The Subaru Outback is in a league of its own, having gained a reputation as the go-to vehicle for outdoor adventurers and everyday snow-bound citizens. Standard all-wheel drive is one of the Outback's most significant assets, along with good fuel economy, a range of engine choices, and enough variation between trims to fit just about any budget. Toss in excellent safety ratings and strong resale values, and it’s easy to see why the Outback has so many repeat customers.

Subaru Outback Generations

Subaru Outback (6th Generation: 2020 - Current)

Key Improvements: The sixth-generation Outback has a lot going for it. Like the previous generation, a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine is standard, but the former 6-cylinder engine gets replaced by a potent turbocharged 4-cylinder, which comes standard on XT and Wilderness trims. The sixth-generation Outback retains the same basic footprint and interior dimensions as the previous generation but brings more high-tech features to the table, such as an 11.6-inch tablet-style center touchscreen, a driver attention monitor, a hands-free power liftgate, and a revised EyeSight driver-assist system with lane centering.

Model Updates: The 2021 Outback gains active LED headlights and a rear-seat reminder. For 2022, the Wilderness trim joins the lineup, adding an additional inch of ground clearance, a more robust all-wheel drive system, and a 3,500-pound tow rating. Other changes for 2022 include standard LED fog lights and rear-seat air vents on the Premium trim. 2023 brings revised front and rear-end styling and improved functionality for the 11.6-inch touchscreen, which now hosts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Model (5th Generation: 2015 - 2019)

Key Improvements: A more refined ride and vastly improved interior noise levels separate the fifth generation from the fourth. The styling is less polarizing, and the interior features better materials and more room. If you’re not a fan of big touchscreens that control everything, this generation may be a better choice than the latest Outback. The infotainment system still uses touchscreen technology, but the climate controls retain hard buttons and knobs. The optional 6-cylinder engine delivers impressive power for passing and towing, but the 4-cylinder engine has far better fuel economy, up to 32 mpg on the highway. A continuously variable automatic transmission is standard on all models regardless of engine and the EyeSight driver-assist system covers more trims. New features previously unavailable include rear cross-traffic detection, lane-change assist, and a blind-spot monitor. Also new are X-Mode, Hill Descent Control, Incline Start Assist, steering-responsive fog lights, and an improved navigation system. A rear backup camera is now standard on the base trim.

Model Updates: The 2016 Outback adds lane-keep assist to the EyeSight suite and a revised suspension for the Limited trim. For 2017, reverse automatic braking and automatic high-beam headlights become available. Also new is the Touring trim, which features Java Brown leather upholstery and a slim roof rack that deletes the swing-out cross bars. Changes for 2018 include a front-end styling refresh and upgraded audio systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. In 2019, Subaru made EyeSight part of the Outback’s standard equipment list.

Subaru Outback (4th Generation: 2010 - 2014)

Key Improvements: The fourth generation marks a significant shift in the Outback’s evolution, growing noticeably larger than its predecessor. Although the two are nearly the same length, the fourth-generation Outback has a longer wheelbase, a taller roof, and a wider track, creating generous additions to headroom, cargo space, and rear seat legroom. Gone from this Outback are the previous generation’s handsome two-tone paint treatment, massive panoramic moonroof, and frameless door windows. On the flip side, the fourth-generation Outback brings improved powertrains, integrated roof rail cross bars, an upgraded DVD-based navigation system, and a choice between a 6-speed manual transmission or a new continuously variable automatic transmission (on 4-cylinder models only). The 6-cylinder Outback has a 5-speed automatic. A console-mounted electronic parking brake replaces the previous model’s manual handbrake, freeing up more space for cup holders and storage.

Model Updates: New features for the 2011 Outback include folding side mirrors, XM satellite radio, a rear vision camera with rearview mirror display, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. A 2013 refresh brings a stiffer body, improved suspension, a restyled front end, and an improved 4-cylinder engine. For 2014, the Premium trim gains the All-Weather Package (heated seats, side mirrors, and wipe de-icers) as standard.

Subaru Outback (3rd Generation: 2005 - 2009)

Key Improvements: Key Improvements: The third-generation Outback is considerably smaller than the fourth, but some feel it’s more stylish, looking more like a sleek wagon than an SUV. Similar to the first- and second-generation Outback, this version offers upscale amenities such as a dual-panel panoramic moonroof, a Harman Kardon audio system, and the designer L.L. Bean Edition. Engine choices include a normally aspirated 4-cylinder, a turbocharged 4-cylinder, and a powerful 6-cylinder. An Outback sedan and the Impreza-based Outback Sport are carried over from the second generation. The Sport shares nothing in common with the larger Outback except its name. The sedan shares the wagon’s added ground clearance, engines, and interior, but disappears after the 2007 model year.

Subaru Outback (2nd Generation: 2000 - 2004)

Key Improvements: Key Improvements: This generation's more robust take on the original Outback introduces a more upscale look and feel. Previously a trim on the Legacy wagon, the second-generation Outback became its own model and was later joined by a sedan version. Ironically, the second-generation L.L. Bean and Limited Outback models are highly sought after by the well-to-do in places like Jackson Hole and Aspen, contributing to used car pricing well above its peers. Some of the more unique features of the second-gen Outback include a McIntosh stereo, a dual-pane panoramic moonroof, and GM’s OnStar emergency roadside assistance system.

Subaru Outback (1st Generation: 1995 - 1999)

It all starts here, where the Outback name is a trim package offered on the Legacy wagon. The package includes two-tone paint, big fog lights, unique cloth upholstery, and alloy wheels, although it doesn't provide the added ground clearance and distinctive features of later Outbacks. However, by 1996, Subaru gave the Outback a more aggressive look, with 8 inches of ground clearance and a permanent place in automotive history.

Subaru Outback Buying Tips

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