The 2025 Outback does all the work of an SUV better than most SUVs but without any pretense. It combines a station wagon's practicality, comfort, easy-driving character and fantastic outward visibility with the ground clearance, ride compliance and all-weather sure-footedness of an SUV. We have our complaints, ranging from the anemic engine to the frustrating infotainment screen, but there are more strengths than weaknesses.Read full review
Optional turbocharged engine provides plenty of power
Loading the roof or cargo area is easier than in most SUVs
Above-average off-road ability
Cons
Slow acceleration from standard engine
Clunky engine auto stop-start system
What's new
Limited trim adds several features as standard equipment
Subaru makes no other significant changes to the midsize crossover SUV
Part of the sixth Outback generation introduced for 2020
Overview
by the Edmunds Experts
5/14/2024
Almost 30 years ago, Subaru took a Legacy station wagon, installed all-wheel drive, lifted the suspension, added SUV styling cues, and called the result the Outback. That recipe has proven irresistible for decades, and Subaru hasn't changed the ingredients. Today, the 2025 Subaru Outback remains a mainstay of the company's lineup, slotting between the smaller Forester and larger Ascent. Reasonably affordable and ready for any kind of weather, the 2025 Outback is a safe, durable and practical choice for singles, families and empty nesters alike.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2025 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.08 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Edmunds spotlight: The wildest ride is the Wilderness
The original 1996 Subaru Outback was one of the first crossover SUVs available in America. Now, every company sells one, so Subaru hopes to once again stand out with the Outback Wilderness. The Wilderness is the automotive equivalent of a Double-Double at In-N-Out — an Outbacked Outback, if you will. You can recognize it by its copper accents, wildly flared wheel arch trim, and extra-lifted suspension to provide 9.5 inches of ground clearance. It also has dramatic bumper detailing, all-terrain tires and a sturdier roof rack. Inside, Subaru decks out the Wilderness with water-resistant synthetic leather, so get it as wet and dirty as you like. It'll clean up easily.
Competitors to consider
Though Subaru found success with a wagon-based crossover, the few automakers that tried haven't repeated that feat, leaving the Outback in a class of one. However, you might cross-shop it with other midsize two-row SUVs such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Honda Passport, Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-70 and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Among these rivals, only the Passport TrailSport provides anything close to the Outback's off-roading capability.
What’s it like to live with?
When Subaru last redesigned the Outback, we added a turbocharged Onyx Edition XT to the Edmunds long-term testing fleet to see how it's like to drive over time. Read our long-term review of this capable Subaru to find out what we thought of the current-generation Outback.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Good
7.7
out of 10
We drove the 2025 Subaru Outback on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the Outback drive? The Outback is slow, but that's about the only negative in this category. Our test vehicle, an Outback Limited with the base four-cylinder engine, accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. You'll want to upgrade to the turbocharged engine to get power similar to what rivals such as the Honda Passport are capable of. At least the transmission shifts quickly and promptly to help you keep pace with traffic.
There's some noticeable body roll when making turns, but in general the Outback is well behaved. The steering offers good on-center feel and feedback from the road. The best part? With 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, the Outback can go pretty much anywhere its SUV competitors can — and some places they can't.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the Outback? The Outback is a very good midsize SUV for the money. The front seats are great — soft but supportive, they offer a decent amount of bolstering without feeling tight. Overall, these are welcoming seats, pleasant to settle into when you're tired and easy to stay in for a long time.
The Outback's ride quality is also excellent overall, even if certain road surfaces can create some vibrations in the cabin. Potholes, speed humps and drainage ditches are absorbed easily, yet there's no real floatiness to the vehicle. It's an impressive balance of compliance and control.
The climate system works well to regulate cabin temperature. The updates to the climate touchscreen interface make it a better experience than before, but adjustments beyond temperature require two to three steps.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? From a space standpoint, the Outback is fantastic. Some might prefer a more upright SUV-like seating position, but the Outback offers plenty of seat adjustability. Backseat passengers will be treated to excellent headroom and legroom, and the cabin feels airy and open. The big windows also make for easy visibility all around and help eliminate blind spots.
Unfortunately, in Subaru's pursuit of reducing button clutter for drivers, most of the Outback's controls are routed through the touchscreen. The screen can be slow to respond and very distracting to use. Changing any setting requires navigating through multiple menus, adding time and distraction to even simple tasks.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $2,234 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $2,234 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Touring XT trim.
*MSRP is subject to change and varies based on availability, trim level, option packages, and retailer-installed accessories. MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, registration, and other fees. Retailer sets actual price. See your retailer for details. 2025 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT shown has an MSRP of $39,360.
How’s the tech? A nice-sounding stereo and plenty of charge ports are pluses. Subaru's 11.6-inch infotainment screen is functional, and it's easy enough to find settings and selections, but there's still a complicated menu structure that adds time to some tasks, such as some climate controls.
Plug in a smartphone or connect wirelessly, and your experience depends on whether you use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Apple CarPlay maximizes the display while Android Auto is crammed into the top half of the screen, rendering the bottom half totally useless. Subaru's native voice command system is also subpar and struggles to recognize even basic requests.
Subaru's driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping, work well. But the various beeping alerts can get annoying over time.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? Because the Outback is more a lifted station wagon than an SUV, it loses out just a bit in terms of total cargo capacity. But at least the cargo floor is low and flat, making loading and unloading a breeze. It's also easy to install gear on the Subaru's roof rails because the Outback isn't quite as high as your typical SUV.
Cabin storage is clever but lacking in volume. There's a nice phone shelf for front passengers, and rear passengers get bottle holders in their doors and seatback pockets on both sides, but the center console box is smaller than the ones in most SUVs. Ultimately there's less space to stash your stuff.
Installing child safety seats should be a breeze thanks to easily accessible seat anchors and plenty of room.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates you'll get 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving the Outback with the base engine, which is better than competitors, but with a big caveat: Every major rival employs a turbocharged four-cylinder, a V6 or hybrid power for more grunt underhood. The good news? Even the Outback's available turbo engine is more efficient than others in this class (except for the hybrids).
Value
7.5/10
Is the Outback a good value? Most competitors have stronger standard engines, but otherwise the Outback offers an excellent value. The base model isn't lacking any practicality. And when loaded with extra luxuries and technology features, it costs less than similarly equipped competitors. The equation changes a bit if you want the more powerful XT models, which are priced closer to traditional SUV competitors.
The Subaru doesn't offer any particular ownership advantages. The warranty is average for the segment. And while the Outback feels well put together, the design and quality of materials don't really stand out in any way.
Wildcard
8.5/10
The Outback does SUV things better than most SUVs and does them without pretense. We wish that meeting fuel economy estimates was easier, but in its unassuming competence the Outback reminds us of the value of putting function before image.
Yes, the Outback is a little bland, but it's also very sure of itself. With plenty of ground clearance, full-time AWD and a smooth ride, it invites you to tackle potholes or unpaved roads. All told, it makes driving on bad city roads or unkept country roads altogether more pleasant. In fact, the Outback's strength is that it invites relaxation.
Which Outback does Edmunds recommend?
Based on our testing experience, we recommend the Outback's available turbocharged engine and the rugged Wilderness model is one of the most affordable ways to get it. Besides turbo power, the Wilderness adds extra visual attitude and off-roading capability combined with an interior you won't mind getting dirty.
2024 Subaru Outback Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
We just finished a 2400 mile weeklong vacation trip in my wife’s new outback. I generally dislike driving cars as my daily driver is a heavy duty truck. I was amazed at how comfortable the front seat was for my 6’2” frame. The ride and gas mileage were both very good, we averaged around 30 mpg in a variety of conditions. The best feature I liked was the adaptive cruise control, the worst … was the active lane keeping system. I turned the sucker off after a few minutes of using it, lol. Highly recommend for family’s looking for a comfortable, easy to drive vehicle that is priced reasonably in todays crazy world.
First off, thank you to Edmunds for having a place to leave reviews as its hard otherwise to get people aware of issues since you cannot rate cars on the manufacturers websites.
That said, while there are a lot of minor issues and complaints I have with this car (Abhorrent Infotainment and controls, I am looking at you), for purposes of this review I will only mention the serious … ones.
To summarize, Subaru's Eyesight system is flat out dangerous. Automatic braking can and WILL engage randomly at slow speeds, parking lots, and (worst of all) highway speeds. Even if you are already trying to control your braking yourself due to traffic or poor weather, it will still engage (IE override you). Highway speed false activation's are particularly dangerous, nearly getting us into wrecks at freeway speeds since you basically brake-check someone in traffic. Further, the lane assist has no idea what it’s doing and is also a liability. Things like driving around a passenger, construction zones, or even heavy semi-truck loads are not handled properly; it will nudge you to run over that little old lady’s dog rather than cross the lane lines. Or choose the wrong ones to steer into when there is construction.
I’ve exhausted my venue with the dealers and Subaru of America – They are absolutely unwilling to tackle the issue, instead accepting there is more risk for the driver at times simply to meet marketing and NHTSA regulations. I will say they are clearly aware based on my calls and unwilling to even engage the discussion (Due to the NHTSA regulation surrounding this thing). It is always addressed as “Working as intended” and they will absolutely avoid the topic of your safety and the ghost braking. In fact, twice at the dealer and Subaru of America case (Terrible support, by the way) if you corner them on the question "Please clarify - Subaru is stating that the car ghost braking at 65mph is considered safe and normal behavior" got me hung up on. Twice! I am sure due to pending class action suits they have been told not to even acknowledge or discuss the issues. That’s how much they are avoiding this issue. The class action suits pending for these state the older years because of when they were filed, but I can tell you this also affects the brand new 2025 ones word for word, because that's what I have.
Stay far, far away from these things. Further, if you go for any other modern car please read up on forums on the behavior and risks associated with the newly regulated systems. The dealer sure won’t inform you before you buy and won’t do anything afterwards. People are currently very split on these systems and I think it really boils down to two groups: It’s either never engaged on you before and they like the “concept” of a safety system, and the other group are owners who have had it actually engage on them. Trust me, it changes your opinion very, very quickly.
Subie newbie
4 out of 5 stars
Solid, stylish performer, 03/31/2024
2024 Subaru Outback Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
I bought a 2024 Outback Limited with several add-on packaged features two months ago. With a final sticker price of over $41000, I bought the car for $37,190 which included a 1.9%/48 month loan. After 4,000 miles I am averaging 28 mpg. This is based on 60/40 city vs highway miles. I love the cabin. It is comfortable and has an upscale look. Many padded and stitched interior panels. … Plenty of room in the 2nd row and more than enough storage room in the rear cargo area. Base engine does lack power but once the car is up to speed it keeps up in traffic. Steeper hills are a challenge though. I enjoy all of the safety features but watch out...this car has a bell or chime for everything. The most annoying feature is the auto stop/start. I turn that off each time I get in the car and wish I could turn it off permanently. Visibility is good and the car handles well and looks good. Though, a bit too much cladding for my taste. The navigation is a waste of time but the sound system once tuned properly sounds good. Lane keep assist or lane centering seems to pull to the right and then recenter. My 2021 crv hybrid had a more consistent rock solid centering with little to no lane sway. Everything under the hood is easy to see and access. Changing filters is a breeze. The Outback is a solid car with a better than average ride. If I could add one feature it would be the auto lock and walk away. Otherwise, this car rates highly in a competive market.
Joined the Subbie club
5 out of 5 stars
Mic S, 05/01/2024
2024 Subaru Outback Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
First time Subaru owner. Many aspects of this vehicle are way better than Honda and Toyota. Reminds me of what a Toyota once was in feel and comfort. The interior design and appointment to detail is refreshing to the others drab setup. Seats are comfortable and the ride is smooth. The standard 2.5L engine is more than adequate for the local and highway roads. This is a very quiet … cabin and the whole experience is worth a long trip.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2025 Subaru Outback, so we've included reviews for other years of the Outback since its last redesign.
*MSRP is subject to change and varies based on availability, trim level, option packages, and retailer-installed accessories. MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, registration, and other fees. Retailer sets actual price. See your retailer for details. 2025 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT shown has an MSRP of $39,360.
Safety
Key safety features on the Outback include:
Back-up camera
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Departure Warning
Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Pre-collision safety system
Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
18.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
The Outback is one of the most popular vehicles in Subaru’s adventure-friendly lineup, and for good reason. It’s a no-nonsense lifted wagon that has enough space and comfort to fit the whole family — dog included. Add in a fantastic all-wheel-drive system and stellar road manners, and we place the Outback high on our list of favorite midsize SUVs.
Edmunds spotlight: Changes we expect for 2025
Considering the Outback’s debut five years ago, we wouldn’t be surprised to see an all-new model soon, though it's unclear whether it will debut for the 2025 or 2026 model year. Expect to see design similar to that of the new Forester, with Subaru’s usual rugged styling. A new Outback Wilderness is also likely to return, with a fresh take on the most off-road-ready version of Subaru’s family wagon.
Competitors to consider
The only competitor to match the Outback’s off-road prowess is the Honda Passport. Like the Subaru, the Passport offers multiple trim levels with all-wheel drive and the additional hardware needed to go off the beaten bath. Honda recently gave the Passport a refresh including a new TrailSport trim level, mimicking many of the features found on the Outback Wilderness.
Edmunds says
Though the Subaru Outback isn't pushing the envelope in any major way, it's a solid SUV with a ton of appeal for those who appreciate a little adventure. We look forward to see what a new model will bring, possibly for 2025. Check back with us for all the details as we find out more.
FAQ
Is the Subaru Outback a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 Outback both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2025 Outback gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 80 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Outback has 32.6 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Subaru Outback. Learn more
What's new in the 2025 Subaru Outback?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Subaru Outback:
Limited trim adds several features as standard equipment
Subaru makes no other significant changes to the midsize crossover SUV
Part of the sixth Outback generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Subaru Outback is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Outback. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Outback's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2025 Subaru Outback a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Subaru Outback is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 Outback and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2025 Outback gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 80 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 Outback is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Subaru Outback?
The least-expensive 2025 Subaru Outback is the 2025 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $29,010.
Other versions include:
4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $29,010
Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $31,310
Onyx Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $36,220
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $37,970
Onyx Edition XT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $39,475
Wilderness 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $39,960
Limited XT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $40,310
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) which starts at $40,460
Touring XT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $42,910
If you're interested in the Subaru Outback, the next question is, which Outback model is right for you? Outback variants include 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT), Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT), Onyx Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT), and Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT). For a full list of Outback models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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