CR’s 9 Reliable, Fuel-Stingy 2-Row SUVs - Subaru Outback Still Scores #1

With gas prices rising this spring, what 2-Row SUVs are fuel-efficient and the most reliable? An updated study from Consumer Reports (by subscription) says the 2022 Subaru Outback ranks number one among mainstream (non-luxury) models this year. CR says the Outback is reliable, fuel-efficient, safe, and perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips.

The 2022 Subaru Outback was completely redesigned for the 2020 model year, and it is made in America at the Subaru plant in Lafayette, Indiana. Consumer Reports compiled the list of 2-Row SUVs that scored well in their road tests, have average-or-better predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better.

photo credit: Schumacher Subaru

CR's Most Reliable and Fuel-Efficient New Midsized SUVs

The BMW X5 scores highest in the luxury 2-Row SUV category with 90 points. The 2022 Subaru Outback is the best mainstream (non-luxury) model, with a score of 85. The Toyota Venza scored 83, Lexus RX (83), Nissan Murano (81), Ford Edge (80), Honda Passport (76), Porsche Cayenne (75), and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport (70).

Is the 2022 Outback reliable?

According to Consumer Reports, the Subaru Outback should be on your shopping list. They scored the 2022 Subaru Outback wagon/SUV the number one of eleven Midsize SUVs. Outback scored highest in performance, reliability, safety, and owner satisfaction.

photo credit: Schumacher Subaru

Is the 2022 Outback fuel efficient?

In Consumer Reports testing, the 260 horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in the Outback "gives the wagon effortless acceleration yet still got 24 mpg overall in our tests."

The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine achieved 28 mpg in their test. The EPA estimated fuel mileage is 26/33 city/highway and 29 combined mpg for the 2.5-liter Outback. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine gets 23/30/26 mpg.

What is the price of the 2022 Subaru Outback?

The 2022 Outback comes in eight trim levels; the base trim is priced from $27,845, Premium ($30,270), Limited ($34,720), Touring ($38,620), Onyx Edition XT ($36,270), new for 2022, Outback Wilderness ($38,120), Limited XT ($39,120), and Touring XT ($41,070). Pricing includes $1,125 destination and delivery fees.

The 2022 Subaru Outback comes standard with advanced safety systems, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. In the 2-Row SUV category, Consumer Reports says the Outback scores highest in its category.

photo credit: Schumacher Subaru

What is new for the 2022 Outback?

The 2022 model change brings the addition of the Outback Wilderness sub-brand. The new rugged SUV is the brand's new halo model designed for customers with active lifestyles. It comes off-road ready with additional upgrades. Read the Subaru Report full review here.

This summer, the refreshed 2023 Subaru Outback arrives at U.S. showrooms. Get the complete 2023 model change report below.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Schumacher Subaru