2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Built for the Bold

Exploring far and wide – and keeping Mother Nature safe for future generations, too.

Some things just go better together: sunsets and cold beers, hiking and dogs, marshmallows and graham crackers… and Natalie Muilenberg and her Subaru Outback Wilderness, nicknamed Blue.

Blue isn’t just Muilenberg’s overlanding rig and camping home base, she’s also a daily driver who’s just as capable on the pavement as she is off-road.

“I’ve always had vehicles that could be good daily drivers and give me options off the pavement,” Muilenberg explains, “I really like how Subaru offers great technical features in a not-too-rugged design.

They also have a great mind for sustainability and giving back to the community.”

Getting a Lift: Comparing Ground Clearance and Suspension

Blue’s Wilderness Edition stands tall with 9.5 inches of ground clearance, thanks to Subaru’s factory suspension lift—making it even more formidable off the beaten path than a standard Outback. This isn’t your average body lift that just nudges the body up; instead, Subaru fits the Wilderness with upgraded shocks and longer suspension travel, specifically tuned to eat up ruts, sand, and rocky trails.

For those keeping score, earlier Outback builds—especially ones modified with aftermarket strut spacers from brands like LP Aventure—could achieve a little extra lift, mainly to squeeze in those chunkier tires. But the real-world benefit was often limited to fitting beefier rubber rather than fundamentally improving the vehicle’s capability to handle off-road surfaces.

By elevating the core suspension instead of just the body, Subaru’s Wilderness setup doesn’t just tackle fire roads and trailheads with ease; it also means angles of approach, breakover, and departure are all noticeably improved. Compared to older lifts, the Wilderness feels confidently purposeful—no sketchy scraping on skid plates and hardly a worry about bottoming out. In most situations, the added clearance means the only contact is the tires kissing the terrain, not the belly pan catching on surprise obstacles.

Next-Level Off-Road Confidence with Expanded X-Mode

But what really sets the Outback Wilderness apart for anyone craving adventure is the enhanced X-Mode system. Subaru’s expanded X-Mode now offers two specialized settings—Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud—so Blue can tackle just about any terrain Mother Nature throws her way.

A particularly clever update is X-Mode’s ability to automatically transition from slow, controlled off-roading to higher speeds (think over 25 mph), without skipping a beat. You don’t have to stop and fiddle with switches when the trail opens up—Blue seamlessly keeps her footing, letting you focus on the journey ahead.

Another practical upgrade? The addition of a real-time roll-angle indicator right on the instrument cluster, reminiscent of classic off-roaders like those old Land Rovers. Now, Natalie can keep an eye on Blue’s tilt and stay safe on uneven ground—a subtle nod to rugged reliability, wrapped in Subaru’s thoughtful engineering.

Behind the Build: What Drives Adventure Vehicle Design?

When it comes to creating vehicles like the Subaru Outback Wilderness, there’s a lot more going on under the hood than just horsepower and flashy paint. Manufacturers weigh a wide range of factors to make sure their adventure vehicles aren’t just weekend warriors, but reliable daily drivers too.

At the core, safety and durability are always at the top of the list—after all, adventure means getting well off the beaten path, sometimes far from cell service or roadside help. Engineers scrutinize materials, construction methods, and even the types of fasteners to ensure a ride that can handle rough trails and the random rock or branch.

But the wish list doesn’t stop at brawn. Comfort and practicality are huge. “Is there enough cargo space for camping gear?” “Are the seats supportive on long drives?” If a vehicle is going to double as both highway hauler and campsite HQ, it better check both boxes.

There’s also customer feedback to consider. Automakers like Subaru look closely at how real people use these rigs. Is the infotainment system just as intuitive at the grocery store as it is at a muddy trailhead? Are roof racks and tie-downs genuinely useful, or just tacked on for style points?

Let’s not forget environmental impact. More buyers are asking whether their off-road fun leaves a lighter footprint, so features that promote fuel efficiency and eco-friendlier materials are increasingly top of mind.

And of course, it has to look the part—there’s a reason the Outback Wilderness wore its bolder, ready-for-anything styling straight out of the gate. A sense of adventure should be reflected in the design itself, from the chunky tires to the protective body cladding.

Ultimately, the recipe for the perfect adventure vehicle is a careful blend of real-world utility, technical innovation, and a dash of passion for the open road. That’s what draws drivers like Muilenberg—and inspires them to make every journey count.”

While she may not be climbing any vertical surfaces, Blue has more than enough traction to handle just about anything else.

She’d previously been driving another Subaru, a Crosstrek, but was thinking about upgrading to a larger rig. It was almost fate that she spotted an Subaru Outback Wilderness in a parking lot one day.

It was love at first sight. That’s what led her to Blue, which she spent the last year building into her ideal vehicle for everything from daily errands to off-road adventure.

Body Armor for Off-Road Confidence

Factory protection is one area where the Outback Wilderness truly shines—starting right out of the box. The latest edition rolls off the line with a front skid plate already installed, offering an added layer of security when venturing beyond the asphalt. This standard upgrade is especially valuable if you’re just getting into overlanding, or if you want peace of mind on the trail without endless modifications.

For those looking to dive a little deeper, Subaru also offers optional skid plate upgrades for expanded coverage. Depending on the configuration, these enhanced plates may provide greater durability or protection for key underbody components—think vital parts like the differential.

Even if you’re not planning extreme rock crawling, having solid undercarriage protection preserves both your sense of adventure and your vehicle’s well-being. You can always explore third-party options from brands such as RalliTEK or Primitive Racing down the line, but starting with a factory skid plate means you’re trail-ready from day one.

So, whether you’re navigating a rocky bypass or easing over a surprise rut on your commute, that extra layer of armor under Blue keeps both driver and rig ready for whatever comes next.

Serious Climbing Cred

One impressive highlight: Blue can tackle grades up to 40 percent, making steep, rocky paths far less intimidating. This capability comes from thoughtful updates to her traction control and anti-lock braking systems, both recalibrated to boost performance on technical climbs and loose surfaces. Whether it’s a sandy ascent or a gravelly pitch, these refinements help Blue grip more confidently—so Muilenberg can focus on the adventure instead of worrying about spinning wheels.

Upgrading Towing Capabilities

When it comes to towing, Blue’s specs offer some welcome versatility. With a towing capacity rated at 3,500 pounds, she’s ready for weekend trailers and lightweight toys—well beyond what Subarus typically boast. Most out-of-the-box Subarus arrive with a smaller Class 1 hitch (1¼-inch receiver), offering a modest 1,500-pound limit. That’s fine for bike racks and utility baskets but falls short for heftier loads.

To bridge that gap, aftermarket upgrades step in. Swapping the standard receiver for a beefier Class 3 hitch, such as those from Curt or Draw-Tite, means you’ll get a robust 2-inch receiver that can manage the full towing capacity Blue is engineered for. Not only does this take towing potential up a notch, but it also opens the door to accessories like rear tire carriers and cargo trays—perfect for ambitious adventurers seeking more than the usual grocery run.

Trail-Ready Tech: Off-Road Features for the Wild

So what sets this rig apart when the trail gets tough? Subaru packed in a suite of upgrades tailor-made for real off-road travel—including a handy roll-angle indicator that gives drivers a live view of exactly how tilted things are on the trail. (If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re about to tip over, you’ll appreciate this one.) It’s a subtle nod to classic adventure rigs like the old-school Land Rovers, which always kept angle gauges close at hand.

You’ll also find expanded all-terrain drive modes, giving you dialed-in settings for everything from snowy roads to deep mud. The system isn’t just for crawling either—it can seamlessly switch from slow, technical maneuvers to higher-speed travel above 25 mph, so you don’t sacrifice performance as the terrain changes beneath your tires.

Other smart touches: the drivetrain’s low-end torque is beefed up for better climbing power, letting this Outback tackle those tough, loose grades with confidence. The traction and braking systems have been recalibrated as well, keeping the wheels gripping when things get slippery or the terrain gets rough.

In short, Blue comes packed with thoughtful tools ready to help adventurers handle unexpected conditions and keep the journey moving forward—no matter where the road ends.

Off-Road-Ready Angles

With its enhanced suspension, the Wilderness Edition takes ground clearance up a notch—literally—offering a full 9.5 inches between you and the rocks below. That translates into real-world improvements for any off-roader: the approach angle gets steeper, letting the vehicle handle tougher inclines head-on. The break-over angle increases too, so it’s easier to crest over obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. Even heading back down, the improved departure angle means you’re less likely to kiss the dirt with the tail end on steep descents.

All together, these tweaks make Blue not just more trail-worthy, but also more forgiving of ambitious routes and hidden surprises on the path—just the kind of capability Muilenberg was after for her adventures.

Rooted

Exploration is embedded in Muilenberg’s DNA. Growing up in the outdoors, she developed a passion for environmental justice early in life that has continued today. One of the things she likes most about Blue is her relatively low emissions.

Keeping emissions low is just one part of her sustainability mission, but she loves that Blue helps her get closer to that goal while still enabling her to enjoy exploring the outdoors.

The Subaru Outback Wilderness package is already capable, so Blue only needed minimal modifications.

“My love of the outdoors, which extends to off-roading and overlanding, started as soon as I could walk,” Muilenberg shares. Like so many other overlanders, her childhood was spent camping.

“We were always camping as a family, and my dad loves anything with a motor and wheels. He’s taught me about everything from dirt bikes to Jeeps.”

It’s that foundation that facilitated her growth into the environmentalist outdoors woman she is today.

The environment is more than just an interest for Muilenberg, though. She tells us, “Even my master’s thesis studied the Imperial Sand Dunes of California, where we’d often go duning in our sand rail and UTVs.”

With a strong educational background to inform her natural desire to protect the environment, Muilenberg is more than familiar with the requirements of responsible recreation.

Ahsoka is a loyal camp buddy, never straying far from her parents.

“Being in the outdoors makes me want to protect it, so I always try to have a good land ethic and leave it better than I found it, something I learned from my parents,” she explains.

Just like so many overlanders, pushing her own boundaries in the pursuit of adventure only strengthens her convictions.

Sustainability Mission

You’ll likely never meet an overlander who doesn’t care deeply for the natural world around them. That’s why we’re here, right? We all recognize the importance of ethical outdoor recreation.

After all, there wouldn’t be any beautiful places for us to enjoy and explore if we didn’t take care now to preserve them for the future.

With the ladder secured to her rooftop, Muilenberg is able to easily access her RTT.

Appreciating the beauty and accessibility of our natural resources is just one way to achieve that overarching goal of environmental preservation. We of all people know how important it is to the planet better than we found it.

By following principles like T.R.E.A.D. Lightly and Leave No Trace, we have the ability to pass on these beautiful places for the next generations to experience.

For Muilenberg, part of that mission is a focus on eliminating as much air pollution as possible. She works from home, so doesn’t drive as much as some, but the one thing she wishes she could change about her Subaru Outback Wilderness is its emissions – even though they’re on the low end to begin with, her standards are high.

If it could run cleaner without losing any of the off-road grit synonymous with Subaru, that would be her ideal.

Parking in an ideal spot as the Blue’s shadow grows longer.

“After working in air quality regulation and having family members with asthma in one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in the country, I’m keenly aware of air pollution and its effects,” she explains. “I think it’s really important to leave every part of the environment better than we found it, just like when we’re camping or overlanding.”

“Growing up in the outdoors, she developed a passion for environmental justice early in life that has continued today.”

Toyo Open Country A/TIII tires wrap fifteen52 wheels.

So, Why Subaru?

Choosing a vehicle on the smaller side, at least for an off roader, with decreased carbon emissions, is an important part of practicing sustainability for Muilenberg.

Not to mention the fact that most of her travels are just her, her partner, Jon, and their pup Ahsoka, so they fit into Blue pretty easily—she handles almost everything they need.

It’s easy to climb in and out of the RTT with the help of a ladder.

“The Wilderness Edition of the Outback comes already pretty decked out if you want something that can handle easy forest roads, but I wanted to make it mine,” Muilenberg reveals.

While the stock vehicle suited most of her needs, her wealth of outdoor recreation knowledge pointed toward her first step: wheels and tires. “I knew I needed a bit more bite to my tires, and I really wanted to complement the Geyser Blue color with bronze-colored wheels.”

Upgrading Wheels and Tires for Real-World Adventures

From the factory, the Wilderness Edition arrives on capable all-terrain tires—good for the average backroad and more than enough for many weekend warriors. But Muilenberg, with thousands of trail miles under her belt, wanted a setup that offered both off-road grip and a pop of personality.

Her choice? Fifteen52 Metrix MX wheels in bronze, wrapped in Toyo Open Country A/T III tires. The switch to these all-terrains wasn’t just about looks: “I needed tires that could handle rocky mountain tracks, desert washes, and muddy forest roads—without leaving me wishing for more traction or feeling rattled by excessive road noise.”

Factory all-terrain tires often strike a compromise between capability and comfort, but for those venturing beyond casual dirt, a more aggressive tread can make a world of difference. Muilenberg’s pick gives her the confidence to tackle tougher routes, while also keeping things civilized enough for daily driving.

Clearance and Capability, Tailored for the Trail

The Wilderness Edition’s suspension offers a nice bump in ground clearance right out of the gate, but as any seasoned explorer knows, a little extra room under the belly never hurts. “I rarely scrape my skid plates, but knowing the car sits higher and can clear bigger rocks gives me peace of mind,” she says. The combination of a slightly higher stance and more robust tires means Blue is ready for whatever the trail throws at her—without sacrificing on-road comfort.

And, for those times when the unexpected happens, the inclusion of a full-sized spare tire (not just a space-saver) in the factory setup is a huge plus. It’s a practical touch that ensures she can get back to civilization after a puncture, no matter how remote the adventure.

With these foundational upgrades, Blue balances everyday drivability with weekend capability—a setup that’s ready for both the grocery run and the next big trailhead.”

Fifteen52 Metrix MX wheels bring in the bronze element, and, wrapped in Toyo Open Country A/T III tires, give Blue plenty of grip.

The low-profile RTT pops up to give Muilenberg plenty of “indoor” space.

Weighing Tire Choices: Comfort, Capability, and the Road Ahead

Of course, as any seasoned adventurer knows, not all tires are created equal. The stock all-terrain tires on the Wilderness Edition do a solid job balancing comfort and off-road chops—perfect for forest service roads and weekend escapes that don’t demand extreme grip. Subaru clearly had everyday usability in mind, keeping cabin noise and ride smoothness in check.

But for those longer treks or trickier trails, sometimes a little extra “bite” is worth a touch more road rumble. That’s why enthusiasts often swap to beefier options like the Toyo Open Country A/T III or BFGoodrich KO2s—tires prized for their robust traction off the beaten path. It’s true, though: that aggressive tread can create noticeable hum at highway speeds, especially as the miles add up.

At the end of the day, it’s a balancing act:

• Comfort matters—less aggressive treads mean softer rides and quieter cabins, a blessing on long drives.
• Capability counts—knobbier tires boost off-road confidence, especially in mud or rock-strewn sections.
• Wear patterns and handling—the right fit not only changes the look, but can affect stability and tire longevity, too (plus, a slightly wider stance helps with both).

Ultimately, the best choice is about your adventure style: daily driver with weekend ambitions, or ready for remote backroad rambles? There’s a tire for every journey.

Factory Tires: Comfortable Yet Capable

As for what comes standard: the Subaru Outback Wilderness rolls off the lot with 225/65R-17 Yokohama Geolandar All-Terrain tires. Subaru’s choice here leans more toward balancing comfort and capability, making these tires a practical fit for adventurers who spend equal time on pavement and dirt. Geolandars keep cabin noise to a minimum—definitely a blessing when your copilot is a napping pup—and they perform reliably on forest roads or gravel pullouts.

But for those craving a little extra grip—especially on rougher, rockier terrain—BFGoodrich KO2 tires are a beloved alternative among off-road enthusiasts. They offer a more aggressive tread for improved off-road traction but do introduce more road noise, thanks to those chunky lugs. Think of it as trading a bit of hush for a lot of bite.

For Muilenberg, swapping out the factory Geolandars for something with more attitude was a no-brainer. Upgrading to Toyo Open Country A/T III tires lets Blue take on steeper, sketchier roads with confidence—all while letting those bronze wheels pop against that Geyser Blue paint.

Stability That Inspires Confidence

A subtle, but important upgrade on the Wilderness Edition is the slightly wider track width—both front and rear get just a bit more distance between the wheels. This small change actually makes a noticeable difference. With the wheels spaced farther apart, Blue feels noticeably more planted, especially when cornering on winding roads or navigating a bumpy trail.

The extra width enhances handling, giving us more stability through uneven terrain or sharp turns. It’s the sort of tweak you may not see at first glance, but when you’re behind the wheel—or, more importantly, trusting Blue to stay surefooted when things get rough—it definitely adds to your confidence.

Can You Squeeze Larger Tires into the Spare Compartment?

One of the Wilderness Edition’s handy features is the inclusion of a full-size spare tucked neatly inside the cargo area—no need to mount a tire out back. From the factory, that spare comes as a 225/65/17 Geolandar.

Here’s where things get interesting: if you decide to upgrade to beefier tires like the 245/65/17 Toyo Open Country A/T III you’ve got on your main wheels, you might wonder if the spare compartment can handle the extra size. The answer? It’s a bit of a gray area. Fitting larger aftermarket tires in that spare space is a tight squeeze and, for most folks, it’s a trial-and-error situation. You may find it’s just a tad too snug for comfort—so it’s smart to check fitment before your next big outing.

Still, even if you stick with the original-size Geolandar as your spare, you’re far better prepared for a backcountry flat than relying on a basic doughnut. Having a proper full-size tire at hand makes all the difference when you’re miles from the nearest service station.

Her next two upgrades went hand in hand. After inheriting dad Eric’s old Go Fast Campers RTT, she needed a stronger roof rack.

Prinsu gave her the answer she needed there.

A Better Roof Rack Attachment

Upgrading to the Wilderness Edition brought a substantial change to the roof rack system—a robust, ladder-style setup that Subaru finally designed with real overlanding in mind. For anyone familiar with the older factory rails, this is a welcome relief. Instead of the “underqualified” crossbars of the past that left many of us wary (and often chasing aftermarket fixes), this new system is ready straight out of the gate.

Not only can it handle up to 700 pounds of static weight, but the attachment points are far more secure, eliminating the need for additional towers or base pads like those from Yakima or Thule. The lower profile also means that tall setups are less of a hassle in parking garages, while the copper accents add a hint of adventure-worthy style. Altogether, it’s designed to support tents and gear with confidence—no more second guessing whether it’s up for the task. Additionally, she’s “always loved the vintage vibe of KC HiLiTES,” so the decision to add a series of Flex Era 3s was easy. “They’re a perfect size,” she notes.

Rooftop Rack Capability

The Outback Wilderness Edition comes straight from the factory with a remarkably sturdy ladder-style roof rack, rated for an impressive 700 pounds of static load. While it’s subtle in its design—potentially even lower profile than previous models—it’s all function where it counts. That means there’s no absolute need to spring for an aftermarket rack (whether that’s a hefty Yakima cargo setup or a fully-integrated Prinsu system), unless you’re after specific accessories or a certain look.

For overlanders and campers, this beefed-up rack opens up plenty of possibilities. It can easily handle the weight of most rooftop tents, whether you’re rolling with a compact two-person iKamper Skycamp Mini (about 125 pounds) or something roomier for the whole crew. Even when you add in two adults, a couple of kids, and a weekend’s worth of sleeping bags and gear, you’re still comfortably within Subaru’s load limit. In short, whether you’re planning a solo adventure or bringing along friends, you’ve got room to spare—and peace of mind that Blue’s roof rack is up for the job.

Factory Accessories and Rooftop Tent Rumors

As for extras, there’s not a huge spread of options specific to the Wilderness Edition—think navigation, sunroof, and some safety tech bundled in an upgrade package. The sunroof is nice in theory, but let’s be honest: it mostly serves as a skylight for confirming your rooftop tent made the trip with you.

Looking ahead, it’s possible Subaru may introduce a dedicated line of OEM accessories for the Wilderness models, especially as car camping and “soft-roading” gain traction. Many owners would love the convenience of a factory-approved rooftop tent that fits right into their financing and warranty—maybe even a collaboration with brands like Go Fast Campers, Roofnest, or Thule. Subaru hasn’t announced anything just yet, but that sort of partnership would make getting adventure-ready even easier for new overlanders.

For now, adding your own tent and gear is still the norm, but it’ll be interesting to see if Subaru jumps further into the adventure accessory game soon.

Upgrading the Roof Rack: What to Keep in Mind

When it comes to swapping out the standard factory roof rack on the Outback Wilderness, Muilenberg has some useful lessons to share. While the OE rails and crossbars may get the job done for lighter loads, they’re far from ideal if you’re looking to mount heavier gear like a rooftop tent. Stability, safety, and long-term reliability all come into play here—especially for anyone venturing beyond smooth pavement.

For Muilenberg, the challenge started with choosing a rack that could confidently hold the weight of both her rooftop tent and extra accessories, without compromising daily drivability or adventure-readiness. After a few experiments, it became pretty clear: aftermarket roof racks, like those from Prinsu, offer a much sturdier platform compared to Subaru’s original setup. These racks are purpose-built for heavy-duty loads, and they give you plenty of options for adding more adventure gear.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Upgrading to an aftermarket rack can be a pretty involved process—think several hours (and maybe a couple of YouTube tutorials) for the install. Plus, switching to a taller rack system can change your vehicle’s overall height, so suddenly, things like parking garages or low tree branches are a new consideration. With Muilenberg’s setup, the goal was to keep the tent low-profile enough so the Outback could still sneak into standard parking garages without a hitch—mission accomplished after some trial, error, and elbow grease.

So, in short:

• Weight capacity: Go beyond factory specs if you plan to camp up top.
• Height clearance: Double-check your headroom with new racks and tents installed.
• Ease of installation: Budget plenty of time and make sure you have the right tools (and maybe an extra set of hands).
• Versatility: Aftermarket systems make it easy to add lighting, awnings, and more down the road.

With a well-chosen rack in place, Muilenberg’s Outback is more than ready for rooftop nights and backroad detours alike.

Mindful Packing: Roof Load and RTT Considerations

When it comes to rooftop tents, weight is an important factor to keep in mind. For example, Muilenberg’s iKamper Skycamp Mini tips the scales at around 125 pounds—lightweight enough for peace of mind, yet sturdy enough for adventures. Add in two adults and sleeping gear, and you’re looking at a total load of roughly 575 pounds. This combination stays comfortably under most roof rack weight ratings, offering both safety and flexibility.

Even if you opt for a roomier rooftop tent setup—say, a four-person tent weighing in at about 150 pounds, with two adults, two kids, and their overnight essentials—you’re still often under the typical load capacity for most well-built roof racks. Careful calculations and weighing individual items ensures you maximize comfort without exceeding limits.

It pays to check your own roof rack and tent specs, but with a measured approach, Blue’s setup handles family and gear with ease.

The Perks of the New Ladder-Style Roof Rack

One of the standout features on the Outback Wilderness Edition is its redesigned ladder-style roof rack system. Subaru clearly paid attention to enthusiasts who rely on rooftop tents and overlanding gear, making this rack a game-changer for anyone wanting to blend adventure with convenience.

This robust system boasts an impressive static load capacity of up to 700 pounds—enough to safely support most rooftop tents along with a couple of campers and their gear. The new design sits lower compared to older setups, which means squeezing into typical parking garages is no longer a tightrope act, even with a tent mounted up top.

Not only does the rack offer more strength and stability than previous generations, but it also eliminates the need for complicated aftermarket solutions. Gone are the days of having to juggle extra towers or crossbars from Yakima or Thule just to feel confident about carrying your RTT or heavier overlanding essentials.

The thoughtful details don’t stop at strength and utility, either. The rack features stylish copper-colored accents, echoing the Wilderness Edition’s distinctive aesthetic. Combined with its lower profile and beefed-up construction, it’s clear Subaru made this roof rack as practical as it is good-looking.

The New Subaru Roof Rack: A Much-Needed Upgrade

One of the standout features on the Outback Wilderness is the new ladder-style roof rack. For longtime Subaru drivers, this is a significant improvement over previous factory racks. The older designs—those modest front-to-back rails with underwhelming crossbars—simply weren’t cut out for serious gear hauling, much less the demands of an overlanding setup. Most of us have learned the hard way (or from forum horror stories) that those original crossbars are best left to lighter loads—forget strapping on a rooftop tent with any confidence.

Enter the Wilderness Edition rack. This upgraded system is robust right from the dealership—it’s rated to handle up to 700 lbs of static weight, making it fully capable of safely supporting rooftop tents and adventure gear without a second thought. That’s a huge relief, saving you from having to budget for additional Yakima or Thule setups unless you’re after something hyper-custom. The new design is also more streamlined, hugging closer to the roofline than earlier, taller racks. That lower profile means fewer clearance headaches in parking garages—no more holding your breath while approaching standard doors with your tent mounted up top.

For those who’ve previously swapped out Subaru factory racks in favor of aftermarket solutions like Prinsu or Yakima’s dedicated landing pad systems, this fresh-off-the-lot rack is a breath of fresh air. It bridges the gap: sturdy enough for real adventure, but subtle enough for daily driving without the fuss of aftermarket installation or the added height that can come with them.

In other words, Subaru finally delivered a factory roof rack that lives up to the expectations of outdoor enthusiasts—letting owners spend less time fretting over fitment and more time actually getting out there.

That’s just about it for the exterior, and Muilenberg has kept it simple on the interior as well. A crate for Ahsoka is standard, but a whole assortment of gear is regularly swapped out as Blue pivots from daily driver to weekend warrior. Often, Muilenberg keeps her Dometic fridge in the trunk as it fits perfectly next to Ahsoka’s crate.

Factory Features and the Possibility of Personalization

One unexpected perk of vehicles like the Wilderness Edition is how they kick open the doors to even more customization down the road. Launching specialized trims not only makes adventuring more accessible right from the lot—it nudges the entire aftermarket world to get a little more creative, too.

Just look at classics like the Jeep Wrangler; its ready-to-modify platform inspired an entire universe of available gear. Now, brands like Subaru and Ford are including some of those crowd-favorite upgrades as standard, which is clever for two big reasons:

• It streamlines the process for new owners: With essentials already built in, there’s less scrambling for must-haves—your rig is trail-ready faster.
• The aftermarket stays lively: When a brand shows what’s possible, it sparks the imagination of both drivers and gear makers. Suddenly, there’s an abundance of fresh options and clever upgrades to make your ride uniquely yours.

For drivers like Muilenberg, these factory-equipped features set an inviting stage for further personal touches, whether that means slipping on beefier tires, swapping roof racks, or just finding the perfect crate for your adventure pup. This blend of built-in capability and open-ended opportunity ensures Blue is always ready for whatever twisty road or sandy trail comes next.

A daily driver and weekend warrior, Blue swaps between dirt and pavement with ease.

Features & Accessory Options

As for additional features, Subaru outfitted the Wilderness Edition with a few thoughtful touches aimed at both functionality and daily convenience. Take, for instance, the anti-glare decal on the hood. While it seems like a minor detail, it can help minimize sun glare off the hood during those long, sun-drenched drives across open landscapes. It may not completely block glare from a roof-mounted LED lightbar, since the decal only covers the middle section, but every bit helps on the trail.

Looking for extra creature comforts? There’s an available upgrade package that wraps together navigation, a sunroof, and reverse automated emergency braking. The sunroof is a classic favorite for most drivers—though with a rooftop tent in place, its primary job might just be giving you a reassuring view upward to confirm your tent’s still along for the ride.

For anyone keen to keep their build simple or who’s dreaming of more from the factory, there’s always the hope that Subaru will keep expanding their accessory lineup. Imagine if, one day, a factory-approved rooftop tent or tailored overlanding upgrades could be rolled right into the purchase and warranty—no aftermarket guesswork required.

Until then, the Wilderness Edition strikes a thoughtful balance, offering both off-road toughness and the everyday convenience that lets Blue shine on every adventure, big or small.

Factory vs. Aftermarket Upgrades: Warranty and Insurance Considerations

Choosing between factory-installed upgrades and adding aftermarket modifications is a bit like deciding between ordering a fully loaded sandwich or customizing each layer yourself. Both have their perks, but when it comes to warranty and insurance, factory upgrades have a clear advantage.

Factory-installed features—like those with the Wilderness Edition—come fully integrated and covered under Subaru’s standard warranty. This means that if anything goes sideways with those roof racks, wheels, or lights, you’re protected. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, can sometimes be a gamble with warranty coverage, and any dealer-installed component is substantially less likely to give you sleepless nights.

There’s also the insurance side of things to consider. When you drive off the lot with upgrades straight from Subaru, such as KC HiLiTES or Prinsu racks, they’re considered part of the original vehicle purchase. Typically, there’s no need to notify your insurance company or pay extra for coverage on those factory perks. With aftermarket mods, though, you usually need to inform your insurer—and sometimes, pay a higher premium—so they’re properly covered.

So, for anyone who loves both peace of mind and customization, factory packages like the Wilderness Edition are a smart option. You get the adventure-ready goodies, wrapped in warranty and insurance ease, without the added hassle.

The Perks of a Full-Sized Spare

One smart feature tucked into the Subaru Outback Wilderness is the inclusion of a full-sized spare tire—something that’s easy to underestimate until you really need it. Instead of the typical compact “doughnut,” you’ll find a proper 225/65/17 Geolandar tire stored securely inside the trunk.

There are a few reasons this matters for adventurers like Muilenberg:

• Peace of Mind Off-Road: A full-sized spare means you won’t be left stranded or limping back to civilization if you catch a flat, especially on rough trails far from help.
• No Need for a Bulky Rear Carrier: Since the full-sized spare rides along inside, you don’t have to add a swing-out carrier to the back—saving weight and keeping rear storage uncluttered.
• Extra Storage Opportunities: With the spare tucked below the cargo floor, the main area stays open for gear, crates for Ahsoka, and adventure essentials (not to mention a perfectly fitting Dometic fridge).

For those considering upsizing tires—say, to beefier 245/65/17 all-terrains—there’s still some curiosity about whether they’ll fit in the stock spare well. But even if you stick with the full-sized Geolandar, it’s a major upgrade from space-saving spares when venturing off the beaten path.

With the practicality box thoroughly checked, Blue is ready for wherever the next dusty road might lead.

The Scoop on Swing-Out Tire Carriers and Unibody Rigs

When it comes to modifications, not every popular accessory is the right match for every vehicle—especially when we’re talking about swing-out tire carriers on unibody SUVs like the Outback Wilderness.

While the convenience of carrying a full-sized spare might be tempting, adding all that weight to the rear can actually put undue stress on the vehicle’s structure. Unibody builds simply aren’t designed to handle heavy aftermarket loads like a traditional body-on-frame truck, and distributing that extra mass at the back can negatively affect driving dynamics, handling, and even long-term durability.

For folks looking to keep their rig nimble and ensure it stays in great shape for the long haul, skipping that swing-out tire carrier is probably the smarter move. There are always other creative solutions for hauling the essentials without compromising what makes a rig like Blue special!

Making Room: Spare Tire Placement, Storage, and Balance

There’s a curious relationship between where your spare tire lives and how your rig feels—both inside and out. For Muilenberg, swapping out the spare from its classic storage spot has freed up valuable interior room in Blue, letting her stow even more gear for adventures—or even consider adding an auxiliary battery, if the mood (or desert) ever called for it. That newfound storage can come in handy when packing for both daily errands and long weekends.

But there’s more to it than just space. Shifting the spare’s location can make a surprising difference in overall vehicle balance. Keeping a full-size spare tucked safely inside distributes weight more evenly over the rear axle—rather than hanging extra pounds off the back and stressing the unibody. This thoughtful adjustment sidesteps the need for heavy swing-out carriers, trimming unnecessary weight and helping Blue maintain her hardworking, nimble personality.

And while Subaru’s full-size spare (wrapped in 225/65/17 Yokohama Geolandars) is a big improvement over those tiny emergency doughnuts, there’s always the question: can you squeeze beefier 245/65/17 KO2s into that spare compartment? If not, many owners pivot by moving gear into the underfloor well and securing the oversized spare inside the cabin, packed snugly in a canvas tire bag.

Whichever setup you choose, it’s all about keeping the essentials close and Blue balanced for whatever terrain calls next.

The Full-Sized Spare Dilemma: Inside vs. Rear Carrier

If you’ve ever been out in the desert or tucked into a forest road, you know the comfort of having a full-sized spare tire is hard to beat. It can mean the difference between a minor hiccup and hours (or days) stuck miles from civilization. But where you stash that spare—inside the vehicle or mounted on a rear carrier—comes with its own set of wins and drawbacks.

Carrying the Spare Inside

Keeping the spare inside, as Subaru‘s Wilderness Edition allows with a 225/65/17 Geolandar tucked under the trunk floor, gives you a few distinct advantages:

• Cleaner Look and Less Weight Out Back: No need to bolt bulky hardware onto the rear hatch. This matters if you’re already loading up with bikes, recovery boards, or a rooftop tent.
• Weight Distribution: Having the spare over or slightly in front of the rear axle helps with balance, especially on unibody vehicles not built for a ton of weight swinging off the tailgate.
• Preserved Access & Simplicity: No wrestling with a dirty spare tire carrier to get into your hatch for the snacks you forgot.

However, that “indoorsy” approach isn’t perfect:

• Eats into Storage Space: The more gear you lug (looking at you, overpackers), the more precious every inch of trunk space becomes. That hidden spare means less room for extra recovery gear or even a possible second battery.
• Fit Limitations: If you size up to chunky 245/65/17 BFGoodrich KO2s or similar, there’s no guarantee the spare well will accommodate the upgrade. If not, you’re back to square one.

Opting for a Rear Carrier

Mounting the spare on a swing-out rear carrier throws you into the “classic overlander” look and gives you other perks:

• Extra Interior Room: With the spare off the floor, you free up valuable cargo space—room for a Dometic fridge, extra water jugs, or even your pup’s crate.
• Tire Size Freedom: Build your rig with matching all-terrain tires and always have a full-size replacement, no sweat about what fits where.

But—it’s not all win:

• Added Weight (and Where It Sits): A loaded swing-out can add 50 pounds or more behind your bumper, which isn’t ideal for the Outback’s unibody design. Over time, this weight affects handling and puts stress on the tailgate and structure.
• Potential Hassles: Each time you want into the back, you’ll have to swivel that carrier out of the way—minor at first, but it adds up on grocery days or when rain surprises you.

The Middle Ground?

Some creative builds place the big spare inside the cargo area—sometimes in a canvas bag to contain dust and mud—kept low for better weight distribution. It’s not glamorous, but it works for those who insist on upsized tires and don’t want the weight hanging off the back or roof.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your travel style, tire size preferences, and how much gear you need to pack. For Muilenberg and Blue, striking the balance between function and sustainability is always top of mind.

Blue’s Next Adventure

Blue is truly small but mighty, and a capable do-anything rig. “We took Blue on her first visit to Dana Point, Calif., for my birthday last year to surf my favorite break,” says Muilenberg, noting that Blue, “looked really good with a surfboard strapped to her Prinsu rack!”

Maybe more coastal adventures are in store for this Arizona-based crew, but we’ll have to wait and see. Back in 2017, Muilenberg took Blue’s predecessor, the Crosstrek, on a solo road trip across Utah, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and California, which was over 8,000 miles.

Reflecting back, she says, “I’d love to do the same thing and visit Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas. Maybe next year!”

But at the end of the weekend, Muilenberg’s favorite place to go? “Home. Always home.”

“Choosing a vehicle on the smaller side, at least for an off roader, with decreased carbon emissions, is an important part of practicing sustainability for Muilenberg.”

Muilenberg is the proud owner of an incredible rig.

The Challenges of Updating an Icon

Rolling out updates to a beloved vehicle isn’t always the celebration manufacturers hope for—it’s more like walking a tightrope with car keys in your pocket. Fans of popular models develop strong attachments to the design quirks and features that drew them in, and any significant changes can stir up strong opinions. Just look at BMW’s infamous grille redesign: it set the internet ablaze and left loyalists clutching their steering wheels in protest.

Why does this happen? Change prompts skepticism before gratitude. Automakers face the uphill task of modernizing their vehicles—think safety, efficiency, or environmental improvements—without alienating the very enthusiasts who built the vehicle’s reputation in the first place. It’s a delicate balancing act. Sometimes, improvements intended to grow a legacy are temporarily met with resistance, simply because they challenge expectations.

For manufacturers, the consequences of misreading their audience can be steep. Investments in new tooling, marketing launches, and fresh designs add up to millions, all of which can hinge on whether the new look or feature lands well with the public. Even automotive giants aren’t immune: a single negative first impression can overshadow years of careful development, leaving brands scrambling to repair reputations that took decades to build.

It’s no wonder companies proceed with caution and put new editions through endless focus groups before release. After all, trying to improve something already well-loved means risking the very loyalty that made it an icon.

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2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Specs

Engine: Factory turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder

Suspension: Factory

Suspension Lift: What Sets It Apart?

The Outback Wilderness comes straight from Subaru with a true suspension lift—meaning the upgrade centers around longer-travel shocks and tuned springs designed specifically to tackle rough, loose terrain. This is a key difference from the aftermarket body lifts so common in the off-road world. Where a body lift simply spaces the body away from the chassis (making room for larger tires but doing little for suspension performance), the factory approach boosts both clearance and capability by increasing the suspension’s functional range.

As for aftermarket mods like a further lift or swapping in stiffer springs—options certainly exist from brands like ADF and LP Aventure. However, it’s worth noting that deviating from the original suspension setup can tangle with your warranty coverage. Go much taller or harder—think longer shocks or a true body lift—and you’ll likely void that factory warranty faster than you can say “King coilovers.”

Also, tire fitment remains a point of speculation. There’s debate in the forums about whether truly larger tires will fit inside the factory wheel wells without rub. If they do, that extra inch of clearance from bigger tires could make additional lifts unnecessary for most drivers—unless you’re aiming for a full-on overland beast.

Wheels & Tires: Fifteen52 Metrix MX wheels in Bronze; Toyo Open Country A/T III tires

Interior Accessories: Dometic fridge

Exterior Accessories: KC HiLites Flex Era 3 on A-pillars, SAE fog lights; Prinsu roof rack; GoFast Campers Superlite Roof Top Tent

Additional Modifications: Rally Armor Mud Flaps

Transmission Upgrades: What Sets This CVT Apart

While the 2.4L turbo boxer engine grabs plenty of headlines, the real unsung hero on the mechanical front is the Outback Wilderness’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Unlike the standard version, this CVT is tuned with a higher final drive ratio—bumped up from 4.11:1 to 4.44:1. What does this mean for your off-grid ambitions? Simply put, the drivetrain delivers more low-end torque to the wheels, making steep climbs and gnarly trails a whole lot easier.

For those who crave a bit of engagement, you’ll also find manual mode on tap, allowing for simulated “stepped” gear shifts. This gives the best of both worlds: the smoothness of a CVT when you want it, and the familiar feedback of a traditional gearbox when things get technical.

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Editor’s Note: A version of this article appeared in TREAD Nov/Dec 2023.