Subaru Outback Wilderness: The Ultimate Overland Rig?

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the world of overlanding with a vehicle that's both rugged and refined? Today, we're talking about the Subaru Outback Wilderness, and whether it's the ultimate choice for your off-road adventures. We will discuss what makes this car unique and whether it is fit for you and your needs.

What Makes the Subaru Outback Wilderness Special?

The Subaru Outback Wilderness is not your average station wagon. It's been beefed up and tweaked specifically for off-road performance, making it a compelling option for those looking to explore beyond the pavement. Let's break down some of the key features that set it apart.

Enhanced Off-Road Capability

First and foremost, the Wilderness edition boasts a significant increase in ground clearance compared to the standard Outback. That extra clearance can make a world of difference when navigating rocky trails, deep ruts, and other obstacles you might encounter on your overlanding journeys. Combine this with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and you've got a vehicle that's ready to tackle some serious terrain. The revised suspension provides a smoother ride on rough surfaces, and the upgraded tires offer better grip and durability. The approach and departure angles have also been improved, reducing the risk of scraping the front or rear of the vehicle when climbing over steep obstacles. These enhancements collectively make the Outback Wilderness a capable and confident off-roader.

Rugged and Functional Design

The Wilderness edition isn't just about performance; it also looks the part. The exterior features a more aggressive design, with distinctive cladding, a unique front grille, and prominent tow hooks. These visual cues signal the vehicle's off-road intentions and add to its overall appeal. Inside, you'll find durable, water-resistant upholstery that can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. The interior also features copper accents and Wilderness badging, adding a touch of style to the rugged design. The roof rack is designed to carry heavier loads, allowing you to bring along all your essential gear. Every aspect of the Wilderness edition is designed to enhance its functionality and durability, making it a practical choice for overlanding enthusiasts.

Practical Interior and Cargo Space

Of course, overlanding isn't just about conquering challenging trails. It's also about being comfortable and well-equipped for extended trips. The Outback Wilderness shines in this area, offering a spacious and versatile interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The rear seats fold down easily to create a large, flat cargo area, perfect for hauling camping gear, supplies, and other essentials. The raised roof rails add even more cargo-carrying capacity, allowing you to mount a rooftop tent or cargo carrier. The interior also features numerous storage compartments and cupholders, helping you stay organized on the go. With its practical interior and ample cargo space, the Outback Wilderness is well-suited for long-distance overlanding adventures.

Is the Outback Wilderness a True Overlander?

Now, let's address the big question: Is the Subaru Outback Wilderness a true overlander? While it's certainly not as hardcore as some dedicated off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner, it offers a unique blend of capability, comfort, and practicality that makes it a compelling option for many overlanding enthusiasts.

Strengths of the Outback Wilderness for Overlanding

The Subaru Outback Wilderness really shines when we consider these points:

• Fuel Efficiency: Compared to traditional off-road vehicles, the Outback Wilderness offers significantly better fuel economy, which can save you money on long trips.
• Comfort: The Outback's smooth ride and comfortable interior make it a great choice for long-distance travel.
• Versatility: The Outback is equally at home on the highway as it is on the trail, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.
• Affordability: The Outback Wilderness is generally more affordable than many other overlanding-capable vehicles.

Limitations of the Outback Wilderness for Overlanding

On the other hand, it is important to note the following considerations:

• Ground Clearance: While the Wilderness edition has increased ground clearance, it's still not as high as some dedicated off-road vehicles.
• Aftermarket Support: The aftermarket support for the Outback Wilderness is not as extensive as it is for vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner.
• Towing Capacity: The Outback's towing capacity is relatively limited, which may be a concern if you plan to tow a trailer.

Essential Overland Modifications for Your Outback Wilderness

So, you've decided the Subaru Outback Wilderness is the right vehicle for your overlanding adventures? Great! But before you hit the trail, there are a few essential modifications you should consider to enhance its capability and durability.

Skid Plates and Rock Sliders

Protecting the undercarriage of your Outback is crucial, especially if you plan to tackle challenging terrain. Skid plates will shield the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from rocks and other obstacles, while rock sliders will protect the rocker panels from damage. Investing in these protective measures can save you from costly repairs down the road.

All-Terrain Tires

The stock tires on the Wilderness edition are decent, but upgrading to a set of more aggressive all-terrain tires will provide significantly better traction in mud, sand, and snow. Look for tires with a rugged tread pattern and a durable sidewall to withstand the rigors of off-road use. Also, consider the size of the tires and if they'll fit without issue.

Suspension Upgrades

While the Wilderness edition has a revised suspension, you may want to consider further upgrades to improve its off-road performance and load-carrying capacity. Options include heavier-duty springs, shocks, and struts. These upgrades can provide a more comfortable ride on rough terrain and prevent the vehicle from sagging when loaded with gear.

Recovery Gear

No matter how well-prepared you are, there's always a chance you'll get stuck while overlanding. That's why it's essential to carry a full set of recovery gear, including a winch, recovery straps, shackles, and a shovel. Knowing how to use this equipment safely and effectively can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major disaster.

Communication and Navigation

Staying connected and knowing where you're going are critical for safe and successful overlanding. Consider investing in a two-way radio or satellite communication device to stay in touch with others, especially in areas with limited cell phone coverage. A GPS navigation system with off-road maps can also be invaluable for finding your way.

Real-World Overlanding with the Subaru Outback Wilderness

Okay, enough with the technical details. Let's talk about what it's really like to overland with a Subaru Outback Wilderness. I've had the opportunity to speak with several Outback Wilderness owners who have taken their vehicles on some incredible adventures, and their experiences offer valuable insights.

Owner Testimonials

One owner, Sarah, told me about her trip to Moab, Utah, where she tackled some challenging trails with her Outback Wilderness. She was impressed with its capability and how well it handled the terrain. She did mention that she had to be careful on some of the more difficult obstacles, but overall, she was very happy with its performance. She said that the skid plates she installed saved her from some serious damage on more than one occasion.

Another owner, Mark, shared his experience of overlanding through the Pacific Northwest. He praised the Outback Wilderness for its comfortable ride and ample cargo space. He was able to pack all of his camping gear and supplies without any issues. He also appreciated the fuel efficiency, which allowed him to travel long distances without having to stop for gas as frequently.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While most owners are happy with their Outback Wilderness, there are a few common challenges that come up. One is the limited ground clearance, which can make it difficult to navigate certain obstacles. As mentioned earlier, skid plates and rock sliders can help protect the undercarriage, but it's still important to choose your lines carefully.

Another challenge is the limited aftermarket support compared to other overlanding vehicles. However, the aftermarket is growing, and there are now many options available for modifications and accessories. You may just need to do a little more research to find what you're looking for.

The Verdict: Is the Subaru Outback Wilderness Right for You?

So, after all this, is the Subaru Outback Wilderness the right overlanding rig for you? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a vehicle that's highly capable off-road, comfortable on the highway, and relatively affordable, the Outback Wilderness is definitely worth considering.

Consider the Outback Wilderness If:

• You value fuel efficiency and comfort.
• You don't need extreme off-road capability.
• You're on a budget.
• You want a versatile vehicle for everyday use.

Look Elsewhere If:

• You need maximum ground clearance and articulation.
• You plan to tackle extremely challenging trails.
• You need to tow a heavy trailer.
• You want a vehicle with extensive aftermarket support.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Subaru Outback Wilderness is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it performs in the conditions you plan to encounter. Talk to other owners, do your research, and make an informed decision. With the right modifications and preparation, the Outback Wilderness can be a fantastic overlanding vehicle that will take you on many unforgettable adventures. Safe travels, guys!