Wagons are not the most popular mode of transportation, but Subaru made the wagon cooler when it added the Outback model back in 2000.
The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness looks to gain buyers by making a more off-road worthy wagon/crossover vehicle. Subaru gave the Outback Wilderness greater ground clearance. It’s now 9.5 inches off the ground, which rivals many SUV models. There are front skid plates to help protect vulnerable items while on the trail.
The suspension is upgraded and it will serve you well on the road and off the beaten path. The Subaru Outback Wilderness will also power out of most situations, thanks to a 260hp turbocharged engine and it has no problem keeping up on the highway.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness looks more like an SUV than a wagon because of the taller stance. There are also black wheels that now sport all-terrain tires and lend to its off-road personality. An impressive roof rack system looks like it’s ready for one of those rooftop tents and has a 700 lb limit. To finish off the exterior, unique badging and gold-colored trim pieces signal that this not a normal Outback.
Hop in and the cabin inside this Subaru appears more rugged, with a StarTex water-repellent upholstery unique to Wilderness models. All-weather rubber floor mats cover most of the carpet in the cabin and even in the trunk.
The cabin is spacious, with good head and legroom for passengers in the front and back seats. Golden stitching and accents adorn the seats, the shifter and steering wheel. A large touch-screen handles radio, navigation and most of the HVAC functions.
Cost: $36,995; as tested $38,120
MPG: 22 MPG City; 26 MPG Highway. I managed 23.8 in 370 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $1,125 destination and delivery.
Safety: Rear vision camera; X-mode with hill descent control; EyeSight driver assist technology with advanced adaptive cruise with lane centering; high beam assist; steering responsive LED headlights; brake assist and brake override system
Things to know: Subaru Outback Wilderness is a more off-road worthy version of the wagon that blurs the line between wagon and SUV.
Pros:
- A turbocharged engine has plenty of power for on and off-road situations
- Wilderness model has increased ground clearance and off-road capability
- Good space for front and rear seat riders
Cons:
- Gold trim color is a bit garish for some buyers
- Aggressive tires lead to road noise at highway speeds
- Fuel economy suffers with the turbocharged engine
