Subaru Outback running costs and reliability

2021 onwards (change model)

Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by Chris Williams Published: 31 August 2022 Updated: 5 September 2022

Miles per pound (mpp) ⓘ

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only, and typical current fuel or electricity costs.

Petrol engines	4.8 mpp

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy ⓘ

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only.

Petrol engines	33 mpg

View mpg & specs for any version

How much will it cost to run?

Fuel consumption isn’t great
No hybrid or diesel option
Subaru’s reliability offers peace of mind

This is one of the Outback’s flaws, and it is quite a big one. It comes with one engine option and it’s not a particularly frugal one. At 2.5-litres it’s quite large and does without a turbocharger or any hybrid tech to help it out.

It has an official combined average of 32.8mpg. Our testing on a combination of motorways, A-roads, and rural roads resulted in an average of 39.3mpg, which is higher than we were expecting. With this figure, when we refilled the indicator showed a range of 540 miles. That’s a best case scenario, though. Expect nearer to 30mpg if you throw some urban driving into the mix and even less if you’ve got a heavy right foot.

Many vehicles have a stop-start system these days and the Outback is no exception, but it’s appreciated more on this car because of its relatively heavy fuel consumption. The Outback could certainly benefit from a more efficient turbocharged or hybrid engine, not only for economy purposes, but also performance, which we shall get to on the next page.

As it stands, many petrol rivals such as the Leon and Superb Estates are far more economical, while diesel alternatives such as the Golf Alltrack will be even more frugal.

Servicing and warranty

Subaru dealers tend to be local businesses with a reputation for good customer service. Not that they particularly need it, as Subarus very rarely go wrong, so you’re unlikely to need to head back to the dealer for any reason but your yearly service.

However, it’s a shame the warranty is just for three years and 60,000 miles. That’s similar to premium rivals but far behind the likes of Hyundai, Kia and Toyota.

Reliability

Subaru’s reputation is one of toughness and reliability. Certainly, our owner reviews of the predecessor to this model add substance to that.

There was a recall earlier in 2022 for the Subaru Outback caused by in issue with the car’s EyeSight system, which could accidentally engage emergency braking. This recall affected 152 cars.