2012 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Subaru Outback is largely a carryover, with upgraded standard audio and connectivity on Premium and Limited trims as its main change. There is no redesign, styling overhaul, or powertrain update.
About the 2012 Subaru Outback
4th-generation Outback (2010-2014), pre-refresh middle year.
Subaru pitched the 2012 Outback as the wagon for people who want SUV-like confidence without giving up car-like road manners. The core appeal is standard all-wheel drive, generous cargo space, raised ground clearance, and road-trip practicality, all wrapped in a lower, easier-to-live-with body than a traditional SUV. Its main differentiator was simple: it could handle bad weather, dirt roads, and family duty in one package.
The 2012 Outback lineup ranges from practical 170-hp four-cylinder models to stronger 256-hp six-cylinder versions, all with standard all-wheel drive. Premium trims emphasize daily comfort and connectivity, while Limited trims add leather, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a Harman Kardon display audio system. The 3.6R Limited combines the strongest engine with the most upscale cabin.
What changed, by category
2012 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 | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| 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 | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||||
| 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 2012 Subaru Outback redesigned?
No. The 2012 Subaru Outback remains part of the fourth generation introduced for 2010, and its body, styling, and basic mechanical design carry over from 2011.
What is the biggest difference between the 2012 and 2011 Subaru Outback?
The biggest difference is improved standard audio and phone connectivity on Premium and Limited trims. Premium models gain standard Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity, while Limited models gain a Harman Kardon display audio system with Bluetooth, USB, and HD Radio.
Which 2012 Subaru Outback trims have standard Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is standard on the 2.5i Premium, 3.6R Premium, 2.5i Limited, and 3.6R Limited. Premium trims pair it with a six-speaker stereo and USB/iPod connection, while Limited trims use a Harman Kardon display audio system.
Did the 2012 Subaru Outback get any engine or all-wheel-drive changes?
No. The 2012 Outback carries over its 170-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder and 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder engines, and all-wheel drive remains standard.
Why might someone favor a 2012 Subaru Outback over a 2011?
The main reason to favor the 2012 model is its more useful standard connectivity on Premium and Limited trims. Otherwise, the two years are very similar in design and performance.