2021 Subaru Outback Review

Name: 2021 Subaru Outback Review
Brand: Subaru
Price: 19349 USD

Subaru Outback Limited 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

+192

The Outback does all the work of an SUV better than most SUVs but without any pretense. It combines a station wagon's practicality, comfort, easy-driving character and fantastic outward visibility with the ground clearance, ride compliance and all-weather sure-footedness of an SUV. We have our complaints, ranging from the frustrating infotainment screen to the anemic engine, but there are more strengths than weaknesses.

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2021 Subaru Outback Review

byReese Counts^{Vehicle Test Editor
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.}

Pros

Spacious cabin and smooth, comfortable ride
Optional turbocharged engine provides plenty of power
Loading the roof or cargo area is easier than in most SUVs
Above-average off-road ability

Cons

Big touchscreen is slow to respond and buries many controls in complicated menus
Slow acceleration from standard engine
Native voice recognition system isn't very accurate

What's new

Adaptive LED headlights now standard on all trims
Seat-belt reminder standard for all passengers
Reminder to check rear seat added as standard safety feature
Part of the sixth Outback generation introduced for 2020

Overview

The Subaru Outback has been around for more than 25 years, splitting the difference between a midsize SUV and a station wagon. That niche has broad appeal, and the ever popular Outback has continued its successful formula over six generations. While it drives mostly like a regular car, that hatchback design, decent ground clearance and taller seating position give it an SUV flair. We think it's a successful mix. The Outback is comfortable, well appointed and versatile, and the standard list of driver aids make it very compelling.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$131/mo

$177/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

There aren't really any other vehicles around that strike that wagon/SUV balance. The Outback is classified as a midsize SUV, and as such competes against models such as the Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota 4Runner. Each one has its high points, from the Passport's large and usable interior to the 4Runner's serious off-road credentials. Any one of these is well worth a look if you're in the market for a two-row SUV.

What's it like to live with?

We were impressed enough with the redesigned Subaru Outback that we added one to our long-term test fleet to see if our impressions change living with it from day to day. We like the Outback's comfortable ride, handsome interior and peppy turbocharged engine.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Average

7.6

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the Outback drive? The Outback is slow, but that's about the only negative in this category. Our test vehicle, an Outback Limited with the base four-cylinder engine, accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. You'll want to upgrade to the turbocharged engine to get power similar to what rivals such as the Honda Passport and Ford Edge are capable of. At least the transmission shifts quickly and promptly to help you keep pace with traffic.

There's some noticeable body roll when making turns, but in general the Outback is well behaved. The steering offers good on-center feel and feedback from the road. The best part? With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, the Outback can go pretty much anywhere its SUV competitors can — and some places they can't.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the Outback? You'll be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable vehicle for the money. The front seats are great. They're soft but supportive, offering a decent amount of bolstering without feeling tight. Overall, these are welcoming seats, pleasant to settle into when you're tired and easy to stay in for a long time.

The Outback's ride quality is excellent overall, too, even if certain road surfaces can create some vibrations in the cabin. Potholes, speed humps and drainage ditches are absorbed easily, yet there's no real floatiness to the vehicle. It's an impressive balance of compliance and control.

The climate system works well to regulate cabin temperature. Unfortunately, making any adjustments beyond temperature requires using the complicated touchscreen interface.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? From a space standpoint, the Outback is fantastic. Some might prefer a more upright SUV-like seating position, but the Outback offers plenty of seat adjustability. Backseat passengers will be treated to excellent head- and legroom, and the cabin feels airy and open. The big windows also make for easy visibility all around and help eliminate blind spots.

Unfortunately, in pursuit of reducing button clutter for drivers, most of the Outback's controls are routed through the touchscreen. The screen can be slow to respond and very distracting to use. Changing any setting requires navigating through multiple menus, adding time and distraction to even simple tasks.

Technology

6.5/10

How’s the tech? A nice-sounding stereo and plenty of charge ports are pluses, but Subaru's vertical 11.6-inch infotainment screen is a wasted opportunity. It's pretty but not very functional. It's easy enough to find settings and selections, but the complicated menu structure adds time to any task.

Plug in a smartphone, and the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto display is crammed into the top half of the screen, rendering the bottom half totally useless. Subaru's native voice command system is also subpar and struggles to recognize even basic requests.

Subaru's EyeSight is one of the most capable driver assistance systems you can get, but it's also really annoying. While everything from adaptive cruise to lane keeping works well, all of it subjects you to almost constant beeping notifications.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? Because the Outback is more a lifted station wagon than an SUV, it loses out just a bit in terms of total cargo capacity. But at least the cargo floor is low and flat, making loading and unloading a breeze. It's also easy to install gear on the Subaru's roof rails because the Outback isn't quite as high as your typical SUV.

Cabin storage is clever but lacking in volume. There's a nice phone shelf for front passengers, and rear passengers get bottle holders in their doors and seatback pockets on both sides, but the center console box is smaller than the ones in most SUVs. Ultimately there's less space to stash your stuff.

Installing child safety seats should be a breeze, thanks to easily accessible seat anchors and plenty of room.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates you'll get 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving with the base engine, which is better than competitors manage. With our test Outback, however, we only managed around 20 mpg. This could be because the anemic power source demands a lead-footed approach to keeping pace with busy traffic.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Outback a good value? Most competitors have stronger standard engines, but otherwise the Outback offers an excellent value. The base model isn't lacking any practicality. And when loaded with extra luxuries and technology features, it costs less than similarly equipped competitors. The equation changes a bit if you want the more powerful XT models, whose prices are more directly aligned with traditional SUV competitors.

The Subaru doesn't offer any particular ownership advantages, with a warranty that's average for the segment. And while the Outback feels well put together, the design and quality of materials don't really stand out in any particular way.

Wildcard

8.5/10

The Outback does SUV things better than most SUVs, and does it without pretense or overcompensation. We wish that meeting fuel economy estimates was easier, but in its unassuming competence the Outback reminds us of the value of putting function before image.

Yes, the Outback is a little bland, but it's also very sure of itself. With plenty of ground clearance, full-time AWD and a smooth ride, it invites you to tackle potholes or unpaved roads. All told, it makes driving on bad city roads or unkept country roads altogether more pleasant. In fact, the Outback's strength is that it invites relaxation.

Which Outback does Edmunds recommend?

The midlevel Premium trim offers a lot of features at a competitive price point, but if you have the budget, we suggest stepping up to the Onyx Edition XT. It packs more features than the Premium trim and benefits from a more powerful turbocharged engine.

2021 Subaru Outback models

The Subaru Outback is a midsize SUV that comes in seven trim levels: base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT and Touring XT. All-wheel drive comes standard on every trim. Feature highlights include:

Base
The base Subaru Outback comes with a decent list of features, including:

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (182 horsepower, 176 lb-ft)
Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
17-inch alloy wheels
Turn-adaptive LED headlights
Roof rails with integrated crossbars
7-inch touchscreen display
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Automatic climate control
Driver aids:

Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Subaru and the car in front)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane keeping assist (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Automatic high beams

Premium
Stepping up to the Premium trim adds:

Power-adjustable driver's seat
Dual-zone automatic climate control
All-Weather package

Heated and power-folding exterior mirrors
Heated front seats
A windshield wiper de-icer

11.6-inch touchscreen display
LED foglights
Tinted rear windows
Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Options on the Premium include:

Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Hands-free power liftgate
Keyless ignition and entry
Sunroof
Navigation system

Limited
The Outback Limited includes all Premium features plus the blind-spot monitoring, hands-free liftgate and keyless ignition and entry. You also get:

18-inch wheels
Driver-seat memory settings
Leather upholstery
Harman Kardon audio system
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Power-adjustable front passenger seat
Heated rear outboard seats
Rear HVAC vents

Options for the Limited:

Heated steering wheel
Sunroof
Navigation system
Driver attention monitor (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)

Touring
The Touring trim has all of the above plus:

Ventilated front seats
Upgraded leather with contrasting stitching

Onyx Edition XT
Features here generally mirror those on the Premium trim. It also comes with:

Turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (260 hp, 277 lb-ft)
An upgraded version of Subaru's all-wheel-drive system with more drive modes
Hill descent control
Front-view camera
Unique body cladding

Limited XT and Touring XT
These trims mirror the features of the Limited and Touring trims, respectively, but both get the upgraded turbocharged engine.

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4/5Above Average

#10 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Subaru Outback from 2008-2022.}

$516/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

10.5%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Subaru Outback.

5 (47%)

4 (17%)

3 (15%)

2 (9%)

1 (12%)

3.8

87 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Faulty windshield

Lloyd Pitts, 08/13/2021

2021 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)

Love the Outback. It drives nice and looks good. However, with less than 5000 miles, I have a cracked windshield. Then, I start reading where Subaru has a problem with windshields. I will have to pay out of pocket for replacement when they already know that they are faulty. I wish I had read about this before purchase. I would have probably chose a different model. Subaru needs to …

First time disappointed with Subaru

former subaru lover, 09/27/2021

2021 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT 4dr SUV AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT)

I've been a loyal Subaru customer since the 1980's. My family and I have had over 20 Subarus in that time. I have always appreciated the reliability, dealer support, and simplicity of the controls. That all ended with this 2021 onyx XT. First, I love he comfortable seats in this model. The leather seats are too firm and give me back pain. The water resistant seats in the onyx XT have …

2021 Outback Limited - the good and the bad

Eric S, 12/15/2020

2021 Subaru Outback Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)

I had a 2016 Outback Limited for 5 years and traded it in for a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland so I could be cool. I didn't like the Jeep for various reasons (mostly the unbearable road noise) so I traded it in for a 2021 Outback. I test-drove the XT as well but didn't notice enough of a difference to warrant the extra cost and worse gas mileage. I mostly like the Outback but here …

Great all-round all-wheel drive

SB, 11/11/2020

2021 Subaru Outback Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)

We have had an Outback since 2014. For winter driving even in really bad conditions, this is an ideal car with class beating symmetrical all-wheel drive. We also use snow tires in the winter which helps greatly with traction and to a small degree with braking too. I have had occasions to drive up deep snow packed and slippery hills with no problem whatsoever. I was a little concerned …

See all 87 reviews of the Subaru Outback

Write a vehicle review

2021 Outback Highlights

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$26,795
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	29 MPG
Cost to Drive	$131/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	32.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Outback models:

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Scans the road ahead to enable adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning and automatic foglights.
Blind-Spot Detection/Lane Change Assist: Uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in blind spots and shows visual indicator in the side mirror. Indicator also warns of an unsafe lane change.
Subaru DriverFocus: Monitors the driver's focus using infrared sensors in the dashboard, warning when the driver has become drowsy or loses focus on the road.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover18.5%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2021 Subaru Outback Review

2021 Subaru Outback Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Outback does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Subaru Outback models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

Faulty windshield

First time disappointed with Subaru

2021 Outback Limited - the good and the bad

Great all-round all-wheel drive

2021 Outback Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Subaru Outback 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}