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2016
Subaru Outback

Starts at:
$24,995
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New 2016 Subaru Outback
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Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Wgn 2.5i
    Starts at
    $24,995
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Regular Unleaded H-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 2.5i Premium
    Starts at
    $27,395
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Regular Unleaded H-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 2.5i Limited
    Starts at
    $30,395
    25 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Regular Unleaded H-4
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn 3.6R Limited
    Starts at
    $33,395
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Regular Unleaded H-6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback 2016 Subaru Outback

Notable features

Lane departure prevention now available
Five-seat all-wheel-drive wagon
Four- or six-cylinder engine
8.7 inches of ground clearance
Camera-based EyeSight safety system available

The good & the bad

The good

Attractive styling
Easy entry and exit
Backseat roominess
Visibility
Interior quality

The bad

Lack of acceleration with four-cylinder engine
Seats not supportive
Roof rails mean car can be pitched around by heavy winds
CVT's lack of idle-creep leads to lurching starts
Car-seat Latch anchors sit too deep for easy access

Expert 2016 Subaru Outback review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

Subaru’s Outback was redesigned last year with updated exterior styling, better estimated gas mileage, and new drivetrain, entertainment and safety technology. Like past versions, the Outback straddles the divide between traditional wagons and crossover SUVs and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
New for 2016
Subaru has revised the steering system for better steering feel, and Limited trim levels have a retuned suspension for a smoother ride. The available EyeSight safety system adds lane departure prevention, while Premium and Limited trims gain Subaru’s Starlink emergency communication system.
Significant Standard Features

  • Active grille shutters for better gas mileage
  • 8.7 inches of ground clearance
  • 6.2-inch touch-screen CD stereo with Pandora integration, iPod connectivity, an MP3 jack and Bluetooth streaming audio
  • CVT includes steering-wheel shift paddles to simulate gear changes
  • Release levers in the cargo area for the 60/40-split folding backseat
  • Backup camera
  • Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system

Significant Available Features

  • High-intensity-discharge low-beam headlights
  • Power liftgate
  • Moonroof
  • Upgraded stereo features a 7-inch touch-screen, satellite radio, text messaging capability, iTunes tagging and two USB ports
  • Harman Kardon premium stereo
  • Navigation system 
  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Heated front and rear seats
  • Keyless access with push-button start
  • Blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert 
  • EyeSight system uses cameras to provide adaptive cruise control, precollision braking, and lane departure warning and prevention

2016 Subaru Outback review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview

Subaru’s Outback was redesigned last year with updated exterior styling, better estimated gas mileage, and new drivetrain, entertainment and safety technology. Like past versions, the Outback straddles the divide between traditional wagons and crossover SUVs and comes standard with all-wheel drive.
New for 2016
Subaru has revised the steering system for better steering feel, and Limited trim levels have a retuned suspension for a smoother ride. The available EyeSight safety system adds lane departure prevention, while Premium and Limited trims gain Subaru’s Starlink emergency communication system.
Significant Standard Features

  • Active grille shutters for better gas mileage
  • 8.7 inches of ground clearance
  • 6.2-inch touch-screen CD stereo with Pandora integration, iPod connectivity, an MP3 jack and Bluetooth streaming audio
  • CVT includes steering-wheel shift paddles to simulate gear changes
  • Release levers in the cargo area for the 60/40-split folding backseat
  • Backup camera
  • Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system

Significant Available Features

  • High-intensity-discharge low-beam headlights
  • Power liftgate
  • Moonroof
  • Upgraded stereo features a 7-inch touch-screen, satellite radio, text messaging capability, iTunes tagging and two USB ports
  • Harman Kardon premium stereo
  • Navigation system 
  • Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Heated front and rear seats
  • Keyless access with push-button start
  • Blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert 
  • EyeSight system uses cameras to provide adaptive cruise control, precollision braking, and lane departure warning and prevention

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2016 Subaru Outback base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Overall rating
5/5
Combined side rating front seat
5/5
Combined side rating rear seat
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating driver
5/5
Frontal barrier crash rating passenger
5/5
Overall frontal barrier crash rating
5/5
Overall side crash rating
5/5
Rollover rating
4/5
Side barrier rating
5/5
Side barrier rating driver
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
17.5%
Risk of rollover
Side barrier rating driver
5/5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5/5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5/5
17.5%
Risk of rollover

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 years / 80,000 miles
Basic
Coverage available for purchase
Dealer certification
152-point inspection

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
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    25 City / 33 Hwy
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    Seat capacity
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  • 2017
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  • 2017
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    Subaru Outback
    Starts at
    $25,645
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    MPG
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    Seat capacity
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    Engine
    All-wheel drive
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    MPG
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    Seat capacity
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    Engine
    Front-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • Compare more options
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Consumer reviews

4.8 / 5
Based on 176 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.6
Performance 4.7
Value 4.7
Exterior 4.7
Reliability 4.8

Most recent

  • Reliably efficient

    The 2016 Subaru Outback is the first car I'd ever bought brand new, and I haven't been disappointed since it was purchased 7 years ago. It's very reliable, fun to drive, easy on gas, easy on maintenance and easy on the eyes. Will do it all over again when I make my next Subaru purchase!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    10 people out of 10 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Gas saver

    I just bought this one used, 42,000 miles. I highly recommend subaru brand if you need a dependable vehicle. I also own a 07 outback. And a 2014 impreza. Good vehicles.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Awesome !

    Absolutely my favorite car of all I’ve ever owned. Extremely Reliable. Great mpg for gas expense. Perfect mid-size suv. Highly recommend for anyone needing dependable transportation. No major issues since buying new.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Outback is a great car I never thought I’d own…

    Great car for the value. Consumer Reports consistently rates this car with 4/5. We looked at the Crosstreck but actually think this is a better car for the value.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    9 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most reliable car or summer and winter

    This car got eyesight, navigation and low mileage for a great price ! Very clean , lot of leg room and cargo space . Reliable in winter and summer driving.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Fantastic car on the highway

    This car drives as well as a large sedan, think Cadillac, Lincoln or any smooth riding vehicle. Great clearance , good in the snow or dirt. Great capacity, we have hauled 20 bags of mulch with no handling issues. This is our second Outback, looking forward to the third in a few years.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love the car so far.

    The car is wonderful on gas and rides smooth. We love the color and the reliability of the car to get us in all types of weather.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great vehicle

    Overall it’s been a pleasure to drive and reliable on trips. I bought this new and Subaru are popular. The negatives are few, they seem to be a little more expensive for maintenance. Although I have never had to do this but if you get a blow out on 1 tire you need to purchase a complete set$$$.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • All Around Best Buy

    Coming from a 2004 Honda CR-V, I was used to expecting my car to be practical, reliable, safe and economical. After nearly 84,000 miles, I can honestly say, I've been blown away with so many great aspects of my 2016 Subaru Outback Limited. First, I love driving my car, since all of the aforementioned qualities I expect of my car have been met. In addition, I like my Subie's understated looks, which resonate with my no nonsense and efficient personality. Next, the legroom is the most accommodating, for both front and rear passengers. Driving this car has been easy, with its composed AWD handling, and excellent visibility on all sides courtesy large windows and narrow pillars. The seating is very generous and comfortable for 5 adults, and the voluminous cargo area swallows everything you put in it. Love that! Overall, my average gas mileage, in mixed city and highway driving has been approximately 25-28 mpg. I'm always surprised when I got 35+mpg on the highway. Love that, too! To make my Subie even more comfortable, I made couple of modifications, like adding a dashcam; replaced the rear sway bar to a 21mm bar, which significantly reduced under steer; and, added a tint to the windows to help improve the cars atmosphere, especially in the summer. It's truly MY car and I love it!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love Subaru

    This is my second Subaru. Since I have only had it a few weeks I cannot attest to reliability. I am still trying to adjust to all the features my 2010 did not have. If this one serves me as well as my last one, I will look for another one in the future.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best car Ive ever owned

    This car provided cargo space as well as comfort. I will buy another one as soon as i get to europe. Traveling every day in this car was a joy.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Good Car

    I drive a 2020 Subaru Outback for work and like it so much that I wanted to get one as a personal vehicle. Unfortunately I couldn't afford a brand new one but ended up getting the 2016 instead. It drives really well and is comfortable on longer trips.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from cars.com

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2016 Subaru Outback?

The 2016 Subaru Outback is available in 4 trim levels:

  • 2.5i (1 style)
  • 2.5i Limited (1 style)
  • 2.5i Premium (1 style)
  • 3.6R Limited (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2016 Subaru Outback?

The 2016 Subaru Outback offers up to 25 MPG in city driving and 33 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2016 Subaru Outback?

The 2016 Subaru Outback compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2016 Subaru Outback reliable?

The 2016 Subaru Outback has an average reliability rating of 4.8 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2016 Subaru Outback owners.

Is the 2016 Subaru Outback a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2016 Subaru Outback. 96.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.8 / 5
Based on 176 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.6
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.7
  • Exterior: 4.7
  • Reliability: 4.8

Subaru Outback history

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