The Wilderness trim level is a new designation for 2022, for various Subaru models. The Outback happens to be the first model introduced with the new trim level. As the name implies the Outback Wilderness is a more great outdoor-capable wagon that is wider, tougher, and has more ground clearance than the non-Wilderness trim levels. What it didn’t give up was the Outback’s comfortable ride and station-wagon usefulness.
Adding to the already nicely-appointed Outback, the Wilderness replaces all the chrome exterior with satin black plastic cladding to protect the car from scratches and such from bouncing rocks and low shrubs. Copper-clad tow-hook anchors and roof-rail tie downs, add style and sparkle. The Wilderness has a tow rating of 3500 pounds which means it could tow a boat. The roof rack can handle 220 pounds in motion and 700 while stationary, so by all means get out that rooftop tent. The Wilderness is also equipped with water-repellent upholstery. The rear seatback is totally washable. My model also came equipped with a sunroof!
A turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-banger produces 260 horses and 277 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission that tries to make sharp, crisp gear changes, but, in the long run, loses the plot. It takes a bit of goading to get rolling at a good clip. Expect to get 22/city, 26/highway, and 24/combined mpg.
There’s plenty of room inside both front and back. The seats are plenty comfy, soft yet supportive. The ride is cushy too, with potholes and other road imperfections being dampened with its forgiving suspension.
Most of the car’s functions are accessible through the 11.6” touchscreen, which isn’t particularly easy to do, especially when driving. There’s always some navigating through different menus even to do the most mundane function. There are plenty of ports to charge the various devices that have become a part of our daily lives.
While the Outback Wilderness is not the fastest vehicle on the road, its turbocharged engine will get you there. Steering is responsive with little body roll, so you can tackle those curves with confidence.
A new trim level to the Outback line, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness makes offroading fun and comfortable.
