Few midsize SUVs offer the combination of comfort, grit, and smooth ride of the Subaru Outback. Over the years, Outback has become a common nameplate among people who prioritize functionality, and the station wagon has continued to deliver on its promise. For most owners, the standard AWD system, high ground clearance, and excellent gas mileage get the job done. But even better, the latest iteration adds a turbocharged engine and more sophisticated tech to the package.
With the new 2025 model, every trip is a wholesome experience. It dominates rocky and slippery surfaces just as well as it thrives on pavement, and there’s enough room for passengers and cargo on long rides. Here’s what we make of the 2025 Subaru Outback.
Built for the Road
Very few family SUVs match the rugged elegance of the 2025 Outback. With standard 18-inch wheels and 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.7 inches on Wilderness), the message is clear – the Outback roars for adventure. The hood and side profile are marked by bold lines and protective cladding, which add to the appeal. In front, you’ll notice the angular headlamps, fog lights, and grille redesigned for a more daring outlook. Other standout features are the hands-free power tailgate, optional moonroof, and functional roof rails for overhead luggage.
The 2025 model gets a more laid-back front design and larger windshields that provide better aerodynamics. And there’s an array of nice color options, from the classic Ice Black Silica to the stunning Autumn Green, exclusive to select trims.
Rugged Outside, Comfy Inside
Inside, the 2025 Outback features a few notable upgrades. The dash is elevated to create a more open, upscale cabin and improve the driver’s line of sight. Also, the 191.9-inch vehicle length ensures ample headroom and legroom, which puts in the company of station wagons with generous passenger space. All five seats are adjustable and covered with Nappa Leather Upholstery, while Onyx Edition owners get the improved water-repellant StarTex covering. Heated steering wheel and front seats come standard, and there is an added pocket space behind the front seats for storing small items.
New for 2025, Subaru introduced the 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system equipped with Clari-Fi tech for an immersive listening experience. The Outback also impresses with its cargo space. Rear seats fold flat to unveil a class-leading 75.6 cubic ft of cargo bay – enough to contain about 35 carry-on bags or provide cozy sleep space for two adults.
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Sure-footed Performance Everywhere You Go
The 2025 Subaru Outback comes standard with a symmetrical AWD system and two engine options with enough pomp to breeze through all terrains. Although the base direct-injection 2.5L BOXER engine manages 182 hp, the turbocharged variant delivers up to 260 hp. At a top speed of 117 mph, the Outback lags a bit, but owners who want more speed can opt for the 2.4L XT engine, which bounds up to 60mph in 5.8 seconds. However, the Outback compensates with an excellent transmission. It responds nicely and hugs corners without complaints.
Mated to a lineartronic CVT, the new Subie wagon is capable of 277-pound torque ft and a range-topping performance of about 590 miles. It has an impressive 32/26 MPG rating, which makes it a reliable choice for city driving and cross-country trips. The dual-function X-mode further improves its practicality in all road conditions. Combine the X-mode with snow tires, and your Outback is set to conquer up to 7 inches of snow without getting cold feet.
Intuitive Tech That’s Got Your Back
A nice-looking vertical 11.6-inch infotainment screen is positioned close to the steering wheel. Menus and settings are easy to navigate, and we love the intuitive layout, but the selections could be better arranged. Subaru also added the Starlink App for multimedia connection and extra security. Plus, there’s a variety of hands-free connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
All 2025 Outback trims come equipped with Eyesight Tech, Subaru’s trademark feature that provides a suite of driving assistance, including pedestrian detection, lane keep, transmission control, and automatic pre-collision braking. Cruise control and stop-start mode are also available on all trims, while top trims Touring and Limited XT get the extra DriverFocus system.
Outback Trims and Prices
The 2025 Outback is reasonably priced, considering it combines the practical features of a wagon with the capability of an SUV. Starting at $28,895, the wagon is one of the best-value midsize models in the segment. There are nine trim levels, and each successive level adds more capabilities, but the most obvious differences are in power output and torque. Wilderness packs the most functional amenities: 260hp @ 5,600 rpm, a higher suspension, and 109 cubic feet of total passenger volume. However, owners willing to trade a few features for higher fuel efficiency can opt for the Limited trim instead.
The following are the 2025 Outback trim levels and starting prices:
| Base Trim – $28,895 | Premium – $31,195 | Onyx Edition – $36,105 |
| Limited – $37,855 | Onyx Edition XT – $39,360 | Wilderness – $39,960 |
| Touring – $40,345 | Limited XT – $40,195 | Touring XT – $42,795 |
Outback Vs. Competition
The 2025 Outback’s closest rivals are Honda CR-V in the crossover SUV segment and Audi A6 Allroad and Volvo V60 in the wagon class, but it isn’t a tight race. Head to head, the Subaru Outback outvalues many of its similarly-priced rivals, both in the wagon and SUV categories. It ticks almost all the right boxes without trade-offs on tech features. For instance, its lower trims have generous standard functionalities, including heated front seats and AWD, which rivals reserve for higher trims. Although the Honda CR-V and Volvo V60, for example, offer more spirited driving, the Outback does really great around town. Besides, its all-terrain tires and dual-mode function are a worthy compensation off-road.
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Overall, the 2025 Subaru Outback is how you get the tenacity of an SUV for the price of a compact crossover. It’s a perfect choice if you need a versatile ride that also saves you a few bucks at the gas pump. Plus, there are rumors of a potential hybrid option for buyers who want more of the Outback’s fuel economy!
