Is the 2019 Subaru Outback reliable?

The 2019 Outback has mixed reliability. The 2.5L engine can consume oil (check level regularly), and CVT requires proper fluid maintenance. EyeSight system is generally reliable. Overall reliability is average—better than some competitors but not Toyota-level. Well-maintained examples fare well.

What problems should I look for on a 2019 Outback?

Key issues: oil consumption on 2.5L engine (check between oil changes), CVT fluid condition and service history, infotainment lag on STARLINK system, and windshield cracking (replacement expensive due to EyeSight calibration). Verify regular CVT fluid changes every 60K miles.

Should I get the 2.5L or 3.6L engine?

The 2.5L (175HP) suits most buyers—adequate power, better fuel economy (25/32 MPG). The 3.6L (256HP) offers noticeably better acceleration and towing (3,500 vs 2,700 lbs) but returns only 20/27 MPG. Price premium for 3.6R is modest on used market—worth considering if you need the power.

Is EyeSight worth getting?

Absolutely. EyeSight provides adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, pre-collision braking, and lane centering (on Limited+). Insurance discounts often offset the trim premium. EyeSight-equipped Outbacks have significantly lower accident rates. Standard on Premium and above.

How does 2019 compare to the 2020+ redesign?

The 2020+ sixth generation brings a new 2.4L turbo option, larger interior, improved infotainment, and updated styling. However, it's $5,000-$10,000 more for comparable trims. The 2019 offers proven value at lower prices. For budget-conscious buyers, 2019 is excellent.

What is a fair price for a 2019 Outback Premium?

Expect $20,000-$25,000 for a Premium with EyeSight and 60,000-90,000 miles. Pricing varies by region—Pacific Northwest and mountain states command premiums. One-owner vehicles with complete service records add $1,000-$2,000. All-weather package is common and desirable.

2019 Subaru Outback Buyer's Guide: Trim Levels, Pricing & Common Issues

Why the 2019 Subaru Outback?

The 2019 Outback represents the final year of the fifth generation— benefiting from years of refinement while offering significant savings over the 2020+ redesign. Standard AWD, generous ground clearance, and wagon practicality make it the definitive "adventure vehicle" for outdoor enthusiasts.

With EyeSight safety technology, excellent cargo capacity, and strong resale value, the 2019 Outback delivers the Subaru experience at accessible pricing.

2019 Subaru Outback Premium Price Trends

Trim Level Comparison

2019 Subaru Outback Trim Comparison - Used Prices for 60K-90K Miles
Trim	Starting MSRP (New)	Used Price Range	Key Features
2.5i	$26,345	$18,000-$22,000	Standard AWD, 6.5" display, Apple CarPlay
2.5i Premium	$28,645	$20,000-$25,000	EyeSight, power liftgate, all-weather package
2.5i Limited	$32,645	$23,000-$28,000	Leather, nav, Harman Kardon, lane centering
2.5i Touring	$36,295	$26,000-$32,000	Nappa leather, Java Brown interior, full features
3.6R Limited	$34,895	$25,000-$30,000	256HP 6-cylinder, leather, all Limited features
3.6R Touring	$38,545	$28,000-$34,000	3.6L engine with all Touring luxury features

2.5i: The Entry Point

Base 2.5i includes AWD, 6.5" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and X-Mode for off-road situations. Notably, EyeSight is not standard— it requires Premium trim or above. For buyers needing basic capability only, this is the budget option.

2.5i Premium: The Value Champion

Premium adds EyeSight driver assistance, power liftgate, heated seats, all-weather floor liners, and roof rails. This is where most buyers should focus—all the essentials at a reasonable price. The EyeSight system alone justifies the Premium upgrade.

2.5i Limited: Leather and Luxury

Limited brings leather upholstery, 8" touchscreen with navigation, Harman Kardon audio, and lane centering assist. Excellent for buyers wanting premium materials and features. Strong used market availability.

3.6R Variants: More Power

The 3.6L flat-six produces 256HP versus the 2.5L's 175HP—noticeably stronger acceleration and better towing capability. Available in Limited and Touring trims only. Used premium is modest; worth considering for towing or mountain driving.

Oil Consumption Warning

Some 2019 Outback 2.5L engines consume oil between changes. Check oil level at test drive—if low with no leak evidence, the engine may consume. Subaru considers up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles 'acceptable.' Verify the seller checks oil regularly and tops up as needed.

Engine Options Explained

2.5L Boxer Four (175 HP)

The standard engine provides adequate power for daily driving. Fuel economy of 25/32 MPG is excellent for an AWD wagon. Pairs with CVT for smooth operation. Watch for oil consumption on some examples.

3.6L Boxer Six (256 HP)

The larger engine transforms the Outback's character—stronger acceleration, more confident passing, and better towing. Fuel economy drops to 20/27 MPG. This proven engine is reliable with proper maintenance. Towing capacity increases to 3,500 lbs.

Reliability Assessment

EyeSight Driver Assistance

EyeSight uses stereo cameras to provide:

Adaptive cruise control
Pre-collision braking
Lane departure and sway warning
Lane centering assist (Limited and Touring)
Lead vehicle start alert

This system works well and insurance companies offer discounts for EyeSight-equipped vehicles. Windshield replacement requires recalibration ($200-$400), so factor this into ownership costs.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Check oil level at test drive—low level indicates consumption
Verify CVT fluid change history (every 60K miles)
Test EyeSight calibration—should function without warnings
Inspect windshield for chips/cracks (expensive to replace)
Check all X-Mode and AWD functions
Listen for CVT whine under acceleration
Verify power liftgate operation
Test infotainment responsiveness (can be laggy)

WATCH

Excellent AWD Wagon for Active Lifestyles

Pros

Standard AWD with excellent capability
EyeSight provides comprehensive safety tech
Generous cargo space for adventures
8.7" ground clearance handles rough roads
Strong resale value protects investment
Reliable overall with proper maintenance

Cons

2.5L engine may consume oil
CVT requires proper fluid maintenance
Infotainment can be slow and dated
Windshield replacement expensive with EyeSight
Interior materials average for price

Recommendation

The 2019 Outback is excellent for outdoor-focused buyers. Focus on Premium or Limited trims with documented maintenance history. Verify oil consumption by checking level at test drive. Budget $20,000-$28,000 for well-maintained examples with 60,000-90,000 miles. EyeSight is essential—don't skip it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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