The Subaru Outback is quite an interesting name in motoring, as it can refer to either the Legacy Outback sedan wagon that has been in production since 1994 until today or the Outback Sport hatchback (derived from the Impreza) that was in production from 1994 to 2011.
These days, it mainly refers to the Subaru Legacy Outback lineage and fills the role of the mid-size crossover SUV in Subaru’s lineup. The Outback has been very well-received in the market, and it has been consistently one of Subaru’s best-selling models. It carries that rally-tested air, thanks to the influence that the Subaru WRX STI brings to the marquee.
There have been many different versions of the Outback over the past couple of decades, and it has undergone a number of changes. It’s currently in its sixth generation, which started with the 2020 Subaru Outback.
If you’re in the market for one, check out our picks for the best Subaru Outback years to consider if you want a dependable used vehicle.
2005 to 2009 Model Year Subaru Outback (3rd Generation)
Why They’re the Best
The third generation of the Subaru Outback is widely considered to be the best. This is thanks to a number of factors, including an updated design, improved engines, and more standard features.
The 2005 model year was when the Outback really started to come into its own, and it remained one of the best-selling models in its class for the next few years.
One of the biggest selling points of the 3rd generation Outback was its design. The previous two generations had been criticized for looking a little too boxy and dated.
However, the 2005 model year saw a complete redesign that gave the Outback a more modern look. This new look was a big hit with buyers, and it helped to make the Outback one of the most popular vehicles in its class.
After being on the market for over a decade, vehicle owners have found the 3rd generation Outback to be very reliable. In fact, it’s not uncommon for various Subaru vehicles to last for over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This is thanks in part to the high-quality engines that were used in this generation of Outback.
The third-generation Outback was also packed with features, including a sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system. These features were previously only available on luxury vehicles, but they helped to make the Outback more appealing to buyers.
Car buyers looking for the best Subaru Outback year can’t go wrong with any of the Subaru Outback years from the third generation.
Here are our picks for best trim to consider:
Price
Used 3rd generation Outbacks are pretty cheap. You should have no problem finding a Subaru Outback 2.5i on the used market for around $4,000.
2020 to Present Model Year Subaru Outback (6th Generation)
Why They’re the Best
If you’re looking for the best possible Subaru Outback, then you should definitely consider the 2020 to present model years. These are the most recent models, and they offer the latest and greatest in terms of features, performance, and value.
The safety features on the sixth generation Subaru Outbacks are some of the best in the business. The Outback comes with a host of other features that make it one of the safest cars on the road.
One of the best safety features on the Outback is the Subaru EyeSight system. This system uses cameras to monitor the road ahead and provide alerts to the driver if there is a potential collision. The system can even apply the brakes if necessary to avoid or mitigate a collision.
The Outback also comes with a Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system. This system uses sensors to detect when another vehicle is in your blind spot and will provide an alert to the driver. This can help avoid accidents when changing lanes.
Sixth generation Outbacks also come standard with a Rear-Vision Camera (RVC), giving the driver a view of what is behind the vehicle when reversing. This can be very helpful when parking or backing out of a driveway.
Note that modern Outbacks are only equipped with CVT and not the conventional gear-based automatic transmission.
You’ll also find that these model years have excellent resale value, so they’re a great investment for the long term. It’s a testament to their strong reliability and build quality.
Rounded out with excellent fuel economy, HVAC and audio controls, disc drive braking system, and high ground clearance, Outbacks from this generation are highly sought after.
It can be a capable off-roader, but it can do well with some modification. From the factory, buyers can get Wilderness trim which has a higher ground clearance of 9.5 inches, compared to the stock 8.7 inches.
Here are our picks for best trim to consider:
Price
A pre-owned Subaru Outback from 2020 goes for approximately $35,000. It’s worth pointing out that this is the same price for a new 2022 turbocharged XT model, which is the Subaru Outback Onyx Edition with XT turbo engine. And it reflects how well older Outback model years hold their value.
1994 to 1999 Model Year Subaru Outback (1st Generation)
Why They’re the Best
Even though they have some years behind them, the first generation Subaru vehicles from 1994 to 1999 are still some of the best of the bunch. The main reason for this is that these early Outback models offer the most bang for your buck in terms of features and performance.
For instance, the 1994 to 1996 model years came with a larger 2.5-liter engine as standard, which produced more power and torque than the smaller engines in later models. This made the Outback more capable when it came to towing and hauling heavy loads.
Another reason why these model years are the best is that they offer a better ride quality than later generations. This is due to the fact that they have a longer wheelbase, which provides a more stable and comfortable ride.
Perhaps most important is the fact that these vehicles hold up to this day. First generation Subaru Outback models are known for their reliability, longevity, and solid fuel economy, which makes them a great choice for anyone looking for a used reliable car.
So if you’re in the market for a used Subaru Outback, be sure to check out model years from 1994 to 1999. You won’t be disappointed.
Here are our picks for best trim to consider:
Price
As the first generation of Outbacks, you can find these vehicles on the used market for very affordable prices of between $500 and $3,700.
A Historically Reliable Ride
The Subaru Outback is a reliable vehicle that has undergone many updates throughout its years of production. The newer model years have seen the most changes, with the introduction of modern features and a more stylish design.
It should be noted that there was a class-action lawsuit filed in 2014 against Outback vehicles produced after 2011 for defective piston rings. Since the fourth generation Outback has some of the Subaru Outback years to avoid, be mindful of models made around this time.
Even the previous generation model years are still reliable vehicles that can handle anything you throw at them. Whether old or new, the Subaru Outback is a great choice for anyone in the market for a dependable, fuel-efficient car.
