Is the Subaru Outback a Big Car to Drive? Discover the Truth Here!

Are you considering buying a Subaru Outback, but wondering whether it’s too big for you to handle? You’re not alone. Many drivers are unsure whether the Outback’s size is a good fit for their needs. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Subaru Outback and answer the question, “Is the Subaru Outback a Big Car to Drive?“

First, let’s define what we mean by “big.” The Outback is classified as a crossover SUV, which means it combines features of an SUV and a car. Its design is meant to give drivers the best of both worlds: the high driving position, spaciousness, and ruggedness of an SUV, with the comfort, fuel economy, and maneuverability of a car.

In this article, we’ll explore the dimensions of the Outback, its driving experience, and the pros and cons of owning one. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of whether the Outback is the right car for you. So, keep reading to discover the truth about the Subaru Outback’s size and performance!

Curious to learn more? Let’s dive in and see how the Subaru Outback measures up!

Size Matters: Is the Subaru Outback Considered a Large Car?

If you’re in the market for a new car, one of the key factors you’ll need to consider is size. After all, you want a car that can accommodate your needs, whether that’s carrying passengers, hauling cargo, or simply providing a comfortable ride. So, is the Subaru Outback a large car, and is it the right choice for you?

The answer to this question depends on what you consider a “large” car. Compared to a compact car, the Subaru Outback is certainly larger, but it’s not as big as some of the other vehicles in its class. With a length of 191.3 inches, a width of 73 inches, and a height of 66.4 inches, the Outback falls into the midsize SUV category, which puts it somewhere in between a compact SUV and a full-size SUV.

Despite its size, the Outback still manages to deliver a comfortable and spacious interior. With up to 109 cubic feet of passenger space and up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, the Outback is a versatile vehicle that can accommodate a range of needs. Plus, its raised ground clearance makes it easy to get in and out of, while also providing better visibility when driving.

That being said, if you’re looking for a car that can comfortably seat more than five passengers, the Outback may not be the best choice. It comes with standard seating for up to five, with the option to add a rear seat reminder and a child seat anchor system to help keep your little ones safe.

Overall, the Subaru Outback offers a good balance of size and functionality, making it a solid choice for those in the market for a midsize crossover SUV. With its combination of space, versatility, and raised ground clearance, the Outback is a great option for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a car that can handle a variety of situations.

Subaru Outback: Midsize or Full-Size Car?

	Length	Width
Subaru Outback	191.3 in	73.0 in
Midsize SUV Average	189.3 in	76.7 in
Full-Size SUV Average	204.0 in	78.2 in

The Subaru Outback is often referred to as a midsize crossover SUV, but its size can make it feel like a full-size vehicle on the road. While its length falls within the midsize SUV category, it’s narrower than average, which can give it a more compact feel. However, when it comes to cargo space, the Outback is definitely full-size, with up to 75.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down.

Compared to the midsize SUV average, the Outback is slightly longer but narrower, which can make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. On the other hand, it falls short when compared to the larger full-size SUVs, which offer more passenger and cargo space. However, the Outback’s size strikes a balance between practicality and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Ultimately, whether the Subaru Outback is considered a midsize or full-size vehicle may depend on how you define those categories. However, one thing is for sure – the Outback offers a spacious and versatile interior that can accommodate a wide range of needs.

So, whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, a weekend adventurer, or a daily driver, the Subaru Outback’s size and capabilities may be just what you need. Keep reading to learn more about the Outback’s dimensions and driving experience.

Subaru Outback Dimensions: How Big is this Crossover SUV?

If you’re considering purchasing a Subaru Outback, one of the first things you may be wondering is just how big this crossover SUV is. Let’s take a closer look at the dimensions of the Subaru Outback.

The 2022 Subaru Outback has a total length of 191.3 inches, a width of 73 inches, and a height of 66.7 inches. The wheelbase measures 108.1 inches, and the ground clearance is 8.7 inches, making it perfect for off-roading and handling rough terrain. With these measurements, the Outback offers plenty of interior space for passengers and cargo.

Inside, the Subaru Outback has a total passenger volume of 109 cubic feet and a cargo volume of 32.5 cubic feet. If you need more space, you can fold down the rear seats to expand the cargo area to 75.7 cubic feet. These capacities make the Outback a great choice for families, adventurers, and anyone who needs ample space for gear or equipment.

In addition to its generous interior space, the Subaru Outback is also equipped with a roof rack system that can hold up to 150 pounds. This feature makes it easy to transport large or bulky items, such as kayaks, bikes, or camping gear.

Exterior Dimensions of a Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback has been a popular choice for drivers who want a vehicle that offers a blend of SUV and wagon capabilities. When it comes to exterior dimensions, the Outback has some impressive numbers. Here are some of the key measurements:

• Length: The Outback measures 191.3 inches long, which puts it in line with other crossover SUVs in its class.
• Width: The Outback is 73 inches wide, which gives it a stable and confident stance on the road.
• Height: With a height of 66.4 inches, the Outback offers plenty of headroom for passengers and a commanding view of the road.
• Wheelbase: The wheelbase of the Outback is 108.1 inches, which helps to create a smooth and stable ride on the road.
• Ground clearance: The Outback has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher than many other crossover SUVs in its class. This can be a benefit when driving on rough roads or in inclement weather.

Overall, the exterior dimensions of the Subaru Outback are well-suited for drivers who want a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions. Whether you’re taking on rough terrain or cruising on the highway, the Outback offers a stable and confident ride.

Now that you know more about the exterior dimensions of the Outback, let’s take a closer look at the interior measurements and cargo space.

Interior Space of a Subaru Outback

While the Subaru Outback is not as roomy as a full-size SUV, it provides ample interior space for its class. The cabin can comfortably seat up to five passengers with plenty of headroom and legroom. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo space, making it ideal for road trips and hauling bulky items.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with good visibility of the road ahead. The dashboard and controls are well laid out and easy to use, enhancing the driving experience. The Outback also has plenty of storage space, with a large center console bin and several other compartments throughout the cabin.

The Outback’s tall roofline and large windows make the interior feel open and airy. The panoramic moonroof, available on higher trims, adds to the feeling of spaciousness. The materials used in the interior are of high quality, giving the Outback a premium look and feel.

Driving Experience: What’s it Like to Drive a Subaru Outback?

When it comes to driving the Subaru Outback, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the Outback is known for its comfortable and smooth ride, making it a great choice for long road trips.

Additionally, the Outback offers impressive handling and traction, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system. This means you can easily tackle different terrains and weather conditions, whether you’re driving on a dirt road or through heavy snow.

Another key feature of the Outback’s driving experience is its fuel efficiency. With an EPA-estimated 26/33 city/highway MPG, the Outback offers impressive gas mileage for its class.

Subaru Outback Performance on the Road

Powerful Engine: The Subaru Outback is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepower, while a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 260 horsepower is available on higher trims. The standard engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, while the turbocharged engine offers thrilling acceleration and passing power.

Smooth Ride: The Outback’s suspension system provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The car’s handling is also excellent, with responsive steering and minimal body roll when cornering.

Impressive Fuel Efficiency: The Outback’s standard engine delivers an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is among the best in its class. The available turbocharged engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Off-Road Capability of a Subaru Outback

Impressive Ground Clearance: With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Subaru Outback offers enough space to tackle rocky roads and rough terrains with ease.

Advanced All-Wheel Drive: The Subaru Outback comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which is designed to provide stability and control on slippery and uneven surfaces. This feature helps you maintain traction on various off-road conditions.

X-Mode: The X-Mode feature enhances the off-road capability of the Subaru Outback. It offers two modes: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. This feature optimizes the transmission and engine to maintain maximum control and traction on challenging terrains.

In summary, the Subaru Outback is built for adventure and can handle off-road situations with ease. Whether you’re tackling snowy mountain passes or traversing muddy dirt roads, the Outback’s all-wheel drive system and advanced off-road features will keep you moving forward.

Maneuverability: Can You Easily Navigate Tight Spaces in a Subaru Outback?

One of the advantages of driving a Subaru Outback is its maneuverability in tight spaces. The crossover SUV has a nimble turning radius that allows it to make tight turns and navigate through narrow streets with ease.

Additionally, the Outback’s height and ground clearance give drivers a commanding view of the road, making it easier to spot obstacles and navigate through tight spots with confidence. This height also allows for easier ingress and egress for passengers.

Parallel parking can also be a breeze with the Outback’s available rearview camera and available parking assist features, which make it easier to back into tight spots.

Subaru Outback Turning Radius

Turning radius is a critical factor for drivers who need to navigate tight spaces or park in narrow spots. The turning radius of the Subaru Outback varies based on the model year and wheelbase. The most recent models have a turning radius of 18.7 feet, which is quite impressive for a crossover SUV. This allows for easy maneuverability and tight turns in city driving.

While the Outback’s turning radius is smaller than some other crossovers in its class, it is important to note that the size of the vehicle still plays a role. The longer the vehicle, the larger the turning radius will be. However, the Outback’s relatively compact size and responsive steering make it easy to navigate through crowded city streets or tight parking lots.

Overall, the Subaru Outback has a competitive turning radius that should suit most drivers’ needs. Its compact size and nimble handling make it a great choice for those who need to navigate through tight spaces or park in crowded areas.

Parking a Subaru Outback: Easy or Challenging?

One of the great things about the Subaru Outback is its relatively compact size, which makes parking in tight spaces a breeze. Its elevated ride height also gives drivers a better view of their surroundings, making it easier to maneuver in crowded parking lots.

The Outback also has a variety of parking aids to make the process even easier. Models equipped with the available 360-degree camera system give drivers a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, allowing them to see obstacles from every angle. The available rear automatic braking system can also help prevent accidents when backing up.

Overall, the Subaru Outback is a great choice for those who want a vehicle that is easy to park in tight spaces without sacrificing interior space and comfort.

Pros and Cons: Is a Subaru Outback the Right Car for You?

Versatility: One of the biggest advantages of the Subaru Outback is its versatility. It’s equally capable on the highway, city streets, and off-road trails. It offers plenty of cargo space for hauling gear or groceries, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.

Fuel Efficiency: Another advantage of the Subaru Outback is its fuel efficiency. With its standard four-cylinder engine, it gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is excellent for a vehicle of its size and capability. The available turbocharged engine delivers more power, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy.

Reliability: Subarus are known for their reliability, and the Outback is no exception. It’s built on a sturdy platform and has a proven track record of longevity. The standard all-wheel-drive system also enhances its reliability in challenging driving conditions, making it a great choice for those who need a dependable vehicle for daily use or weekend adventures.

Advantages of Owning a Subaru Outback

If you’re in the market for a versatile and reliable car, the Subaru Outback should be at the top of your list. This car offers a number of advantages that make it a great choice for a variety of drivers. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider owning a Subaru Outback:

Spacious Interior: The Subaru Outback offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families, commuters, and anyone who likes to take road trips. With up to 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space, you’ll have plenty of room for luggage, camping gear, and more.

All-Wheel Drive: The Subaru Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive, which provides excellent traction and handling in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether you’re driving in rain, snow, or ice, you can feel confident that your Outback will get you where you need to go.

Advanced Safety Features: Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and the Outback is no exception. This car comes with a variety of advanced safety features, including EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, Blind-Spot Detection, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which can help you avoid accidents and stay safe on the road.

1. Off-Road Capability: With its all-wheel drive system and high ground clearance, the Subaru Outback is capable of handling off-road adventures with ease.
2. Fuel Efficiency: The Outback is designed to be fuel-efficient, with up to 33 mpg on the highway, so you can spend less time at the pump and more time on the road.
3. Reliability: Subaru has a reputation for building reliable cars, and the Outback is no exception. With proper maintenance, this car can easily last for hundreds of thousands of miles.
4. Comfortable Ride: The Outback offers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads, thanks to its advanced suspension system.
5. Impressive Technology: From its intuitive touchscreen infotainment system to its available 12-speaker Harman Kardon® sound system, the Outback is packed with the latest technology to make your driving experience more enjoyable.

Overall, the Subaru Outback is a versatile and reliable car that offers a number of advantages over other vehicles in its class. With its spacious interior, all-wheel drive system, advanced safety features, and more, it’s easy to see why the Outback is such a popular choice among drivers. So if you’re looking for a new car, be sure to consider the Subaru Outback!

Disadvantages of Owning a Subaru Outback

While the Subaru Outback is a great car, it’s not without its downsides. Here are a few disadvantages to consider:

1. Fuel Efficiency: One of the biggest complaints about the Outback is its fuel efficiency. With an average of only 26 MPG, it’s not the most efficient car on the market. This may not be a huge issue for some drivers, but for those with long commutes or who frequently take road trips, it could be a deal breaker.
2. Infotainment System: While the Outback’s infotainment system is generally user-friendly, it can be slow and unresponsive at times. Some drivers have also complained about the lack of compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
3. Interior Noise: The Outback’s cabin is generally quiet, but at higher speeds, wind and road noise can become noticeable. This may not be a problem for short trips, but on longer drives, it could become tiresome.
4. Cost: The Outback is priced competitively with other midsize SUVs, but it’s still a significant investment. Additionally, some features that are standard on other cars in this class, such as heated seats or a panoramic sunroof, are only available on higher trims of the Outback.
5. Styling: While the Outback has a unique look that sets it apart from other SUVs on the road, it’s not for everyone. Some drivers find the boxy shape and rugged exterior unappealing.

These disadvantages shouldn’t deter you from considering the Outback as your next car, but they are important factors to keep in mind when making your decision.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Subaru Outback?

After analyzing both the advantages and disadvantages of owning a Subaru Outback, it’s time to make a decision on whether or not this car is worth buying.

First and foremost, the Subaru Outback is a versatile and reliable vehicle that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, as well as impressive off-road capabilities.

Additionally, with its strong safety ratings and standard all-wheel drive, the Outback is an excellent choice for drivers seeking a secure and dependable car.

On the other hand, some of the downsides to owning an Outback include a lackluster infotainment system and slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to other vehicles in its class. However, these minor drawbacks may not be a dealbreaker for some buyers.

All things considered, if you’re in the market for a versatile and dependable car that can handle a variety of road conditions, the Subaru Outback is definitely worth considering.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a Subaru Outback comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you value safety, reliability, and off-road capabilities over flashy technology and high fuel efficiency, then the Outback may be the perfect car for you.

Is a Subaru Outback the Right Car for Your Needs?

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of terrain, then a Subaru Outback may be the right choice for you. With its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and off-road capability, the Outback is an excellent option for drivers who prioritize functionality over luxury.

However, if you’re looking for a more upscale driving experience with a refined cabin and higher-end features, then the Outback may not be the best fit for your needs. Additionally, if you live in an area with limited access to all-wheel drive, such as a city with well-maintained roads, you may not fully benefit from the Outback’s capabilities.

Overall, the decision to purchase a Subaru Outback ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value practicality, safety, and dependability over flashy amenities, then the Outback is definitely worth considering.

• Utility: With its large cargo area, spacious cabin, and standard roof rails, the Outback is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or families with active lifestyles.
• Off-road capability: Thanks to its all-wheel drive system, high ground clearance, and advanced X-Mode traction control, the Outback can tackle rough terrain and inclement weather with ease.
• Reliability: Subaru has a reputation for producing long-lasting and durable vehicles, and the Outback is no exception. Its rugged construction and advanced safety features make it a smart investment for any driver.
• Gas mileage: While the Outback’s fuel economy is respectable for a vehicle of its size and capabilities, it may not be the most efficient choice for drivers who prioritize gas mileage above all else.
• Price: Depending on the trim level and options you choose, the Outback can be a bit pricey compared to other midsize SUVs. However, its long-term reliability and overall value make it a smart investment for many drivers.

In conclusion, the Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for drivers who need a practical, reliable, and capable vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions. However, if you prioritize luxury and amenities over function, or if you live in an area with limited need for all-wheel drive, then the Outback may not be the right car for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions