2011 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Subaru Outback is a quiet carryover with no major product changes after the full 2010 redesign. It keeps the same six-trim lineup, two engines, and standard all-wheel drive.
About the 2011 Subaru Outback
4th generation Outback (2010-2014), second model year
The 2011 Outback is Subaru’s answer for drivers who want more cargo room and bad-weather confidence than a sedan, but less bulk than a traditional SUV. Subaru sells it as a go-anywhere family wagon with standard all-wheel drive, useful roof rails, generous ground clearance, and a roomy cabin. Its core appeal is blending winter-weather and light-trail capability with everyday comfort, road-trip practicality, and car-like driving manners.
The 2011 Outback ranges from a straightforward all-wheel-drive family wagon to more comfortable Limited trims with leather, heated front seats, and upgraded audio. Four-cylinder models emphasize everyday utility, while the 256-hp 3.6R versions provide stronger passing power; every trim has 8.7 inches of ground clearance and practical roof rails with built-in crossbars.
2011 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 | 3000 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 3000 lb | 3000 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 | ||||||
| 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 | ||||||
| Power Windows | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2011 Subaru Outback compared with the 2010 model?
No major product changes were made for 2011. The Outback carried over the previous year’s redesign with the same six trims, two-engine lineup, standard all-wheel drive, and overall styling.
Is the 2011 Subaru Outback worth considering over the 2010 model?
The 2011 is not meaningfully different from the 2010 Outback in design, engines, safety equipment, or cabin technology. Condition, mileage, maintenance history, and trim equipment matter more than the model-year difference.
What engines does the 2011 Subaru Outback have?
The 2011 Outback has either a 170-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder. The 3.6R models use a five-speed automatic, while the 2.5i Limited uses a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Which 2011 Subaru Outback trim has the most comfort features?
The 3.6R Limited is the most fully equipped 2011 Outback. It combines the stronger six-cylinder engine with leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and a nine-speaker harman/kardon audio system.
Does every 2011 Subaru Outback have all-wheel drive?
Yes, every 2011 Subaru Outback has standard all-wheel drive. The lineup also shares a raised suspension with 8.7 inches of ground clearance.