up to 3500 pounds. This makes it a versatile choice for hauling gear on your adventures.
2025 Subaru Outback Interior
The Subaru Outback shares its passenger compartment design with the related Legacy sedan, featuring a layout that emphasizes functionality and comfort over flashiness. The materials used are of good quality, though they tend to be more practical than luxurious. It’s an unpretentious space that excels in functionality, providing ample headroom and shoulder room for front seat occupants.
Roominess and Seating Comfort:
The rear of the Outback offers a generous 1.4 inches of additional legroom compared to the previous generation, making it quite spacious for passengers. While the base model is relatively basic and light on features, the rest of the lineup steps up the comfort with dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The inclusion of several USB ports enhances convenience for all passengers.
Luxury Features for Higher Trims:
For those who desire more luxury, higher trims of the Outback do not disappoint. Available features include a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and heated rear seats. These additions make the Outback a more enticing option for buyers looking for enhanced comfort and convenience.
Cargo Capacity:
The Outback is also practical when it comes to cargo space. With 33 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats, it provides ample room for groceries, gear, and more. In testing, the Outback managed to fit 11 carry-on suitcases with the back seat up and 23 when folded flat. By comparison, the Legacy sedan held eight and 22 suitcases, respectively, in the same tests.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Efficiency of the Engines:
The Subaru Outback offers respectable fuel efficiency, particularly with its standard engine. According to EPA estimates, the standard 182-hp, 2.5-liter engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the more powerful turbocharged 260-hp, 2.4-liter version sees a slight dip, with ratings of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Interestingly, both engine versions managed to return 28 mpg on a 200-mile real-world highway fuel-economy test route, showcasing the Outback’s consistent performance across different driving conditions.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Base Model Features:
The base Outback comes equipped with a dual 7.0-inch touchscreen setup, which, while functional, might feel a bit dated compared to newer models.
Upgraded Premium Trim:
Opting for the recommended Premium trim upgrades you to a more contemporary and visually appealing 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen. Although the graphics aren’t the sharpest compared to some rivals, the system is relatively easy to use. Subaru enhances user-friendliness by including rotary volume and tuning knobs, as well as physical buttons for climate control settings.
Standard and Optional Tech:
All Outback models include standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Options like navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless device charging are available. Higher trims such as the Outback Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring are equipped with a premium 12-speaker, 576-watt Harman/Kardon audio system for an enriched audio experience.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Standard Safety Technologies:
Subaru’s commitment to safety is evident in every Outback model, each equipped with the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies. Essential safety features like forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist are standard across the board. Additional features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Subaru offers a fairly standard warranty package with the Outback. This includes a limited warranty covering three years or 36,000 miles, and a powertrain warranty extending over five years or 60,000 miles.
Unlike some competitors, Subaru does not include any complimentary scheduled maintenance with the purchase of a new Outback, which might be a consideration for potential buyers.
