2025 Subaru Outback Touring XT: The All-Terrain All-Star

Think of the Subaru Outback as your outdoorsy friend who can rock a hiking trail by day and still clean up nicely for a dinner party. It's rugged, reliable, and full of surprises. With 30 years of wagon wisdom under its belt, the Outback blends comfort, capability, and versatility in a package that feels like home—whether you're navigating city streets or tackling weekend adventures. Let’s dive into what makes the 2025 Outback Touring XT worth a second (or third) look.

Performance: Smooth Moves, Rugged Roots

Under the hood, the Outback gives you options: a 182-hp 2.5-liter engine for casual commutes or a turbocharged 260-hp 2.4-liter for those who like a little extra oomph. Both pair with Subaru’s continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. Now, if "CVT" gives you flashbacks to droning engines, don't worry—Subaru’s engineers have added a touch of magic to mimic a traditional automatic.

Sure, it’s not going to win drag races, but the turbocharged version has enough pep to make highway merges stress-free. And let’s not forget the Outback's off-road chops: 8.7 inches of ground clearance (or 9.5 inches in the Wilderness model) and Snow and Mud modes mean it’s ready for those “should we take this shortcut?” moments.

Comfort: A Wagon That Gets Cozy

Step inside, and you’re greeted with a cabin that prioritizes function over flash. Think of it as your favorite pair of jeans—not flashy but fits just right. The Outback offers plenty of headroom and legroom, making road trips a breeze. Standard features like dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports ensure everyone stays comfy and connected.

Want to spoil yourself a little? Higher trims offer ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel (because cold fingers are the worst), and heated rear seats. Plus, the cargo space is no joke: 33 cubic feet in the back, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. That’s enough room for camping gear, groceries, or even your kid’s science fair volcano—because life’s an adventure, right?

Safety and Driver-Assistance: A Second Set of Eyes

Subaru doesn’t mess around when it comes to safety. The 2025 Outback comes equipped with the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades like blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert add even more peace of mind.

For parents or anyone who gets distracted by their Spotify playlist, the new driver attention monitoring system is a game-changer. It keeps an eye on you—literally—to ensure you’re staying alert. Think of it as your car saying, “Hey, you good?”

Price: Affordable Versatility

The Outback lineup starts at a reasonable $30,430, with the Touring XT maxing out around $44,190. While the base engine suits most drivers just fine, the Premium trim strikes the perfect balance of features and price. With an 11.6-inch touchscreen, heated seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, you get a lot of bang for your buck. Throw in a couple of option packages for keyless entry, navigation, and a hands-free tailgate, and you’ve got a well-rounded ride that doesn’t break the bank.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Subaru Outback isn’t trying to be something it’s not—it’s a practical, capable wagon with a heart of gold. Whether you’re loading it up for a weekend in the woods or just running errands around town, it’s got your back. Sure, it’s not a luxury cruiser or an off-road beast, but that’s kind of the point. The Outback’s charm lies in its balance—just enough ruggedness, comfort, and tech to keep you smiling, mile after mile.