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Subaru Outback: BS and BT generations, engines, and trims
The Subaru Outback is a rugged estate car with increased ground clearance and permanent all-wheel drive, blending the comfort of a regular car with the capability of an off-roader. It's popular among families who love to travel in Lithuania, and a fair number of used Outbacks are imported from the USA. We'll look at the BS and BT generations, engines, trims, and what to check before buying.
Outback in brief
The Outback has been in production since 1994 and was initially a raised version of the Legacy estate with plastic body cladding. All generations feature permanent all-wheel drive and a boxer engine, with the newer ones boasting over 20 cm of ground clearance.
The model is praised for its spacious boot, comfortable ride, and reliable performance on slippery roads. In the Lithuanian used car market, there are plenty of Outbacks from the USA alongside those sold in Europe, so the equipment, engines, and trim names can vary significantly.
BS and BT generations — what's the difference
The BR generation (2009–2014) is still a common, more affordable option with a spacious interior, but most cars have high mileage.
The BS generation (2014–2020) is the most popular in the used market: spacious, quieter than the BR, with X-Mode system and, in many cars, EyeSight safety system. The 2017–2018 facelifted version got a newer infotainment system, different headlights, and bumpers.
The BT generation (available in Europe from 2021) is built on the Subaru Global Platform: the body is stiffer, the interior more modern, with a large vertical touchscreen. It's pricier, but you get the most safety and driver-assistance features here.
Engines and transmissions
In the BS generation, the most common engine in Europe is the 2.5i petrol unit (around 175 hp) and the 2.0D diesel boxer engine (around 150 hp). The US market also offered the 3.6R six-cylinder engine (around 256 hp).
In the BT generation, Europe only gets the 2.5i petrol engine (around 170 hp). BT models imported from the US might have the 2.4 turbo engine (XT version, around 260 hp). There's no diesel option in the BT generation.
The petrol engines use the stepless Lineartronic CVT. The BS diesel could come with a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
What to check when buying a used Outback
The CVT should operate smoothly — juddering, hesitation, or vibration could indicate an expensive repair. Ask if the CVT fluid has been changed. For diesel cars that have done a lot of city driving, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
All-wheel drive is important, so all four tyres should be the same size and have similar wear. Inspect the underside for rust and damage, especially if the car has been driven on rough roads.
Check the history of US-imported cars by their VIN. Give the large multimedia screen a thorough test — some owners have complained about sluggish performance or glitches.
Trim levels
In Europe, Subaru trim levels vary by country and year, while US-imported cars have US market names. We list the most commonly encountered.
Comfort
BS, BT (Europe)The base European trim with a generous amount of standard equipment.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Automatic climate control and a rear-view camera
- Often — EyeSight system
Premium
BS, BT (US)The most popular US version, common among imported cars.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Heated front seats
- Often — electrically operated tailgate
Limited
BS, BT (US)A more comfortable version with a leather interior.
- Leather interior
- Often — navigation and Harman Kardon sound system
- Often — LED headlights that swivel with the steering
Touring
BS, BT (US)The top US trim with luxurious interior appointments
- Higher-quality leather interior
- Often — ventilated front seats (BT)
- Often — panoramic sunroof
Onyx Edition XT
BT (US)A sportier version with a turbocharged engine
- 2.4 turbo engine, around 260 HP
- Black wheel arches and exterior details
- Water-resistant seat upholstery
Wilderness
BT (US, from 2021)A version tailored for off-roading with increased ground clearance
- 2.4 turbo engine
- All-terrain tyres and increased ground clearance
- Enhanced X-Mode and protective features
Comparison of BT generation trims
| Comfort (Europa) | Premium (JAV) | Limited (JAV) | Onyx Edition XT (JAV) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For daily use and road trips | For the savvy buyer | For comfort | For those wanting more power |
| Wheels (most common) | 18-inch | 17-inch | 18-inch | 18-inch |
| Interior | Cloth or leather | Cloth | Leather | Water-resistant flooring |
| Engine | 2.5i, around 170 HP | 2.5, around 180 HP | 2.5, around 180 HP | 2.4 turbo, around 260 HP |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | € | €€ | €€ |
For most buyers, the 2.5i version is ideal — both in Europe and the US. The turbocharged XT is worth seeking out if you often drive fully loaded or with a trailer.
Pros
- Spacious boot and cabin
- Permanent all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance
- Comfortable, road-trip-ready ride
- Often comes with plenty of safety kit (EyeSight)
Cons
- Fuel consumption for petrol engines is quite high
- The CVT can be expensive if it hasn't been well-maintained
- Many imported cars with unclear histories
Frequently asked questions
How does the Outback differ from the Forester?
The Outback is an estate car with increased ground clearance — it's longer, has a larger boot and is more comfortable on long journeys. The Forester is taller and shorter, making it more agile in the city. All-wheel drive and engines are essentially similar.
Which Outback generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the best choice is the refreshed 2017–2019 BS: well-refined and cheaper than the BT. If the latest safety features and a modern interior are most important, go for the BT generation.
Is it worth buying a diesel Outback?
The 2.0D is suitable for those who drive a lot outside the city, as it's more economical than the petrol version. If you mostly drive in the city, it's often more sensible to choose the 2.5i, as the particulate filter needs longer journeys.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
