The Subaru Outback Emerges From The Shadows

The Subaru Outback midsize SUV has been in the shadow of the hot Forester compact SUV for a while now, but no longer. The Outback also passed the all-new Crosstrek subcompact SUV to take the top honors. 

What's next for the popular Outback? First, let's look at an impressive May for the midsize SUV, and then I'll explain what customers can look forward to in the near future. 

Subaru of America (SOA) has a new leader in the clubhouse. 

Troy Poston, Senior Vice President of Sales, Subaru of America, says “May was another milestone month for Subaru with strong sales and continued recognition of our focus on safety. With numerous models in our lineup receiving notable recommendations as top choices for teen drivers, we’re confident that the Subaru family will continue to grow for generations to come.”

SOA reports that the Outback was the top seller in its lineup in May, with 16,506 vehicles sold. Although that was a decrease of 3.7 percent compared with April 2023 (17,146) sales, the Outback was ahead of the hot Forester (15,345) and Crosstrek (13,836). 

In my report here, I noted that the Outback hasn't been keeping pace with the smokin' hot Forester. Now, for the first time this year, the Outback is second in sales volume through the first five months of 2024. 

Forester Still Holds The Overall Top Spot

The Outback emerges from Forester's shadow this month but not for the year. Outback still has quite a way to catch up. 

The Forester is still the overall volume leader for SOA in the first five months, with 81,741 models delivered to customers. Forester is now up 61.4 percent in 2024. 

Outback is behind nearly 17,000 model sales behind the Forester through the first five months of 2024.

A Tight Race For Second

The Outback (64,850) and Crosstrek (64,368) are neck-and-neck for the second-highest total sales volume for the year. The Outback edged ahead by 482 model sales through the first five months. This will be the race to watch.

Outback Is Consistent

If nothing else, the Outback is the model of consistency. Even with the top sales for April, the Outback is down by the slightest margin, 0.5 percent. Sales are 64,850 this year compared with 65,178 in 2023, a difference of only 328 models from last year's pace. 

Why Do Customers Like The Outback?

The Subaru Outback is a rare model that no other automaker has been able to copy. Read my story here about its amazing success. 

If you are considering the Outback, customers should know a few things. I've identified four traits worth noting, although there are more. 

1. The Outback's higher ride height and ground clearance (8.7 inches) make it easier to slide in and out. You don't have to climb up or down like some SUVs.
2. The Outback has excellent outward visibility from the driver's seat—a distinct advantage over many SUVs. You can read my Outback visibility report here.
3. The Outback shares its underpinning or chassis with the Legacy midsize sedan. The Outback rides like a car but has the versatility of an SUV. 
4. All Outback trim levels come with Subaru's excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive technology, which is different from other automakers' AWD systems. For more details, read my report here. 

Let's Jump Forward

The Outback is due for a remodel, but customers must wait another year. The Outback midsize SUV will not receive a complete remodel until the 2026 model year. Should you wait for the 2025 Outback?

There is no advantage to waiting for 2025 models. The 2025 Outback will be a carryover model with no changes other than minor trim level adjustments. If you are still deciding whether to buy now, here is the 2025 Outback pricing and model guide.

What is the 2025 Outback pricing, and how much did it increase?

For the 2025 model year, the Outback is 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).

How much did the 2025 Outback price increase?

Only 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.

However, destination and delivery fees increased by $100 on all 2025 Outback trims. 

When will the 2025 Outback arrive for U.S. customers?

Subaru says the 2025 Outback was scheduled to arrive this spring. So, as 2024 models are sold out, the "new" 2025 Outback will follow shortly. 

What Changes Are Coming In 2026?

The next-generation Outback coming in 2026 will undergo a complete remodel. It will have updated exterior styling, but don't expect drastic changes. Subaru is very conservative in its design language historically. 

The most significant upgrades will be to its ride quality, interior sound improvements, and advanced safety technology. 

I expect its drivetrain to remain the same. Subaru will likely stay with two engine options, the 2.5-liter and 2.4-liter turbocharged engines. However, the engines will get minor upgrades for better efficiency. You may see a small bump in horsepower or torque. 

Are You Waiting For An Outback Hybrid?

Subaru has not confirmed this, but like the Forester, I expect the Outback Hybrid is also on the drawing board. The seventh-generation Outback will get a new Hybrid trim level, but the question is when. Like the Forester Hybrid, it will likely arrive one year after the next-generation 2026 Outback. 

I would say both the Outback Hybrid and the next-gen Outback Wilderness will be revealed sometime in 2026 for the 2027 model year. 

This is the latest information regarding the current and future Subaru Outback. I'll keep you updated with any new information. 

Now it's your turn.

Are you waiting for the next-generation Outback? What new upgrades would you like to see? 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