# Subaru Outback specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2027
- **MPG (combined):** 23-27
- **Drive:** AWD
- **Years covered:** 2018-2027

## Quick answer

The 2027 Subaru Outback is a small SUV rated at 23-27 mpg combined. Engines: 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo.

## Every 2027 Subaru Outback version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Outback AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | AWD | CVT | 25/31 | 27 mpg | $2,500 | 330 g/mi |
| Outback AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | AWD | CVT | 21/29 | 24 mpg | $2,800 | 369 g/mi |
| Outback Wilderness AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | AWD | CVT | 21/27 | 23 mpg | $2,900 | 385 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Subaru Outback specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2027 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 23-27 |
| 2026 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 23-27 |
| 2025 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 23-28 |
| 2024 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 23-28 |
| 2023 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 23-28 |
| 2022 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 24-29 |
| 2021 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 26-29 |
| 2020 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo | CVT | AWD | 26-29 |
| 2019 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 3.6L V6 | CVT | AWD | 22-28 |
| 2018 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 3.6L V6 | CVT | AWD | 22-28 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Outback changed over the years?

- **2026:** combined mpg went from 23-28 to 23-27.
- **2023:** combined mpg went from 24-29 to 23-28.
- **2022:** combined mpg went from 26-29 to 24-29.
- **2020:** added 2.4L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 3.6L V6.

## What does it cost to run a Outback?

The EPA puts the 2027 Subaru Outback's fuel cost at **$2,500-$2,900 a year**, against about $2,287 for other current small SUVs: roughly 18% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $13,500 in fuel.

## Outback vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Toyota RAV4](/vehicles/toyota-rav4) | Hybrid | 38-43 mpg | $1,550-$1,750 |
| [Kia Sportage](/vehicles/kia-sportage) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 24-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,800 |
| [Toyota Corolla Cross](/vehicles/toyota-corolla-cross) | Gas, Hybrid | 30-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,250 |
| [Ford Escape](/vehicles/ford-escape) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,600 |
| [Honda CR-V](/vehicles/honda-cr-v) | Gas, Hybrid, Hydrogen | 29-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,300 |
| [Lexus NX](/vehicles/lexus-nx) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-40 mpg | $2,050-$3,400 |
| [Hyundai Tucson](/vehicles/hyundai-tucson) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,600 |
| [Mazda CX-50](/vehicles/mazda-cx-50) | Gas, Hybrid | 25-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,700 |

Other current small SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Subaru Outback problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Electrical System | 1882 |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1666 |
| Engine | 319 |
| Visibility | 266 |
| Power Train | 250 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 236 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 172 |
| Steering | 166 |

From 5,788 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2019**.

## Guides for common Subaru Outback problems

- **Electrical** (1,882 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Engine** (319 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (250 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)

## Subaru Outback warning lights

- [Outback: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/subaru-outback): 67 complaints
- [Outback: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/subaru-outback): 46 complaints
- [Outback: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/subaru-outback): 33 complaints
- [Outback: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/subaru-outback): 33 complaints
- [Outback: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/subaru-outback): 25 complaints
- [Outback: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/subaru-outback): 18 complaints
- [Outback: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/subaru-outback): 15 complaints
- [Outback: Battery (charging system) warning light](/warning-lights/battery/subaru-outback): 14 complaints
- [Outback: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/subaru-outback): 13 complaints
- [Outback: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/subaru-outback): 10 complaints

## Subaru Outback recalls (24)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [24V227000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V227000) | 2020-2022 | Air Bags: Sensor | 2024-03-22 |
| [23V755000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V755000) | 2021-2023 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2023-11-09 |
| [23V647000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V647000) | 2023 | Power Train: Driveline | 2023-09-21 |
| [22V712000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V712000) | 2022 | Visibility: Windshield | 2022-09-22 |
| [22V485000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V485000) | 2020-2021 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2022-07-08 |
| [22V473000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V473000) | 2022 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine | 2022-07-01 |
| [21V955000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V955000) | 2020 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2021-12-09 |
| [21V587000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V587000) | 2018-2020 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2021-07-29 |
| [21V024000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V024000) | 2021 | Power Train: Shift Linkage/Cable/Rod | 2021-01-26 |
| [20V766000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V766000) | 2020 | Back Over Prevention: Display Function | 2020-12-10 |
| [20V218000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V218000) | 2019 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2020-04-16 |
| [19V910000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V910000) | 2016-2017 | Air Bags:  Air Bag/Restraint Control Module | 2019-12-19 |
| [19V664000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V664000) | 2020 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Pedals And Linkages | 2019-09-18 |
| [19V493000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V493000) | 2019 | Structure | 2019-06-26 |
| [18V935000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V935000) | 2018 | Visibility: Rearview Mirrors/Devices | 2018-12-31 |
| [18V773000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V773000) | 2018 | Electrical System: Software | 2018-11-01 |
| [16V716000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V716000) | 2017 | Steering: Column | 2016-10-06 |
| [16V576000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V576000) | 2017 | Suspension | 2016-08-03 |
| [16V292000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V292000) | 2015-2017 | Steering: Column | 2016-05-11 |
| [16V251000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V251000) | 2015 | Electronic Stability Control (esc) | 2016-04-27 |
| [15V794000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V794000) | 2016 | Power Train: Driveline | 2015-11-24 |
| [15V502000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V502000) | 2015-2016 | Power Train: Driveline | 2015-08-10 |
| [15V366000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V366000) | 2015 | Forward Collision Avoidance:  Crash Imminent Braking | 2015-06-12 |
| [14V577000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=14V577000) | 2015 | Trailer Hitches | 2014-09-19 |

Recall repairs are free at any Subaru dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2027 Subaru Outback get?

The 2027 Subaru Outback is EPA-rated at 23-27 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2027 Subaru Outback have?

The 2027 Subaru Outback comes with: 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.4L 4-cyl turbo. It uses cvt transmission and is offered with AWD.

### Is there a hybrid Subaru Outback?

No. In the EPA data from 2018-2027 the Subaru Outback has no hybrid version.

### Which Subaru Outback year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2022 Subaru Outback has the highest combined rating, up to 29 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2027 Subaru Outback for a year?

About $2,500-$2,900 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2027 Subaru Outback?

The most efficient 2027 version, the Outback AWD, is rated 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway (27 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2027 Subaru Outback emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 330-385 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2027 Subaru Outback come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2027 Subaru Outback is offered with AWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Subaru Outback cheap to run compared with other small SUVs?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $2,500-$2,900 compares with about $2,287 for other current small SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Subaru Outback have?

NHTSA lists 24 recalls for 2015-2026 Subaru Outback models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2024-03-22 (24V227000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Subaru Outback?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is electrical system, followed by visibility/wiper. The 2019 model year has the most complaints (1036), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Subaru SUVs

- [Subaru Crosstrek](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-crosstrek)
- [Subaru Forester](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-forester)
- [Subaru Solterra](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-solterra)
- [Subaru Ascent](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-ascent)

## More Subaru models

- [Subaru BRZ](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-brz)
- [Subaru Impreza](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-impreza)
- [Subaru WRX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-wrx)
- [Subaru Legacy](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-legacy): discontinued

## Other small SUVs

- [Tesla Model Y](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/tesla-model-y)
- [Toyota bZ4X](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-bz4x)
- [Toyota C-HR](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-c-hr)
- [Toyota Corolla Cross](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-corolla-cross)
- [Toyota RAV4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-rav4)
- [Toyota RAV4 Prime](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-rav4-prime)
- [Toyota Venza](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-venza)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/subaru-outback
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.