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How much can you fit in the Subaru Outback?
The 2025 Subaru Outback isn't the top 2-Row midsize SUV for fitting cargo, but it's close. A new report from Consumer Reports (by subscription) reveals the Outback is near the top and scores among the five best. Here are the results.
Consumer Reports says, "These two-row models have the most space to carry luggage, packages, or even a big-screen television."
Consumer Reports doesn't take the automaker's word for cargo space.
CR says, "Automakers are happy to oblige, highlighting the maximum "cargo space" of their offerings. However, not all of that generous-sounding cargo room is necessarily usable. It isn't useful to have a lot of space if the rear hatch opening is narrow, short, or oddly shaped. Usability is further limited if there are odd protrusions that cut in from the sides or ceiling."
How does CR measure cargo capacity?
Consumer Reports uses a unique method to measure cargo capacity. For SUVs, They use an expandable rectangular pipe-frame 'box.'
"We enlarge it enough to just fit through the rear opening and extend it into the cargo bay as far as possible without preventing the hatch from closing. Cargo capacity is the volume enclosed by that box. This gives consumers a better idea of the cargo they can fit in the back, whether it's luggage for a trip, a new dishwasher, or a big-screen TV coming home from the electronics store."
I've listed the top six models in order of cargo room in cubic feet, with the top performer first.
- Jeep Wrangler - 41.5 cubic feet
- Ford Bronco - 40 cubic feet
- Ford Edge - 39 cubic feet
- Honda Passport - 39 cubic feet
- Subaru Outback - 37 cubic feet
- Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport - 37 cubic feet
What does CR say about the 2025 Outback?
- Price Range: $28,895 - $42,795
- CR MPG: Overall 24 / City 16 / Highway 32 mpg
- #1 of 17 Midsized SUVs
"Subaru's Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although lower than a typical SUV, it can easily haul long items and has a competitive 37 cubic feet of usable cargo room. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder does the job but can feel strained when quicker speed is needed."
"The optional 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbo engine has effortless acceleration. 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, and the system is slow to respond to inputs. Blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are optional."
What are the benefits of choosing the Outback?
Consumer Reports ranks the Outback as the #1 midsize SUV. This means the Outback excels in reliability, owner satisfaction, road tests, fuel mileage, handling, ride, and noise.
The Outback is a unique model compared with the other two-row SUVs.
The Outback stands out as a unique model among the other two-row SUVs, offering a blend of a car's ride quality and driving dynamics with the utility of an SUV.
It's easy to slide in and out because of its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and the Outback has better outward visibility than the competition because the Subaru Boxer engine sits lower in the chassis, lowering the hood height.
One often overlooked benefit of the Outback is its Boxer engine, which provides a lower center of gravity. This feature enhances the Outback's stability in tight curves or when making evasive maneuvers.
Outback comes standard with Subaru's impressive Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology, X-Mode for severe weather, and dual-function X-Mode on some trim levels for all-terrain capability.
Subaru now offers the rugged Outback Wilderness trim level for customers who use the midsize SUV for outdoor activities. You'll be able to carry more outdoor gear and get further away from civilization.
All Subaru Outback trim levels come standard with the automaker's excellent EyeSight driver assist safety tech, earning it the Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. Check out my report here for more information.
CR says, "The Outback is a raised wagon with standard all-wheel drive that is a smart alternative to more traditional SUVs. The current model doesn't stray from its successful formula. It is a comfortable, functional vehicle well-suited for everyday commutes and weekend adventures."
It's important to note that the Outback will get a complete remodel from the ground up for the 2026 model change. There is also an Outback Hybrid trim on the drawing board. I will bring you more information as it's released. Stay tuned.
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: Subaru
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