2010 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Subaru Outback is a full redesign and the first year of its fourth generation. It grew larger and roomier, adopted a more crossover-like shape, and received revised four- and six-cylinder powertrains.
About the 2010 Subaru Outback
4th generation Outback, first year of the redesign.
Subaru positions the Outback as the do-everything family adventure wagon: easier to live with than a truck-based SUV, but more capable in bad weather and on rough roads than a typical wagon. The core appeal is standard all-wheel drive, generous cargo flexibility, useful roof-rack hardware, and a roomy cabin that fits everyday errands as well as camping gear, bikes, and road trips. In this era, it stands out by blending wagon practicality with crossover ride height and Subaru’s safety-focused identity.
The 2010 Outback ranges from the practical 2.5i to the stronger 256-hp 3.6R, with standard all-wheel drive throughout the lineup. Premium trims add useful comfort features, while Limited models bring leather, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a nine-speaker harman/kardon audio system.
What changed, by category
2010 Subaru Outback specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 18 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 25 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 256 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 256 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71.3 cu-ft | 71.3 cu-ft | 71.3 cu-ft | 71.3 cu-ft | 71.3 cu-ft | 71.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.8 in | 37.8 in | 37.8 in | 37.8 in | 37.8 in | 37.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| 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
Was the 2010 Subaru Outback redesigned?
Yes. The 2010 Outback began the fourth generation with a larger body, a longer wheelbase, more passenger and cargo room, a more crossover-like shape, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
How is the 2010 Subaru Outback different from the 2009 model?
The 2010 Outback is a full redesign rather than a minor update. Major differences include a roomier body, new retractable roof cross bars, an electronic parking brake, a continuously variable automatic transmission for 2.5i models, and a new 3.6-liter six-cylinder lineup.
What engines and transmissions does the 2010 Subaru Outback have?
The 2010 Outback has either a 170-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder. Four-cylinder models use a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission, while 3.6R models have a five-speed automatic.
Does the 2010 Subaru Outback still have a turbocharged trim?
No. The turbocharged 2.5 XT Limited was dropped for 2010. The stronger-engine versions are the naturally aspirated 3.6R models with a 256-hp six-cylinder.
Which trims changed for the 2010 Subaru Outback?
The 2.5i Premium, 3.6R, and 3.6R Premium joined the lineup for 2010. The former 3.0 R Limited continued as the 3.6R Limited, while the 2.5 XT Limited was discontinued.