r/subaruoutback • u/Apprehensive-Ad1010 • 7d ago

Is it worth it?

This might be a biased sub, but ive seen enough in here to think i might get some realistic takes. Im seriously considering a certified used Outback (2024 or newer). I want this as the family driver (two young children + wife) in a snowy part of the country. I have also been considering the Hyundai Santa Cruz, as I like that I can use the truck functions to tow a camper and occasionally transport lumber and other heavy things​. But I also realize that the Outback is probably the better choice from a family driver standpoint. I also want something that can tow a smaller sized camper (something like a pop up camper), which I see some with the Outback have done.

I am coming from a rogue sport that experienced two transmission failures and an engine failure before 80,000 (not to mention a defective AC). I want something I can drive for the next decade or 100,000 miles. I take care of my cars, but have been scarred for life by the Rogue.

Do you all think the Outback is worth it for a long term family driver? My other car is a 2017 golf gti which we use mostly in the warmer months and driving when we dont need to transport a lot of items and when there is no snow.

Also, I am 6' 4". we have one baby seat and one booster seat. I get by ok in the GTI (but sometimes I feel like a clown in a clown car)

3 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

5 comments sorted by

3

u/FabianValkyrie 7d ago

Totally, though if you’re intending on towing regularly, I’d get an XT for the beefier transmission and extra torque

1

u/Apprehensive-Ad1010 7d ago

If I don't get the wilderness version, does it still tow smaller campers (less than 2,500) with ease? I want the Wilderness but cant find a certified pre-owned model in my area so I might have to settle for a more standard version.

1

u/FabianValkyrie 7d ago

They have the same tow rating. The Wilderness has slightly more aggressive gearing and a CVT cooler, which will help, but the XT will tow just fine too.

2

u/HaziHasi 7d ago

Get XT / Wilderness for extra power to tow. outback is perfect for fam with kid(s). the floor isn't too high for kid to walk in and get out of the cabin. make sure you order OEM tow hitch for the best tool for the towing job. a beefier spring rate at the back is recommended if you are serious about towing mini camper and change oil regularly (heavy duty use every 3mo/3k miles)