CR’s 5 Most Reliable, Fuel-Efficient 2-Row SUVs, Subaru Outback Ranks #1 Now

A smart alternative to an SUV.

Is the Subaru Outback better than an SUV? Absolutely. The 2025 Subaru Outback offers a unique blend of versatility and performance. But before I delve into its features, let's take a look at the updated Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranking of the best 2-Row SUVs with the best fuel mileage and reliability. 

CR says the five best picks feature the two-row midsized SUVs that scored well in its road tests, have average or better predicted reliability ratings, and get 21 mpg overall or better. Read my Outback reliability report here.

CR says, "These dependable models are perfect for around-town drives, commutes, and longer trips." 

The five 2-Row non-luxury SUVs recommended by CR scored well in their road tests, which comprise more than 50 objective and subjective evaluations. Get more information in my Subaru road test report here.

On top of that, CR says they have good reliability and come standard with critical active safety equipment, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. 

They all come standard with auto emergency braking that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning unless otherwise noted. They also performed well in government and insurance industry crash tests if they were tested. Find out more in my Outback safety report here. 

I've listed the top five 2-Row picks from highest to lowest by CR's Overall Score. 

1. Subaru Outback
2. Toyota Venza
3. Ford Edge
4. Honda Passport
5. Nissan Murano

What does CR say about the SUV-alternative Subaru Outback?

• Price Range:  $28,895 - $42,795
• CR MPG:  Overall 24 / City 16 / Highway 32 mpg
• #2 of 16 Midsized SUVs

CR says, "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." 

They say the ride is exceptionally comfortable, and the handling is both responsive and secure. While some tasks through the large infotainment screen may require more than one step, the Outback ensures your safety with optional blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning.

It's worth noting that CR ranks the 2024 Outback #1 overall, and the 2025 Outback is a carry-over model with few changes. This means that customers can rest assured that the 2025 model year offers the same fuel efficiency and reliability that made the 2024 Outback a top choice. 

What is the 2025 Outback pricing?

For the 2025 model year, the Outback will be available 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.

There are more reasons why Outback gets the #1 score.

The Subaru Outback is the #1 top choice for new midsize SUV shoppers because, in addition to being reliable and fuel-efficient, the 2-Row SUV comes with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability, 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.4 inches on Outback Wilderness), has X-Mode for severe weather performance and dual-function X-Mode on some trims for all-terrain capability. 

The Outback is designed for the most active customers who want to avoid sitting at home on the weekends this summer. The Outback is the best choice among all midsize SUVs for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get outside the city limits. 

Ok, so how does Outback offer the best of both worlds?

• The Outback rides on the updated Subaru Global Platform that gives the Outback a car-like ride. The driving dynamics make it feel like a small vehicle and yet, it offers the utility and capability of an SUV. 
• The 2-Row 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. 

Need to get further away?

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, its 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 here for additional upgrades, pricing, and features. 

Consumer Reports says the 2025 Subaru Outback is the most fuel-efficient and reliable 2-Row SUV pick you can buy now.

Which Outback trim level do you like the best? 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