“The car overall is great. Unfortunately we have had ongoing issues with the tailgate which I heard is common for this year's model.”
2015 Subaru Outback: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2015 Subaru Outback is an all-new, fifth-generation model. Its full redesign brings a roomier and quieter cabin, more cargo space, standard CVT automatic transmissions, and expanded AWD capability.
About the 2015 Subaru Outback
5th gen (2015-2019), first year.
Subaru positions the Outback as a raised wagon for families and active drivers who want SUV-style traction and cargo flexibility without the bulk or driving feel of a traditional SUV. Its core appeal is standard AWD, generous ground clearance, easy cargo carrying with integrated roof crossbars, and a roomy cabin that works for commuting, road trips, pets, and bad-weather driving. Compared with many compact SUVs, the Outback leans more car-like on the road while still feeling ready for snow, gravel, and weekend gear hauling.
The 2015 Outback ranges from the practical 2.5i to the comfort-focused 2.5i Premium and leather-lined 2.5i Limited. The 3.6R Limited tops the range with a 256-hp six-cylinder engine, while notable features across the lineup include standard AWD, integrated roof-rack crossbars, touchscreen audio, and a rearview camera.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
CVT automatic transmissions became standard across the lineup, including a high-torque version for the six-cylinder 3.6R Limited. The four-cylinder’s fuel economy improved from 24 city/30 highway mpg to 25 city/33 highway mpg.
Styling
A redesigned exterior and cabin introduced the fifth-generation Outback, with a more modern interior layout and improved noise isolation.
Safety
Every trim gained a standard rearview camera. AWD capability expanded with X-Mode, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, and Active Torque Vectoring, while Limited trims added blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assistance, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard equipment.
Tech
Every trim received a touchscreen audio system. The 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, and 3.6R Limited also made smartphone connectivity standard rather than optional.
Structural
The redesigned body provided more passenger room and increased maximum cargo capacity from 71.3 to 73.3 cubic feet. Subaru also revised the suspension and steering for the new generation.
2015 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 | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | 175 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 2700 lb | 3000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 73.3 cu-ft | 73.3 cu-ft | 73.3 cu-ft | 73.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.1 in | 38.1 in | 38.1 in | 38.1 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| SD Card Slot | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2015 Subaru Outback redesigned?
Yes. The 2015 Subaru Outback launched the fifth generation with a redesigned body and cabin, more passenger and cargo room, better noise isolation, and revised suspension and steering.
How is the 2015 Subaru Outback different from the 2014 model?
The 2015 Outback is a full redesign rather than a light update. Compared with 2014, it has more interior and cargo room, standard CVT automatic transmissions throughout the lineup, stronger AWD capability, standard touchscreen audio, and a standard rearview camera.
Does every 2015 Subaru Outback have AWD and X-Mode?
Yes. Every 2015 Outback has standard AWD, X-Mode, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, and Active Torque Vectoring. X-Mode helps manage the engine, transmission, and AWD system on slippery or uneven surfaces.
What engines does the 2015 Subaru Outback have?
The 2015 Outback has either a 175-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder. The four-cylinder powers the 2.5i trims, while the six-cylinder is exclusive to the 3.6R Limited; both use CVT automatic transmissions.
What safety technology changed on the 2015 Subaru Outback?
A rearview camera became standard on every 2015 Outback. Limited trims also made blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assistance, and rear cross-traffic alert standard, while all trims gained additional AWD control features for hills and slippery conditions.
2015 Subaru Outback Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Subaru Outback.
4.4
2015 Subaru Outback
(461 reviews)
“I love my new safety featured vehicle. Subaru has only improved its handling as well as made it a joy to drive.”
“Would love Apple CarPlay, frequent free GPS updates, and ability to add the new 2016 safety features.”