Skip to content

2005 – 2009 · 1 body style available

3rd Gen

The 2005-2009 Subaru Outback represents the third generation of the wagon that established the brand’s crossover identity. It shares its platform with the…

Body styles
Wagon

Subaru Outback (3rd Gen) Buyer's Guide

The 3rd-gen Outback (BP, 2005-2009) is a cult classic — the last turbocharged Outback wagon with a manual transmission option. It's the enthusiast's Outback, combining Subaru's famous AWD with genuine performance. Powertrain: The 2.5L EJ253 naturally

4 known issuesRead the guide

2010 – 2014 · 1 body style available

4th Gen

The 2010-2014 Subaru Outback represents the fourth generation of the model, shifting to a larger, more car-like platform shared with the Legacy sedan. This…

Body styles
Wagon

Subaru Outback (4th Gen) Buyer's Guide

The 4th-gen Outback (BR, 2010-2014) marked Subaru's transition from traditional automatic to CVT. It also dropped the turbo engine option, focusing on efficiency and comfort. It's a practical, capable wagon that does everything well. Powertrain: The 2.5L

4 known issuesRead the guide

2015 – 2019 · 1 body style available

5th Gen

The 2015-2019 Subaru Outback represents the fifth generation of the model, transitioning from the previous generation’s available manual transmission and…

Body styles
Wagon

Subaru Outback (5th Gen) Buyer's Guide

The 5th-gen Outback (2015-2019) grew in size and refinement, moving further from its wagon roots toward SUV territory. It gained the 3.6R six-cylinder option and the first EyeSight driver-assist system, making it a strong used choice for active lifestyles.

4 known issuesRead the guide

2020 – present · 1 body style available

6th Gen

The 2020-present Subaru Outback represents the sixth generation of the model, which fully transitioned to the Subaru Global Platform for improved rigidity,…

Body styles
Wagon

Subaru Outback (6th Gen) Buyer's Guide

The 6th-gen Outback (2020+) moved further from wagon to SUV with increased ground clearance (8.7 inches), a larger interior, and the massive 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen. The introduction of the 2.4L turbo XT brought real power back to the lineup.

4 known issuesRead the guide

Free Car Finder

Still deciding on the Subaru Outback?

Answer a few quick questions and see your top 3 used cars, with the years to shop.

Find my car
How guides rank risk

Four severity levels

CriticalDeal-breakers
MajorCostly soon
CautionKeep an eye on
OKLow concern

Every Squeezed guide sorts findings from Critical to OK, so you see the deal-breakers on the Outback before anything else.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What generations of the Subaru Outback are there?

3rd Gen (2005 to 2009); 4th Gen (2010 to 2014); 5th Gen (2015 to 2019); 6th Gen (2020 to present).

What are the common problems with the Subaru Outback?

Documented problems include EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (2.5L NA), EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (2.5L), Turbo Oil Feed Line (XT). Which ones apply depends on the generation, so open the year you are considering for its recalls, complaints and a full breakdown.

Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a used Subaru Outback?

Yes. A Squeezed guide is the triage before the inspection: it shows what to check and what to ask the seller, so you know which listings are worth a mechanic's time.