Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about the 2022 Subaru Outback. This isn't just your average wagon; it's a blend of rugged capability, family-friendly comfort, and advanced technology. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, this review will cover all the essential aspects, from its performance and interior to its safety features and overall value.

Overview of the 2022 Subaru Outback

The 2022 Subaru Outback stands out in the crowded SUV and wagon market with its distinctive styling and impressive functionality. Subaru has built a reputation for reliability and the Outback continues that tradition. Let's start with what makes the 2022 model special. Subaru offers the 2022 Outback in several trim levels, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. The base model provides excellent value, while the higher trims offer luxurious features and enhanced performance. Under the hood, you typically find a choice between two engines: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. Both engines provide adequate power, but the turbocharged option delivers more robust acceleration, especially useful when hauling cargo or climbing steep grades. One of the Outback's defining features is its standard all-wheel-drive system, making it a capable performer in various weather conditions and terrains. Whether it's snow, rain, or gravel, the Outback provides confident traction and stability. Inside, the Outback offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The interior design is practical and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and durable materials. Subaru has also equipped the 2022 Outback with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a suite of safety technologies. The Outback isn't just about practicality; it also offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride, and the seats are designed to offer ample support on long journeys. Plus, the Outback's raised ground clearance makes it suitable for light off-roading adventures.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2022 Subaru Outback offers a balanced driving experience that caters to both everyday commuting and weekend adventures. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 182 horsepower, which is adequate for most driving situations. However, if you're looking for more spirited acceleration, the optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing 260 horsepower, is definitely worth considering. This engine provides noticeably quicker acceleration and makes the Outback feel more responsive, especially when passing or merging onto the highway. The Outback's handling is predictable and stable, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system. This system not only enhances traction in slippery conditions but also improves cornering ability. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver the Outback in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. While the Outback isn't designed for hardcore off-roading, its raised ground clearance and all-wheel-drive system make it capable of handling light off-road trails and unpaved roads. The X-Mode system, available on some trims, further enhances off-road capability by optimizing the engine, transmission, and brakes for maximum traction. Fuel economy is another important consideration, and the Outback delivers respectable numbers in this area. The 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine gets slightly lower figures at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Outback offers a well-rounded driving experience that combines comfort, capability, and efficiency. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or exploring the great outdoors, the Outback is a versatile vehicle that can handle it all.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Subaru Outback, you'll find a cabin designed for interior comfort and technology. The interior is both functional and stylish, with a focus on providing a comfortable and convenient experience for both the driver and passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making them ideal for long journeys. Higher trims offer leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats for added luxury. The Outback provides ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, ensuring that even taller passengers can ride comfortably. The cargo area is also generous, with plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the Outback a versatile vehicle for hauling large items. In terms of technology, the 2022 Outback comes equipped with a range of features designed to keep you connected and entertained. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large touchscreen display, which houses the infotainment system. This system is easy to use and provides access to a variety of features, including navigation, smartphone integration, and audio controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the infotainment system. Other available technology features include a premium audio system, a wireless charging pad, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Outback also comes standard with a suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and prevent accidents. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Subaru Outback is a comfortable and well-equipped space that offers a blend of practicality and technology. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Outback provides a pleasant and convenient driving experience.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety features, the 2022 Subaru Outback excels, offering a comprehensive suite of technologies designed to protect you and your passengers. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Outback is a testament to this commitment. Standard on all 2022 Outback models is the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology system. This system includes a range of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control helps to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, while automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, and lane-keeping assist can gently steer you back into your lane. In addition to EyeSight, the 2022 Outback also offers other available safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Reverse automatic braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an obstacle behind you while you're backing up. The 2022 Outback has also earned excellent crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings demonstrate the Outback's ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Outback is a safe and reliable vehicle that offers a wide range of safety features to help prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers. Whether you're driving in the city or on the highway, you can have peace of mind knowing that the Outback is equipped with the latest safety technology.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Subaru Outback is available in several trim levels and options, each offering a unique combination of features and equipment. Understanding the differences between these trims can help you choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. The base model is the Outback, which comes standard with features like all-wheel drive, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. Stepping up to the Premium trim adds features like an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The Limited trim adds leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, and blind-spot monitoring. The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering features like a sunroof, ventilated front seats, and a 180-degree front-view monitor. In addition to these standard trims, Subaru also offers the Onyx Edition XT, which features a more rugged appearance and the turbocharged engine. This trim is designed for those who want a more capable and stylish Outback. Each trim level can also be further customized with a range of optional packages and accessories. These options allow you to add features like a trailer hitch, a roof rack, or a cargo organizer. When choosing a trim level, it's important to consider your budget and the features that are most important to you. The base model offers excellent value, while the higher trims provide more luxurious features. The Onyx Edition XT is a good choice for those who want a more rugged and capable Outback. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Outback offers a wide range of trim levels and options to choose from, ensuring that there's a model to suit every need and preference. Whether you're looking for a basic and affordable wagon or a fully-equipped luxury vehicle, the Outback has something to offer.

Pricing and Value

Let's talk about pricing and value with the 2022 Subaru Outback. The Outback is known for offering a great balance between features, performance, and affordability. The starting price for the base model is typically around $27,000, while the top-of-the-line Touring trim can reach upwards of $40,000. Of course, prices can vary depending on your location and any optional packages or accessories you choose. When evaluating the Outback's value, it's important to consider its standard features, such as all-wheel drive and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. These features are often optional on competing vehicles, making the Outback a great value for the money. The Outback also offers excellent fuel economy, which can save you money at the pump over the long term. The 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged engine gets slightly lower figures at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. In addition to its standard features and fuel economy, the Outback also boasts a strong resale value. This means that you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade in your Outback. The Outback also comes with a comprehensive warranty, which provides peace of mind and protects you from unexpected repair costs. Subaru's warranty typically covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Outback offers excellent value for the money. It's a versatile and capable vehicle that comes standard with a range of features and offers excellent fuel economy and resale value. Whether you're looking for a practical family wagon or a rugged adventure vehicle, the Outback is a great choice.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Subaru Outback? Well, after taking a comprehensive look at its performance, interior, safety features, and value, it's clear that the Outback is a top contender in the wagon and SUV market. Its blend of rugged capability, family-friendly comfort, and advanced technology makes it a versatile vehicle that can handle a wide range of tasks. Whether you're commuting to work, hauling cargo, or exploring the great outdoors, the Outback is up to the challenge. One of the Outback's biggest strengths is its standard all-wheel-drive system, which provides confident traction and stability in various weather conditions and terrains. This makes it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The Outback also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making them ideal for long journeys. The Outback is also equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a suite of safety technologies. These features enhance safety and convenience, making the Outback a pleasure to drive. Of course, the Outback isn't perfect. Some may find the base engine to be underpowered, and the infotainment system can be a bit slow at times. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the Outback's many strengths. Overall, the 2022 Subaru Outback is a well-rounded and capable vehicle that offers excellent value for the money. If you're in the market for a wagon or SUV, the Outback is definitely worth considering. It's a reliable and practical vehicle that can handle whatever life throws your way.