2009 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
Vehicle Dynamics Control stability control becomes standard on every 2009 Subaru Outback. Otherwise, this is a light-update year and the final year of this generation before the 2010 redesign.
About the 2009 Subaru Outback
Third generation (2005-2009), final year before the all-new 2010 redesign.
Subaru positions the 2009 Outback as an outdoor-friendly wagon that blends car-like drivability with SUV-style ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. The core appeal is simple: confident traction in bad weather, useful cargo space for gear, and enough ride height for rough roads without stepping up to a bulky truck-based SUV. That mix of everyday comfort, wagon practicality, and light-trail capability is what sets the Outback apart from ordinary midsize wagons.
The 2009 Outback lineup runs from the practical 170-horsepower 2.5i to leather-equipped Limited models with heated power front seats and a panoramic moonroof. The 2.5 XT Limited has a 243-horsepower turbo four-cylinder for stronger acceleration, while the 3.0 R Limited uses a smoother 245-horsepower six-cylinder. All-wheel drive is standard throughout the range.
What changed, by category
2009 Subaru Outback specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | H6, 3.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/SportShift / Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/SportShift | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 17 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26–27 mpg | 26 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 245 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft | 215 lb-ft | 241 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 3000 lb | 2700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 33.5 cu-ft | 33.5 cu-ft | 33.5 cu-ft | 33.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.9 in | 33.9 in | 33.9 in | 33.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Traction Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Subaru Outback?
The biggest change is standard Vehicle Dynamics Control stability control with traction control on every 2009 Outback. It helps the driver maintain control if the vehicle begins to skid or lose grip.
Does every 2009 Subaru Outback have stability control?
Yes. Every 2009 Subaru Outback has Vehicle Dynamics Control stability control with traction control as standard equipment.
Did the 2009 Subaru Outback get a new audio system?
Upper 2009 Outback trims get a nine-speaker, 440-watt Harman Kardon audio system. The base 2.5i retains a six-speaker CD audio system with an auxiliary input.
Was the 2009 Subaru Outback redesigned?
No. The 2009 Outback is a lightly updated version of the third-generation model. It is the final model year before the redesigned 2010 Outback.
Which 2009 Subaru Outback trims have the stronger engines?
The 2.5 XT Limited has a 243-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, and the 3.0 R Limited has a 245-horsepower six-cylinder. The 2.5i and 2.5i Limited use a 170-horsepower four-cylinder.