The transformation from a station wagon to a true off-road SUV is complete. The most hardcore version of the 2022 Subaru Outback is the Wilderness trim. This new model signals a change for the brand that will use the Wilderness name as a sub-brand going forward. This new version of the Outback adds the capability and performance that tuners were adding. Now, those features will come to you as part of a Subaru SUV that can take you deep into unexplored territory.

What does the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness add to your drive?

By selecting the Wilderness package for your Outback, you’re going to have a midsize crossover that’s more capable than any other version of this vehicle ever has been. You’ll have a lift kit, all-terrain tires, and a hatch-mounted cargo light. The build of this trim gives you a wider stance, a taller position above the road, and a tougher body.

This vehicle has completed the transformation from the off-road wagon of old to a hardcore off-road SUV that is fun on any trail. The addition of off-road items doesn’t take away from the road’s comfort. You’ll still find a smooth and condiment ride when you stay between the lines.

More is the theme of this off-road SUV

According to Car and Driver, the Outback Wilderness took the traditional formula for this vehicle and gave it more. The body has more cladding, the ride height is greater, and more off-road features are present to handle obstacles on the trail. The front fascia clears cliffsides better than the traditional model. Everything that is chrome on other models of the Outback is satin black for the Subaru Outback Wilderness.

What is special about the Subaru Outback Wilderness?

You can tow a heavy load and carry more than you might expect on the roof. There are roof-rail tie-downs that provide anchor points for your kayaks and canoes. Towing is rated at 3,500 pounds, giving you enough power to pull a small boat or a couple of jet skis to the far side of a lake. If you’re up for some serious deep wilderness adventure, put a rooftop tent on top of this Outback SUV. The roof supports up to 700 pounds, enough for two people to camp out on top of this SUV.

How much ground clearance does this SUV offer?

Standard models of the Subaru Outback stand 8.7 inches above the ground, but the Wilderness model increases this to 9.5 inches. That difference in space makes it possible for you to handle most of the obstacles you’ll find in your path.

You want a safe and secure SUV to drive, and the Outback models have been rated at five stars by the NHTSA. Additionally, the IIHS gives the Outback its Top Safety Pick+ honors, the highest rating a vehicle can earn.

The best place to drive this Subaru

The Wilderness model handles dirt trails like a champ. Engage the X-Mode system, and the torque-vectoring AWD system springs to life to put power at the wheels that need it. This feature makes driving over rocks, boulders, and mud much easier for you. The hill descent control maintains the slow speed you want to use on a downgrade. For all of this, you’ll have to pay $36,995.

What powertrain is found in the Subaru Outback Wilderness?

The engine powering this SUV is a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat four-cylinder model. You’ll have 260 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque moving through a CVT automatic transmission. Consistent with most Subaru models, this Outback has standard AWD, and it can return 22 city/26 hwy mpg.

Should you drive the Wilderness Outback?

If you want an affordable off-roader that takes things up a few notches, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness is the ideal SUV. This SUV has everything mentioned to give you an amazing drive on some of the toughest trails.

When you’d rather have greater ground clearance, more power, and transmission with numbered gearing, the alternative can be found with a vehicle like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco. Of course, these alternatives are much more expensive than the Subaru, which could be an obstacle for you.

Next, check out the SUVs that offer the best fuel economy numbers, or watch the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness review in the video below:

This article was updated on 9/7/2022.