20 SUVs That Will Go 250K+ Miles, Subaru Outback Is Better Than Average

How far can you go?

Subaru vehicles are known for longevity, but which model is the most likely to last 250,000 miles and beyond? A new report from iSeeCars shows that the Subaru Outback makes the top twenty longest-lasting SUVs, which is better than average.

The average SUV has a 7.8% chance of lasting 250,000 plus miles. Some have up to a 36% chance of reaching a quarter million miles. The Subaru Outback, ranking among the top 20 longest-lasting SUVs at number twenty, surpasses the average and is a testament to its exceptional longevity. 

The Outback consistently makes the top-20 list of vehicles with longevity. Check out my report here. 

"Given the rising cost of both new and used models, it's encouraging to see so many vehicles capable of hitting 250,000 miles," said iSeeCars Executive Analyst Karl Brauer. "A consumer paying today's higher purchase prices can still see a relatively low cost-per-mile if they leverage these long lifespans."

The Outback is better than average.

iSeeCars says SUVs can serve a wide variety of needs, which is why they tend to accumulate more miles than other vehicle types. Most of the longest-lasting SUVs are three-row models, offering the greatest flexibility regarding people moving, cargo hauling, and trailer towing. However, some midsize SUVs (like the Outback) and even a few compact SUVs make the top 20 list for better-than-average lifespans.

Here's the list, and then I'll explain why the Outback may be your best new model choice. They are ranked with the highest percentage model listed first. 

1. Toyota Sequoia
2. Toyota 4Runner
3. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
4. Chevrolet Suburban
5. Lexus GX
6. GMC Yukon XL
7. Chevrolet Tahoe
8. Honda Pilot
9. Toyota Highlander
10. GMC Yukon
11. Honda CR-V
12. Ford Expedition
13. Nissan Pathfinder
14. Nissan Armada
15. Mazda CX-9
16. Acura MDX
17. Cadillac Escalade ESV
18. Toyota RAV4
19. Dodge Durango
20. Subaru Outback

Here is where the Subaru Outback ranks among the top non-luxury Two-Row SUVs. 

1. Honda CR-V
2. Toyota RAV4
3. Subaru Outback

"We've come to expect models like the Toyota Sequoia and 4Runner to lead the Longest-Lasting SUVs list," said Brauer. "Seeing smaller SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Outback offering better-than-average lifespans confirms both their high-quality execution and their owners' willingness to drive these vehicles for many years and many miles."

Buy it and keep it.

The Outback is one of those timeless vehicles. Subaru typically doesn't make substantial exterior design changes, so the Outback has stayed current for many years. Even if you buy the 2025 Outback model year, the next-gen 2026 Outback won't look drastically different. 

However, when you look at the 2025 next-generation Forester, it received some fairly significant exterior upgrades over the outgoing model.

Keep it in the family.

Regardless, the Outback offers exceptional resale value if you keep it for three years. If you love it at the end of the lease or after getting it paid off, you can give or sell it to a family member for a great price. 

Many families keep the Outback for their teenage son or daughter when they get their driver's license. It gets the top safety scores, so a parent can feel confident sending their teenage driver out with the Outback.

All Outback trims come with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather capability. They also come with X-Mode for severe weather and treacherous roads. Some trims come with dual-function X-Mode so that you can have off-road fun on the weekends. These features make the Outback a versatile and reliable SUV for various driving conditions.

What is the 2025 Outback pricing?

Here's what you get in 2025.

The 2025 Outback is available in nine trim levels: Base, Premium, new Onyx Edition with a 2.5-liter engine, Limited Touring, Outback Wilderness, Onyx Edition XT, Limited XT, and Touring XT models. 

What Is The 2025 Outback Pricing?

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).

Which are the best 2-Row SUVs this year? Kelley Blue Book says there are three standout picks. Check them out in my report here and see why they say the Subaru Outback is the best midsize SUV for families this year.

What if you are looking for a used Outback?

For those on a budget, you can also feel confident purchasing a well-maintained used Subaru Outback. You know it keeps going long after many SUVs have bitten the dust. Buying a used Outback can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the vehicle's longevity and reliability. 

Which five-year-old SUVs are the most reliable for shoppers this year? 

According to a recently updated Consumer Reports ranking (by subscription), there are dependable used SUVs you should put on your list. CR says the 2018 Subaru Outback ranks among the nine best and scores higher than two popular Toyota SUVs. More information on buying a used Outback can be found in my report here.

Should you wait for the next-generation Outback?

As I reported recently, Subaru of America has delayed the next-generation Outback launch until the 2026 model year. So, I would say it's another year away from making its dealer launch. 

It will receive significant upgrades and improvements and possibly a hefty price increase. Remember the 2025 Forester price change? 

The next-generation Outback Wilderness will arrive at a time different from the new model change. Find out more in my report here. 

The next-generation Outback Wilderness could be two years away as a 2027 model. Subaru chose to wait an extra year to upgrade the Forester Wilderness, which will now be a 2026 model year. They will likely do the same with the Outback Wilderness. 

What about a new Outback Hybrid?

I've heard that the Outback Hybrid is also on the drawing board. The seventh-generation Outback will get a new Hybrid trim level, but like the Forester Hybrid, it will likely arrive one year after the next-generation 2026 Outback. Although it's not been confirmed by Subaru, the Outback Hybrid could make its reveal sometime in early 2027. 

The Outback's performance is not just good, it's better than average. 

Whatever you decide, the Subaru Outback midsize SUV has longevity; it's safe and reliable. It is expected to be a model that goes 250,000 miles and beyond. It's a wise model pick for customers.  

Do you have a Subaru model with more than 250,000 miles? If so, we'd like to hear about it. Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 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 my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru