The 2008 Subaru Outback introduced minor updates while maintaining its strong reputation as a reliable, versatile, and capable crossover wagon. Renowned for its rugged off-road capability paired with on-road comfort, the 2008 Outback offered an array of trims, engine choices, and premium features to cater to a variety of lifestyles. With its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and excellent safety ratings, the Outback continued to appeal to both urban commuters and outdoor adventurers.
Engine Specs and Performance
Press the accelerator and feel your spirits lift. A choice of three power plants awaits, depending upon whether you value optimal fuel economy, appreciate the velvet-smooth surge of 6-cylinders or simply love the exhilaration of turbocharged acceleration. Every engine is managed by sophisticated valve technology for the greatest amount of efficiency and smoothness. So you can feel the forward momentum in your mind as well as your body.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cylinder (SOHC EJ253) / Turbocharged 2.5L (DOHC EJ255) / 3.0L 6-cylinder (EZ30) |
| Horsepower | 170 hp (2.5L) / 243 hp (Turbo 2.5L) / 245 hp (3.0L) |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft (2.5L) / 241 lb-ft (Turbo 2.5L) / 219 lb-ft (3.0L) |
| Transmission Options | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (2.5L), or 5-speed automatic (Turbo and 3.0L models) |
| Drive Type | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph | ~8.9 seconds (2.5L) / ~6.2 seconds (Turbo) |
Dimensions
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 189.0 inches |
| Width | 69.7 inches |
| Height | 63.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4–8.7 inches (varies by trim) |
| Curb Weight | ~3,400–3,800 pounds |
Fuel and MPG
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.9 gallons |
| City MPG | 20 mpg (2.5L) / 18 mpg (Turbo) / 17 mpg (3.0L) |
| Highway MPG | 26 mpg (2.5L) / 24 mpg (Turbo) / 24 mpg (3.0L) |
Safety Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brakes | 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS |
| Airbags | Dual front airbags, front-seat side airbags, side-curtain airbags |
| Traction Control | Available on higher trims |
| Stability Control | Standard on Turbo and 3.0R trims |
| Lighting | Halogen headlights; optional HID headlights |
| Additional Features | Reinforced body structure, child seat anchors |
2008 Subaru Outback Interior Features
Driving to that rugged spot becomes as remarkable as the place itself, thanks to the refined interior of the Outback. Every touch is rewarded by the feel of the premium materials. You can control your environment with the available dual-zone climate control and the available heated front seats. Find your ideal driving position with the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. And exploring in an unfamiliar location becomes stress-free with the guidance of the available navigation system. Because you should arrive at your destination refreshed and ready for a rigorous hike, instead of feeling like you just finished one.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Upholstery | Cloth (base) or leather (optional) |
| Dashboard | Refined with metallic or woodgrain accents |
| Infotainment | AM/FM stereo, MP3-compatible CD player, optional navigation |
| Climate Control | Manual (base) or dual-zone automatic |
| Additional Features | Heated front seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, split-folding rear seats |
2008 Subaru Outback Exterior Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Wagon |
| Headlights | Halogen (standard), HID (optional) |
| Wheels | 16-inch steel or 17-inch alloy wheels |
| Roof Rails | Standard |
| Paint Options | Wide variety, including two-tone schemes |
| Additional Features | Integrated fog lights, rugged lower body cladding |
Current Price in the U.S.
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Excellent (Restored) | $9,000–$13,000 |
| Good (Well-maintained) | $6,500–$9,000 |
| Fair (Functional but Worn) | $4,500–$6,500 |
| Poor (Needs Repairs) | $3,000–$4,500 |
Other Features
- Symmetrical AWD: Standard across all trims, offering superior traction and handling.
- Turbocharged Engine: Provides spirited performance for drivers seeking excitement.
- Premium Features: Available leather upholstery and navigation system for a luxurious experience.
- Spacious Interior: Ample cargo space and flexible seating options for practicality.
The 2008 Subaru Outback continued to blend rugged durability with refined features, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking versatility, safety, and comfort.
2008 Subaru Outback Review
Versatile and Rugged Design
The 2008 Subaru Outback blends the practicality of a wagon with the ruggedness of an SUV. Featuring a raised suspension and standard all-wheel drive, it is well-suited for both city commutes and off-road adventures. The exterior design is sleek yet functional, with rugged body cladding and roof rails that enhance its adventurous appeal. Inside, the cabin is comfortable and spacious, offering quality materials and a well-laid-out dashboard that prioritizes driver convenience.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the 2008 Outback offers multiple engine choices, including a 2.5L four-cylinder producing 170 horsepower and a more powerful 3.0L six-cylinder generating 245 horsepower. The standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in various weather conditions, making it a solid performer on snow, gravel, and wet roads. The ride quality is smooth, with well-tuned suspension absorbing bumps effectively, though some may find the base engine slightly underpowered for highway merging and overtaking.
Safety and Reliability
Subaru has a strong reputation for safety, and the 2008 Outback is no exception. It comes equipped with standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims offer additional safety features such as traction control and electronic brake-force distribution. Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) were impressive, making it a great choice for families looking for a secure vehicle. Subaru’s reliability is another strong point, with the Outback known for its longevity and durable drivetrain.
Final Verdict
The 2008 Subaru Outback is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical, all-weather vehicle with off-road capability. While the base engine may lack power for some drivers, the Outback makes up for it with a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and top-notch safety features. Whether you need a dependable daily driver or an adventure-ready wagon, the 2008 Outback remains a solid contender in its class.
