Review and specifications
2022 Subaru Outback
The Outback wagon has a long-running reputation as a smart alternative to an SUV, and the redesigned 2020 model doesn't stray from its proven formula. This next-generation Outback adds comfort and convenience features. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine does the job but can feel strained under stress. The turbocharged 260-hp, 2.4-liter engine transforms the wagon with effortless acceleration. The ride is very comfortable, and handling is responsive and secure. Some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step, however. Thoughtful details like built-in cross bars and a dual-position cargo cover are nice touches. All versions get the EyeSight suite of advanced safety and driver assistance systems. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional. Starting with the 2021 model year, steering responsive headlights, which are designed to swivel according to steering input to give added visibility in corners, are standard on all trims. For 2025, Limited trims get a standard power moonroof, heated steering wheel, navigation, and DriverFocus distraction mitigation system. A new Outback is expected to arrive for the 2026 model year.
- Market value
- $23,400
- Fuel
- Conventional
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Seats
- 5
At a glance
Model data
Overview
- Powertrain
- Conventional
- Body style
- wagon
- Drive type
- AWD
- Transmission
- CVT
- Category
- Midsized SUVs
- Generation began
- 2020
Pricing
- Current retail median
- $23,400
- Retail value range
- $20,125 - $25,375
- Original MSRP range
- $27,645 - $40,645
- Trade-in range
- $17,950 - $23,605
Ratings
- Road test score
- 91/100
- Owner satisfaction
- 4/5
- Would buy again
- 69%
- Reliability
- 3/5
Fuel economy
- EPA city
- 23 MPG
- EPA highway
- 30 MPG
- EPA combined
- 26 MPG
- Tested city
- 16 MPG
- Tested highway
- 32 MPG
- Tested overall
- 24 MPG
- Annual fuel cost
- $1,640
- Cruising range
- 440 miles
Road tests
- 0-30 mph
- 3 sec
- 0-60 mph
- 7.1 sec
- 60-0 mph braking
- 132 ft
- Avoidance speed
- 54 mph
- Test status
- Test Completed
Dimensions
- Length
- 191 in
- Width
- 73 in
- Height
- 66 in
- Wheelbase
- 108 in
- Weight
- 3,915 lb
- Maximum load
- 900 lb
- Towing capacity
- 3,500 lb
Interior
- Seating
- 5 people
- Front head room
- 4.5 in
- Front leg room
- 42.5 in
- Rear head room
- 5 in
- Rear leg room
- 30 in
- Cargo volume
- 37 cu ft
Owner feedback
- Comfort
- 4/5
- Driving
- 4/5
- Styling
- 4/5
- Value
- 2/5
Environmental impact
- Air pollution score
- 3/10
- Greenhouse gas score
- 5/10
- SmartWay
- No
Brand context
About Subaru
<p>Subaru is known for driver-friendly cars and SUVs with standard full-time all-wheel drive. Its models frequently rank near the top of Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction and reliability ratings, making some used Subarus a good choice. Along with all-wheel drive, Subarus are known for using a “boxer” style four-cylinder engine with opposing pistons that move horizontally. The design reduces vibration and gives the vehicle a low center of gravity. Most Subarus have options like heated seats and leather upholstery. The Crosstrek and Forester are each available as a fuel-efficient hybrid. The brand’s first electric vehicle, the Solterra, is joined by the Trailseeker and Uncharted SUVs. Sports cars like the WRX and rear-drive BRZ showcase the brand’s wilder side.</p>
Vehicle ID: 22004 First published: June 22, 2021 Updated: June 4, 2026
Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.