Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg) (depending on engine/transmission/trim)
Towing Capacity:
Typically 2000 lbs (907 kg) (check specific model year for confirmation)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 30.3 - 71.3 cu ft (858 - 2019 liters) with rear seats folded.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for models equipped with airbags)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for models equipped with airbags)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags, where applicable)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most models from mid-90s onward.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, not standard across the range.
Passive Features
Airbags Driver:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most later models (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System).
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners on front belts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard on all models in this generation; ISOFIX anchors may be present on some international variants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Optional premium sound systems available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic digital clock, climate control displays. No central infotainment screens in the modern sense.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
All Wheel Drive:
Core technological feature providing enhanced traction and stability.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration. Aftermarket head units required for such features.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type - copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ series engines. Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 2.2L:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type 2.5L:
API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Certain 2.5L DOHC (EJ25D) engines were known for head gasket issues, and specific oil viscosities were sometimes recommended to mitigate this.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Capacity approx. 7.6 quarts (7.2 liters).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or Dexron III equivalent. Capacity approx. 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters) for refill.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil for front and rear differentials.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III equivalent.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
Common issue on EJ25D (2.5L DOHC) engines, leading to coolant leaks into the combustion chamber or oil. EJ22 and later EJ25 SOHC engines are generally more reliable in this regard.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Can fail, causing the engine to stall or not start.
Automatic Transmission Behavior:
Some models can experience rough shifting or transmission control module issues.
Cv Axle Boots:
Wear and tear on CV axle boots can lead to joint damage if not addressed.
Exhaust Leaks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds or failing gaskets can occur over time.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Can develop oil leaks from the rear main seal.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), now Subaru Corporation, has a long history in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, known for its Boxer engines and AWD technology.
Model Evolution
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Leone. The Outback variant was developed from the Legacy wagon.
Outback Concept:
The Outback concept was first introduced as a trim level on the Legacy wagon, marketed as the 'Grand Wagon' in Japan and the 'Outback' internationally, offering increased ride height and rugged styling.
Generation Specifics:
The 1993-1999 models represent the second generation of the Subaru Legacy (chassis codes BD/BG). The Outback became a distinct model line starting in 1995, based on this generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing: Gunma Plant, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Reputation:
Subaru Outback is consistently recognized for its all-weather capability, practicality, and durability.
Year Specific Awards:
While specific awards for the 1993-1999 models might be less documented than later generations, the Legacy platform was well-regarded for its AWD system and Boxer engine. The Outback concept itself was innovative for its time.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Models within this generation often received mixed reliability ratings, with the EJ25D head gasket issue being a significant concern impacting overall ratings.