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2021 Subaru Outback

Value analysis and depreciation guide

Current Value
$18,151
Private party sale
Depreciation
35.0%
Total value lost

Total Depreciation

35.0%

This is typical depreciation for this class of vehicle.

Projected Future Values

$16,500
1 Year
$14,000
3 Years

2021 Subaru Outback Value Summary

Sidekick estimates $18,200 for a 2021 Subaru Outback with average miles and good condition. This model holds value well in its class. It lost 35% from the $27,800 MSRP. You keep 65% of the original price. Annual depreciation stays moderate now and slows more as it ages.

Private party prices change with miles, condition, and location. Demand for all-wheel drive boosts prices in snowy areas. Clean service records and low miles lift values over average. High miles or crash history drop them below.

Depreciation Curve

The Outback loses the most value early on. Then it flattens out. This table starts from base MSRP. It shows current value and projections ahead.

StageTotal % Lost% RetainedEstimated Value
New MSRP0%100%$27,800
Current market35%65%$18,200
In 1 year41%59%$16,500
In 3 years50%50%$14,000
In 5 years57%43%$12,000

Sidekick bases these on 12,000 miles per year and average condition. Low miles add value. Strong tires, brakes, and full records help too. High miles or wear cut it.

What Drives Outback Value

Buyers want the Outback for its wagon space and SUV looks. Key factors make it hold value over many rivals.

  • All-wheel drive comes standard on every trim. It draws buyers in places with snow or rain.
  • Top safety ratings and driver assists win over families and daily drivers.
  • A big cargo area and roof rails suit outdoor trips and gear hauls.
  • The ride stays smooth. Visibility ranks high for easy driving.
  • Subaru builds a strong reliability record. Owners stick with the brand. That fuels used sales.
  • Ownership costs run reasonable. Resale stays firm before big mile markers hit.

Higher trims matter. XT turbo models hold extra value with low miles. Popular colors and spotless interiors sell faster.

Future Value Projections

Depreciation slows from here. The Outback keeps steady value with age. Miles and upkeep set the range.

  • Expect $16,500 in one year on average miles.
  • Plan for $14,000 in three years with normal use and care.
  • Aim at $12,000 in five years if miles and shape stay typical.

Protect your value. Store full service records. Rotate tires on time. Fix chips or small dents fast. Skip mods that scare off buyers.

How It Stacks Up

The Outback leads in resale for its segment. It matches top compact SUVs. It beats many midsize ones. Check this table for rivals against the Outback.

ModelValue Retention vs Outback
Honda CR-VSimilar
Toyota RAV4Similar
Hyundai Santa FeLower
Nissan RogueLower

CR-V and RAV4 shoppers like the Outback's resale match. They pick those for better gas mileage. Outback wins for standard AWD and cargo room.

Bottom Line

Your 2021 Subaru Outback beats most SUVs on value hold. It sits at $18,200 now. That's 65% of MSRP. Drops ahead look slow. Keep it long term. Enjoy the flat curve and low costs. Sell soon? List under key mile points. Add service proof for top bids.

Buyers find deals at average price for clean, mid-mile units. Pay up for low miles, records, and extras. Turbo XT or loaded Touring trims cost more but deliver. The Outback mixes safety, grip, and space. It shines as a used pick.

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Last updated: 2/6/2026