The Subaru Outback is one of the most popular crossover SUVs in the Pacific Northwest, because it meets the needs of such a wide variety of people. The Outback's "tall wagon" interpretation of the crossover SUV offers utility along with great handling. Also, whether you choose the most basic model or the top luxury trim, every Outback offers Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive with X-Mode for slippery conditions and steep hill descents. The fact is, any Outback can get you to places that will surprise the traditional 4X4 crowd, and it will certainly get you through a Northwest winter.
To start, let's review the basics of the Outback. This is a midsize four-door crossover with two rows of seats, accommodating five adult passengers in comfort. In the back is an ample cargo area with a large liftback. Every Outback comes with all-wheel drive as standard equipment, and buyers can choose between a naturally aspirated or turbocharged engine, depending on their performance needs.
Right now, the top Outback trim level is called "Wilderness" trim, and that's more than just a paint-and-stickers package. The Outback Wilderness includes some very important differences from any other Outback trim. The Wilderness starts with a taller suspension that raises the body about an inch higher than a conventional Outback, giving the car 9.5 inches of ground clearance. Buyers with limited mobility should also take notice — getting in and out of the Outback Wilderness is even easier than with other Outbacks.
But there's more. The Outback Wilderness also includes Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires, StarTex water-resistant upholstery, skid plates, and an advanced version of the X-Mode driver assist system that allows you to drive at road speeds with enhanced traction and stability controls working for you.
There's also a forward-facing 180-degree camera to help you find your way around obstacles without getting out of the car, and a full-size spare tire so you can really keep going in the event of a flat. Finally, the Wilderness edition comes with extra body cladding for paint protection whether you're in the woods or the parking lot.
Among all the new features, one that should not be overlooked is the uprated roof rails. These bars will support more weight, up to 700 pounds when the car is parked. This means the Wilderness can support a roof-mounted tent camping system. The rails will support up to 220 pounds while driving. One last thing: the Outback Wilderness is geared a little lower than other Outbacks, so it will tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Of course, the Outback Wilderness also has a completely up-to-date interior, including an available 11.6-inch multimedia touchscreen infotainment system with GPS navigation and a nifty off-road inclinometer display that shows the angle of the hill you're climbing or descending.
On the road, the Outback Wilderness is delightful on our rough Northwest roads. It's a little softer than a standard Outback, but that just means it soaks up the bumps for you. Don't go thinking the Outback Wilderness is uncivilized in any way; this is still a car you can drive to work and the grocery store every day. The StarTex upholstery could easily be mistaken for leather, and the overall impression is both luxurious and adventurous.
Depending on options, you can bring your 2024 Outback Wilderness home for right around $40,000, or a little more if you want some extra goodies. Our test car had an option package including a power moonroof, reverse automatic braking, and onboard GPS navigation for $1,845.
The bottom line is that the 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness is the top of the line for one of the Northwest's most enduring favorite vehicles, and it's likely to stay at the top of the list.
2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness
Base price: $39,960
Price as tested: $43,100
Type: Midsize crossover SUV
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (260 hp, 277 lbs-ft)
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission
EPA estimated mileage: 21/26
Overall length: 192 inches
Curb weight: 3,922 pounds
Final assembly: Lafayette, Indiana
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