When it debuted for the 2022 model year, the Subaru Outback Wilderness looked to give buyers more off-road flexibility than other Outback trims. Consumers received it well, and now the 2023 model is available. Learn more about the 2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness, including the price, features, and whether this outdoorsy trim is worth the spend.

2023 Subaru Outback price and overview

The 2023 Subaru Outback offers a whopping nine trims, including the Wilderness. Starting at $28,395, the base model is the cheapest. One level up is the Premium trim, available for $30,695.

Next are the Onyx, Limited, and Touring. For the Onyx, you’d have to part with $33,495 to get it. The Limited is slightly more expensive at $35,295, and the Touring lists for $39,845, according to Subaru.

The first five trims — the base model through the Limited — have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine producing 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. One other similarity is their 2,700-pound towing capacity.

Starting at $38,445, the Wilderness slots between the Limited and Touring. And the Onyx Edition XT and Limited XT are priced at $38,595 and $39,695. Last, the range-topping Touring XT starts at $42,295.

The engine is the most significant difference between the first five and the last four trims. Higher trims pack a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder harnessing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides better acceleration and a higher towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

Similarities cut across all trims include a continuously variable transmission (CVT), Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, and a traction control system. However, each trim has unique elements in the wheels and tires, side mirrors, body colors, and interiors.

2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness features

The Subaru Outback Wilderness has been a success since its introduction to the lineup in 2022. It embodies off-road excellence, with the chassis lifted 9.5 inches off the ground to make crawling through snow and gravel easier. For context, all other trims have 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

Other off-road improvements include a front skid plate and front and back bumpers that improve approach and departure angles. Furthermore, the vehicle boasts off-road wheels and all-terrain tires.

Though the Outback Onyx Edition XT, Touring XT, and Limited XT have a similar powertrain, the Wilderness offers some minor changes. In particular, Subaru re-tuned the gear ratios to allow for low-speed climbing.

Other notable Wilderness features are reinforced roof rails that can support a rooftop tent and matte-black hood detailing to reduce glare.

Is the Wilderness worth buying?

As for which 2023 Subaru Outback trim is worth buying, Car and Driver reviewers say the Premium is the best option for the money. The site also thinks the turbocharged engine’s enhanced towing capacity and acceleration aren’t worth the extra cost.

On the other hand, according to Edmunds, the Limited trim is most popular among buyers.

That said, the Wilderness is worth considering if you’re looking for a vehicle that functions as a daily driver during the week and an adventuring option on the weekend.

Though this midsize crossover SUV isn’t the best off-roader, it offers plenty of value. Additionally, it’s unlikely to struggle on most backroads or muddy or hilly terrain. Plus, the extra ground clearance and off-road features could come in handy in inclement weather.