You know when you like a new vehicle as soon as you slip behind the wheel. That is true with the 2025 Subaru Outback Touring, since the entire cockpit is designed to help you navigate the world in style and comfort. I tested the Outback for a week and drove it on back country roads, over a muddy hill, on a commute to a major metro area, and everywhere in between.
Here are the five reasons this is such a compelling vehicle to own.
1. The design
Subaru knows its customers quite well. The design is streamlined and rugged at the same time– I believe that is what has made the Outback such a quick seller. I’m not sure if anyone is actually driving it over an embankment down into a river gorge exactly, but at least you know that’s possible. The styling is urban cool regardless. Seeing them parked at the local Trader Joe’s store, especially the Touring model I tested, and it has style to spare.
2. Handling
I drove one for a week and really paid attention to the handling, the lane-keeping modes (which I’ve tested many times), and other road dynamics and there’s a nice blend here of safety features and ruggedness on the road. I’m hoping to test one again in winter, especially since the last two winters have been so mild in my area and we’re due for some serious snow.
3. Off-roading capability
Speaking of off-road handling, I did take the Outback on a lonely country road that was caked in some light mud and slushy water (since it had just stormed the day before). What a blast. If you ever get a chance to drive an Outback like this, with its 8.7-inches of ground clearance, jump at the chance. The car just feels solid on the road like it is gripping to anything it can find.
4. Price
Sometimes I look at the base price on the Outback and honestly do a second glance. At $29,995 it seems like it is priced just about right. I was expecting higher, although the various trim levels can push up the price. The Touring version I tested is right around $40,000.
5. Overall vibe
I’m a big fan of the Outback in general and this recent test revealed a few reasons why. I typically review a new tech innovation but have been looking at the overall car lately. The driving mechanics feel solid and the car barely noticed that light mud I mentioned. I like that the Subaru Outback Touring has such a large center display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s one of my top picks overall and, at the base price, well worth considering.