Skip to main content

The 15 Best Cars For Moms And Dads, Subaru Outback Is Nearly Perfect

What is Subaru's best model for moms and dads? U.S. New says it's the 2024 Subaru Outback. See where it ranks with the best new models and why it's nearly perfect for families.
2024 Subaru Outback

Are you looking for a great family vehicle that both mom and dad will like? According to a recent U.S. News ranking, the 2024 Subaru Outback is ranked the sixth new model for moms and dads. The Outback is a go-to model for families because of its utility and all-weather capabilities. 

But there's more for families that's hidden you should know about. I'll explain why the Outback is a top pick for moms and dads, but first, let's see what U.S. News has to say. 

"New family vehicles should be practical, with a good mix of features and plenty of passenger and cargo space. Good safety scores are essential, and reliability is important as well. Here are some of the best vehicles for moms and dads."

U.S. News Best Cars for Moms and Dads are all 2024 model year vehicles, and I've listed them for you here from the bottom to the top model. 

  • Kia Forte: $19,990 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 7.7/10
  • Toyota Highlander Hybrid: $40,970 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 7.8/10
  • Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: $36,210 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.0/10
  • Honda CR-V: $29,500 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.1/10
  • Rivian R1S: $74,900 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.2/10
  • Honda Accord Hybrid: $32,895 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.2/10
  • Ford Bronco Sport: $31,230 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.2/10
  • Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: $53,425 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.3/10
  • Volvo V60: $50,300 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.3/10
  • Subaru Outback: $28,895 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.3/10
  • Mazda CX-30: $24,995 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.4/10
  • Mazda3: $24,170 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.5/10
  • Honda Odyssey: $38,240 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.6/10
  • Kia Telluride: $36,190 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.7/10
  • Ram 1500: $39,420 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.9/10

What does U.S. News say about the 6th-ranked 2024 Subaru Outback?

Base Price: $28,895 | U.S. News Overall Rating: 8.3/10

"The Subaru Outback is a wagon that can hold its own against the most rugged small crossovers, with standard all-wheel drive, a spacious cabin, and plenty of cargo space. The Outback currently places in the middle of our wagon rankings. But don't let that deter you, as its only real rivals are much more expensive luxury vehicles from European brands."

"The Outback is comfortable and has many user-friendly tech and safety features. For 2023, Subaru refreshed the exterior styling and tweaked the features list. Our only real gripe is that the Outback's base 182-horsepower engine is unimpressive; it's worth paying a little more to upgrade to the optional turbocharged 260-horsepower four-cylinder."

MY TAKE

The 2024 Outback is Subaru's top-selling model for many reasons. It is a unique model because it has the handling of a car, and moms like it's easy to maneuver in traffic and to get into tight parking spots. 

Why Moms Will Like It

1. Moms also like that the Outback comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability. You won't have a problem getting the kids home when the weather turns nasty. 

2. Moms also like the Outback's cargo-carrying ability. There's plenty of room for sports gear, and the rear door openings are larger for easy access in and out. 

3. The Outback has a tall ride height with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. This makes it easy to slide in and out of the front seat, and the load height is not too high when loading groceries in the back. 

4. Every Subaru Outback trim comes with the automaker's EyeSight driver-assist safety technology. Outback has all the features to alert you to danger when driving in city traffic.

Why Dads Will Like It

1. Dads will like the Outback, which has a 260 horsepower XT turbocharged engine option for more power when climbing a mountain pass or passing slower traffic. The 277 lb-ft of torque will pull the extra weight when fully loaded with all your gear. 

2. Dad, do you want to go off-road? The Outback comes in the rugged Wilderness trim level for outdoor enthusiasts. The Wilderness trim has 9.4 inches of ground clearance and added rugged off-pavement upgrades that will take you further off the grid. 

3. I have yet to mention the Outback's stellar safety scores. It is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick winner so that the family will be well protected in the event of a crash. 

What is the price of the 2024 Outback?

For the 2024 model year, the Outback will be available in nine trim levels. The Base is priced at $30,190, Premium ($32,490), Onyx Edition ($37,400), Limited ($37,090), Touring ($41,640), Onyx Edition XT ($40,655), Wilderness ($41,255), Limited XT ($41,490), and Touring XT ($44,090). Destination and delivery fees are included in the price above ($1,295).

Should you wait for the 2025 Models?

The 2025 Subaru Outback arrives this spring with a slight price adjustment. There's no advantage in waiting for 2025 models as it's a carry-over model with few changes. 

The Base is priced at $30,290, Premium ($32,590), Onyx Edition ($37,500), Limited ($39,250), Touring ($41,740), Onyx Edition XT ($40,755), Wilderness ($41,355), Limited XT ($41,590), and Touring XT ($44,190). In addition, destination and delivery fees are included in the price above ($1,395).

How much did the 2025 Outback price increase?

Only one trim level increased in price. The Outback Limited increased +$2,160. A power moonroof, DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, navigation, and a 360-degree heated steering wheel are now standard on Limited trims.

However, destination and delivery fees increased by $100 on all 2025 Outback trims. 

NOW IT'S YOUR TURN

Are you checking out the 2024 or 2025 Subaru Outback? If so, please click the Add New Comment link below to tell us which trim level you're interested in.

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this new Subaru Outback story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

Before you go, watch the There's A Perfect Storm Brewing At Subaru YouTube video and see why now could be the perfect time to buy an Outback. 

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News and Subaru reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time. 

Please share the article with friends, and post X to your followers! 

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru

Automotive News
Subaru
Subaru Outback News and Reviews