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What sets the Subaru Outback above the rest?
In the new 2-Row midsize SUV category, one model stands out. The Subaru Outback reigns supreme above the best, per an updated Consumer Reports ranking (by subscription). It's the best of five for fuel efficiency and reliability, which sets it apart.
Consumer Reports says, "These midsize SUVs are dependable models and are perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips."
When you are looking for any new vehicle, reliability is always a top consideration. The CR report features the two- and three-row midsized SUVs that scored well in Consumer Reports road tests, have average or better-predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better.
These SUVs are models recommended by Consumer Reports.
It's not the first time that CR has recommended the Outback for its outstanding qualities. Being recommended by CR means that the models offer the best performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety scores and instill confidence in your purchase decision.
Before I explain what they are and what sets the Outback apart from the other top picks, here is what CR says.
"When it comes to do-it-all family vehicles, the midsized SUV reigns supreme. Two-row models are roomy enough to carry three kids in the back seat along with their school, sports, or camp gear. Opt for a three-row version, and you can carry enough stuff for a weeklong vacation for a family of five or take six passengers to all the activities you can schedule. It can operate as a mobile office or, on weekends, it can be the perfect tailgating vehicle."
I've listed the top models by their Overall Score, which is a combination of performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety scores. All are 2024 model year vehicles.
The Best Two-Row SUVs
- Subaru Outback
- Toyota Venza
- Ford Edge
- Honda Passport
- Nissan Murano
What does CR say about the Subaru Outback?
- Price Range: $28,895 - $42,795
- CR MPG: Overall 24 / City 16 / Highway 32 mpg
- #1 of 17 Midsized SUVs
"The Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Its 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo engine gives the wagon effortless acceleration, yet it still got 24 mpg overall in our tests. The base 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine got 28 mpg in our test of the similar Legacy sedan. The ride is very comfortable, and the handling is responsive and secure. However, some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step. Both blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are optional."
Should you consider the 2025 Subaru Outback?
The 2025 Outback is a carry-over from the previous year, with few changes, so it's also a recommended model by CR and received the highest scores.
Customers can rest assured that the 2025 model year offers the same fuel efficiency and reliability that made the 2024 Outback a top choice.
I've included the 2025 Outback pricing and trim levels for shoppers. For my comprehensive trim level report get all the information here.
The Outback comes in nine trim levels. 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).
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.
Why is the Outback a better choice for midsize SUV shoppers than the other four top CR picks?
The Subaru Outback is the #1 top choice for new midsize SUV shoppers because, in addition to being reliable and fuel-efficient, it comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability. It's ready for any terrain with 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.4 inches on Outback Wilderness) and X-Mode for severe weather performance.
If you want more than a city commuter or grocery hauler, pick the Outback.
Some Outback trim levels offer Subaru's dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain capability. Read my report here for more information on how the off-road system works.
The Outback is designed for the most active customers who won't sit at home on the weekends this fall and winter. The Outback is the best choice for outdoor enthusiasts who will be taking road trips away from the city lights for camping, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
The Outback is the SUV alternative.
What sets the Outback apart is that it rides on the updated Subaru Global Platform, which gives it a car-like ride. The driving dynamics make it feel like a small vehicle, yet it offers the utility and capability of a larger SUV, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
As I mentioned, the midsize SUV comes with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is more than some larger SUVs. That allows you to slide in and out with ease. There is better visibility out the front windshield because the Boxer engine sits flat in the chassis.
The hood slopes down quickly, offering a better view of the immediate road ahead. This also enhances the car-like feel.
Do you want to get further off the grid?
Subaru offers the Wilderness trim level for the most active outdoor enthusiasts.
Wilderness offers additional body cladding and under-armor protection with front skid plates, an anti-glare hood decal, and hex-design LED fog lights. In addition, it's available in Geyser Blue exterior paint.
Wilderness also has Yokohama Geoplander all-terrain tires for optimal mud, gravel, or snow performance, and they come wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels in a matte-black finish.
Read my Outback Wilderness report for additional upgrades, pricing, and features.
Do you need more room?
Consumer Reports also ranked the best midsize SUVs with three rows of seats if you carry more people. The Subaru Ascent family hauler makes this list.
These SUVs are also models recommended by Consumer Reports. I've listed the top models by their Overall Score, which is a combination of performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety scores. All are 2024 model year vehicles.
CR's Best Three-Row SUVs
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid
- Kia Telluride
- Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
- Hyundai Palisade
- Mazda CX-90
- Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Grand Highlander
- Subaru Ascent
- Honda Pilot
- Kia Sorento Hybrid
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Kia Sorento
I will have a report on the 2025 Subaru Ascent soon, so check back for full details on Subaru's largest vehicle. If you can wait another year, the Outback will get a complete redesign for the 2026 model year. Read my report here for more information.
Consumer Reports says the Subaru Outback reigns supreme in the midsize 2-Row SUV category. It's the most fuel-efficient and reliable 2-Row SUV pick you can buy now.
Are you shopping for a midsize SUV? Which Outback trim level would you pick? Click the red Add new comment link below and let us know.
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer 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: Adventure Subaru
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