# Subaru Outback — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Subaru Outback on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/subaru-outback

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Touring 2.5i Lineartronic
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £22,397

## Why this model

The Subaru Outback is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a super reliable, practical, and incredibly capable family car, especially if you live in a rural area or often deal with tricky weather. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system is legendary, offering superb grip and confidence in all conditions. It's built like a tank, known for its durability, and generally holds its value well thanks to that solid reputation. Plus, it's got loads of space for passengers and luggage, making it perfect for family adventures.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2021 Subaru Outback Touring 2.5i Lineartronic with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sells for around £22,397. This price reflects its strong reliability and desirable AWD capabilities, which help it retain value better than some rivals. You might find slight variations based on specific condition, mileage, and optional extras, but this is a solid benchmark.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Touring 2.5i Lineartronic' trim is our top pick for best value. While the SE and SE Premium are great, the Touring really ups the ante with a lot of premium features that make a big difference for comfort and convenience, without a massive jump in price on the used market. You'll often find it includes things like a larger infotainment screen, heated rear seats, a premium sound system, and more advanced driver assistance features. For the relatively small price difference on a used model, you get a lot more car for your money, enhancing the overall ownership experience.

## What to check before you buy

- Potential for higher oil consumption on some older boxer engines (less common on this generation)
- CVT transmission can feel a bit sluggish to some drivers (though generally reliable)
- Brake wear can be slightly higher due to the AWD system

## Running costs

Running costs for a 2021 Subaru Outback 2.5i petrol will be around £0.20 per mile for fuel, based on current petrol prices and its 33 mpg. Road tax (VED) for a 2021 petrol model is typically around £190 per year. Insurance costs can vary a lot depending on your personal circumstances, but expect to pay somewhere in the region of £600-£800 annually for a comprehensive policy.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 173 bhp
- **Mpg**: 33 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2021)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SE 2.5i Lineartronic | £32,000 | £19,000 | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive; 8-inch Infotainment System; Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| SE Premium 2.5i Lineartronic | £35,000 | £21,000 | Leather Upholstery; Integrated Satellite Navigation; Sunroof |
| Touring 2.5i Lineartronic | £38,000 | £22,397 | Nappa Leather Interior; Harman Kardon Premium Sound System; Heated Rear Seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £22,397 | 0% |
| 2027 | £20,157 | 10% |
| 2028 | £18,141 | 19% |
| 2029 | £16,327 | 27% |
| 2030 | £14,694 | 34% |

Buying a Subaru Outback at 3-4 years old (like a 2021 model in 2026) is a fantastic sweet spot for depreciation. The steepest drop in value happens in the first few years from new, so you're letting the first owner take that hit. From this point, the depreciation curve flattens out significantly, meaning your car will lose value at a much slower rate over the next few years. This makes it a smart financial move if you plan to keep the car for a while.

Total value lost since new: 34.39%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Skoda Kodiaq](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/skoda-kodiaq.md)
- [Mazda CX-5](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mazda-cx-5.md)
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.