- The 2022 Subaru Outback gets a new, more off-road-capable Wilderness version this year.
- The Outback is one of Subaru’s best-selling vehicles.
- Pricing starts at $28,070| Price it your way
- On sale now | See Subaru Outback models for sale near you
The 2022 Subaru Outback is one of those “tweener” vehicles—it’s not quite a midsized crossover and not quite a hatchback, but it offers ample interior space and it’s one of Subaru’s best-selling models. For this year it gets a new additional Wilderness version that gives the popular crossover some offroad bits to keep you safe when you venture off the beaten track.
Passenger Room and Comfort
Inside, the Subaru Outback has ample space for both people and pets. The raised height and generous dimensions mean that it’s easy to get into and out of, and our editors noted that strapping kids and toddlers into child seats doesn’t require as much bending down as it does in other vehicles.
The new Wilderness package features generously bolstered front bucket seats, upholstered in Subaru’s StarTex, a waterproof material that has the supple feel of leather. The headrests add a bit of flair thanks to the embossed Wilderness logos.
Features and Tech
The base Outback employs twin 7-inch screens to control infotainment and climate functions, but the rest of the lineup has an 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen set vertically. Premium trim gains rear ventilation this year in the back of the center console.
It also gets a useful collection of standard equipment including steering-responsive LED headlights with automatic high beams, rear seat reminder, EyeSight driver aids, paddle shifters, cloth upholstery, satellite radio, two USB ports, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.
For an extra $2,200 for Premium you’ll get dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, and an extra pair of USB ports. This trim is also eligible for more options.
Materials and Design
Roof rails and plastic side cladding emphasize the SUV vibe of the 2022 Outback. The base model, which gains LED foglights this year, starts with 17-inch alloy wheels. Once we’re at the Limited and Onyx XT trim, only 18-inch alloy wheels are available.
The Onyx XT sits a little apart from the rest of the lineup — sporting a grille and side mirrors finished in Crystal Black Silica. And then there’s the even more distinct Wilderness.
The new Outback Wilderness has bespoke-designed front and rear fascias, wider moldings for the wheel arches, larger side cladding, and matte-black anti-glare graphics on the hood, plus anodized copper finishes for the front tow point cover and roof rails. It runs on 17-inch alloy wheels wearing Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires with raised white lettering.
In general, the cabin is agreeable. Soft-touch plastics and pleasing shapes join comfortable seats and ample passenger space. You can upgrade to the Premium trim to get a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats.
Cargo Room and Flexibility
There’s plenty of room inside the Subaru Outback. But Subaru doesn’t stop there and offers accessories that can accommodate both dogs and cats. Also available are roof cargo carriers and various racks, all of which make enough space for passengers and their adventure gear on your next road trip.
More 2022 Subaru Outback
Build and price your own 2022 Subaru Outback to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or see Outback models for sale near you.
