Which Subaru Outback has the most comfortable seats?
The most comfortable seats are typically found in the Limited and Touring trims, which offer the best mix of padding, leather seating, and driver-seat adjustability.
Seat comfort in the Outback varies by generation and trim. The current fifth-generation model (introduced in 2020) improved cushion padding, thigh support, and lumbar adjustment, and the top trims add leather upholstery and additional seat adjustability. Individual comfort is subjective, so test-driving is essential to find the best fit for your body size and posture.
Trims most associated with seating comfort
Below are the trims most commonly credited with superior seating comfort on recent Outbacks.
- Limited — widely regarded as offering the best front-seat comfort due to generous padding, supportive cushions, and commonly a power driver seat with lumbar support.
- Touring — the top-level trim in many years, with similar seating comfort as Limited, plus premium materials and quiet ride for long trips.
- Note: Base and Premium trims tend to have less adjustability and lower-grade upholstery, so comfort can be more variable depending on body size and seat configuration.
For buyers prioritizing seat comfort, aim for Limited or Touring and verify the exact seat adjustability on the vehicle you’re considering, as specs can vary by year and market.
What to look for to maximize seat comfort
When evaluating seats, prioritize features that affect long-haul support and adjustability.
- Power-adjustable driver's seat with 8-way or more adjustment and lumbar support
- Seat materials that feel supportive and remain comfortable over time (leather or high-quality fabric/leatherette on higher trims)
- Front-seat heating (and ventilation if available) for climate comfort
- Adequate seat cushion depth and thigh support, plus comfortable bolstering
- Ergonomic cabin layout with adjustable steering wheel to maintain a natural seating posture
Test drive for 15–20 minutes in your normal driving position to assess comfort, especially over rough pavement or long highway stretches.
Considerations by generation
The 2020 redesign (the fifth generation) brought notable improvements in seat padding, cushion firmness, and lumbar support, making Limited/Touring seats particularly appealing for many drivers. Earlier generations often featured firmer cushions or less adjustable seats in base trims, so comfort can vary more widely across older Outbacks.
Summary
For the most comfortable Subaru Outback seats, target the Limited or Touring trims, which commonly offer the best combination of padding, leather upholstery, and driver-seat adjustability. Always test-seat in person, focusing on cushion depth, lumbar support, and reach to the pedals, since comfort is highly personal and dependent on body type and driving posture.
