The Subaru Outback is known as one of the most versatile vehicles on the market today. It combines everyday drivability, SUV cargo space and all-wheel-drive capability. But even the Outback can be stopped by winter weather because electronic drivers aid and AWD systems aren't enough to tackle what winter has to offer.
Anti-lock brakes, traction control and vehicle stability control make the car easier to drive in winter weather but none of these provide more traction. These systems only limit engine power and braking force -- you're still ultimately limited by the amount of grip you have from your tires. Although the Outback comes with a sophisticated AWD system to keep the vehicle moving forward in slippery conditions, when it comes to stopping and steering you still depend on your tires to provide the level of traction needed to keep safe on the road.
Most Subaru Outback models can use a 16" Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package. This is usually the most attractive route as it allows you to use a dedicated winter tire mounted to an inexpensive black steel wheel. For example, for the 2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i I would recommend using the 225/65R16 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 or Continental ExtremeWinterContact mounted to the 16x6.5" black steel wheel. Tire Pressure Monitors Systems can also be added if you wish. If the wheels and tires are purchased at the same time, we'll also provide Hunter Road Force balancing for free.
 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 |
 Continental ExtremeWinterContact |
 Black Steel Wheel |
Shop by vehicle to view the winter / snow tires and wheels available for your Subaru.
The 17" wheels on the Premium and Limited models are only a cosmetic upgrade there will be no changes to brakes or suspension. The 16" wheels and tires on the base model are the same height as the 17" wheels tires on the Limited or Premium model, so all 3 models can swap wheels and tires with each other and have no adverse effects. Thus 215/70R16 with 16" wheels is the preferred option for all 3 models as it provides the most tires sidewall, narrowest tire, and is lower cost for your winter tire and wheel package.