Choosing tires for the Subaru Outback can be tricky. Online opinions vary widely, making it hard to find reliable recommendations. The Outback, popular in North America, alongside the Forester, attracts attention from drivers seeking top tire options.
The Outback offers exceptional cargo space, making it versatile, comfortable, and practical. Tailored for light off-road use, it combines Subaru’s all-wheel-drive with crossover features.
With a low center of gravity, the Outback handles like a luxury sports car. Its all-wheel-drive and ground clearance ensure smooth driving on various terrains.
Top 8 Tires for the Subaru Outback
When it comes to maintaining your Subaru Outback, changing tires is crucial. But deciding on the right ones can be tricky.
Before swapping tires, consider your driving habits. Do you need off-road durability or improved on-road performance?
To simplify your choice, I’ve selected top tires for Subaru Outback. Your tire choice should align with your driving needs.
For smooth roads, all-season tires suffice. For off-road adventures, durable all-season tires are ideal.
If camping is your thing, all-terrain tires are a great pick. For speed, opt for reliable summer tires.
Here are the top choices for Subaru Outback tires:
Michelin CrossClimate2
Unleash your Subaru Outback’s potential with Michelin CrossClimate 2 tires. These tires go beyond good to exceptional, making every journey smooth and comfortable. They handle various conditions effortlessly, enhancing your driving experience.
On dry roads, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 excels. Its excellent grip ensures smooth acceleration and braking. Even on tricky corners, it performs like a dedicated summer tire, impressing with its performance.
But this tire isn’t just for dry conditions. It also excels in wet weather, providing great traction and acceleration. Its stable cornering ability makes it a top choice for the Subaru Outback, ensuring safety and comfort.
In durability and tread design, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 shines. It’s the Outback’s top all-season tire. With 3D SipeLock technology and multiple tread blocks, it provides excellent traction. Its tread design and Thermal Adaptive compound keep flexibility in winter.
Not only does the Michelin CrossClimate 2 perform well, but it also prioritizes your comfort. Experience a quieter ride with PIANO noise reduction technology and a 3 PMSF rating. Plus, with a 60,000-mile warranty, you can trust in its durability.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 handles well, giving smooth cornering. Don’t hesitate to try out these tires and enjoy driving in all conditions.
- Rating: 4.9/5.0
- Price: $148 – $415
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 91 – 114
- Tread Depth: 10″
- Warranty: 60,000 miles
- Max PSI: 50 PSI – 51 PSI
- Weight: 20.99 Lbs – 36.55 Lbs
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 35 – 65
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great All-Season Performance: Works well in dry, wet, and light winter conditions (including some light snow). | Not a Dedicated Winter Tire: May not be sufficient for severe winter weather with heavy snow and ice. |
| Long Tread Life: Expected to last longer than many all-season tires. | Price: Can be more expensive than some all-season tires. |
| Comfortable Ride: Quiet and smooth ride quality. | Lower Fuel Economy: May have slightly lower fuel economy compared to some all-season tires. |
| Versatility: Eliminates the need for seasonal tire changes in many climates. | Limited Load Capacity Information: Load range and weight specifications aren’t readily available. |
Michelin Defender T+H
Rev up your Subaru Outback with the Michelin Defender T+H. It’s a durable tire, a true marathon runner in treads. With an 80,000-mile tread wear warranty, it lasts long, outpacing rivals.
The Michelin Defender T+H isn’t just about endurance. Upgraded, enhanced, it excels. Offering impressive longevity, exceptional traction, it’s a standout choice.
It’s not just a tire; it’s a performance powerhouse. Grip like a champion, solid performance in all conditions. Sun-drenched highway or rain-soaked road, it’s got you.
Yet, even champions have weaknesses. For heavy snow and ice, it falters. Solid performance overall, lacks traction in extreme winter. Consider winter tires for harsh conditions.
The Michelin Defender T+H truly delivers. Dependable traction, exceptional tread life, superb longevity. Built to perform, the ultimate four-season tire for Outback. Gear up now and drive like never before.
- Rating: 4.7/5.0
- Price: $153 – $231
- Load Range: SL
- Load Index: 83 – 103
- Tread Depth: 10″
- Warranty: 80,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI
- Weight: 17.26 Lbs – 31.00 Lbs
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 50 – 65
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent Traction: Provides strong grip in dry, wet, and light snow conditions. | Price: Michelin Defender T+H tires are on the higher end compared to some all-season tires. |
| Long Treadwear: Michelin offers a long treadwear warranty, indicating these tires are built to last. | Limited Winter Performance: Not ideal for severe winter weather with heavy snow and ice. Consider dedicated winter tires for such conditions. |
| Quiet and Comfortable Ride: Offers a smooth and noise-reducing ride experience. | Not the Best Fuel Economy: May have slightly lower fuel economy compared to some all-season tires. |
| Wide Range of Sizes: Available in a large variety of sizes to fit many passenger cars, minivans, and crossover SUVs. |
Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
Get set to conquer slick and wet terrains with Yokohama’s Geolandar A/T G015. This tire is a true off-road champion, ideal for SUVs and light trucks. It’s the go-to choice for Subaru Outback Wilderness vehicles. If you’re after great gas mileage, these tires may not be for you. But if you own a Wilderness Outback, gas mileage isn’t your top concern.
The magic of the Geolandar A/T G015 lies in its symmetric tread design. Yokohama uses an Enduro compound that boosts durability. This compound extends the tire’s life to 50,000 miles for LT-metric size and 60,000 for P-metric size.
But durability isn’t the only perk. The Geolandar A/T G015 shines in performance too. Thanks to its four deep circumferential grooves, this tire excels in snowy conditions, offering excellent traction and grip.
Packed with impressive features, this tire caters to enthusiasts navigating mild to moderate snowy roads. While it handles well in all seasons, it may struggle on rough terrains like large rocks and deep mud.
Don’t hesitate! Equip yourself with Yokohama’s Geolandar A/T G015 for an unmatched driving experience. Whether you’re an off-road explorer or a city driver, this tire will elevate your journey.
- Rating: 4.7/5.0
- Price: $145 – $557
- Load Range: C1 – XL
- Load Index: 95 – 129
- Tread Depth: 11″ – 18″
- Warranty: 50,000 – 60,000 miles
- Max PSI: 35 PSI – 80 PSI
- Weight: 25.0 Lbs – 69.0 Lbs
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – T – UP TO 118 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 10.5 – 9.5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent wet traction: Performs well in rain and slush, offering good hydroplaning resistance. | Limited grip in dry conditions: May not offer the best handling on dry pavement compared to some competitors. |
| Good all-season performance: Handles various weather conditions, including light snow. | Lower fuel efficiency: Compared to all-season tires, fuel economy might be slightly lower. |
| Quiet and comfortable ride: Offers a smooth and quiet ride on the highway. | Moderate off-road capability: Not ideal for extreme off-roading but tackles light trails well. |
| Durable construction: Built to withstand wear and tear, with a good tread life warranty (up to 60,000 miles). | Higher price point: Compared to some all-season tires, the Geolandar A/T G015 might be slightly more expensive. |
| Versatility: Suitable for on-road and light off-road driving. | Limited mud traction: May struggle in deep mud due to the tread design. |
Yokohama Avid GT S35B
At the Subaru dealership, the Yokohama AVID Ascend GT tire is popular. It’s not only about performance but also about reliability, fitting Subaru vehicles well. Even though it’s common on Subaru Outbacks, it may not be the best option. Michelin tires stand out as a top choice, even for Outbacks. They’re a bit expensive, so opting for the Yokohama Avid GT S35B could be a more budget-friendly yet safe alternative.
- Rating: 4.6/5.0
- Price: $176 – $243
- Load Range: SL
- Load Index: 95 – 97
- Tread Depth: 10″
- Warranty: 65,000 miles, or 32,500 on staggered fitment
- Max PSI: 51 PSI
- Weight: 24.0 Lbs – 25.0 Lbs
- Speed Rating: V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 50 – 55
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable price: Compared to high-performance tires, the Avid GT S35B offers a good balance of features at a competitive price point. | Limited performance: Not designed for aggressive driving or high-speed handling. |
| All-season capability: Provides decent traction in wet, dry, and light snow conditions. | Not ideal for winter weather: For severe winter conditions, dedicated winter tires are recommended. |
| Comfortable ride: Offers a smooth and quiet ride for everyday driving. | Lower treadwear warranty: Compared to some touring tires, the treadwear warranty might be shorter. |
| Fuel efficient: Designed to offer good fuel economy for everyday driving. | Not the most responsive: May not offer the most precise steering feel for performance-oriented drivers. |
Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport AS
The Bridgestone Dueler H/P Sport AS is a top choice for the Subaru Outback. It’s responsive, direct, and perfect for winding roads.
This tire excels in lateral grip and predictable handling. It offers impressive braking capabilities, especially on wet roads.
Yet, its snow traction is average, not ideal for winter. The treadwear warranty of 40,000 miles may concern some users.
- Rating: 4.5/5.0
- Price: $180 – $305
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 102 – 107
- Tread Depth: 10″ – 11″
- Warranty: 40,000 miles
- Max PSI: 36 PSI – 51 PSI
- Weight: 26.0 Lbs – 37.0 Lbs
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 50 – 65
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent all-season performance: Handles dry, wet, and light winter conditions well. | Not ideal for deep snow or harsh winters: Consider winter tires for extreme winter weather. |
| Superior handling: Provides responsive steering and confident cornering on dry roads. | Lower fuel efficiency: Compared to some fuel-efficient all-season tires, the Dueler H/P Sport AS might see slightly lower mpg. |
| Comfortable ride: Offers a good balance between handling and comfort for everyday driving. | Road noise: May be slightly noisier than some all-season tires, especially on rough pavement. |
| Durable construction: Built to last, with a decent treadwear warranty (around 40,000 miles). | Limited off-road capability: Not designed for off-roading, but can handle gravel roads and light trails. |
| Good value: Offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and price for a premium all-season tire. |
Buying Guide for Subaru Outback Tires
When choosing tires for your Subaru Outback, know your driving conditions. Various terrains and weather need specific tire features for safety.
Consider the following factors:
- Terrain and Weather Conditions: Test the predominant weather conditions and terrain you encounter. Choose tires with great snow traction for snowy regions. All-terrain tires suit mixed on-road and off-road driving.
- Tire Type: Choose from various tire types tailored to specific driving conditions. All-season tires last long, work for all seasons. Summer tires high performance in warm weather. Winter tires for snow and ice, all-terrain good on and off-road.
- Tire Size: Make sure the tire size fits your vehicle. Check the owner’s manual or driver’s side door jamb.
- Performance Ratings: Make sure to check the tire’s ratings for speed and load. It needs to match your vehicle’s specifications.
- Tread Pattern: The tread pattern influences traction, handling, and noise levels. Symmetrical treads keep it quiet and last long. Asymmetrical ones balance dry and wet surface performance.
- Brand Reputation: Think about top tire brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Yokohama.
- Price and Warranty: Balance your budget with the manufacturer’s warranty. Choosing cheaper tires might seem appealing, but focus on safety and comfort.
Consult a tire expert for personalized advice on your driving needs. For Subaru Forester tires, check out our specialized guide.
The Car Data Tire Testing Methodology
We’re proud to review new tire models . Our method is meticulous, considering many factors for accurate ratings.
- Performance: We test tires in various conditions: wet, dry, snowy, icy, and off-road. Handling, braking, noise, and comfort are carefully evaluated. We use standard procedures for accurate assessment. Statistical analysis helps us find average and variation data.
- Durability: When checking tire durability. tread life, puncture resistance, and sidewall strength. We use standardized methods or feedback from reliable sources. Statistical methods help us analyze results for mean and standard deviation.
- Value: When we look at a tire, we think about its cost, how it works, and how long it lasts. We check if it’s worth the money based on its durability and performance. It’s important to see if the tire’s quality matches its price.
- Customer Reviews: Considering fellow drivers’ insights and experiences is crucial. Our review process carefully filters out misleading or fake reviews. We aim for accuracy but acknowledge human error possibilities.
- Expert Opinions: Consulting industry experts gives us more insights on tires. Their knowledge and experience enrich our review process significantly.
Our ratings are presented on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the lowest and 5 the highest rating. Our goal is to provide thorough reviews for drivers’ decisions. Using statistical analysis, we give reliable tire ratings.
Best Replacement Tires For Subaru Outback
| Year | Trim | Tire Size | Tire Size Designation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Base | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2022 | Limited | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2022 | Limited XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2022 | Onyx Edition XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2022 | Premium | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2022 | Touring | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2022 | Touring XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2022 | Wilderness | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2021 | Base | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2021 | Limited | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2021 | Limited XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2021 | Onyx Edition XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2021 | Premium | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2021 | Touring | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2021 | Touring XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2020 | Base | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2020 | Limited | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2020 | Limited XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2020 | Onyx Edition XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2020 | Premium | 225/65R17 | 17-inch |
| 2020 | Touring | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 2020 | Touring XT | 225/60R18 | 18-inch |
FAQs
The Michelin CrossClimate SUV is the quietest tire for the Subaru Outback. Although the Hankook Kinergy 4S is quieter, it may not offer the required size for the Outback.
tires on a Subaru Outback need replacement every 2 to 4 years. For frequent drivers, swap tires every 50,000 miles.
Replacing all four tires together helps keep the grip consistent. But if just one tire needs changing, match it well.
Using original equipment tires is fine, but other brands offer advantages. For example, longer tread life or better winter traction. Exploring different tire brands can offer a tailored solution beyond the standard options.
When choosing tires for your Subaru Outback with 17-inch or 18-inch wheels. think about the pros and cons. Each tire option has unique features to match your needs.
Final Words
The Subaru Outback excels in versatility and reliability, needing little maintenance. Yet, periodic tire changes are vital for safety and comfort.
Choosing tires for a Subaru Outback should match your driving style. Whether you love off-roading or city driving, good tires enhance your experience.
These tires are highly recommended for Subaru Outback owners. They are carefully selected to improve handling and performance. If you’re looking for new tires, consider these options. They promise smooth, secure, and fun drives, enhancing your adventures.