Mid-size SUVs with the most cargo space, the Subaru Outback ranks in the top 5

How much can you put in the Subaru Outback?

The 2025 Subaru Outback isn’t the best 2-row midsize SUV for cargo, but it’s close. A new report from Consumer Reports (subscription-based) finds the Outback is near the top, ranking among the top five. Here are the results.

Consumer Reports says, “These two-row models offer the most space for carrying luggage, packages, or even a big-screen TV.” »

Consumer Reports doesn’t take the automaker’s word on cargo space.

CR says: “Automakers are happy to oblige, by highlighting the maximum “cargo space” of their offerings. However, not all of that generous cargo space is necessarily usable. It’s not worth having a lot of space if the rear hatch opening is narrow, short, or oddly shaped. Ease of use is even more limited if there are strange protrusions cutting in from the sides or ceiling.

How does CR measure cargo capacity?

Consumer Reports uses a unique method to measure cargo capacity. For SUVs, they use an extendable rectangular tubular frame “box”.

“We enlarge it enough to simply fit through the rear opening and extend it into the cargo hold as far as possible without preventing the hatch from closing. Cargo capacity is the volume enclosed by this box. This gives consumers a best idea of ​​how much cargo they can fit in the back, whether it’s luggage for a trip, a new dishwasher or a big screen TV coming home from the electronics store.

I’ve listed the top six models in order of cargo space in cubic feet, with the best performing first.

• Jeep Wrangler – 41.5 cubic feet
• Ford Bronco – 40 cubic feet
• Ford Edge – 39 cubic feet
• Honda Passport – 39 cubic feet
• Subaru Outback – 37 cubic feet
• Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport – 37 cubic feet

What does CR say about the 2025 Outback?

• Price range: $28,895 – $42,795
• CR MPG: Overall 24 / City 16 / Highway 32 mpg
• #1 of 17 mid-size SUVs

“The Subaru Outback is a smart alternative to an SUV. Although smaller than a typical SUV, it can easily carry long items and has a competitive 37 cubic feet of usable cargo space. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder gets the job done but can feel strained when faster speed is needed.

“The optional 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo engine provides effortless acceleration. The ride is very comfortable and the handling is responsive and secure. However, some tasks via the large infotainment screen require more than one step and the system is slow to respond to inputs, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are optional.

What are the advantages of choosing Outback?

Consumer Reports ranks the Outback No. 1 among midsize SUVs. This means the Outback excels in reliability, owner satisfaction, road tests, fuel economy, handling, ride and noise.

The Outback is a unique model compared to other two-row SUVs.

The Outback stands out as a unique model among other two-row SUVs, offering a blend of the ride quality and driving dynamics of a car with the utility of an SUV.

It’s easy to slide in and out thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and the Outback has better outward visibility than the competition because the Subaru Boxer engine sits lower in the chassis, lowering the height of the hood.

An often overlooked advantage of the Outback is its Boxer engine, which offers a lower center of gravity. This feature improves the stability of the Outback in tight turns or during evasive maneuvers.

The Outback comes standard with Subaru’s impressive Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology, X-Mode for extreme weather conditions and dual-function X-Mode on select trim levels for off-road capability.

Subaru now offers the rugged Outback Wilderness trim level for customers who use the midsize SUV for outdoor activities. You’ll be able to carry more outdoor gear and get further away from civilization.

All trim levels of the Subaru Outback come standard with the automaker’s excellent EyeSight driver-assist technology, earning it a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. Check out my report here for more information.

CR says: “The Outback is a lifted wagon with standard all-wheel drive that is a smart alternative to more traditional SUVs. The current model does not deviate from its successful formula. It is a comfortable and functional vehicle well suited to everyday use. commuting and weekend adventures.

It’s important to note that the Outback will be undergoing a complete, top-to-bottom redesign for the 2026 model change. There’s also an Outback Hybrid version on the drawing board. I will bring you more information as soon as it is published. Stay tuned.

My name is Denis Flierl, Senior Editor of Torque News since 2012. I have invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with all the major automotive brands. I am an experienced member of Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. You’ll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my SubaruReport, All Subarus, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierlFacebook and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru