2022 Subaru Outback In-Depth Review

There’s still a lot left to learn about the 2022 Subaru Outback. However, we have a fair amount of information available so far. This review discusses what’s new with the 2022 Outback and how it stacks up against similar models. 

One of the changes between the 2021 Outback and the 2022 model is the addition of the Wilderness style option, which includes unique features. The different style options available for the 2022 Subaru Outback include base, premium, limited, Onyx Edition XT and Touring. 

Here’s what we know so far about the 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Subaru Outback is an excellent lifestyle vehicle, perfect for families (or singles) that love an adventure. If you are looking for a vehicle to haul your kayaks, pull small boats, and has an ample amount of seating capacity to comfortably fit five, then the 2022 Subaru Outback is a great option. 

What is new with the 2022 Subaru Outback?

The 2022 Subaru Outback offers more style options to choose from after adding the Wilderness model to their lineup. The Wilderness model offers extra ground clearance, upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires and various style enhancements. Subaru also included a roof rack that can carry up to 700 pounds. In addition, it comes equipped with water-repellant interior upholstery. 

How does the 2022 Subaru Outback perform?

The 2022 Subaru Outback performs well on-road and holds its off-road as well. It features a four-cylinder engine that offers 260 horsepower. It can tow up to 2,700 pounds, and the turbocharged can pull as much as 3,500 pounds, which is plenty of capacity for most small to mid-sized watercraft. 

How much does the 2022 Subaru Outback cost?

The 2022 Subaru Outback is estimated to begin at $28,000 for the base model. The Premium model is estimated to cost $30,000, and the price continually increases to the Touring style, which is estimated to start at $41,000. The price is competitive with similar models, such as:

• Mini Cooper Clubman S – $30,750
• Fiat 500L – $23,995
• Mini Cooper Clubman JCW – $40,350

You can read more about these three competitor options below. In general, the 2022 Subaru Outback is a much better bargain for your buck than these three. Although, there are some advantages to the Mini Cooper JCW that the Subaru Outback does not provide. 

What is the fuel economy?

The EPA estimates that the 2022 Subaru Outback will have 26 miles per gallon (city) and 33 miles per gallon (highway). This is competitive when measured against the Outbacks’ biggest competitors. 

How is the infotainment system?

The 2022 Outback has a 7-inch infotainment screen for the base models, and the premium models have an 11.6-inch infotainment screen. Each screen option is easy to use and touchscreen. You can choose to add on WiFi hotspot and wireless device charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included. The Outback also has a great speaker system, featuring 12 speakers and 576 watts. 

Is the 2022 Subaru Outback safe?

The Outback is relatively safe to drive. It has all of the safety features that you would want in an SUV. This includes forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The National Highway of Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2021 Subaru Outback a five-star rating and also received a perfect rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). 

How is the warranty coverage?

The warranty coverage for the 2022 Subaru Outback is underwhelming. It provides limited coverage for 3 years (or 36,000 miles) and offers a powertrain warranty that extends to 5 years (or 60,000 miles). It does not include any scheduled maintenance, so the driver must cover check-up costs and parts replacement (i.e. headlights replacement) on their own. Fortunately, however, the Outback is dependable and generally does not develop many issues for the first 100,000 miles. 

What about the headlights?

The Subaru Outback is known for excellent headlights. The 2022 Subaru Outback in particular features hexagonal fog lights as well. The face of the Subaru Outback is stylish and practical. You should not have any issues with the headlights (or taillights) for multiple years with quality care. 

What are similar models to the 2022 Subaru Outback?

The three most notable competitor models to the 2022 Subaru Outback are the Mini Cooper S Clubman, Fiat 500L and Mini Cooper Clubman JCL. The Subaru Outback has some notable advantages over each model, although there are some areas where it may not perform as well. 

Mini Cooper S Clubman

The Mini Cooper S CLubman is priced about the same as the Subaru Outback (approximately $2,000 more). It features a spacious trunk. It also has an option for an all-wheel-drive that offers exceptional off-road capabilities. While reliable, it does not offer the same level of performance and comfort as the Subaru Outback. 

Fiat 500L

The Fiat 500L is more affordable by a significant margin than the Subaru Outback. It is also more compact with less storage space and passenger legroom. In addition to less than ideal comfort and low-quality materials for the interior, many drivers have complained about its performance. The Fiat 500L accelerates slow, making driving a huge chore. 

Mini Cooper Clubman JCL

Mini Cooper Clubman JCL is an upgraded version of the S Clubman, featuring a four-cylinder engine and over 300 horsepower. It is also quite stylish. While officially under the classification of a station wagon, it is a much more attractive and practical option than the average station wagon.  

Who is the ideal driver for the 2022 Subaru Outback?

The 2022 Subaru Outback is known as a lifestyle vehicle. It is perfect for loading the family up, strapping the kayaks to the roof and heading out on a weekend road trip. The 2022 model gets fair gas mileage and offers a comfortable ride as well. It is perfect for anyone (or family) that enjoys traveling and wants a reliable and comfortable vehicle to get around. 

Final thoughts

The 2022 Outback is perfect for couples and families that love going on adventures or spend a lot of time on the water. You can easily pack five and fit them comfortably in the Outback, along with carrying your small watercraft on the roof or by pulling behind. The Outback is comfortable, safe and affordable.