What was the best year for a Subaru Outback?
There isn’t a single universal “best” year for every buyer, but many reviewers and owners point to the mid-2010s Outbacks—roughly 2015 through 2019—as the strongest overall for reliability, safety, and value. The ideal year depends on what you prioritize: budget, features, and how important the latest technology is to you.
Why there isn’t a single best year
Choosing a used Outback involves balancing advantages and trade-offs. Older generations can be more affordable and still dependable, but they may lack newer safety tech and comfort features. Newer model years offer improved technology and refinement, but at a higher price. A thorough maintenance history and a pre-purchase inspection are crucial in assessing any candidate year.
Best years to buy used: 2015–2019
These model years are commonly cited as the strongest overall choice in the current used-car market due to a combination of design improvements, safety features, and reported reliability. Each year has its strengths, and a well-maintained example often outperforms a newer unit with inconsistent history.
- 2015: First year of the fifth-generation redesign, bringing a more refined interior, improved ride quality, and upgraded safety features that set a strong baseline for reliability in the modern Outback.
- 2016: Platform maturity and broader availability of driver-assistance options make this year a solid value choice with good resale potential.
- 2017: Additional safety updates and feature availability, reinforcing the Outback’s reputation as a well-rounded family crossover.
- 2018: Incremental updates to infotainment and convenience features while preserving reliability and value retention.
- 2019: Last year before the 2020 redesign; generally strong overall packaging with solid safety scores and favorable long-term value.
Concluding note: Among used Outbacks, the 2015–2019 window offers a compelling balance of modern styling, safety tech, and dependable performance. As always, the best pick hinges on a vehicle’s individual maintenance history and condition.
Safety features and tech highlights
During the 2015–2019 period, Subaru expanded driver-assistance tech and streamlined infotainment across trims. A well-maintained example with these features tends to deliver strong daily usability and solid crash-test results, which are important factors in ongoing ownership costs and peace of mind.
Other generations to consider and what to watch
Beyond the 2015–2019 window, buyers may encounter earlier generations or the newer sixth generation. Each group has its own considerations regarding comfort, technology, and long-term reliability.
- 2010–2014 third-generation Outbacks: These can be affordable and still dependable, but buyers should carefully check for age-related wear, especially in the CVT (where applicable) and cooling system components. Maintenance history is critical for these years.
- 2020–present sixth-generation Outbacks: This generation brings updated styling, newer technology, and enhanced safety features. Used prices tend to be higher, so assess overall value in relation to mileage and condition.
Concluding note: If you’re shopping outside the 2015–2019 window, prioritize a comprehensive inspection and a clear maintenance and recall history. A well-cared-for older model can still serve well, while a poorly maintained newer model can incur avoidable costs.
What to check on a used 2010–2014 model
For older Outbacks, pay close attention to signs of CVT wear (where applicable), coolant leaks, head-gasket history on legacy engines, oil consumption, and the condition of the suspension and brakes. A thorough pre-purchase inspection can help identify potential maintenance costs before you buy.
Bottom line: The best year for a Subaru Outback depends on what you value—value, safety tech, or modern conveniences. In recent memory, 2015–2019 models are widely regarded as the sweet spot, but a carefully vetted example from other years can also make a strong case for itself.
Summary
There isn’t a single “best year” for all buyers. For most people seeking reliability, safety features, and good value in a used Outback, the 2015–2019 models are the strongest contenders in the current market. Always verify maintenance history, check for recalls, and obtain a professional pre-purchase inspection to ensure you’re selecting a dependable vehicle.
