The 2012 Subaru Outback specs include a 2.5L SOHC 4-cylinder BOXER, 3.6-liter DOHC aluminum-alloy 24-valve 6-cylinder horizontally opposed Subaru Boxer engine with Dual active Valve Control System. All-wheel drive system, and reliable fuel economy. This guide covers engine performance, MPG, price, and key features of the 2012 Outback.
When it comes to blending practicality, comfort, and all-weather capability, few vehicles have stood the test of time like the 2012 Subaru Outback. A unique crossover that straddles the line between a rugged SUV and a spacious station wagon, the Outback offers a compelling mix of features that make it just as relevant today as it was over a decade ago. Whether you’re tackling snowy backroads, hauling camping gear, or simply getting the family to school and back, the 2012 Outback remains a go-to choice for those who value reliability and versatility in their everyday drive.
Engine Specs & Drivetrain
Specification
Details
Engine (2.5i)
2.5L SOHC 4-cylinder BOXER
Engine (3.6R)
3.6L DOHC 6-cylinder BOXER
Power
170 hp (2.5i) / 256 hp (3.6R)
Torque
170 lb-ft / 247 lb-ft
Drivetrain
Symmetrical AWD (All trims)
Transmission (2.5i)
6-speed manual / CVT
Transmission (3.6R)
5-speed automatic
Paddle Shifters
Available
Emissions
PZEV (2.5i)
Fuel & Efficiency
Specification
Details
Fuel Type
Unleaded (87 octane)
Fuel Tank
18.5 gallons
MPG (2.5i Manual)
19 / 27 mpg
MPG (2.5i CVT)
22 / 29 mpg
MPG (3.6R)
18 / 25 mpg
Chassis & Suspension
Specification
Details
Steering
Power-assisted rack & pinion
Suspension
4-wheel independent
Front Suspension
MacPherson strut
Rear Suspension
Double wishbone
Brakes
4-wheel disc
ABS
Standard with EBD
Brake Assist
Standard
Turning Radius
36.8 ft
Wheels & Tyres
Specification
Details
Base Wheels
16″ steel
Upgraded Wheels
17″ alloy
Tyres (Base)
215/70R16
Tyres (Premium/Limited)
225/60R17
Dimensions & Capacity
Specification
Details
Length
188.2 in
Width
71.7 in
Height
66.1 in
Wheelbase
107.9 in
Ground Clearance
8.7 in
Passenger Volume
105.4 cu ft
Cargo Space
34.3 cu ft
Max Cargo
71.3 cu ft
Towing Capacity
2,700–3,000 lbs
Interior Features
Feature
Details
Seating Material
Cloth / Leather
Driver Seat
Manual or 10-way power
Heated Seats
Available
Rear Seats
Reclining + 65/35 split
Climate Control
Manual / Dual-zone auto
Steering Wheel
Leather-wrapped (higher trims)
Cup Holders
8
Cargo Storage
Underfloor + hooks
Interior Trim
Silver / Woodgrain
Technology & Infotainment
Feature
Details
Audio System
4 / 6 speaker
Premium Audio
Harman Kardon (9 speakers)
Bluetooth
Available
USB / iPod Support
Available
Satellite Radio
XM / Sirius
Navigation
Optional
Rear Camera
Optional
HD Radio
Available
Safety Features
Active Safety
Feature
Details
AWD
Standard
Stability Control (VDC)
Standard
Traction Control
Standard
ABS + EBD
Standard
Brake Assist
Standard
TPMS
Standard
Daytime Running Lights
Standard
Passive Safety
Feature
Details
Front Airbags
Dual-stage
Side Airbags
Seat-mounted
Curtain Airbags
Front & rear
Seatbelts
3-point all seats
Child Safety
LATCH system
Rollover Sensor
Standard
Exterior Features
Feature
Details
Headlights
Projector beam
Fog Lights
Available
Roof Rails
With retractable crossbars
Mirrors
Heated (with package)
Wiper De-icer
Available
Body-Coloured Mirrors
Higher trims
Key Functional Features
Feature
Details
Electronic Parking Brake
Standard
Hill Holder
Standard
Cruise Control
Standard
Paddle Shifters
Available
Power Windows
Driver auto (higher trims)
Optional Packages & Accessories
Feature
Details
All-Weather Package
Heated seats + mirrors
Navigation Package
GPS + camera
Moonroof Package
Power tilt/sliding
Alloy Wheel Package
17″ wheels + fog lights
Trailer Hitch
Up to 3,000 lbs
Remote Start
Available
Rear Entertainment
Dual screens
2012 Subaru Outback FAQs
What is the fuel economy of the 2012 Subaru Outback?
Fuel economy depends on engine and transmission: 2.5L CVT: up to 22 city / 29 highway mpg 2.5L manual: 19 / 27 mpg 3.6L: 18 / 25 mpg
Is the 2012 Subaru Outback good for snow and off-road?
Yes. Thanks to AWD, good ground clearance (~8.7 inches), and balanced chassis, it performs very well in: Snow Gravel roads Light off-road conditions
How fast is the 2012 Subaru Outback?
2.5L: 0–60 mph in about 9.5–10 seconds 3.6L: 0–60 mph in about 7.3 seconds
What are the main advantages of the 2012 Subaru Outback?
Standard AWD Excellent practicality and cargo space Comfortable ride quality Strong safety reputation Good all-weather performance
What are the disadvantages of the 2012 Subaru Outback?
Average fuel economy (especially 3.6L) Slow acceleration (2.5L engine) CVT concerns in some units Interior materials not very premium