Name: 2004 Subaru Outback
Brand: Subaru

Subaru Outback

RECALL ALERT: There are 11 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 11 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

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2000

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Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Model History

2020-

Current Generation

The Outback wagon has a long-running reputation as a smart alternative to an SUV, and the redesigned 2020 model doesn't stray from its proven formula. This next-generation Outback adds comfort and convenience features. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine does the job but can feel strained under stress. The turbocharged 260-hp, 2.4-liter engine transforms the wagon with effortless acceleration. The ride is very comfortable, and handling is responsive and secure. Some tasks through the large infotainment screen require more than one step, however. Thoughtful details like built-in cross bars and a dual-position cargo cover are nice touches. All versions get the EyeSight suite of advanced safety and driver assistance systems. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are optional. Starting with the 2021 model year, steering responsive headlights, which are designed to swivel according to steering input to give added visibility in corners, are standard on all trims.

2015-2019

2015 Redesign Year

Subaru's popular Outback, a station wagon version of the Legacy, gained some welcome refinement with its 2015 redesign. Roomy and spacious, the interior is nicely finished and Subaru's StarLink touchscreen infotainment system finally delivers contemporary levels of connectivity. It rides very comfortably and handling is plenty responsive and secure. Traction from the standard all-wheel-drive system is reassuring. Acceleration from the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is adequate, but you won't win any races. We measured 24 mpg overall, beating most mid-sized SUVs. Unlike previous Outbacks, a manual transmission is no longer offered. Power from the 3.6-liter six-cylinder is more effortless; expect 22 mpg overall. Generous outward visibility along with a standard backup camera and optional blind spot monitoring helps make the Outback easy to drive. Crash-test results are impressive, and the EyeSight suite of advanced safety gear includes forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking; we recommend getting this system.

2010-2014

2010 Redesign Year

An extensive 2010 redesign brought major changes to Subaru's practical all-wheel-drive wagon version of their Legacy sedan. Considerably larger than before, interior space grew to include a rear seat that can comfortably fit three adults, and the cabin became quieter. Cargo space and driver visibility are both generous. A new continuously variable transmission (CVT) notably improved fuel economy; we measured 24 mpg overall with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder. The 3.6-liter six-cylinder is smoother and quicker, at the expense of about two mpg. A manual transmission is also available on more basic trims. Ride quality was impressive, but handling became less crisp, and the car was a handful in our emergency maneuver. A 2013 update helped handling, but the Outback lost its cushy ride comfort in the process. That update also introduced Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety equipment, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. We suggest getting this feature, but it was only optional on high-trim models. A built-in roof rack is clever, but lash-down flexibility is limited; this improved slightly after the update.

2005-2009

2005 Redesign Year

More agile handling and nicer interior quality marked the Outback's 2005 redesign. Practical and sure-footed in snowy weather, thanks to standard all-wheel-drive, the Outback is a Legacy with added ground clearance and a slightly raised roof. Thin roof pillars and large windows make for easy outward visibility. Ride comfort is impressive, but cabin noise can be annoying, particularly with the four-cylinder. Everyday handling is responsive, though the car can slide its tail out in emergency maneuvers. For many years, only 3.0 VDC versions got standard electronic stability control; this spread slowly to other trims, with all Outbacks finally getting this desirable safety feature by 2009. Fuel economy is mediocre; we measured only 21 mpg overall from the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an automatic. Acceleration with this combination is adequate, but nothing more. Turbocharged XT models feel very powerful, while the 3.0-liter six-cylinder adds smoothness and quiet refinement; expect only 19 mpg overall on premium fuel with the six. The sedan version was dropped after 2007. Front seats are comfortable and controls are easy to use. Later model years gained a telescoping steering wheel. Cargo area is generous, with a flat load floor after folding the rear seats.

2000-2004

2000 Redesign Year

Essentially a Legacy with more ground clearance and a higher roof, Subaru's Outback is a popular SUV alternative. Standard all-wheel-drive is a plus on slippery roads. While most Outbacks are wagons, a sedan version was also available. The ride is steady and absorbent, and other than some wind noise, it is relatively quiet inside. Nicely weighted steering aids handling, but it doesn't feel as crisp as the Legacy. The rare and pricey 3.0 VDC model has a stability control system that marginally improves the otherwise twitchy emergency handling. Acceleration is relatively poky from the standard 2.5-liter four -- expect 20 mpg overall with the automatic. The 3.0-liter six is smoother and quicker.

Subaru Outback

2004 Wagons Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2004 All-wheel drive Wagons Ratings