The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among adventure seekers and families alike, blending rugged capability with everyday practicality. For 2024, Subaru refines its iconic crossover with updated tech, enhanced safety features, and a trim lineup tailored to diverse budgets and lifestyles. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a Subaru loyalist, this 1,800-word buyer’s guide dives deep into the 2024 Outback’s pricing, trim differences, and standout features. We’ll also unpack critical updates, ownership costs, and hidden perks to help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore why the 2024 Outback remains a top contender in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
1. 2024 Subaru Outback Overview: What’s New This Year?
The 2024 Subaru Outback retains its core identity but introduces subtle yet impactful upgrades. Key changes include a standard 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen across all trims (replacing the previous base model’s 7-inch display), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and revised exterior styling with darker accents on Premium and Limited trims. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology now includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering, enhancing highway safety. The Wilderness trim gains a reinforced roof rack capable of holding 220 lbs, ideal for rooftop tents or kayaks. Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.4L BOXER engine returns exclusively on Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring trims, delivering 260 hp for towing up to 3,500 lbs. Keywords: 2024 Subaru Outback updates, new features Subaru Outback 2024.
2. 2024 Subaru Outback Pricing: MSRP, Trims, and Hidden Costs
The 2024 Outback starts at $29,620 (MSRP) for the base trim, rising to $44,895 for the top-tier Touring model. Below is a breakdown of each trim’s starting price:
- Base: $29,620
- Premium: $33,395
- Onyx Edition: $37,895
- Wilderness: $39,895
- Limited: $40,895
- Touring: $44,895
Dealer-added fees (e.g., destination charge: $1,295) and optional packages can push prices higher. For example, the Limited trim’s Option Package 34 adds a panoramic moonroof and Harman Kardon audio for $2,895. Compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid ($32,075–$41,575) and Honda Passport ($41,470–$48,890), the Outback strikes a balance between affordability and premium features. Keywords: 2024 Subaru Outback price, Subaru Outback trim costs, Outback vs RAV4 pricing.
3. Trim-Level Breakdown: Which 2024 Outback Fits Your Lifestyle?
a. Base Trim: Budget-Friendly Essentials
Starting at $29,620, the base Outback includes Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), 11.6-inch touchscreen, and EyeSight safety suite (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning). However, it lacks power seats and a heated steering wheel. Ideal for minimalists or urban drivers who prioritize AWD security over luxury.
b. Premium Trim: Family-Ready Value
The $33,395 Premium trim adds 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. Opt for the $1,995 Option Package 13 to upgrade to a power liftgate and blind-spot monitoring. Best for families needing comfort without breaking the bank.
c. Onyx Edition: Rugged Refinement
At $37,895, the Onyx Edition features water-repellent StarTex upholstery, turbocharged 2.4L engine, and upgraded suspension. Its blacked-out exterior and exclusive Geyser Blue paint cater to drivers seeking a sporty, adventure-ready aesthetic.
d. Wilderness Trim: Off-Road Mastery
Priced at $39,895, the Wilderness trim boasts 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a reinforced skid plate. Subaru’s X-Mode with Hill Descent Control optimizes traction on mud, snow, or rocky trails. Perfect for overlanding enthusiasts.
e. Limited & Touring: Luxury Meets Capability
The Limited ($40,895) and Touring ($44,895) trims prioritize premium comforts like Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The Touring adds a heated rear seats and a panoramic moonroof. Keywords: Subaru Outback trims explained, best Outback trim for families, Wilderness vs Limited trim.
4. Must-Know Features: Performance, Safety, and Tech
a. Engine Options and Towing Capacity
The 2024 Outback offers two engines:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: 182 hp, 176 lb-ft torque, 26/32 MPG (city/highway).
- 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder: 260 hp, 277 lb-ft torque, 22/29 MPG.
The turbocharged engine (available on Onyx, Limited, and Touring) enables a 3,500-lb towing capacity—enough for small campers or jet skis. By comparison, the Toyota RAV4 tops out at 1,500 lbs.
b. Subaru’s EyeSight Safety Suite
Standard across all trims, EyeSight includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering.
- Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure Warning.
- DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation, which alerts drowsy drivers.
The 2024 Outback earned a 5-star NHTSA safety rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors.
c. Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Outback features an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration. The system supports over-the-air updates and TomTom navigation (optional on Premium and above). However, some users report lag during multitasking.
d. Cargo and Interior Flexibility
With 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space (75.7 with seats folded), the Outback outshines the Honda CR-V (39.2/75.8) by offering a longer load floor for gear like skis or surfboards. Roof rails support up to 220 lbs, and rear seatback protectors guard against pet scratches. Keywords: Subaru Outback towing capacity, EyeSight safety features, Outback cargo space.
5. Ownership Costs: Fuel Economy, Maintenance, and Resale Value
a. Fuel Efficiency
The base 2.5L engine achieves 26 MPG city/32 highway, while the turbo model drops to 22/29. Over 15,000 miles annually, the base engine saves $300/year in fuel costs (vs. turbo) at $3.50/gallon.
b. Maintenance and Repairs
Subaru’s 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage provide peace of mind. RepairPal estimates average annual maintenance costs at $607, slightly above the $573 segment average. Critical services:
- CVT fluid replacement: Every 60,000 miles ($250–$400).
- Timing chain inspection: Non-interference design reduces failure risks.
c. Resale Value
Subaru Outbacks retain 55% of their value after 5 years, outperforming the Toyota RAV4 (52%) and Ford Edge (48%). The Wilderness trim holds value best due to its niche appeal. Keywords: Subaru Outback fuel economy, Outback maintenance costs, Subaru resale value.
6. Pros and Cons: Is the 2024 Outback Right for You?
Pros
- Standard AWD and 8.7-inch ground clearance (9.5″ on Wilderness).
- Spacious interior with premium materials on higher trims.
- Top-tier safety ratings and intuitive driver aids.
Cons
- CVT transmission can feel sluggish in base models.
- Infotainment system requires a learning curve.
- Pricier than rivals like the Hyundai Santa Fe ($29,945–$41,700).
7. Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2024 Subaru Outback?
The 2024 Outback is ideal for:
- Adventure enthusiasts needing off-road capability without a truck.
- Families prioritizing safety and cargo space.
- Cold-climate drivers relying on AWD for snow and ice.
Test-drive the Wilderness trim for technical trails or the Limited trim for highway comfort. For budget buyers, the Premium trim delivers core Subaru perks at a reasonable price.
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