The Subaru Outback spans six generations, which makes picking the best year a challenge. Let’s dig a little deeper to find out more.
Rugged…arid…desolate. These are the words that come to mind when you hear the term “‘Outback.” Japanese automaker Subaru chose to name its flagship wagon after the Australian desert for a reason. The Outback was one of the biggest breakthroughs for the brand, essentially saving the company.
Subaru is a brand that certainly knows a thing or two about making cars that can be driven off the pavement. The brand has an incredible pedigree from its stint at rallying and a strong lineage of boxer engines–an engine where the pistons move horizontally, creating the impression of two boxers who stand back-to-back and pump their fists out–which are a hallmark of Subaru.
With the Outback, the Subaru wanted to offer something truly unique in a wagon configuration with AWD. Some would argue that the Outback was the very first vehicle to kickstart the crossover market. Subaru tagged the Outback as the world’s first “Sport Utility Wagon.”
Subaru Outback’s 1994 Debut in NYC
The Subaru Outback was first showcased to the public at the 1994 New York International Auto Show. The timing for the Outback couldn’t have been more right. Olivier Boulay, who also designed the Mitsubishi Grandis and a few other Mitsubishi concepts, was responsible for the Subaru Outback’s design.
Public interest was strong, and it turned out to be an instant hit. Since the Outback’s debut back in 1994, Subaru has managed to carve out a niche for itself and currently enjoys a loyal fanbase.
Subaru’s emphasis on all-wheel-drive technology in its vehicles, which the company has pushed for several decades, has helped it gain prominence in locations with adverse weather conditions, such as those in the North East, the Pacific Northwest, and the Rocky Mountain States. The Outback appeals to car buyers who enjoy an active lifestyle and want a car-like vehicle with some of the benefits of an SUV.
While the Outback has increased in size and comfort over the past three decades, you can’t go wrong with a well-maintained older model depending on your budget and desire for advanced driver assistance and cutting-edge infotainment.
Subaru Outback First-gen. (1995-1999)
The original Subaru Outback was introduced in 1995 as a trim level on the Legacy. It was offered as a trim level in the Legacy lineup. Since the Outback was a model put together in a hurry, it did not initially have a raised ride height.
The 1996 model was the first year the Outback became its own model line. It was eventually given a taller suspension setup, resulting in increased ground clearance of 7.5 inches. This not only improved the Outback’s stance but also aided with the Subaru Outback’s off-road ability.
Power came from a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 2.2-liter four-cylinder boxer engine with 135 hp for the base variant. A more powerful motor was also offered with a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 2.5-liter and 155 hp. The first-generation Outback could be had with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with mileage rated between 18.5 mpg and 30 mpg for city and highway or 24.7 mpg combined.
First-generation vehicles would have a lot of miles on them, a lot of wear on the interior, and most likely new or restored engines. However, early Outback models were incredibly reliable, even better than Volvos at the time.
First-generation Outback’s can be bought for as low as $3,000. They are usually sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, and thus you may want to reconsider one as a daily. Expect to pay around $8,000 for a low-mileage example.
Subaru Outback Second-gen. (2000-2004)
For the second-generation, Subaru decided to drop the Legacy Name for the Outback, spinning it off as a separate model. The Outback, however, still shared a lot of its components with the Legacy.
The vehicle grew dimensionally and in weight. The Outback was now a considerably larger vehicle when compared to its predecessor. This made for a roomier cabin. With this second-generation Outback, Subaru took a conservative approach and went for a design that was evolutionary. It was a recipe that had been successful with the previous model.
A three-liter six-cylinder boxer engine was offered for the first time with 212 hp, which was a healthy number for the time. Plus, 0-60 was done in under 8.5 seconds. The three-liter could only be had with a four-speed automatic. The old 2.5-liter four-cylinder was also updated to produce 165 hp.
Because the Outback also competed with SUVs, more room was added to improve cargo volume by making revisions to the rear suspension layout. The ride on the second-generation Outback was also improved, which reportedly made for a far more composed and luxurious ride quality.
If you’re in the market for a pre-owned Subaru Outback, consider a second- or third-generation Outback, which has developed a cult following over time. These Outbacks had the required ground clearance to get through deep snow as well as the option of a far more robust six-cylinder motor and a well-equipped interior.
Just as with its predecessor, the second-generation was scored well in terms of reliability. However, the 2003 outback suffered from blown head gaskets and engine misfires.
Fixing a blown head gasket could cost upwards of $2,000, which could be quite expensive when prices for a high mileage example range anywhere between $3,000 and $6,000. Other issues include excessive wind noise for the mirrors and rusting on the bodywork.
Subaru Outback Third-gen. (2005-2009)
The third-generation Outback saw the biggest jump in performance with the addition of a Turbo. The Subaru Outback Turbo was based on an all-new platform. A new Outback XT variant with a 2.5-liter Turbo and 250 horses was also added to the model line-up.
This power plant was borrowed from the Subaru WRX STI. As a result, the jump in power was substantial, with 100 horsepower more when compared to the base model, and this made the vehicle even more capable.
The base four-cylinder and three-liter six-cylinder variants were also updated with more power. Styling was revised with Subaru going for an upmarket look with the addition of chunkier bumpers and fog lamp housings.
The Subaru Outback XT variant could only be had with an Automatic. The four-speed auto-box was dropped in favor of an improved five-speed automatic transmission.
With an all-new platform, this generation of the Outback also saw improvements to the ride and handling as it was much lighter when compared to its predecessor.
In 2006, the Subaru Outback interior was updated, which saw great improvements in quality levels. If you want to add modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay to your car, bear in mind that the HVAC and audio controls are built into a unified faceplate on 2005-2009 models, transitioning to a modern head unit difficult if not impossible.
If you want a large panoramic roof, these versions were the last to get one.
The third-generation outback suffered from a myriad of problems. Early iterations from 2005 and 06 suffered from clutch and wheel bearing failure. Faulty electronics & engine issues were common on the 07′ model. Prices for fixing these problems range from anywhere between $200 and $2,000.
Given the number of problems with the third-generation Outback, it’s a good idea to stay clear of these models altogether. Prices for used gen-three range from $5,000 to $10,000. It must be noted that Subaru did manage to address most of the problems by the 2009 model year.
Subaru Outback Fourth-gen. (2010-2014)
By the turn of the decade, the Outback was an incredibly popular vehicle. The fourth-generation Outback received significant changes, both mechanically and visually. The styling was radically different from its predecessor, with larger headlamps and a more flamboyant front facia.
Overall, it was a taller and wider vehicle. However, the length was reduced. The front and rear brake over angles were also reduced along with another inch of ground clearance to improve off-road ability. These changes were made on the Outback to compete better with SUVs.
These dimensional changes resulted in a roomier cabin and increased cargo room. This was also the first time that the Subaru Outback was offered in Europe.
Mechanically, the 2.5 Outback XT Turbo was dropped in favor of an all-new 3.6-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder, which made roughly the same amount of power of 256 hp.
Transmissions included a six-speed manual transmission for the base 2.5-liter engine and an all-new CVT (Continuously Varying Transmission) automatic for the 3.6. Sadly, this would also be the last generation of the Outback to come with a manual transmission which enthusiasts swore by. Nothing gives better control and an engaging drive than a stick shift.
The Fourth-generation of the Outback was plagued with engine and transmission problems. Excessive oil consumption, head gasket failure, and noise from the transmission were common. Headlamp burnout was also an issue on these models, which is an inexpensive repair at $110.
Expect to shell out $4,000 to fix a faulty transmission. Prices for a used fourth-generation Outback start at just under $10,000 and go all the way up to $15,000 for a low-mileage example.
Subaru Outback Fifth-gen. (2015-2019)
The fifth generation of the Outback was first showcased in 2014, and as with previous generations, the dimensions of the vehicle grew yet again. The visual proportions for this generation were spot on. The Subaru Outback had now evolved into a handsome brute. The swoopy design language of the fourth generation had made way for straight lines instead.
Engine options were carried over from its predecessor. However, the Outback could now only be had with a CVT. The 2.5-liter mill was updated, which saw improvements in performance and efficiency.
The fifth generation of the Outback also saw major updates from the automaker in terms of Safety and Technology. Subaru’s Eye-Sight advanced safety suite was now part of standard fitment.
Subaru also made use of higher-grade materials for its interior as it wanted to go after the premium car buyer. A seven-inch infotainment screen was added, and later models would receive smartphone connectivity with Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
If you need a lot of rear-seat space and a more compact cargo carrier, both the fourth and fifth-generation Outback’s are the ones to get. These variants are perhaps the most convenient, fuel-efficient, and off-road capable, but they will set you back considerably more than an early model.
Subaru Outback Sixth-gen. (2020-to present)
The latest iteration of the Outback debuted at the New York Auto Show in April 2019. In keeping with the times, the 2020 Subaru Outback has moved to an all-new global platform, which can be adapted for use with Hybrid as well as All-Electric Powertrains.
The mid-spec 2020 Subaru Outback Premium and the Outback Limited seem to be most popular with buyers. Exterior styling received minor tweaks in the form of a revised front facia, LED headlamps, tail-lamps. A new Onyx edition was also added with black accents for the front grille, wheels & mirror caps, and badging.
Engine options include the use of a new 2.4-liter Turbo Boxer unit with 260 hp and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. The tried and tested 2.5-liter engine is on offer in the base trim with 182 horses, which is an improvement over the last generation.
CVT transmission with eight speeds is offered across the range and with paddle shifters behind the wheel for manual control. Subaru has been using a CVT for a while now, and it has been refined over time.
With the sixth-generation Outback, the cabin received a big step up in terms of quality with the use of premium materials on the dashboard and various other touchpoints. A new 11.6-inch screen now takes center stage. It’s a fairly intuitive screen to use with its large icons and smartphone connectivity.
Prices for the base variant start from just under $27,000 with the top-spec Subaru Outback XT Touring costing just shy of $39,500.
Subaru Outback Recalls to Know About
If you’re thinking about purchasing a Subaru Outback, you’re likely looking for a roomy vehicle that can carry you through your outdoorsy lifestyle. While the Outback has many advantages (like excellent all-terrain capability and great gas mileage), there have also been some problems reported by owners.
Best Year to Consider: 2009 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback can be credited with popularising the rugged wagon body-style, and several automakers like Audi (All Road), VW (AllTrack), Volvo (Cross-Country), and Buick (Tour X) have since brought their own models to market.
The versatility that the Subaru Outback offered in terms of being a practical wagon combined with its AWD system is what made it such a success. Subaru Outback reliability and dependability are strong, coming in second only to Toyota.
Now that we have an overview of all six generations, we are in a position to better gauge each model’s strengths and weaknesses. The question that remains is: Which is the best Subaru Outback year?
According to Vehicle History‘s real owner reviews and ratings, drivers gave the 2009 Subaru Outback a rating of 4.5 out of five stars for comfort, reliability, interior design, value for money, exterior styling, and performance.
“It’s the best vehicle I have ever owned,” writes Patricia M. about her 2009 Subaru Outback Special Edition. “My Subaru is very comfortable. Have owned it for 10 years and only had to have it serviced once. The leather interior still looks new. I would highly recommend a Subaru to anyone. We have dogs and it accommodates them really well. I always feel safe in the Subaru no matter what the weather is. I have owned lots of other makes and models and this has by far been the best car. I feel it definitely has another 10 years in it. Only needs oil changes and tires changed for maintenance.”
The high-quality workmanship is just one of the reasons why the 2009 Subaru Outback has retained its reputation as a dependable midsize SUV crossover. Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. was only selling two models at the time: the Legacy and the Outback.
A private party sale can be helpful if you select a model older than six years, both for the opportunity to obtain a better price as well as the likelihood that the owner preserved careful repair and supporting documentation. A car that is just a few years old could be best purchased from a dealer who can offer an inspection and a warranty. The Outback is one of the best Subaru cars ever.
Photos: Subaru
