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2018 Subaru Outback review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Subaru Outback highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Versatile and rugged
  • Refined and comfortable interior
  • Plenty of room for cargo

Cons

  • Weak four-cylinder engine
  • Braking could be improved
  • Boring driving experience

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 27 highway, 22 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

7 photos
Price
Year

All Subaru Outback years

What is new for the 2018 Subaru Outback?

  • Outback trims have been upgraded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
  • 8508 features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The 2.5I Premium trim now comes with Power Hatch/Deck Lid as standard equipment.

2018 Subaru Outback trims

Curious how Subaru Outback trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

2.5I:

2.5I Premium:

2.5I Limited:

2.5I Touring:

3.6R Limited:

3.6R Touring:

Subaru Outback photos

5 reasons to buy the 2018 Subaru Outback

1. Super spacious

The 2018 Subaru Outback lives up to its heritage as a large wagon with a vast amount of space. It has a total passenger volume of 108.1 cu-ft and offers 40.8 inches of headroom and 42.9 inches of legroom in the front. In the back are 38.9 inches of headroom and 38.1 inches of legroom, which is more than enough for an adult to stretch out on your next road trip. The Outback shines with 35.5 cu-ft of cargo space behind the rear seats and a huge 73.3 cu-ft with the 60/40 split-folding seats down. That's ample space for luggage, sports gear, or the fruits of a shopping spree.

2. Great base engine performance

The 2018 Subaru Outback offers decent mileage with the base 2.5L four-cylinder engine—it has 175 horsepower and it offers an EPA-estimated 28 combined mpg.

 The base model achieves zero-to-60 in 9.4 seconds and handles more like a sedan than a wagon. And since it’s an AWD vehicle, you've got comfort over any terrain thanks to the absorbent suspension. 

3. Four exciting trims

There are four trim levels of the 2018 Subaru Outback: Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring. Each comes with the 2.5L engine as standard, but the Limited and Touring models are available with a 3.6L V6. The base model includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, USB port, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Premium trim adds to this dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, an eight-inch touchscreen, and more. The Limited includes leather seating, blind spot monitoring, and lane change assist, offering drivers peace of mind. The Touring adds an extra layer of luxury with the addition of a heated steering wheel, navigation, and reverse automatic emergency braking.

4. Comfortable seating

Something you'll love about this vehicle is the comfort level inside the cabin. The 2018 Subaru Outback seats five, with ample legroom in both rows, cloth upholstery and a height-adjustable driver's seat as standard. Available features include leather seating, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated seats—fantastic for long drives and road trips where you will appreciate the little things that make a journey more comfortable. Treat yourself to a higher trim if the luxuries of heated seats and leather trim appeal, but even the base model prioritizes comfort beautifully.

5. Unique color options

Not every wagon comes with a color option for every taste but the 2018 Subaru Outback's options are refreshing. You can choose from vibrant colors like Crimson Red Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl, Wilderness Green Metallic, and more. These colors show that you don't have to sacrifice style or individuality even with a very practical, outdoorsy vehicle. The cabin area inside is sleek and sophisticated, with door and dashboard trim matching whichever of the seven colors of upholstery—from Warm Ivory Cloth to Slate Black Leather—you choose.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2018 Subaru Outback is a luxury utility vehicle that is quiet, has a 33+ mpg, and is comfortable. It has a 38mpg highway and is a great car for those looking for a reliable and comfortable car.
4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Subaru Outback an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Subaru Outback 10th out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Subaru Outback

Subaru Outback features and specs

2.5I Limited 4WD/AWD 4D Wagon

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Navigation System
  • Parking Sensors
  • Remote Start
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

175

Torque (ft-lbs)

174

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

18.5

Wheelbase

108.1"

Overall length

189.6"

Width

72.4"

Height

66.1"

Leg room

F 42.9"/R 38.1"

Head room

F 38.3"/R 38.9"

Front tires

P225/60HR18

Rear tires

P225/60HR18

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

270/2700 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2018 Subaru Outback FAQ

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