CR Says Subaru Outback Is Among The Top 8 Used 2-Row SUVs - Here's Why It's The Best

Which five-year-old 2-Row SUVs are the best for shoppers this winter? According to an updated Consumer Reports (by subscription), there are fuel-efficient used 2-Row SUVs you should put on your list. CR says the 2018 Subaru Outback ranks the second-best for used SUV shoppers this winter. With gas prices rising again this winter, an SUV's fuel efficiency is important.

The 2018 Subaru Outback is one of the eight top models that are five years old, according to CR. They say it’s family-friendly, not as bulky as a 3-Row SUV, gets top safety scores, and is fuel-efficient.

CR’s top eight-best 5-year-old models

Consumer Reports says the Lexus RX Hybrid, Subaru Outback, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Lexus RX, BMW X5, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and Kia Sorento are the best 2018 model year 2-Row SUVs with the best fuel mileage.

What does Consumer Reports say?

Consumer Reports says, “Subaru’s popular Outback gained some welcome refinement with its 2015 redesign. The interior is nicely finished, roomy and spacious, and the touch-screen infotainment system is a major improvement. The Outback rides very comfortably, and handling is responsive and secure.”

“Acceleration from the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the continuously variable transmission is adequate, and we measured 24 mpg overall, beating most midsized SUVs.” Consumer Reports says the Outback gets an owner-reported 26 mpg.

What is the price of the 2018 Outback?

CR says the used price range is $18,800 - $24,750, depending on trim level and condition. With the new model shortages, dealers are marking up the used model’s prices in some areas of the country more than others. Check out the new 2023 model prices before buying a used Outback.

What is the 2018 Outback fuel mileage?

The 2018 Outback with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 25/32 city/highway and 28 combined mpg with the automatic transmission. The Outback 3.6R gets an EPA-estimated 20/27 city/highway mpg and 22 combined mpg.

What are the Outback’s safety scores?

The 2018 Subaru Outback earned the top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

Why should the Subaru Outback be on your shopping list this winter?

The Outback appeals to a broader audience in the U.S. than ever before because of its all-weather capability and SUV utility. It’s bigger than a traditional wagon, features more cargo capacity, has a higher ground clearance (8.7 inches), and comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather performance.

What’s new for the 2018 Outback?

The 2018 Outback received revised front and rear styling and significant comfort, safety, and multimedia capability upgrades. The interior was improved with more premium materials, the cabin is quieter, the ride quality is improved, and it was upgraded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Nuance voice recognition. Steering responsive LED headlights were available on some trim levels.

If you can’t find a 2023 Subaru Outback, check out the 2018 model year. Consumer Reports says it’s one of the eight-best fuel-efficient 2-Row SUVs you can buy this winter. CR also recommended the 2017 Outback model year. Check out the 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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