Hey guys! So, I recently had the chance to spend some quality time with the Subaru Outback Wilderness, and I'm stoked to share my experience. If you're pondering whether this beefed-up Outback is the right ride for your adventures, you've come to the right place. This isn't just a sales pitch; it's a real-world review from someone who's actually driven it, explored with it, and lived with it for a bit. We'll dive deep into what makes the Wilderness special, its pros and cons, and whether it lives up to the hype. Buckle up; let's get into it!

Unveiling the Subaru Outback Wilderness: What Sets It Apart

Alright, let's kick things off by figuring out what exactly the Subaru Outback Wilderness is all about. It's not your standard Outback; Subaru has given it a serious upgrade to tackle tougher terrain. Think of it as the outdoorsy, adventurous sibling. The Wilderness boasts a number of key features that set it apart from the regular Outback. First off, it’s got a significantly increased ground clearance, which is a game-changer when you're navigating rocky trails or uneven surfaces. They've also kitted it out with more aggressive tires, which provide better grip and traction off-road. The front and rear bumpers are redesigned for improved approach and departure angles, meaning you're less likely to scrape on obstacles. And let's not forget the beefed-up suspension, which helps smooth out the ride over rough roads. It's all about making sure you can confidently go where the pavement ends. Subaru has also incorporated some distinctive cosmetic upgrades. You'll spot the unique front and rear bumpers, the Wilderness badging, and the matte black accents. It's not just about looks, though; these features contribute to the vehicle's enhanced capability. Inside, you'll find water-resistant StarTex upholstery, which is a lifesaver if you're frequently tracking mud or wet gear into the car. The Wilderness isn't just a trim level; it's a statement. It's a clear signal that the driver is ready to explore, ready for adventure, and not afraid to get a little dirty. So, in essence, the Subaru Outback Wilderness is an Outback that’s been purpose-built for those who love to venture off the beaten path.

The Heart of the Wilderness: Performance and Capability

When we talk about off-road vehicles, the heart of the matter always comes down to performance and capability. So, how does the Subaru Outback Wilderness stack up? Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, delivering a solid 260 horsepower. This engine provides plenty of get-up-and-go for both on-road and off-road scenarios. The Wilderness is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is specifically tuned to work well in demanding conditions. Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is, of course, a key element here. It's been further enhanced for the Wilderness, with specific tuning to distribute power for maximum traction in challenging situations. The increased ground clearance is another crucial factor. With 9.5 inches of clearance, the Wilderness can clear obstacles that would make a standard Outback wince. The approach angle is now 20 degrees, the departure angle is 23.6 degrees, and the breakover angle is 21.2 degrees. These angles are all improved over the standard Outback, meaning you can confidently navigate steeper inclines and declines. The tires, as mentioned, are a crucial piece of the puzzle. The Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires provide excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, from gravel and dirt to mud and snow. They also contribute to the vehicle's rugged appearance. In my experience, the combination of these features makes the Wilderness a surprisingly capable off-roader. It's not a rock crawler, but it can handle trails that would leave many SUVs struggling. The power delivery is smooth, the all-wheel-drive system works seamlessly, and the ground clearance inspires confidence. It's a vehicle that empowers you to explore more, worry less, and enjoy the journey.

Living with the Wilderness: Interior and Practicality

Alright, let's talk about the practical side of things. How does the Subaru Outback Wilderness fare as a daily driver? The interior is thoughtfully designed, with a focus on durability and functionality. The seats are upholstered in StarTex, which, as I mentioned, is a water-resistant material. This is a huge bonus if you frequently engage in outdoor activities. Spills and muddy gear are no longer a major concern. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The Wilderness boasts a spacious cabin, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. Rear passengers have ample legroom, and the cargo area is generous, with plenty of space for camping gear, luggage, or whatever else you need to haul. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display. It's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily integrate your smartphone. The Wilderness also includes a number of thoughtful features, such as integrated roof rails with a load capacity designed for carrying tents or other equipment, and a front-view camera to help with navigating tight spots. Visibility is excellent, thanks to the Outback's large windows and elevated driving position. The Wilderness also incorporates numerous safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. In terms of practicality, the Wilderness is a winner. It's a comfortable and spacious vehicle that’s well-suited for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The interior is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, and the cargo area is plenty large enough to accommodate all your gear.

The Driving Experience: On-Road and Off-Road

So, what's it like to actually drive the Subaru Outback Wilderness? Well, I'm here to tell you! The driving experience is a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. On the road, the Wilderness feels surprisingly composed. The ride is a bit firmer than the standard Outback, which is due to the upgraded suspension, but it's still comfortable and compliant. The steering is precise, and the vehicle handles well in corners. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for merging onto the highway or passing slower vehicles. It's a smooth and responsive driving experience. However, the real fun begins when you leave the pavement behind. Off-road, the Wilderness truly shines. The increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires make a world of difference. It easily tackles rough trails, rocky surfaces, and muddy patches. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, and the vehicle feels stable and planted, even on challenging terrain. The approach and departure angles allow you to clear obstacles that would be impossible in a standard vehicle. The Wilderness is not a rock crawler, but it's a very capable off-roader for its class. The driving experience is confidence-inspiring. You feel like you can go just about anywhere, and the vehicle is always ready to tackle whatever you throw at it. The combination of on-road comfort and off-road capability makes the Wilderness a versatile vehicle that's perfect for a wide range of activities.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Wilderness

Alright, let's break down the Subaru Outback Wilderness into its pros and cons. This will help you decide if it's the right vehicle for you.

Pros:

• Exceptional off-road capability: The increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and enhanced all-wheel-drive system make the Wilderness a capable off-roader.
• Comfortable on-road ride: Despite its off-road focus, the Wilderness offers a comfortable and composed on-road driving experience.
• Spacious and practical interior: The interior is roomy, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
• Durable and functional design: The water-resistant upholstery and rugged design make it ideal for outdoor adventures.
• User-friendly infotainment system: The infotainment system is easy to use and compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Standard safety features: Includes Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology.

Cons:

• Fuel economy: The Wilderness gets slightly lower fuel economy compared to the standard Outback.
• CVT transmission: Some drivers may not prefer the feel of a CVT transmission.
• Price: The Wilderness is more expensive than the base Outback model.
• Not a rock crawler: While capable, it's not designed for extreme off-roading.

Ultimately, the pros far outweigh the cons for most people. The Subaru Outback Wilderness offers a compelling combination of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and practicality. It's a great choice for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors.

Is the Subaru Outback Wilderness Right for You?

So, the million-dollar question: Is the Subaru Outback Wilderness the right vehicle for you? Here's who I think would truly appreciate this ride:

• Adventure Seekers: If you love to go camping, hiking, mountain biking, or any other outdoor activity, the Wilderness is a fantastic choice. It provides the capability to reach remote locations and handle challenging terrain.
• Families: The spacious interior and practical design make the Wilderness a great option for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. The water-resistant upholstery is a lifesaver with kids and messy gear.
• Weekend Warriors: If you're someone who enjoys weekend getaways and exploring off the beaten path, the Wilderness is the perfect companion.
• Those Seeking Versatility: If you need a vehicle that can handle daily commutes while also being ready for adventure, the Wilderness fits the bill.

If you primarily drive on city streets and rarely venture off-road, the Wilderness might be overkill. However, if you're looking for a vehicle that can do it all, the Subaru Outback Wilderness is definitely worth considering. It's a versatile, capable, and fun-to-drive vehicle that will take you wherever you want to go. I hope this real-world review helps you make a decision, and get out there and enjoy the open road and the great outdoors!