What is the overhang of the Subaru Outback?

The latest Subaru Outback clocks in with a front overhang of roughly 38 inches (about 97 cm) and a rear overhang around 45 inches (about 114 cm), giving a total overhang near 83 inches (about 211 cm). These figures align with the current model-year specifications and help explain the vehicle’s packaging and off-road capability.

Understanding what “overhang” means for a vehicle

In automotive terms, overhang is the distance from the bumper to the closest axle that lies between the bumper and the wheel. The front overhang measures from the front bumper to the front axle centerline, while the rear overhang is from the rear axle centerline to the rear bumper. These distances influence approach and departure angles, ground clearance, packaging for cargo, and how the vehicle sits at rest as it tackles uneven terrain.

Current measurements for the Outback

Below are the typical measurements for the newest generation as of the 2024 model year. Values are given in both inches and centimeters for quick reference.

• Front overhang: approximately 38 inches (about 96.5 cm)


• Rear overhang: approximately 45 inches (about 114 cm)

Taken together, these overhangs contribute to a total overhang of about 83 inches (roughly 211 cm). They exist alongside a wheelbase of 108.1 inches (about 274.6 cm) and an overall length of about 191.3 inches (approximately 485.9 cm), as published by Subaru for the current model year.

Why the overhang matters for design and driving feel

A longer rear overhang typically allows for more cargo space behind the rear axle, improving practicality for luggage and gear. However, it can affect the vehicle’s approach angle when climbing steeper inclines or negotiating obstacles. Subaru designs the Outback to balance on-road comfort with light off-road capability, incorporating protective underbody elements and a high ride height to offset some of the limitations imposed by the rear-heavy packaging.

Year-to-year consistency and how to verify

Overhang measurements can vary slightly from year to year due to minor styling updates or bumper reinforcements. For precise figures for a specific model year and trim, consult Subaru’s official brochures, the EPA window sticker, or the vehicle’s technical specifications on Subaru’s website. While the overall relationships (front vs. rear overhang) tend to stay close, exact numbers can shift by a few tenths of an inch in different releases.

Summary

In short, the current Subaru Outback features a front overhang of about 38 inches and a rear overhang of about 45 inches, with a total overhang near 83 inches. These measurements help define the Outback’s cargo layout, approach/departure performance, and its blend of wagon practicality with SUV utility.

Can a full size mattress fit in the back of 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. 

What year to avoid a Subaru Outback?

Years to generally avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010-2014, 2017-2020, and older models 2005-2009. Common issues in these years include CV/transmission problems, engine oil consumption, electrical failures, and early models were known for head gasket and cooling system issues. 
Years to avoid and common problems

• 2005-2009: Known for head gasket failures, coolant leaks, and oil leaks. 
• 2010-2014: Experienced significant transmission issues, oil consumption problems, and electrical and steering column defects. 
• 2017-2020: These years often suffered from frequent windshield cracks, electrical issues like faulty alternators and battery drains, and problems with the infotainment system. 
  • The first year of the sixth generation, 2020, had early adopter problems, particularly with the infotainment system and CVT. 
• 2013-2014: Specifically had issues with the CVT transmission and the 2.5L engine, leading to oil consumption. 
• 2015-2016: The 2.5L engine developed leaks from the valve covers and cam carriers. 

What to look for instead

• Post-2014: These models are generally more reliable, but specific years like 2015 and 2018 have been singled out by some sources. 
• Post-2021: Many recent models have improved reliability, although some 2023 models had issues with the infotainment system and electrical accessories. 
• 2019 3.6R: This is often recommended as a good model to track down due to high mileage customer vehicles and a history of good reliability. 

What are the dimensions of a Subaru Outback?

The Subaru Outback is approximately 191.9 inches long, 74.2 inches wide, and 66.1 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 108.1 inches. Its ground clearance is 8.7 inches, and it has a maximum cargo capacity of 75.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
 
Exterior dimensions

• Length: 191.9 inches
• Width: 74.2 inches (standard trims)
• Height: 66.1 inches (standard trims, with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 108.1 inches
• Ground clearance: 8.7 inches 

Interior dimensions

• Front headroom: 40.1 inches
• Rear headroom: 39.1 inches
• Front legroom: 42.8 inches
• Rear legroom: 39.5 inches
• Front shoulder room: 58.1 inches
• Rear shoulder room: 57.4 inches
• Passenger volume: 109 cubic feet (without moonroof) 

Cargo dimensions

• Cargo volume (rear seats up): 32.6 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo volume (rear seats down): 75.6 cubic feet 

What is the breakover angle of the Subaru Outback 2025?

Breakover angle 19.4 deg. Wilderness: 21.2 deg.
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