2012 Subaru Outback Specs and Features

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.

2012 Subaru Outback Specs and Features

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

SpecificationDetails
Engine (2.5i)2.5L SOHC 4-cylinder BOXER
Engine (3.6R)3.6L DOHC 6-cylinder BOXER
Power170 hp (2.5i) / 256 hp (3.6R)
Torque170 lb-ft / 247 lb-ft
DrivetrainSymmetrical AWD (All trims)
Transmission (2.5i)6-speed manual / CVT
Transmission (3.6R)5-speed automatic
Paddle ShiftersAvailable
EmissionsPZEV (2.5i)

Fuel & Efficiency

SpecificationDetails
Fuel TypeUnleaded (87 octane)
Fuel Tank18.5 gallons
MPG (2.5i Manual)19 / 27 mpg
MPG (2.5i CVT)22 / 29 mpg
MPG (3.6R)18 / 25 mpg

Chassis & Suspension

SpecificationDetails
SteeringPower-assisted rack & pinion
Suspension4-wheel independent
Front SuspensionMacPherson strut
Rear SuspensionDouble wishbone
Brakes4-wheel disc
ABSStandard with EBD
Brake AssistStandard
Turning Radius36.8 ft

Wheels & Tyres

SpecificationDetails
Base Wheels16″ steel
Upgraded Wheels17″ alloy
Tyres (Base)215/70R16
Tyres (Premium/Limited)225/60R17

Dimensions & Capacity

SpecificationDetails
Length188.2 in
Width71.7 in
Height66.1 in
Wheelbase107.9 in
Ground Clearance8.7 in
Passenger Volume105.4 cu ft
Cargo Space34.3 cu ft
Max Cargo71.3 cu ft
Towing Capacity2,700–3,000 lbs

Interior Features

FeatureDetails
Seating MaterialCloth / Leather
Driver SeatManual or 10-way power
Heated SeatsAvailable
Rear SeatsReclining + 65/35 split
Climate ControlManual / Dual-zone auto
Steering WheelLeather-wrapped (higher trims)
Cup Holders8
Cargo StorageUnderfloor + hooks
Interior TrimSilver / Woodgrain

Technology & Infotainment

FeatureDetails
Audio System4 / 6 speaker
Premium AudioHarman Kardon (9 speakers)
BluetoothAvailable
USB / iPod SupportAvailable
Satellite RadioXM / Sirius
NavigationOptional
Rear CameraOptional
HD RadioAvailable

Safety Features

Active Safety

FeatureDetails
AWDStandard
Stability Control (VDC)Standard
Traction ControlStandard
ABS + EBDStandard
Brake AssistStandard
TPMSStandard
Daytime Running LightsStandard

Passive Safety

FeatureDetails
Front AirbagsDual-stage
Side AirbagsSeat-mounted
Curtain AirbagsFront & rear
Seatbelts3-point all seats
Child SafetyLATCH system
Rollover SensorStandard

Exterior Features

FeatureDetails
HeadlightsProjector beam
Fog LightsAvailable
Roof RailsWith retractable crossbars
MirrorsHeated (with package)
Wiper De-icerAvailable
Body-Coloured MirrorsHigher trims

Key Functional Features

FeatureDetails
Electronic Parking BrakeStandard
Hill HolderStandard
Cruise ControlStandard
Paddle ShiftersAvailable
Power WindowsDriver auto (higher trims)

Optional Packages & Accessories

FeatureDetails
All-Weather PackageHeated seats + mirrors
Navigation PackageGPS + camera
Moonroof PackagePower tilt/sliding
Alloy Wheel Package17″ wheels + fog lights
Trailer HitchUp to 3,000 lbs
Remote StartAvailable
Rear EntertainmentDual screens
2012 Subaru Outback Specs

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

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