We Bought a Subaru Outback Wilderness Instead of a 4Runner - Here's Why!

[@anthonyrita4366]

One of the best reasons to consider this vehicle is for people who live in the snow belt . Great ground clearance great awd system especially paired with its xmode. So if you slide off road you can get back on road with no problem. Most people who live in the snow belt states tend to but suv, cuv and awd cars because of snowy winter conditions. Subaru has always been one of the very best for that.

[@thedetective8150]

My wife has. 2017 Outback, and she loves it. Subaru's AWD system is a GOAT in the snow. We took the Outback to Utah, and it drove through a blizzard like it was nothing. We took it to our local mountains in SoCal and got caught in a surprise snowstorm. Hundreds of people were stranded on the mountain, and only 4WD vehicles and most AWD vehicles could leave the snowy roads. We saw many cars sliding as they attempted to drive uphill on a snow-filled road. We even saw a Rover Discovery with chains, unable to move uphill on the snow-filled road. Our Outback went uphill on the snow-filled road like a mountain goat, and we escaped the mess of cars stranded on the mountain in the snowstorm.

[@anthonyrita4366]

@@thedetective8150 were you on oem tires or after market 🤔

[@thedetective8150]

@@anthonyrita4366 The OEM tires wore out after 20,000 miles. I complained to Subaru and they replaced them with the tires I wanted which are the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT. A fantastic all season tire and performs great in the snow.

[@Bagel_Biscuit]

@@thedetective8150 did you have stock tired or a snow/winter tire equipped?

[@thedetective8150]

@@Bagel_Biscuit The tires I had then and I still use today are the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT All-season tires.

[@PH-md8xp]

We just bought a 2023 Outback in the Touring trim with the XT engine. Absolutely love it, it is such a nice car to drive, is so comfortable, and has a ton of safety features and honestly, is better equipped and more comfortable than my 2018 BMW X3, and it cost 12K less! It really is a great value for the money.

[@Alan_Smithee_Productions]

I'm glad you survived the bug attack during the review.

[@jeremyleblanc8378]

I was thinking the same thing haha

[@charlesmaroon8819]

Nice, articulate review. As grandparents we just swapped our 2001 Land Rover Discovery 2 for a 2022 Outback XT. Safety, comfort and MPG propelled our decision. PS - love the outback Limited!

[@TrailPass]

Sounds like a great choice! Enjoy your new vehicle!

[@vincefairleigh6899]

The Subaru is a much better car, anything tata motor puts out is junk in my opinion, expensive junk that looks nice…

[@alexanderperry7821]

My wife and I were also shopping the 4Runner or Jeep GC alongside the OBW. We went with the OBW for many of the same reasons mentioned in the review, even though we DON'T have another body on frame vehicle for off-roading or towing. Not planning on towing, but we do get off road pretty frequently as the fist sized dent in the front skid plate can attest. It's a weapon - not going to rock crawl, but we've taken it through very deep ruts, snow, rocks and mud and zero issues. And then it's a pleasure driving home. I think it'll do 80-90% of what a 4Runner will do.

[@tj6111]

I love my Outback Wilderness. I just got back from a 3-day fly fishing float trip from Henry's Fork, Idaho. I leveraged those tow hooks on the roof to strap down my Stealth X Flycraft drift boat.Those hooks on top connect directly to the frame of the vehicle. 700 mile driving weekend - mostly at 85 mph (I live in UT). Nearly silent in the cabin while cruising at 95 with 170 lbs of boat on top. With the back seats down, I easily fit 2 buddies' and my fishing duffels, boat boxes, anchor, oars, boat net, life vests, and fully-rigged fly rods. Incredibly easy to clean up with the seating material and all of the rubber matting/cladding. Never once was concerned or worried. Plenty of get up and go with that turbo stacked on top of the CVT when I needed to pass someone on the interstate. I averaged 16.5 mpg on that trip with the boat on top. On hwy: 24. On the street: 18. Usually evens out to 20-21.

[@TrailPass]

Sounds like you got the prefect vehicle for those type of adventures! 👍

[@chuckbrushwood8231]

Thanks for the great and informative video! When my Toyota Tacoma 4x4 pickup died last fall I replaced it with the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness edition. It drives so much better in snow than my Taco! My parents love the Forester so much that I'm selling it to them and in the process of purchasing a 2023 Outback Wilderness, which is what I would had preferred to buy last year if the dealer had it in inventory.

[@brent8052]

I have had my XV for 8 yrs w/ 200k mls, it has Rallitek.25 Springs and 1 inch spacers, B6 Bilstein struts Falken wildpeak at3w. It’s a great car, daily drive of 140mls a day commute. Great in any weather conditions. Looking to get something newer bigger. Debating between Outback Wilderness and 4 Runner. Leaning towards the Outback. Love the Subarus. Great video, thank you

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for commenting! Sounds like you made your own wilderness of sorts. Like I said we love the 4Runner and I'll probably have one when my fj gives up, but it's not nearly as nice of a daily.

[@briang813]

Hi Brent. Does your car have the CVT? I've seen a lot of negative comments about the CVT and how long it will last. If yours has a CVT and has lasted 200k miles, I'll have a lot more confidence in buying a Subaru. I really want an Outback Wilderness and to keep it for 10 years, but I've heard many people say that a CVT will last only 100,000 miles. I'm unfamiliar with the CVT, so any feedback would be much appreciated!

[@brent8052]

@@briang813 it’s manual

[@Memetologist]

Get the Wilderness Outback. 2.5 Turbo in it. Better gear ratio. It's a great car.

[@ChristianRunsNY]

@@briang813 I've had a few Subarus in my life with the CVT, the first car I had was at close to 200k miles without issue. That was the first car I had, was gifted to me by my godmother with higher mileage already, and I beat the crap out of it drifting around in snow, driving hard on the roads as a teen. So they can be fine reliability wise, but I personally don't really like the feel of the CVT, more than worrying about issues with it. The fake gear changes and lag to "downshift" can be strange. I'm used to it, but if I didn't like the other things offered in Subarus for the price right now (Cargo and passenger room, general reliability has been amazing across each car, dealer availability, general driving comfort), I'd skip the CVT based on feel alone. It's a give and take.

[@cruiseadmiral]

The Outback Wilderness is hands down best non-luxury compact crossover out there. But the 4Runner is a different league of a car. Considering extra power of the turbocharged engine, the Wilderness can be a contender for the Volvo XC60 and win d/t far better value for money.

[@jaynecobb5774]

HUGE fan of the way Subbies ride, and work. Cant beat the cost/quality and reliability for Subaru's.

[@kevinwest1607]

They rank about 14th out of 32 auto maker's.

[@DylanVBWRX]

Had a 4runner got a Forester wilderness. The reality of things is most people don't go anywhere near needing a rear locker and basic AWD/4wd will do just fine. I don't do hard off roading occasional fire roads and that's about it

[@AntilleanConfederation]

The 4 runner has poor space for rear passenger and poor safety rating. If it had better room for children in the back and higher crash rating it would be 4Runner all day.

[@zeljkodjukic5889]

One of the safest vehicles in the world 5 star crashes

[@MrMcGuy]

Subaru absolutely nailed this. I drive an older modified Forester that's been lifted, skid plates, larger off road tires, transmission cooler the list goes on. Every single thing I wanted factory from Subaru, including transmission cooler, full sized spare, ground clearance lift, off road tires, Turbo instead of naturally aspirated engine; all of it comes factory in this vehicle. I'm not sure people understand how much time and money Subaru is saving them with these upgrades, and since they are all factory you have no issues like wearing out wheel bearings faster due to oversize tires that are not factory, balance and alignment issues, having to cut wheel wells, etc. This is an incredible vehicle for the money, and since they were smart enough to put a turbo in it I'll be buying my 2nd Subaru next year in early 2023. Fantastic. I cannot wait.

[@TrailPass]

We've loved ours so far! It's a really cool and fun vehicle which stands out in a sea of crossovers

[@happytravels2480]

You made the right call. I love our 2018 Outback so much that I just ordered a Wilderness to replace our older Forester.

[@TrailPass]

Awesome you're going to love it!

[@ta3000]

Congrats on the purchase. I had a Forester (XT) for a year. I took it rally-driving (true story) and through Death Valley and to 4WD parks. At one of the parks, I tried climbing a steep dry bumpy cross-axle section and the CVT would not put any power down - the car literally just sat there and bogged and would not do anything. That was the day I decided to sell it and get a 4Runner which has as low-range, and a proper automatic transmission. Subarus are safe, comfortable, reliable, and even kind of fun, but they are not a replacement for a 4WD with a two speed transfer case. The lack of low-range and that CVT that can't deliver power on steep slopes are killers if you're really into off-roading. There have been many reviews (TFL in particular) documenting the CVT problems.) Having said that, they're great vehicles for many people and make excellent camping, light off roading, fire-road and highway vehicles. I would just caution others watching this video that if you're debating a similar decision, just realize that a Subaru with a CVT and x-mode is not going to keep up on steep cross-axle slopes with your 4WD friends who have low-range, big tires, more clearance, proper (non-CVT) automatics, and locking diffs. But if you're doing light off-roading and camping and spend any time in the snow Subarus are bloody great. Just be sure you're buying the right tool for the jobs you want to do with it.

[@oxirosmusic]

Did you see Sarah o tuned video on the forester wilderness?

[@martinr8278]

You need to look at other videos that’s showcase the Forester wilderness doing an amazing job up some steep slick trail areas. If you just look at TFL, most people have realized they just don’t know how to drive, their videos have really gone downhill I have read those reviews the smart people are realizing those guys are full of baloney. Everybody has their opinion and everybody knows what they think Subarus can do, however in this video he definitely made a better choice to go with an outback than a 4Runner. My sister has had one now for a couple years, getting rid of it, hard on gas really not an enjoyable ride, they are now thinking of something along the Honda, Subaru or Kia line. I told her best to maybe stick with Honda or Subaru, engineered for greatness

[@arkos55]

Exactly. It’s one thing to say Subarus are ok for basic dirt roads, but you’re asking for trouble if you try much more than that. Lo-range and lockers are basic requirements if you really go off-road and don’t want to require rescue. All this wilderness treatment may look cool, but pls don’t mistake this for something that it isn’t.

[@bryanmoser358]

Was that subaru xt a wilderness trim?

[@AntilleanConfederation]

I agree. The solution would be to offer the wilderness with a manual transmission option and the DCCD from the STI.

[@tippydaytona4900]

I own a 4-Runner and a ‘22 Outback Wilderness. When it’s snowing, it’s Outback all the way. A 2” lift and larger KO2’s combined with XMode and it’s my new favorite off-road play vehicle too.

[@elsaandnoah]

I drive a 2011 Forester now and it’s still in excellent shape, no issues & very low mileage. But I’ve been eyeballing the Outback for quite some time. OBW will probably be my next car: either white like yours or the dark grey :) I’m obsessed with ground clearance & fog lights 👍

[@TrailPass]

Those fog lights are super cool and look aftermarket!

[@Subarupoo206]

My 09 forester X has the 2” lift kit off newer models. Ground clearance is no issue. Also I use 2021 STI front and rear sway bars and a 2021 cat back STI exhaust along with 2018 crosstrek wheels. You can do super cheap upgrades that are huge for these vehicles. 201k miles total and everything under my vehicle besides the drivetrain has 10k miles so it literally is new and drives better than any factory Subaru I have test drove the last two years. Ended up with a fully loaded pathfinder for the family vehicle that is 4x4, AWD or 2WD and has a drastically larger fuel tank. I liked being able to change the settings from a locked 4WD mode, AWD for winter and 2WD in summer. I still daily drive the forester as it’s got a stereo worth twice the blue book value of the vehicle in it. I chose to not upgrade to a newer Subaru because I didn’t feel it truly offered much more than older models than a few MPG and more electronics to have issues with. Most all the Subaru platforms allot of the parts are interchangeable. You can make it what you want it to be.

[@snakehead5444]

If you buy any direct injection and especially turbocharged Subaru be sure to install a oil catch can or air oil separator to catch oil from carbon if intake valves. Not doing so will lead to expensive maintenance down the line.

[@DanielGFreeman]

nice! We had a 2018 Outback Limited and traded up in size to a 2023 Ascent Limited. We love the Ascent, but I personally really loved the Outback. My wife wouldn't go back I don 't think and there is a bit more room in the Ascent, but the Outback is just a pleasure of a vehicle!

[@cliftonbond2450]

We looked very hard at this vehicle vs an Onyx XT and went with the Onyx. They are very similar and, except for a little more ground clearance and the AT tires, close to a carbon copy, at least functionally. The Onyx's promise of slightly better fuel mileage really drove the decision. Ours is a great car and excels at "overlanding" up and down I-95 and other highways. My overall point is that if you think you might be interested in a Wilderness, you probably ought to consider the Onyx too. No matter which Subie you get, I also recommend that you take a good hard look at the turbo (XT) option, particularly if you are going to load up with bikes, tents, people - whatever - you'll probably appreciate the extra power.

[@michaelstarr1285]

Price difference looks about 2k on the trim level.

[@ברוך-ז3ס]

Very good choice very very reliable, always drive safe

[@darylhill9400]

You made all good points and made the right choice the subie is more refined and way better daily driver with great handling

[@TrailPass]

Thanks!

[@grummanfanschneid]

Thnx fellow Subaru Owners - many of u left great reviews - had an 05 Xt - then bought a 12 Focus (big mistake) so now I’m getting the 23 Onyx Xt Turbo

[@tritchie6272]

Sounds to me like a well thought out decision.

[@frankpoperowitzmusic]

I traded my 21 4Runner TRDORP for an Outback Onyx XT. I never needed all that truck and with perpetual high fuel costs I just couldn't live with it anymore. I love my Outback and have zero regrets. Getting 31-32 MPGs on the interstate. Taking it out on the beach tonight here in the OBX.

[@CDub-np1cc]

We have a 4Runner and a '20 Outback Touring. I prefer the Outback for long road trips; really smooth and tech is nice. However, I would never think of taking Outback where I can go with the T4R. The T4R takes a beating and never misses a step; drives like the day we bought it in '16. Just two completely different vehicles that both have advantages in different applications.

[@TrailPass]

I completely agree and I would always keep my FJ or something similar for the trails. I just think it's amazing how many by trd pros, broncos, and Rubicons because they thought about camping at a KOA one time, then live with a very offroad focused vehicle everyday which is compromised for how they ACTUALLY use it. 4runners are fantastic vehicles for what they are!

[@pennmikael]

I’m in agreement. We have a gx460 and a Forester. Forester goes 95% of the places we go but the extra 5% of hard stuff is reserved for the gx. Forester does 27 mpg with ATs and skids so can’t complain.

[@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD]

@@pennmikael I am jelly of the mpgs you get in your Forrester

[@pennmikael]

@@LexusGX460-OFF-ROAD the mpg is about all there is to be jealous about for our use. I’ll trade it for your sienna any day. Constantly concerned about the cvt failing while off road, and why we got the gx. That said, it’s the perfect vehicle for well maintained forest roads if you can get over the cvt potential for premature failure.

[@michaelelliott4975]

I have an 06 T4R and curious about the ride of newer T4R’s. I’m stuck on whether to go with an OBW or a newer 4R. Cargo space is really important 4 all my dive gear.

[@kennethwalton5582]

I agree with you. The Outback with the turbo charged engine is a good option to consider. I was considering it as well, prior to purchasing my Hyundai Palisade Limited but I found a good deal on the Palisade and got it for the extra room. Enjoy your ride.

[@TrailPass]

Those new Hyundai products are super nice! They're all but impossible to get in my area due to demand though.

[@Holtenstein]

After driving both wilderness models I ended up with the Forester. I like the shape and size of the Forester as well as the MPG and it is MIJ. Though I would have preferred the turbo engine. Also, none of the skid plates are available right now on the wilderness models due to the "under guard plates" country of manufacture. Although the aftermarket plates will cost more, they are 3/16" aluminum and much stronger than the OEM. Also, Subaru has large aftermarket support. You can currently upgrade the suspension as well as add LSD to the rear diff if you want it to be more capable off-road.

[@TrailPass]

Great points! It sounds like a lot of folks are really loving the Wilderness models. We really liked the larger size of the Outback for the carseat.

[@briang813]

How is the actual fuel economy on the Forester Wilderness? I've heard that it is worse than the Outback Wilderness, even though the Outback has the turbo engine.

[@Holtenstein]

@@briang813 I've only put 450 miles on it so far. But it's averaging 24mpg around town. It's the tires on the wilderness that kill the MPG. Having an extra set of wheels for highway travel would bring it pretty close to the standard model. The transmission's final gear is a bit lower than the standard model so it will never get 33mpg.

[@TrailPass]

@@Holtenstein for what it's worth we're getting 24.5 in mixed driving. I'm curious to see what it'll be once it's broken in.

[@ericdavisii3912]

@@TrailPass lucky, I'm getting 17mpg in mine mixed driving. Talked with other OBW owners similar issues not getting even close to epa estimates

[@markdoyle8713]

Love the video. Got my 2024 wilderness for a lot of reasons . But you under scored the main reasons . Safety for my family and capability. I drove a Toyota 4Runner before buying my 2024 Outback wilderness and the body roll , nose dive and mileage on the screen was a no go.,,,,,,,rock on love the content.😅

[@swkohnle08]

As someone who came to Subaru from a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, I’m on my third Outback. I just bought a new 2023 Onyx edition. Living in the northeast, we don’t have a lot of open off-road land available like people who live out west with millions of square miles of BLM land. For me, I wasn’t driving off road enough to justify the harsh on road ride of my Wrangler. The road trips my wife and I take, the Outback just works better. We hike in the White Mountains of NH, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains in VA and take a lot of road trips around the eastern half of the US and the Outback just works for us. Nice choice on your Wilderness edition.

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

I'm constantly out in the back trails of the Mojave & Colorado deserts of CA, and it always impressed seeing the Outback on the trails.

[@danielfair4675]

We own both, a 4 Runner Limited & a Crosstrek Limited. Each serves a purpose we bought them for.

[@christaluongo8919]

I traded my Ram 1500 for the Subaru Outback Wilderness, and I love it! I can't wait to take it hunting this fall!

[@michaelelliott4975]

I only wish there was a better stereo option. This would be a primary driver for me, and having to upgrade the standard speakers for decent sound is a big let down.

[@AntilleanConfederation]

Needs to offer a manual option or I won’t get one. Matter of fact add the STI DCCD and diffs and I’ll buy one today. Lol.

[@chrismcelroy5193]

All great points. Looking at the Forester Wilderness. Really put things into prospective.

[@covertops.]

You should get the PERRIN 20mm Wheel Spacers to avoid the muffin-top look that your vehicle has. It will look nicer with the wheels pushed outward a little bit.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Great video! I LOVE my Outback Wilderness (Geyser Blue) It's the best vehicle I ever had in my life. I was very surprised how smooth and quiet it drives considering the off road capabilities. Even the fuel economy at 26 highway beats all the other small 4WD trucks MPGs (Ridgeline, Tacoma, Frontier etc.)

[@TrailPass]

Great point!

[@tomKphotoFortCollins]

I'm 27k in - still love it - tackles the Forest Service roads of Colorado without issue - ditched the (Toyota-sourced) crappy speakers for some high-efficiency Focals and she sings! Get some stronger skid plates underneath (the factory ones are plastic).

[@cajunqueen1971]

I just purchased a 2022 Outback Wilderness and I love it! I wanted it for my daily and for road trips to National and State Parks, the woods, etc. We have race cars and they are fun, but they stay on pavement. We will keep 1 race car and I will sell my race car next spring, so I still get to play with it for awhile! We are taking the GT500 and the Outback to Big Bend in West Texas next month, for Octane Fest, where we will race, but we added 2 days to go and play in the Outback! I just ordered over lays for the emblems that match the wilderness badges, so that will hopefully make it look better, the blue badges do not match. I have customized a lot of mustangs and I have issues with non matching colors on a vehicle. Mine is also white, it matches my husbands white Ram with black off road wheels, they look like a cute couple, except his truck is way higher than my subie! For serious off roading, we have his truck, for playing and trail riding we have the subie. I had an 2022 Audi SQ5 and I hated it, it took me several months of research to finally decide on this one!

[@TrailPass]

Awesome! Glad you're happy with your purchase. Let me know how the emblems turn out.

[@cajunqueen1971]

@@TrailPass Will do, this company does so many custom emblem overlays, hubby found them, Orsini Vinyl Designs, They have 10 pages of Emblem overlays!

[@Dankstar209]

14 xt 2inch lifted struts by rough country wrapped in falken wild peaks cke anti wobble insert and perrin steering dampner lockdown i love my turboroo

[@TrailPass]

Cool! Sounds like a capable ride

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

I did the sway bar support brackets and the anti wobble insert (soft one) Is the steering dampener worth it? Was considering that too.

[@huyendo6286]

We just bought a Subaru outback Wilderness too. So far so good! We love the smooth ride.

[@TrailPass]

Awesome, congrats! What color is yours? Any thoughts for future videos?

[@huyendo6286]

@@TrailPass a black one. Plan on putting some front guard and tent on top. We are so excited for upcoming trip

[@TrailPass]

@@huyendo6286 sounds awesome. Those black ones look great! We just knew we could never keep it clean lol

[@huyendo6286]

@@TrailPass off road vehicle should not stay clean or else it not up to purpose😆

[@TrailPass]

@@huyendo6286 that's true but my OCD can't handle the scratches 😆

[@zanesutherland406]

This looks like an awesome vehicle. I recently bought a 2007 Outback, manual transmission. Had under 69k miles when I bought it. I just had head gaskets, timing belt, and spark plugs done so it will last me a long time. I love the look of it and creature comforts without a bunch of tech that can get outdated or expensive to repair. The heated seats are so nice with the cold weather.

[@TrailPass]

Awesome Zane, enjoy your new ride!

[@steevoridgeline]

tomorrow 4h30 pm. all set and i went to see the vehicle ahead of time in person today Sunday !!! it was blue and was absolutely gorgeous and perfect !!!!

[@TrailPass]

Awesome! It's been a great vehicle for our family!

[@Lithium023]

I test drove a 2024 forester wilderness and thought it was very blah and felt like i was def in a car. Coming from 4runners it felt to low to the ground and with its little baby wheels i just couldn't do it. Ended up buying a 4runner and put a leveling kit on it and there is absolutely no comparison in the two. Ill stick with 4runners✌️

[@gjhoward]

My wife and I were giddy when we saw the middle-seat release levers in the cargo area. Silly, I know, but what a great little added feature!

[@TrailPass]

Completely agree. Very thoughtful!

[@srikrishnathatavarthi283]

They should add Roll down of Window in the back (4 Runner Feature) so that pets can have fun.

[@TrailPass]

True, that's a great feature!

[@mykeable]

I'm in the process of purchasing this car used for my growing family. It only has 13 thousand clicks on it, super super low. We are coming from my wifes 2015 Hyundai Accent, which we still have, and my dead as a doorknob 2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback. I'm all about the Hatchback life and this Dad-wagon is my style. I really got it for the space, the luxury and the towing capabilities, because we go camping a few times a year. I live up in Canada, and if you've ever been through a Canadian winter, this car and its AWD, I think, would be great for such conditions.

[@TrailPass]

I agree, sounds like a great fit for what you are looking for!

[@grahampye2314]

Wow. Looks so good. I had honestly forgotten about Subaru in my recent vehicle hunt and ended up with a Honda Ridgeline (a bit related to the crazy car market/availability etc). I'm happy with the Ridgeline, see the trade-offs as having equal positive's and negatives of a truck style vs wagon, but to think I could have saved $10,000+ going with the Subaru makes me feel a bit stupid. If I had seen this review earlier I may have checked for availability of this model. I've had 2 Subarus in the past and a few Hondas and had great luck with both brands. Thanks again and good job on the review and injecting good insights regarding safety, efficiency, practicality in a world that seems to have forgotten those things while everyone wants to look like they're ready to hit serious off road territory.

[@TrailPass]

That's for the well-written response. I run up all made a great choice with your Ridgeline. That's a very comfortable vehicle that has plenty of utility for how most use them!

[@JackSRust]

Love my 22 outback onyx. I got the front windows tinted and went with a nameless muffler delete axel back as well as a performance k&n air filter and it sounds, looks and performs amazing!

[@TrailPass]

Sounds awesome!

[@richg4now]

I did the complete Nameless system on mine gotta change that mid pipe

[@ordinarysuperstar3721]

Nice, for me I'm waiting for Subaru to come out with an Ascent Wilderness trim aha.

[@TrailPass]

I bet it's on the way! It's amazing how many people are interested in Subaru due to the Wilderness trim.

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Next year they are supposed to release the Crosstrek Wilderness. That will be the most capable off road Subi yet due to the short wheelbase. I recently bought an Outback Wilderness (needed something a bit longer then the Crosstrek) and it's awesome!

[@rachelleherron8389]

I have recently acquired a 2008 Subaru Outback and I love it.

[@TrailPass]

That's great 👍

[@67daltonknox]

A friend did the same thing. Within a year he had to have the transmission rebuilt and the head gaskets replaced.

[@cyberspd]

The only thing it's missing is a hood scoop for that intercooler. I'm sure plenty of air passes through that large grill but turbo Subies should have a scoop

[@onetimer100]

The 'scoop' is hidden. Air ducts under the hood direct air to the scoops....rather than on top of the hood. Doesn't look the same but they are there.

[@nairolfnednilruz]

This is probably the best family car you can get. The Volvo cannot compete, the quality isn‘t the same. Despite they might look like they where. PS: You have chosen the nicest color, imho ;)!

[@martinr8278]

Subarus wilderness editions are amazing. I wish I could get one of those! Pretty much unstoppable, handles well, safety is also a key issue, comfortable driving over long distance, the positive list goes on and on. I do like my older Forester and hope to continue to have that for years to come. I might be able to afford one of these wilderness editions 10 years down the road in a used one lol. I don’t know anyone who has purchased one of these and has regretted it if anything they say where has this car been all my life lol. And that is just coming from me striking up a conversation when I see an owner in a parking lot or around our neighborhood. Definitely the best choice you could have made, you definitely have a vehicle with a great history of reliability and safety. That is the best thing you would like to have on any road

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for the great response!

[@martinr8278]

@@TrailPass you bet 😊🏆🥇. Enjoy your new vehicle and hope to see another video have you and your family taking a fun journey

[@MegaGeorge1948]

The Wilderness has a 4.44:1 differential ratio compared to the standard Subaru ratio of 4.11:1. This will give better acceleration and better trail performance. But it also has a negative effect on pavement gas mileage.

[@arress2052]

We just got ours two weeks ago and we love it. I am switching out the speakers though. That stereo is not good. Other than that, I don't plan to do too much modding.

[@TrailPass]

Yeah we noticed that too. Even more strange is the Forester Wilderness has upgrades stereo and we don't even have the option. Great vehicles though

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

Yeah, I wish they offered the Harmon Kardon system as an option in the Wilderness. I just upgraded all 6 speakers with Kicker CS from Crutchfield. Comes with all the doo-dads needed (make sure to get 6X9's for the front doors) and honestly doing it myself was pretty easy although it does take some time.

[@arress2052]

@@HomesteadOnThePreserve Did the speakers make a big difference?

[@HomesteadOnThePreserve]

@@arress2052 Totally! The secret is getting highly efficient speakers. This takes advantage of the weak power coming from the head unit. The 2022 OBW only puts out 15 watts per channel. I believe all 6 speakers are rated at 91 efficiency. After the install you have to re-tune and I discovered setting the "sound stage" or whatever the settings are called to LOW on both makes a sweet difference. If interested, let me know, ill look up the exact speakers I bought.

[@arress2052]

@@HomesteadOnThePreserve I already purchased some Rockford Fosgate components and a pair of 6x9s for the door. But yeah, send along the name of what you got and maybe I’ll swap out. Thx.

[@centroelettricitaspinea3422]

True! Just stop buy over-rated/over-rugged Jeep just for offroading gravel roads. This Wilderness Outback is basically perfect for all adventures hiking/biking/overlanding etc

[@nhlcfl7733]

I think it has a lot of value and capability and well spec’d. as the Wilderness edition and 0-60 near 6 seconds. Good for you and perhaps for me here in Alberta.

[@TrailPass]

15k miles later and still happy with our decision! Thanks for watching.

[@thebiohackinglab]

Dang, how did you film that with the massive swarm of bugs

[@H.pylori]

Sir, good review. I am having the same decision to make...Wilderness vs. 4Runner. Like you said, I am one of those who at most will do Forest Service Roads and mild BLM roads and not sure what lockers will do. So I do not need a Rubicon or TRD Off Road, and the gas mileage on the Wilderness is much better. Glad you lowered the rear seat back, but would like to have seen if you could stretch out in it and not have the hump cause your back to hurt. Thank you.

[@TrailPass]

Thank you! The 4runner is a great vehicle but this generation is very much a truck and it's getting long in the tooth. The rear is very comfortable. I'll try to make a video of that in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@blackchristiangeek]

I'm a first time viewer and have subscribed. I'm considering the Subaru Outback althought the widerness might be a bit much for me at this stage of life. Nevertheless, you have provided inights that other reviwers have missed, at least for me. Thanks and God bless,

[@davidwayne9982]

THAT IS VERY SMART-- the 17" wheels with REAL offroad tires--I"d go WILD PEAKS or maybe NITTO ridge grapplers... or even KO2s...

[@gusdavos8158]

I bought one and was so excited. Sold it after 8 months. Nothing but issues. Drove amazing but the electronics sucked. System would reboot while driving.

[@TrailPass]

I've heard others same thing. We haven't had any issues yet.

[@ltwig476]

The great trade offs vs the 4Runner's off-road capabilities are greater safety, superior ride, less noise and great comfort. Just depends on what you want the vehicle for. I chose the 2022 Forester without turbo. It has ample power to get me to the campsites at 33 mpg hi-way. The Forester also has more useable room for camping gear do to its hight vs Outback. The extra hight of widow space is a wonderful feeling while cruising through nature. The downside is that you need a step stool to tie things onto the rack without scratching the vehicle. I'm not big on turbo power because they take away from the long life of the engine and sound like stupid want-a-bee. The CVT obviously works great for mpg. The only thing I notice is something annoying going on at 25 mph. I think it has to do with a bad design airbox or poor low rpm mapping. The little 4 cylinder boxer has good take off power and on ramp acceleration. The sporty looks of the Outback is superior over the Forester. Except I opt for the superior views of nature. I'm looking great vs I'm seeing great. Great choice on the white exterior. It looks fantastic with that Wilderness cladding!

[@TheRealCobraBurnout]

Excellent vid showing the Subaru. Looks like a nice vehicle option that can handle snow. I dig it.

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for watching!

[@1800dontcare]

I currently own the 2022 Outback Sports (Australian Version) and absolutely love it! We are upgrading to the Outback 2023 Touring XT which should be here in Jan/Feb next year... Not sure if you are aware but the rear cover (shade thingy lol) can be taken off and placed in where the Spare Wheel is so it's out of the way and easy taken out again. Also on the tailgate there is a little button on the right hand side that can be setup to use a code so in case you cannot find your keys you can program a code to open the vehicle without the keys

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for the tips!

[@1800dontcare]

@@TrailPass watch this video on how it is setup and some of his other videos to get to know your Outback a little more :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3OudmqVjtNmr5I

[@TommyBlazeHD]

The vertical screen is actually a bad thing. EVERYTHING in the car is operated through it. Getting into a hot car, gotta wait for the iPad want-to-be to boot up and turn on the A/C! And it's slow and laggy. With the new Tacoma and the 4Runner that will come out soon, the OBW isn't as appealing anymore. But I still will cross-shop the OBW refresh once the new generation of the 4Runner drops.

[@dhanipersaud6227]

The Outback is such a great truck!

[@MrBobbyBrown2006]

Not a truck...

[@ronfromportland]

Just got ours in late July! So far, so good. We love how comfortable the ride is.

[@TrailPass]

Congratulations! 🚗

[@claudiodominguez.]

If you live in a moderate winter climate you did very good.

[@MrGunnerru]

Wilderness is faster and has more mpg good room for stuff. Try climbing mud hills against a bronco or 4runner. Will not last long. Approach departure angle, just not there. 4runner is 11k more msrp and uses way more fuel.

[@andrewleventis8341]

I did the same instead of a X5 and so happy better car at half the price in my country

[@relaxation2380]

The biggest reason to buy the wilderness is the extra weight you can put on the roof and the extra towing capacity otherwise my buddy is fine with his outback touring model but I couldn't live without the towing and extra weight as I travel to the lake house fully loaded while towing quite often and it has not disappointed yet

[@J.Young808]

I have a 2005 Outback XT manual and I need to fix the sunroof (it worked and now doesn’t & leaks), driver’s seat recline and a vacuum leak. I loved my 4Runner TRD Off Road but the 12mpg’s killed me. At least I got $5k more than I had in it when I sold it.

[@TrailPass]

That's definitely the pros and cons of the 4runner summed up right there.

[@abidfarooqui4899]

Just got myself a Subaru Outback (w/o the XT). I may tow a 2100 - 2400 pound trailer may be 4 times a year for 30 miles and it will do that just fine with the tow hitch from Subaru I got. I never really need to go truly off-roading but going to TN log cabins from FL is in the cards along with some dirt driving, maybe some snow driving on roads with 2 dogs, my wife and son and it will do it just fine. I am getting about 32 MPG on highway. 4Runner in certain trims is a real crawler for true off-roading but how many people actually do that. All I see is housewives driving it around. I just laugh. All that money and compromise on fuel economy and comfortable ride for just the look. I love the big screen on my Subaru. I know some people did not like it.

[@traveller924]

Only minus not built in Japan anymore, reliability 3.5 out of 5 accordigly. Engine built in Japan. Updates: use it for 2.5 years now. No doubt most practical vehicle I've ever had.

[@YosemiteScubaDiver]

Ground clearance is the best too

[@thebigempty_5792]

I'd like to see how the Wilderness would compare to the older gen. Outback with the 3.6R / and an Ironman suspension lift.

[@TrailPass]

Me too, hopefully I can find someone who is willing to compare.

[@quantumdecoherence1289]

I went the other way. Regretted selling my T4R and getting into a OBW. Been a POS, rust on bottom @65 miles, bought new at dealership, screen lag, CVT shit driving experience, cracked windshield. For $8k more, 4Runner all day every day.

[@jessiehead6525]

Really great and thorough run down of the Wilderness. Nice presentation of the pros and cons. It’s a good solid car, with a bit of pizazz thrown in! So far, it’s gotten me out of a few spots I found myself in. It will be a good car to give your kid when they reach 16 and they demand to start driving…..you’ll know it’s solid!

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for watching!

[@100catfishing7]

I really like my 2015 OB Limited. That being said they cannot yet match Toyotas for reliability. I also own a 2008 Camry and a 2006 Tundra. I have spent more than double on repairs for the OB than I have on the Camry and Tundra combined.

[@TrailPass]

I can understand that. Toyota is the biggest auto manufacturer in the world with a great reputation for reliability for a reason!

[@jonathanmosher72]

The Outback Wilderness has basically the same off-roading capabilities as a stock 4Runner. Actually, you have more ground clearance in the Subaru.

[@DarinBoismier]

You made the right choice!

[@gevorgnazaryan8720]

I wish the other Subaru trims also came with this roof rails.

[@realdata8624]

WE GOT OURS at 34,000 brand new, smaller engine but happy with it.

[@TrailPass]

Great deal! Forester or outback?

[@frankfrankenstein5933]

Wow! Thanks for the superb review! The best on You Tube! Thanks again! I agree 100%!👍

[@TrailPass]

Thank you so much!

[@briandezzani7371]

How are you able to talk with all those bugs swarming you? Great vehicle. Probably my next after I move on from my 2015 Cherokee Trailhawk in a few years.

[@cezarymazur7719]

I'm driving a 2002 Subaru Forester, and I will drive this car forever. 200k miles and running great. Some corrosion probably will kill this car, not mileage.

[@DavGreg]

As the owner of a 2021 Outback Onyx, one recommendation - get the aftermarket auto start stop kit. It installs easily and ends that problem.

[@TrailPass]

Cool thanks!

[@xfilecity]

Great looking vehicle. I have the ascent and my lease is up and I’ve been thinking about this vehicle. How is the seating height? Even though it has almost 10 inches of ground clearance, do you feel like you are sitting low inside of the cabin or do you feel high like if you are in a Jeep ?That’s one of the only things that I don’t like about my vehicle, the seating height, while inside the cabin. I feel like I’m sitting in a car.

[@scott48]

I have a 2022 wilderness and best suv I’ve owned so far and here’s why. Subaru makes one of if not the best awd systems. Period. I’ve owned Audi, Bmw, lexus. Yes they are luxury cars but I seriously cannot find anything non luxury in my wilderness. The seats are supportive and comfy. Soft great leather like material that cleans easy. The car is super quick. I think the most important factor for me personally is overall cost of ownership. I had BMW X5 for years w. Great car. Guess how much it costs however to replace BMW X5 run flat tires. 😳. Guess how much oil changes cost on an Audi. 😳. Guess how much lexus costs to fill up. 😳. I had it with all 3. Subaru is just easy. Looking forward to first snow in my wilderness as well.

[@TrailPass]

Thanks for sharing!

[@joes7930]

I have a 2016 crosstrek in hyper blue with sparco white wheels and bfgko at tires 1 inch lift. 1 inc spacers and a Yakima cargo rack. Love it. About 46000 miles looking to trade when 3rd gen comes out 2024? I still prefer the looks of the 1st gen over gen 2.

[@TrailPass]

Cool ride! I bet that gen 3 launches with a wilderness package as well!

[@joes7930]

@@TrailPass I’m thinking I saw a 2023 crosstrek 2nd gen on KZbin here with a wilderness package.

[@nitramossof1784]

Nice review, I'm inching toward purchase. Thanks!

[@TobyCostaRica]

Been seeing a lot of these in SoCal. However after owning an Ascent that went through 2 CVTs I will never buy another Subaru.

[@krazeekalvin]

We are in the process of looking for an Outback Onxy

[@CocoNut2018]

Nice review. Amazing amount of insects flying around. Hope they are not mosquitoes.

[@TrailPass]

thanks. just gnats

[@JustinBobby-l1u]

I can’t wait to get one in March next year :)

[@carlosamaya4503]

How's the transmission on those? I know subaru have a bad reputation with the cvt transmissions and engines. They seem pretty cool though

[@TrailPass]

So far so good! I think they've fixed a lot of issues with the earlier models

[@kjamesjr]

They’ve pretty much engineered out all the engine bugs. They make their CVT in house. Together they’re the most reliable on the market.

[@martinr8278]

One of the better cvts that are out there. People need to go ahead and stop living also beyond the head gasket and oil burning issues of Subaru, those issues have all been fixed, apparently though it appears that some of the newer vehicles and I won’t mention the other car manufacturers are having oil burning problems among other things. CVTs in other makes/models also are having a lot of difficulty around their 60,000 to 80,000 mile, it’s a simple research to find out

[@Sig_ben2]

This looks like a mini van. Can you replace bigger tires ?