Family cars come in many shapes and sizes, from SUVs and minivans to sedans. But they all prioritize safety and reliability when hauling their riders to work, school, events, and adventures. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) recently compiled a list of the best used family cars under $20,000, and one of the top choices is the 2018 Subaru Outback. Here’s why this used Subaru SUV made the cut.

The 2018 Subaru Outback has standard all-wheel drive

Like most Subaru models, the Outback SUV comes with all-wheel drive (AWD). It’s the only model on KBB’s list with standard AWD. Some of the other nine models offer AWD as an option or standard equipment on specific trims. But regardless of the trim, you can count on AWD with the 2018 Subaru Outback.

It provides ample ground clearance

In addition to AWD, this used Outback has impressive standard ground clearance. All models sit 8.7 inches off the ground. That comes in handy for gravelly or snowy roads. And if you plan to do some light off-roading in your family car, the Outback SUV can handle it.

In fact, the 2018 Subaru Outback has the highest ground clearance of any model on KBB’s list. The next-best models are the 2015 Toyota Highlander, 2015 Honda Pilot, and 2016 Ford Expedition, with 8.0 inches. 

The interior is ideal for families

The 2018 Outback’s interior is one of this SUV’s best features. The sound-insulating glass minimizes noise better than competitors. And the 38.1 inches of rear legroom accommodate taller passengers. All five seats are comfortable and roomy. Buyers can choose cloth upholstery on lower trims or leather in the luxury-focused Touring model. 

In addition, the Outback SUV’s narrow pillars provide good outward visibility. Plus, it boasts 35.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. That’s better than what three-row SUVs on Kelley Blue Book’s list provide, including the 2015 Highlander’s 13.8 cubic feet and the 2015 Pilot’s 18 cubic feet. The Outback SUV has 73.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo room with the rear seats folded.

Furthermore, all 2018 Outback models pack plenty of standard features. Subaru includes driving aids such as hill holding assist, hill descent control, a rearview camera, cruise control, and emergency brake assist. Technology features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and an upgraded Starlink infotainment system. 

This used Subaru SUV excels in safety

The 2018 Subaru Outback is one of the safest used SUVs. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named only 34 vehicles a Top Safety Pick+ in 2018. Seven were 2018 Subaru models, including the Outback SUV.

All crashworthiness tests received the best score: “Good.” And the IIHS rated all headlight tests “Superior” on Outback models built after September 2017.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued three recalls for the 2018 Subaru Outback. The first was in November 2018 for an incorrect fuel range display that might cause the vehicle to stall. The second recall, issued a month later, was for the rearview image potentially not displaying while backing up, increasing the risk of a crash. The last recall, in July 2021, concerned a fuel pump failure. 

CarComplaints.com gives the 2018 Subaru Outback the “Seal of Pretty Good.” The site’s database shows 145 owner complaints about this model. The most common complaint involves electrical problems, with 66 reports. And owners filed 47 complaints of a dead battery, with an average cost to repair of $100.

Is the 2018 Subaru Outback a good SUV to buy used?

If you’re looking for a good used family car, the 2018 Subaru Outback is an excellent option. It boasts outstanding safety ratings, few recalls, and space to haul a family’s belongings. Plus, the Outback provides up to five riders enough room for a smooth, comfortable ride. And the AWD is helpful for light off-roading and handling rougher terrain. You can find more luxurious or performance-focused family cars, but they’ll likely cost more than this used Subaru SUV.