Is the Subaru Outback a full-size SUV?

No—the Outback is not a full-size SUV. It is a midsize crossover/wagon built on a unibody chassis, designed for five passengers, with standard all-wheel drive and a versatile cargo area. In mainstream classifications, it sits below the full-size SUV category that includes large three-row models from other brands.

Where the Outback fits in the market

To understand its place in the market, it helps to compare its size, seating and construction with traditional full-size SUVs. The Outback is marketed as a two-row, five-passenger crossover, built on Subaru’s unibody platform, and it emphasizes efficiency, ride quality and off-road capability rather than sheer interior volume or third-row seating.

To illustrate how the Outback compares to full-size SUVs, here is a snapshot of its distinguishing contrasts:

• Two-row seating for five, with no third row, unlike many full-size SUVs that offer three rows.


• Unibody construction (Subaru Global Platform) versus the body-on-frame design common to many full-size trucks and traditional large SUVs.


• Exterior length around 195 inches and a wheelbase near 108 inches, generally shorter than typical full-size models that exceed 200 inches in length.


• Standard all-wheel drive and a modest towing capability relative to full-size rivals, reflecting a focus on efficiency and everyday practicality rather than maximum payload or off-road scale.

Taken together, these factors place the Outback firmly in the midsize crossover category rather than the full-size SUV segment.

Size, design, and performance details

Platform and construction

The Outback rides on Subaru’s Global Platform, a unibody architecture that prioritizes a comfortable ride, fuel efficiency and predictable handling. Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive helps with traction in varying conditions, while the design emphasizes on-road polish and light off-road capability rather than heavy-duty capability typical of some full-size SUVs.

Dimensions and seating

As a two-row vehicle, the Outback seats five across two rows. Typical dimensions place the vehicle at about 195 inches in length with a wheelbase around 108 inches. Cargo space behind the rear seats comes in around 32.5 cubic feet, expanding to roughly 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, depending on the model year and trim.

Performance and capability

Engine options have evolved over generations. Current offerings include a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine and, in higher trims, a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. Power figures approximate 182 horsepower for the base engine and around 260 horsepower for the turbo option, with torque in the neighborhood of 176 lb-ft for the base and 277 lb-ft for the turbo. Towing capacity generally ranges up to about 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. All-wheel drive is standard, and features like X-Mode assist with reduced wheel spin in adverse conditions. These specs underscore efficiency and everyday versatility rather than the heavy-duty tow numbers or three-row seating found in full-size SUVs.

What this means for buyers

For shoppers who require more seating or heavier towing, the Outback may not be the best fit. If three-row seating or flagship full-size capacity is a priority, look to options like Subaru’s own Ascent (which offers three rows within the midsize category) or other brands’ full-size SUVs such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition or Toyota Sequoia. The Outback remains a popular choice for those who want wagon-like practicality, strong fuel economy for its class, standard all-wheel drive, and a comfortable ride with modest cargo needs.

Summary

In short, the Subaru Outback is not a full-size SUV. It occupies the midsize crossover segment, offering two rows of seating, unibody construction, and a strong emphasis on efficiency and everyday practicality. For buyers who want more passenger capacity or greater maximum towing, other models in the midsize or full-size SUV categories will be a closer match. The Outback remains a distinctive option for those who prioritize a carlike ride, AWD capability, and a flexible cargo area in a smaller footprint.

Can a full size mattress fit in a Subaru Outback?

No, a standard full-size mattress (53 inches wide) cannot fit completely inside a Subaru Outback because the narrowest part of the interior is approximately 42 inches, according to this Facebook post. However, it is possible to fit certain types of full-size mattresses, such as foam or inflatable ones, by folding the seats, with the hatch partially or fully open, and securing the mattress to the roof rack with straps.
 
Fitting a full-size mattress

• Foam or inflatable: You can fit a full-size foam or inflatable mattress inside if the seats are folded down and the hatch is open, but the mattress will likely overhang the rear.
• Securing the mattress: To make it drivable, you must securely strap the mattress to the roof rack, using the doors to pass the straps through if necessary.
• Safety precautions: Drive slowly, keep to back roads, and be sure to flag the overhanging portion of the mattress as required by law. 

Alternative options

• Trimmed mattress: Consider trimming a larger foam mattress to better fit the interior space, as shown in this Facebook post. 
• Twin mattress: A twin mattress (around 38 inches wide) will fit easily inside with room to spare for other items, as noted in this Baldwin Subaru blog post. 
• Custom mattress: You can also get a custom-sized mattress designed specifically for the Outback to maximize the available space, according to Mattress Insider. 

Is a Subaru Outback considered a full-size SUV?

Once a lifted wagon, the redesigned Subaru Outback is now a mid-size SUV.

Is a Subaru Outback a small or mid-size SUV?

midsize SUV
Passenger and Cargo Space
The 2024 Outback is a midsize SUV that gives you up to 109 cubic feet of roomy passenger comfort in both the front and rear seats.

What is a common problem with a Subaru Outback?

Common problems for the Subaru Outback include weak windshields, excessive oil consumption, and issues with the cooling system and CVT transmission, especially in specific model years. Other frequent complaints involve airbag defects, electrical problems like battery drain, and vibration during acceleration.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of Subaru head gasket issues: 1mMrSubaru1387YouTube · Aug 11, 2024
Engine and powertrain 

• Excessive oil consumption: Many models, particularly older 2.5L engines, may burn oil between oil changes due to leaks from seals. 
• Cooling system failures: Overheating can lead to blown head gaskets, and the cooling system itself is a common point of failure. 
• CVT transmission problems: Some model years are more susceptible to issues like rough shifting or failure. 
• Vibration during acceleration: Some owners report a shudder or vibration when accelerating. 
• Older head gasket issues: The EJ-series engines (roughly 1997–2012) had an inherent head gasket failure problem, though this was mostly resolved in later models. 

Body and electrical

• Weak windshields: The glass is prone to cracking from stress or minor impacts. 
• Airbag defects: Some models have a history of airbag problems, leading to recalls. 
• Electrical issues: Problems can include unexpected battery drain and issues with the ABS control module. 

Other common issues

• Oxygen sensor failure: The front O2 sensor can fail, sometimes leading to a recall. 
• Premature brake wear: Some models experience faster-than-average brake wear. 
• Suspension wear and tear: Like many vehicles, suspension components will eventually wear out.