Subaru Outback generations: Versatility in motion

When the Subaru Outback first hit dealership showrooms in the mid-1990s, it was marketed as “The world’s first sport utility wagon.” The approach was unique, indeed. The car was touted in commercials by Aussie Paul Hogan (as Crocodile Dundee) for having more cargo space than a Honda Passport, the ground clearance of a Ford Explorer and better gas mileage than a Jeep Cherokee. 

The idea was to package all those attributes into a vehicle that was as friendly to drive as a regular passenger car. And it was a home run. The first generation sold more than 20,000 units. Today, the Outback is Subaru’s best-selling model, with nearly 200,000 new units sold each year. 

It holds similar staying power in the used car marketplace for our region. According to data from the Utah State Tax Commission, more than 900 used Outbacks changed hands in Utah in the first quarter of 2024. What attributes have made it such a hot item? 

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First generation (1995 through 1999)

Building on the already refined Legacy wagon, the Outback took ruggedness to another level, courtesy of increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive. Power initially came from a 2.2-liter inline-4; a larger output 2.5-liter inline-4 was added later in the generation. Four-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions were offered. The Outback’s two-tone paint was a distinctive feature at the time.

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Second generation (2000 through 2004)

When the second generation Outback launched, it brought enhancements in design, comfort and performance. The body was smoothed and stretched about 3 inches in length. 

Now available was a 3.0-liter flat-6, or boxer, engine for additional power output and enhanced low-end torque. Standard on all models was the symmetrical all-wheel drive system. Cabin versatility was enhanced via a split-folding rear seat.

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Third generation (2005 through 2009)

The Outback was moved to a new platform in 2005, allowing it to receive increased dimensions both inside and out. Safety technology became one of the design focuses, as side-curtain airbags and stability control were added to the list of equipment. 

A range of engines were offered, including a 2.5-liter flat-4, a turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-4 (in the XT model) and a 3.0-liter flat-6. The Outback continued to emphasize a balance of on-road comfort combined with rugged capability.

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Fourth generation (2010 through 2014)

“Bigger is better” became the name of the game in 2010, when the Outback became more SUV like. The wheel arches were more pronounced to give the Outback a rugged aesthetic. The inside was similarly updated, with navigation, premium audio and rear seats that could be folded flat to expand cargo capacity. 

Powertrain offerings included a 2.5-liter inline-4 and a 3.6-liter flat-6. A continuously variable transmission was introduced, bringing increased fuel efficiency with it. One of the key innovations from this era was Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance system which included adaptive cruise control, precollision braking and lane departure warning.

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Fifth generation (2015 through 2019)

Subaru made an emphasis during this era to heighten the look and feel of the Outback’s interiors, adding upgraded materials, an available Harman Kardon audio system, multiple USB ports, push-button start and connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Engine offerings carried forward from the prior generation, but the only available transmission was a CVT. It was during this generation that Subaru began classifying the Outback as a crossover rather than a station wagon. 

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Sixth generation (2020 through current)

Built on Subaru’s new global platform, the latest Outback incorporates a long list of modern features such as LED headlights. Despite its car-like driver friendliness, it still has a rugged look, with bodyside cladding and class-leading ground clearance of 8.7 inches.

Under the hood, power comes from two available engine offerings: a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated flat-4 and a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-4. Infotainment is managed through a handy 11.6-inch touchscreen as part of Subaru’s Starlink multimedia system. 

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Find your Outback

The Outback has undoubtedly come a long way from its early era. Whether you call it a wagon, a crossover or a sport utility vehicle, it is a chameleon of cars that can adapt to many different environments and lifestyles. 

Could you use a versatile vehicle around the house — and one that doubles as a weekend adventure-seeker? There are over 800 Outbacks listed for sale on KSL Cars, so you are bound to find one that meets your needs and budget. Browse the listings today! 

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