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The Subaru Outback has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Between the brand’s reputation for adventure and superior safety, it all makes sense. However, the 2023 Subaru Outback is seeing some sub-par reliability scores on Consumer Reports via owner surveys. What problems is the 2023 Subaru Outback having exactly? 

Skip the 2023 Subaru Outback base trim for this Onyx Edition XT
A 2023 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT | Subaru

Is the 2023 Subaru Outback reliable? 

The Subaru Outback is a reliable vehicle. However, according to Consumer Reports, the newest Outback is struggling in several areas. 

Officially, the Outback’s reliability is pretty average. However, the model has been around since 1994 and wasn’t always the most reliable. Over the past few years, The Outback has gotten better and better, but some old issues might be resurfacing. 

Consumer Reports shows that the 2023 Subaru Outback is having more issues with In-car electronics than anything else. Models from previous years have had some body-integrity issues as well, but not too consistently to be worrysome. 

As far as powertrain, transmission, and almost every other aspect, the 2023 Outback seems to be following suit in being a strong and capable wagon. 

The 2023 Subaru Outback is still one of the highest-ranked SUVs on Consumer Reports

The 2023 Subaru Outback off-roading in mud
2023 Subaru Outback | Subaru

If it weren’t for the electronics issues, the 2023 Subaru Outback would be hard to compete with. It ranked the same as the 2023 Toyota Venza, even with its reliability catch. 

What makes the Subaru Outback special is its Goldilocks-ness. The Outback sits between the Subaru Forester and the Crosstrek. Aside from its killer AWD system, EyeSight safety suite, and adventurous platform, the Outback is one of the very few wagons left. But it’s not just a wagon (which is cool by itself); it’s a lifted wagon ready to rip up dirt roads. 

The Subaru Outback is also a comfy ride. Without being opulent, Subaru’s wagon ranks well for ride comfort, seat comfort, ride noise, and braking. While the Outback isn’t going to off-road with Wrangler or burn the highway up with the Audi RS6 Avant, it still gives a sense of true utility and practicality without sacrificing comfort.

How much does the 2023 Subaru Outback cost? 

The Outback starts at $28,395 and tops out at $42,295. The Wilderness Edition (a personal favorite) starts at $38,445. 

While there are more family-friendly off-roaders than ever before, the Outback really delivers on giving families a safe and comfortable wagon that can still take a family far off the beaten path. This is part of what we love about the Wilderness Edition. 

The reliability hit is a bit of a dagger for Subaru, but hopefully, the electrical issues can be cleared up quickly.