The Subaru Outback has long been a staple in Australia’s crossover segment, winning the hearts of drivers who crave the versatility of an SUV with the comfort and handling of a passenger car. For 2025, Subaru has taken that winning formula and refined it even further. The result is a vehicle that’s tougher, smarter, and more comfortable than ever — the perfect partner for everything from weekday commutes to weekend getaways.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 2025 Subaru Outback, including its design updates, performance capabilities, technology, safety, and value for money. Whether you’re an urban driver or an outback adventurer, this model offers a compelling case as your next vehicle.
Exterior Design – Rugged Elegance
The 2025 Outback’s design strikes a balance between rugged capability and modern sophistication. Subaru has retained its signature wagon-crossover silhouette but enhanced it with sharper lines, updated lighting, and a more commanding stance.
- Front Fascia: The bold hexagonal grille is larger and more aggressive, framed by sleek LED headlights with a C-shaped daytime running light signature.
- Bumper Design: Chunkier cladding around the lower bumper improves off-road protection and gives it a tougher look.
- Wheel Options: 18-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels are available, with designs catering to both urban style and trail-readiness.
- Ground Clearance: A generous 213mm of clearance ensures the Outback can confidently tackle rough terrain without scraping the underbody.
The new colour palette includes earthy tones like Autumn Green Metallic and Brilliant Bronze Pearl, perfect for blending into natural Australian landscapes.
Interior Comfort – A Cabin for All Journeys
The cabin of the 2025 Subaru Outback has undergone subtle yet significant upgrades aimed at comfort, functionality, and premium feel.
Premium Materials
Soft-touch plastics, leather-trimmed surfaces (in higher trims), and brushed aluminium accents give the Outback a refined aesthetic. Even the entry-level variants feel well-appointed.
Spacious Layout
Thanks to its wagon-based design, the Outback offers class-leading passenger space, particularly for rear-seat occupants. The rear bench comfortably accommodates three adults with generous leg and headroom.
Cargo Capacity
- 522 litres with seats up
- 1,447 litres with rear seats folded flat
A wide-opening tailgate (powered in higher trims) makes loading camping gear, surfboards, or groceries a breeze.
Noise and Vibration Control
Subaru has improved cabin insulation, meaning long highway drives are quieter and more relaxing — a welcome improvement for Australian outback trips.
Infotainment & Technology – Fully Connected
Technology has always been a strong point for Subaru, but the 2025 Outback elevates the experience.
- Central Display: An 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen dominates the centre console, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (now wireless in all trims).
- Navigation: Integrated satellite navigation with real-time traffic updates in premium variants.
- Voice Recognition: Improved natural-language processing makes voice commands faster and more accurate.
- Audio System: Base models get a six-speaker setup, while top trims enjoy a premium Harman Kardon 12-speaker system with a subwoofer.
- USB-C Ports: Available for both front and rear passengers, supporting faster charging for modern devices.
Performance – Built for the Outback and the City
Engine Options
The 2025 Outback offers two primary powertrains in Australia:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
- Output: 138kW / 245Nm
Paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT for smooth, efficient performance.
2.4L Turbocharged Boxer-4 (XT Variants)
- Output: 183kW / 350Nm
- Offers stronger acceleration and improved towing capacity.
All-Wheel Drive
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system remains standard across the range, offering consistent grip in all conditions — whether it’s wet city roads or loose gravel tracks.
X-Mode & Hill Descent Control
Perfect for off-road adventures, X-Mode optimises power delivery for challenging terrain, while Hill Descent Control maintains safe speeds on steep declines.
Fuel Economy
- 2.5L: ~7.3L/100km (combined)
- 2.4L Turbo: ~9.0L/100km (combined)
Ride & Handling – Confident and Comfortable
The Outback’s ride quality has always been one of its strongest traits, and the 2025 model keeps that tradition alive.
- Suspension: Long-travel suspension absorbs rough road impacts effortlessly.
- Steering: Light but precise, making city manoeuvres easy while remaining stable at highway speeds.
- On-Road Comfort: Even after hours of driving, the Outback’s ergonomic seating and smooth suspension reduce fatigue.
Safety – Subaru’s Signature Strength
Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2025 Outback is no exception.
EyeSight Driver Assist
Standard across the range, this system includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Centring
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Lane Departure Warning
Additional Safety Features
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- 360-Degree Camera (on premium trims)
- Driver Monitoring System (alerts if signs of fatigue are detected)
ANCAP Rating: Expected 5-star rating, continuing Subaru’s strong safety track record.
Trims & Pricing in Australia
While exact pricing may vary by dealer and location, the 2025 Outback is expected to be offered in familiar trims:
- Outback AWD – starting around $42,000
- Outback AWD Sport – from $47,000
- Outback AWD Touring – around $52,000
- Outback AWD XT (Turbo) – from $55,000+
Subaru continues to offer good value for the level of standard features provided, particularly in safety and AWD capability.
Towing & Practicality
For those who need to tow, the turbocharged Outback models shine with a braked towing capacity of 2,400kg. This makes it ideal for hauling small caravans, boats, or trailers — a big plus for Aussie holidaymakers.
How It Compares to Rivals
The 2025 Subaru Outback competes with:
- Toyota RAV4 (less ground clearance, more hybrid options)
- Mazda CX-5 (more premium interior feel, smaller cargo area)
- Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace (European refinement, higher servicing costs)
The Outback stands out with:
- Standard AWD across the range
- Exceptional ground clearance
- Wagon practicality with SUV capability
Verdict – Why the 2025 Outback is a Top Pick
The 2025 Subaru Outback delivers a near-perfect mix of comfort, tech, and adventure readiness. Whether you’re navigating Sydney traffic, exploring the Great Ocean Road, or venturing into the Kimberley, the Outback is versatile enough to handle it all.
Pros:
- Standard AWD & high ground clearance
- Spacious interior & large cargo area
- Excellent safety tech
- Comfortable long-distance ride
Cons:
- Turbo variant has higher fuel consumption
- Some rivals offer hybrid options for better efficiency
Final Word: If you want one vehicle that can comfortably commute during the week and confidently explore the Australian wilderness on weekends, the 2025 Subaru Outback deserves a top spot on your shortlist.
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