Thinking about getting my first Outback… any tips or advice?

So I’m about to buy a new 2025 Outback Premium. Anyone who’s been through this before, what should I know? Any advice on the buying process or things to look out for?

Just a heads up, my sales guy mentioned that if your credit score is above 715-720, you should qualify for the 2.9% rate. Don’t let them push you into a higher rate if you’ve got the score for it. Also, the Autumn Green color is stunning. It looks amazing in my driveway.

@Tenzin
Totally agree on the Autumn Green. My 2018 still looks brand new. It’s a great color that holds up well over time.

Zia said:
@Tenzin
Totally agree on the Autumn Green. My 2018 still looks brand new. It’s a great color that holds up well over time.

You can even ask for 1.9%. I did and they gave it to me.

@Dezi
Was that for 72 months or something shorter?

Noel said:
@Dezi
Was that for 72 months or something shorter?

48 months.

Dezi said:

Noel said:
@Dezi
Was that for 72 months or something shorter?

48 months.

Yeah, I think the 1.9% is only for 48 months or less.

Make sure you test drive it over some bumps before you sign anything. Check for any rattles! I’ve had mine in the shop three times for a headliner rattle and they still haven’t fixed it.

Harlan said:
Make sure you test drive it over some bumps before you sign anything. Check for any rattles! I’ve had mine in the shop three times for a headliner rattle and they still haven’t fixed it.

That’s a great tip. I’ll definitely do that.

Harlan said:
Make sure you test drive it over some bumps before you sign anything. Check for any rattles! I’ve had mine in the shop three times for a headliner rattle and they still haven’t fixed it.

I had a rattle in the steering column on my 2024 Premium. The dealer couldn’t replicate it, but luckily it went away on its own after a few hundred miles.

@Clancy
I’m pretty sure my rattle isn’t going away. I’ll probably have to fix it myself… or at least try to.

Subaru is offering special financing right now—2.9% for 72 months on new Outbacks.

Noel said:
Subaru is offering special financing right now—2.9% for 72 months on new Outbacks.

That’s exactly why I’m looking at a new one now.

Chance said:

Noel said:
Subaru is offering special financing right now—2.9% for 72 months on new Outbacks.

That’s exactly why I’m looking at a new one now.

Also, consider buying before any potential tariffs kick in. Prices might go up.

@Leighton
My sales guy said they’re expecting prices to go up by around $4,000. Could just be a sales tactic, though.

Chance said:

Noel said:
Subaru is offering special financing right now—2.9% for 72 months on new Outbacks.

That’s exactly why I’m looking at a new one now.

Any updates on this?

Check out the Subaru Finance calculator online. If your credit score is above 720 and you’re planning to pay it off in 48 months, you might qualify for 1.9%. Show that to the dealer. I did that and I’m almost done paying it off!

Take a look at the Onyx trim. The top Premium trim was only $1,000 cheaper than the Onyx at my dealer, but the Onyx comes with way more features like a Harmon/Kardon sound system, StarTex leather, and a heated steering wheel. Totally worth it in my opinion.

Call multiple dealers, even ones 200 miles away, and get out-the-door prices for the trim you want. Pit them against each other for the best deal. I got $4.5k off MSRP for my Wilderness this way. If you don’t want to put in the effort, you can try the Costco auto program, but you might not get the best price.

@Vail
That’s a really smart idea. I’ll give it a try.