2013 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2013 Subaru Outback gets a substantial mid-cycle refresh, led by a new 173-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for 2.5i models. The update also improves its styling, road manners, safety, and cabin tech without changing its basic design.

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About the 2013 Subaru Outback

4th generation Outback (2010-2014), mid-cycle refresh year.

Subaru positions the Outback as a wagon-shaped alternative to a typical midsize SUV: easier to load, more car-like to drive, but still ready for bad weather, dirt roads, and family trips. Its core promise is standard AWD, generous ground clearance, smart cargo flexibility, and everyday comfort. What sets it apart in this era is that all of that utility comes without giving up the lower roofline and more settled road manners of a wagon.

The 2013 lineup spans the straightforward 2.5i with standard AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, comfort-focused Limited models with leather and heated front seats, and stronger 3.6R versions with a 256-hp six-cylinder. The 2.5i Premium adds useful upgrades such as alloy wheels, fog lights, a power driver's seat, and a six-speaker audio system.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The 2.5i models receive a new 173-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and four-cylinder automatic versions get a revised CVT. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder trims rises from 22 city/29 highway mpg to 24 city/30 highway mpg. The 256-hp six-cylinder and five-speed automatic carry over.

Styling

The front end is refreshed with new headlights, grille, bumper, and fog-light treatment.

Safety

Brake Override is added across the lineup. Subaru also introduces the optional EyeSight driver-assist system to the Outback for the first time.

Tech

Bluetooth becomes standard on the 2.5i and 3.6R, while the base audio system gains Bluetooth audio streaming and USB/iPod connectivity. Limited models receive upgraded gauges with a color display and rear-seat climate vents; dual-zone climate control on the 2.5i Limited shifts from standard to optional.

Structural

Revised suspension, steering, and body-structure tuning aim to reduce body roll and deliver a smoother, quieter ride. The roof-rail crossbars also gain a wider adjustment range.

Lineup

The 3.6R Premium trim is dropped. The six-cylinder lineup continues with the 3.6R and 3.6R Limited.

2013 Subaru Outback specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Subaru Outback2.5i0 in stock	2013 Subaru Outback3.6R0 in stock	2013 Subaru Outback2.5i Limited3 in stock	2013 Subaru Outback2.5i Premium3 in stock	2013 Subaru Outback3.6R Limited0 in stock
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
Transmission	Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode	Automatic, 5-Spd	Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode	Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode	Automatic, 5-Spd
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	24 mpg	18 mpg	24 mpg	24 mpg	18 mpg
MPG Highway	30 mpg	25 mpg	30 mpg	30 mpg	25 mpg
Horsepower	173 hp	256 hp	173 hp	173 hp	256 hp
Torque	174 lb-ft	247 lb-ft	174 lb-ft	174 lb-ft	247 lb-ft
Max Towing	2700 lb	3000 lb	2700 lb	2700 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
Rear Legroom	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in	37.8 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Heated Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Privacy Glass
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Front DVD Entertainment System
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Subwoofer
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Memory Driver's Seat
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Remote Start
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2014 Subaru Outback compares

The 2014 Subaru Outback is mostly a carryover, and its most important update is the 2.5i Premium’s added standard comfort and audio equipment. EyeSight reaches that trim as an option, while the base 3.6R leaves the lineup.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2013 Subaru Outback?

The biggest change is the new 173-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in 2.5i models. It is part of a broader mid-cycle refresh that also brings revised front styling and retuned suspension and steering.

Does the 2013 Subaru Outback have EyeSight?

Yes, EyeSight is offered on the 2013 Outback as optional driver-assist technology. This is the first Outback model year to receive the system, but it is not standard across the lineup.

Did the 2013 Subaru Outback's six-cylinder powertrain change?

No, the six-cylinder powertrain carries over with a 256-hp 3.6-liter engine and five-speed automatic. The 3.6R models still receive the refreshed front end and the revised suspension, steering, and body tuning.

Is the 2013 Subaru Outback more fuel-efficient than the 2012 model?

Yes, the four-cylinder 2013 Outback is rated at 24 city and 30 highway mpg, up from 22 city and 29 highway mpg for 2012. The improvement accompanies the new 2.5-liter engine and revised CVT.

Was any 2012 Subaru Outback trim dropped for 2013?

Yes, the 3.6R Premium is dropped for 2013. The six-cylinder range continues with the 3.6R and the more richly equipped 3.6R Limited.