The Subaru Outback is a car that, in my opinion, no longer needs an introduction. It's a model that has proven itself and built a solid reputation over the years. We're talking about a car that offers better off-road capabilities than most SUVs.
There are no major changes for 2025, but that's not a problem since the Japanese manufacturer's family car remains highly competitive in its current form.
Lineup and Price
For 2025, the Subaru Outback lineup consists of seven different versions, starting with the base "Convenience" model at a price of $37,161. This version won't leave you wanting more with its complete standard equipment and quite appealing design. Next is the "Touring" version at $41,461, featuring an enhanced design and some additional features. The "Onyx" version (priced at $45,661) eliminates all chrome, giving the Japanese manufacturer's family car a striking appearance. The "Limited" version offers more luxurious elements with a price of $45,661. Things get serious with the "Wilderness" version, which offers incredible off-road capabilities and is priced at $47,961. Finally, the top of the range includes the "Limited XT" and "Premier XT" versions, starting at $48,461 and $50,561, respectively.
Category and Competition
The Subaru Outback is one of the last station wagons still available on the market. However, to be honest, its specs are more comparable to those of a mid-size SUV, which is why we've placed it in that category. You might think it starts at a disadvantage by being a car, but it's quite the opposite.
Competitors: Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Nissan Murano, Toyota Venza, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Design and Technology
When we think of a station wagon, we all picture that undesirable brown car with wood panels. Needless to say, things have changed, and Subaru proves this once again with the Outback, which looks like an SUV. However, it is indeed a car, and I must commend Subaru's designers for the excellent job on its aesthetic. The Onyx version is particularly interesting visually. However, my favorite among all the versions offered by the Japanese family car is the Outback Wilderness.
As for the interior, it features a modern and elegant design. The technological elements are well-integrated, and the multimedia system is very smooth and easy to use. The driver assistance systems are highly effective.
Performance
The Subaru Outback offers two engine options, starting with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is versatile and provides enough power to move the Japanese family car with ease. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Naturally, Subaru's legendary all-wheel drive is also standard. The best part is that despite its capabilities and imposing size, the Subaru Outback has a fuel consumption of 9.2 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 L/100 km on the highway with this engine, which is excellent.
If you want more power, the Japanese manufacturer's family car can also be equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, giving the Outback a very dynamic drive. Again, the CVT and all-wheel drive are standard here. Additionally, this engine allows the family car to offer a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, making it more capable than most SUVs currently available on the market.
Weak Points
In reality, there isn't much to criticize about the Subaru Outback. It borders on perfection and is definitely the queen of station wagons. There might be one or two too many versions in its lineup, and I wouldn't say no to an electrified version, but otherwise, everything is flawless.
Strong Points
The Subaru Outback is spacious, functional, and very enjoyable to drive. It's also a comfortable car that offers an excellent level of equipment and technology for its price. Lastly, its off-road driving capabilities are legendary.
Signature Element
The Subaru Outback serves as a reminder that SUVs are not as functional and versatile as they claim. In fact, the Japanese manufacturer's family car can even go places where some ATVs wouldn't dare venture, a true testament to its abilities.
Final Word
The Subaru Outback is an extraordinary car. It's a model like no other, and that's why you should seriously consider it.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
