Positive Review
We replaced our 2011 Outback with a 2020 Outback with nearly identical amenities. The 2011 was our first Subaru and proved to be rock-solid for 150,000 miles so we're hoping the same will be true with this one. I'll start with my my negative comments - 1) the Auto Start/Stop is beyond annoying. Takes a minimum of 3 steps to turn off EVERY TIME YOU START THE CAR. Hoping for a software upgrade that at least moves it to the home page; 2) too many features are driven from the center screen (e.g., HVAC, audio...etc.), which can be hard to see in certain light conditions, making it quite dangerous; 3) way to much focus on fuel economy (we purchased another Outback partially because of its frugality, so I don't need numerous indications of MPG, accelerator depression... etc.). Some of the plastic parts in the back are a little cheap feeling, but at least they don't rattle or vibrate (yet). The dash-board glove-box is a joke - really miss the larger one on the 2011. Still getting used to the myriad of electronic features, so I won't pre-judge. Needless to say - read the book. And again. Now for the good - This 2020 Outback is a pleasant improvement over the 2011. Road handling is much improved (very little body roll and better steering response/feel), fuel economy is improved (32 mpg first tank) even with added horsepower. Interior noise is reduced. Seats are very comfortable (I'm 6/1 250 lbs). Finally, car seats for children can be installed without ruining your fingers and hands (not to mention your attitude for the rest of the day). Also, I change my own oil so the placement of the oil filter is a welcome relief (should be no more permanent scars due to burning the skin off my hands).
Critical Review
So we have outback 2019 and right now 2020. The biggest problem is a windshield. The windshield of outback 2019 had cracked without any reason,so we came to dealership to change it. Before we did some research and find out that many Subaru’s windshields broke very easily since 2015 and there is even a law suite. Anyway dealership contacted the corporate with a claim and it was rejected so we have to pay $1000 out of pocket to fixed and calibrate. While they were fixing it we’ve got a loaner outback 2020 and guess what it was parked 2 days and windshield cracked again, it’s May so there isn’t any big difference in temperature, it wasn’t raining. I DO NOT recommend this car until the company change windshield supplier. Such a disappointment...
Showing 8 of 126 reviews.
Power, comfort, space, styling, & safety.
Gas mileage, annoying safety sensors & warnings, & outdated laggy infotainment system.
I've had my 2025 Outback for just over 8 months, & we love it! No problems. Drives smooth. Comfortable seats. Which means a lot to me as I have a bad back & drive a lot. I'd say that the only thing that can be frustrating work it is the outdated entertainment system & how slow it is. However, we just look at it as a quirk of owning a vehicle from a small vehicle manufacturer. The safety & comfort overall out ways that. The dogs love the comfort space in the back also. Overall, we highly recommend the Subaru Outback.
Safety, road visibility, turbocharged power, huge all-terrain tires, full-size spare, wireless apple CarPlay connectivity.
Infotainment system is slow and outdated, clunky cvt transmission
I have long been a loyal Subaru owner coming from the northeast and needing a safe and reliable car that can handle the severe weather and road conditions of that region. I preferred the faster smaller WRX because it was fun to drive coming in a manual transmission and turbocharged engine as well as much cooler for a younger guy than the alternative models available like the Outback or Forrester which make me think of granny or elementary art teachers enjoying their retirement. Then Subaru stopped making the WRX in manual and changed the styling so it looks more like a Corolla. They also made a new outback trim called the wilderness edition. I was immediately interested from the changes made to the styling and suspension. The wilderness has lifted suspension and huge all terrain tires with matt finish alloy rims. I was convinced after a test drive and leased one for the last couple years and will be buying a 2025 in the coming months. I can confidently say that the wilderness is the most fun and versatile car I’ve driven. The care is fast and powerful and can easily drive on or off road, in the city or out in rural areas. Never thought I would be driving an automatic transmission but I’m glad I do living in Austin Texas as it allows me to enjoy autopilot cruise control and the safety of Subarus eyesight system which is essential for distracted drivers trying to avoid accidents while sharing the road with a large number of cars on the road driven by people who are not smart and Or have no idea how to drive. This system has saved my butt at least a handful of times over the last couple years. While traveling, I’ve had to rent cars and can honestly say that none have been as fun or comfortable to drive. In fact I have not felt safe in other cars since driving this outback wilderness. there is just an elevated road visibility and vehicle control that you really only appreciate when trying to drive other vehicles.
8v Subarus since 2019 in the family. One quetion- 2 yr no cost maintenance? Since when? 3rd Outback.
Quality, performance, ride, comfort, safety 5 stars…..2025 Dark Mahogany Pearl, Turbo engine. Easy driving solid vehicle. Only negative, brakes are EXTREMELY SENSITIVE.
Floor heater deficient, doesn't blow heat on outside leg. Radio antenna doesn't pick up station signals. Engine not powerfull enough for interstate driving thru West Virginia mountains. Manuals fail to explain the use of electronics, such as cruise control. Very dissatisfied with my purchase of 2025 Outback (Basic). This is my first and last Subaru.
Simple great comfortable affordable transportation
Excellent reliability. Holds its value. Very durable.
Smooth ride may be lost after 6+ years
After owning a Subaru outback limited for 13 years, I am loving my Subaru outback onyx! All of the electronic driving safety features the rums, and the quietness are amazing.
Love this car. Roomy comfortable with lots of power. The extra cargo room when back seats are down is amazing!