How many seats are in a Subaru Outback?
The Subaru Outback seats five passengers. It has two front seats and a rear bench that seats three, a layout that has remained consistent across recent generations. There is no option for a third-row seat in the Outback, aligning with its wagon-like design and cargo-focused versatility.
Seat count and configuration
The Outback uses a two-row, five-seat arrangement. The front row features two bucket seats with a center console, while the rear is a 60/40-split bench that can accommodate up to three passengers. The rear seats fold flat to extend cargo space, a standard feature across trims.
Front row
Two individual front seats provide space for two occupants, with a readily accessible center console housing storage and controls for comfort and infotainment.
Rear row
The rear bench seats up to three, with the outer seats offering comfortable space for adults. The middle seat is narrower, making it more suitable for kids or shorter trips. The 60/40 split lets you fold down one side or both for flexible cargo loading.
Practical considerations for buyers
Because the Outback is a five-seat vehicle, it prioritizes cargo versatility and driver/passenger space within two rows. Buyers who regularly carry seven or more passengers may want to consider Subaru's larger Ascent, which offers three rows of seating.
Cargo versatility
With the rear seats in use, the Outback offers ample cargo space for everyday gear. Folding the rear seats flat expands loading capacity for larger items, such as bicycles, camping gear, or luggage for trips.
Alternatives in the Subaru lineup
For customers needing more seating, the Subaru Ascent provides three rows with seven or eight seats depending on configuration, while the Forester and Crosstrek offer five seats in a smaller footprint. Always verify current model specs for your market, as specifications can vary by year and region.
Summary
The Subaru Outback is a five-seat vehicle with two front seats and a three-passenger rear bench. It emphasizes cargo versatility through fold-flat rear seating but does not offer a third row. If more seating is required, consider the Ascent or other Subaru models.
