How much can you fit in a Subaru Outback?
The Subaru Outback offers a practical balance of passenger space and cargo, with about 32.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and roughly 75.7 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. Those figures apply to the current generation (model years from around 2020 onward) and give you a clear sense of how the crossover can handle groceries, luggage, and gear for long trips.
Cargo space by configuration
Here is how the space breaks down for the latest Outback so you can plan trips, shopping runs, or weekend adventures.
- 32.5 cubic feet (about 0.92 cubic meters) of cargo space behind the rear seats with them upright.
- 75.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded flat.
These numbers reflect the standard 60/40-split rear seating and the flat loading floor when the seats are down, which helps maximize the usable space for long items.
Real-world packing ideas
In daily use, you can typically fit two large suitcases and a few smaller bags behind the second row. If you fold the rear seats, the Outback becomes suitable for longer items—bicycles, camping gear, multiple suitcases, or a DIY project’s parts and tools—that would otherwise require a larger SUV or a trailer.
Factors that affect capacity
Keep in mind that cargo space can vary slightly by model year, trim, and installed options (such as a full-size spare under the cargo floor, or a temporary spare). Always check the specific figures for your exact vehicle, especially if you’re planning a big move or carrying unusually tall items.
Notes on roof storage and weight
For extra capacity, Subaru Outback models can be equipped with roof rails and crossbars. Roof-mounted boxes or bulky items increase total storage but come with weight and height considerations; always respect the roof limit and distribute weight evenly inside the vehicle.
Year-by-year context
The figures above reflect the current-generation Outback, introduced for 2020. Earlier generations offered similar overall cargo capacity but with modest differences behind the second row. Always verify the exact numbers for your year and trim in the owner’s manual or on Subaru’s official site, especially if your configuration uses a spare tire, subfloor storage, or a different seat setup.
Current generation measurements
Latest Outback models offer 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. The 60/40-split rear seat folds down to create a continuous loading floor for longer items.
Bottom line
For everyday use, expect around 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. If you routinely move larger items or do weekend getaways, the Outback’s cargo area is competitive for its class, and roof storage can add more capacity when needed. Always confirm exact figures for your year and trim, and plan within safe loading and payload guidelines.
Summary
The Subaru Outback balances passenger comfort with versatile cargo space: about 32.5 cu ft behind the rear seats and up to 75.7 cu ft with the seats folded, with additional capacity possible via roof storage. Check year-specific specs for precise numbers and consider your typical load to choose the right configuration for your needs.
