2025 Subaru Outback Review | Adventure-Ready AWD SUV

For decades, the Subaru Outback has held a special place in Australian driveways and on rugged dirt tracks. Known for its car-like comfort blended with genuine off-road ability, the Outback carved out its own niche long before “crossover” became a household term. In 2025, Subaru doubles down on its formula, delivering a refreshed model that balances family practicality, weekend adventure readiness, and the latest in safety and technology.

The Australian market has seen an influx of AWD SUVs, but the Outback continues to stand out thanks to Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, a reputation for reliability, and a loyal following among adventure-seekers. This review takes you through every key aspect of the 2025 Subaru Outback – from its rugged styling to its towing ability and modern infotainment – helping you decide if it’s the right SUV for your lifestyle.

Exterior Design: Rugged Yet Modern

The 2025 Subaru Outback blends rugged SUV character with modern design cues that appeal to both city dwellers and country explorers.

• Front fascia: A bold hexagonal grille dominates the front, flanked by sharp LED headlights with adaptive high-beam. The front bumper has been reshaped for a more aggressive look, while skid-plate styling hints at its off-road ability.
• Body lines: Cladding around the wheel arches and along the lower body enhances durability against rocks and debris, while roof rails add practicality for roof boxes, bikes, or surfboards.
• Wheels and stance: Standard 18-inch alloys provide a solid stance, while higher trims boast stylish 20-inch designs. Raised ground clearance of 213mm (a hallmark of Subaru SUVs) gives it presence on and off the road.
• Rear design: C-shaped LED taillights and a wide boot opening emphasize both design and practicality.

The Outback looks equally at home in urban driveways or on gravel tracks leading to remote beaches. Subaru has stayed true to its rugged DNA while refining its aesthetic for modern buyers.

Interior: Comfort Meets Practicality

Step inside the 2025 Outback, and you’ll find a cabin that blends functionality with a premium feel.

• Dashboard and infotainment: The centrepiece is a massive 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface has been refined for smoother response and larger icons.
• Seating and space: Supportive cloth upholstery is standard, while higher trims feature leather with heating and ventilation. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom and adjustable recline – a nod to family comfort.
• Practicality: With 522 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,726 litres with seats folded), the Outback can swallow camping gear, surfboards, or prams without fuss. Clever storage bins and cupholders are dotted around the cabin.
• Technology: Wireless charging, multiple USB-C ports, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system (on premium trims) cater to tech-savvy buyers.

It’s a cabin built for road trips, offering both comfort for long drives and practicality for everyday errands.

Performance: Engines, AWD System, and Driving Dynamics

Performance has always been at the heart of the Outback’s appeal, especially its ability to handle Australia’s diverse driving conditions.

• Engine options:
  • 2.5-litre naturally aspirated boxer-four producing 138kW and 245Nm.
  • 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer-four with 183kW and 350Nm, available on higher trims for drivers seeking more punch.
• Transmission: Both engines are paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, tuned for smoother power delivery. Paddle shifters simulate an 8-speed manual mode for added control.
• AWD system: Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard across all trims, ensuring balanced power distribution and excellent grip on slippery surfaces.
• X-Mode: Two drive modes (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud) optimise traction, making it a capable off-roader compared to most crossovers in its class.
• Towing: With up to 2,000kg braked towing capacity, the Outback is well suited for small caravans, boats, or trailers.

On highways, the Outback is quiet and comfortable, while its suspension tuning handles gravel roads with confidence. It strikes a balance between long-distance cruiser and off-road adventurer.

Off-Road Capability: Built for Australian Conditions

Australians expect their SUVs to do more than just school runs. The Outback shines in this regard:

• Ground clearance: 213mm gives it an advantage over many rivals in clearing rocks and ruts.
• Approach and departure angles: Practical angles allow tackling steep tracks without scraping.
• Hill descent control: Provides steady braking on downhill slopes, ideal for muddy trails.
• Symmetrical AWD: Unlike part-time AWD systems, Subaru’s system is always engaged, offering stability on gravel, sand, or rain-soaked bitumen.

While it won’t replace a hardcore 4WD like the Toyota LandCruiser, the Outback is one of the most capable crossovers in its class for real-world off-roading.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

Efficiency is an increasingly important factor for Aussie buyers.

• 2.5-litre engine: Around 7.3L/100km combined.
• 2.4-litre turbo: Slightly higher at around 9.0L/100km combined but offers more power.
• Fuel type: Regular unleaded petrol is sufficient, keeping running costs down.
• Servicing: Subaru offers capped-price servicing every 12 months/15,000km, with service packs available for added convenience.
• Warranty: A 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty is standard, in line with industry expectations.

For adventurous families, the Outback strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency.

Safety: Subaru’s Reputation Strengthened

Safety is a cornerstone of Subaru’s brand, and the 2025 Outback continues this tradition.

• EyeSight Driver Assist: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane centring, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic jam assist.
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert add further protection in urban environments.
• DriverFocus: A facial recognition system that alerts fatigued or distracted drivers, available on premium trims.
• Crash ratings: Expected to maintain a 5-star ANCAP rating, consistent with Subaru’s strong safety history.

The Outback is engineered to protect its occupants, whether on the school run or remote outback roads.

Technology & Features

Modern SUVs need to stay connected and convenient, and Subaru delivers with the 2025 model.

• 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen with faster software
• Wireless smartphone connectivity and over-the-air updates
• Voice-activated navigation
• Advanced climate control with rear vents
• Premium audio options for audiophiles

The tech suite is intuitive, ensuring the Outback keeps pace with rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota RAV4.

Trims and Pricing in Australia

While official pricing can vary by dealer, the 2025 Subaru Outback line-up in Australia is expected to include:

• Outback AWD – Entry-level, with cloth upholstery, LED headlights, and EyeSight.
• Outback AWD Sport – Adds X-Mode upgrades, alloy wheels, and roof rails.
• Outback AWD Touring – Premium leather, Harman Kardon audio, and DriverFocus.
• Outback XT – Turbocharged engine option, higher towing ability, and sportier design.

Prices are expected to range from around $48,000 drive-away for the base model to above $63,000 for the fully-loaded XT Touring.

Competitors: Where the Outback Stands

The Subaru Outback competes in a crowded mid-size SUV segment. Key rivals include:

• Toyota RAV4 Edge AWD – More hybrid options but less ground clearance.
• Mazda CX-5 AWD – Stylish and premium interior, but smaller boot space.
• Hyundai Santa Fe – Larger three-row option, though pricier.
• Skoda Kodiaq – European alternative with clever practicality features.

What sets the Outback apart is its blend of genuine off-road ability, long-distance comfort, and Subaru’s AWD heritage.

Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2025 Subaru Outback?

The 2025 Subaru Outback remains one of the most versatile SUVs in Australia. It’s ideal for:

• Families who need space, safety, and comfort.
• Adventure-seekers who want an SUV capable of weekend getaways off the beaten path.
• Buyers who value Subaru’s long-standing reputation for reliability and AWD systems.

While it isn’t the cheapest SUV in its class, and rivals may offer flashier interiors or hybrid drivetrains, the Outback continues to deliver an unbeatable balance of practicality and adventure readiness.

Final Thoughts

With its rugged design, symmetrical AWD, advanced safety features, and practical interior, the 2025 Subaru Outback proves it’s more than just a family hauler – it’s a true adventure companion. For Australians who split their time between city commutes and weekend escapes, the Outback is hard to beat.