Subaru Outback Through The Years

From the very beginning, the Subaru Outback has marched to the beat of a different drum. Long before SUVs became ubiquitous, Subaru chose a different path—one that blended practicality, capability, and adventure.

The Outback still stands apart from other SUVs, offering a distinctive and compelling choice for drivers and families drawn to a life less ordinary.

First Generation (1995 – 1999)

1997 Subaru Legacy Outback – carsforsale.com  |  Shop Subaru Legacy on Carsforsale.com

• The first-generation Subaru Outback was based on the Subaru Legacy wagon.
• The Outback was built directly on the Legacy platform.
• Power initially came from a 2.2-liter boxer four-cylinder engine producing 135 horsepower.
• In 1996, Subaru added a raised roof, increased ground clearance, and a 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower.

Second Generation (2000 – 2004)

2002 Subaru Outback – carsforsale.com  |  Shop Subaru Outback on Carsforsale.com

• The second-generation Outback grew approximately 1.6 inches longer and 1.2 inches wider.
• Subaru introduced a 3.0-liter boxer six-cylinder engine to the lineup.
• A variable torque distribution all-wheel-drive system improved traction.
• A new multilink rear suspension delivered a smoother ride.
• Subaru added the Outback Sedan to the lineup for the 2000 model year.
• The Outback was co-branded with L.L. Bean for the first time.

Third Generation (2005 – 2009)

• The third-generation Outback grew approximately three inches longer than its predecessor.
• Subaru dropped the Legacy name and marketed the vehicle globally as the Outback.
• The base engine was a 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder generating 175 horsepower.
• An optional 3.0-liter boxer six-cylinder engine was available and generated 245 horsepower.
• The Outback XT debuted with a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower.
• PZEV-certified engines were introduced to reinforce Subaru’s environmental focus.
• Subaru offered selectable Sport and Eco driving modes for the first time.
• The Outback Sedan was discontinued after the 2007 model year.
• The L.L. Bean Edition was dropped after the 2008 model year.

Fourth Generation (2010 – 2014)

• The fourth-generation Outback adopted more SUV-like proportions with increased width and height.
• A redesigned rear suspension increased cargo space and improved ride comfort.
• Subaru removed the turbocharged engine option from the lineup.
• The base engine was a 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder producing and 173 horsepower.
• Subaru offered a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer producing 256 horsepower.

Fifth Generation (2015 – 2019)

• The fifth-generation Outback grew slightly in overall length and width.
• Engine options carried over from the previous generation.
• The CVT became the only transmission option.
• Subaru introduced the latest version of the EyeSight driver-assistance system.
• A touchscreen infotainment system appeared for the first time.
• Increased chassis rigidity improved on-road comfort and off-road capability.

Sixth Generation (2020 – Present)

2020 Subaru Outback – subaru.com  |  Shop Subaru Outback on Carsforsale.com

• Increasing its size yet again, the sixth-generation Outback was built on the Subaru Global Platform.
• The base engine was a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder producing 182 horsepower.
• Subaru replaced the six-cylinder engine with a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder producing 260 horsepower.
• The CVT remained the only available transmission.
• Exterior updates included a revised grille, bumper, and taillights.
• An 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen became one of the defining interior features.
• Subaru StarLink services gave consumers 4G LTE connectivity, Wi‑Fi hotspot capability, and remote access.

Seventh Generation (2026–Present)

• The seventh-generation Outback grew 1.6 inches longer and two inches taller.
• The design shifted further toward an SUV-like shape with a boxier profile and taller roofline.
• Newly added sound-deadening materials improved cabin quietness.
• The cabin has a large 12.1-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
• A 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder produces 180 horsepower for the base model.
• XT and Wilderness trims use a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder that delivers 260 horsepower.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in August 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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