The 2017 Subaru Outback sits squarely in the modern crossover-wagon category, blending everyday road manners with the extra ground clearance and all-weather confidence that helped make the Outback such a practical favorite. Tire fitment matters on this generation because trim level affects size, with 225/65R17 and 225/60R18 both used across the 2017 Subaru Outback lineup. Both are radial fitments, so the real decision starts with confirming the exact sub-model and wheel diameter. From there, selection comes down to matching the intended use, whether that means staying close to standard road-going proportions or comparing available tire styles and specifications for a more trail-oriented setup.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2017 Subaru Outback
The 2017 Subaru Outback uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on sub-model and wheel diameter. Both fitments are radial, but one uses a 17-inch rim and the other uses an 18-inch rim, so the first step is confirming which wheels are actually on the vehicle before comparing tire options.
In 225/65R17, the 225 is the section width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. This is a modern radial size used on certain 2017 Subaru Outback sub-models and suits the vehicle's crossover-style balance of road comfort and utility. Available product choice in this size includes BFGoodrich's All-Terrain T/A KO2 with an RBL sidewall treatment. It is the size to evaluate when the Outback has 17-inch wheels and the goal is confirming compatibility along with the tire's intended on-road or light off-road character.
Fit(s): 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 3.6R Limited, and 3.6R Touring
Construction: Radial|Rim: 18 in
In 225/60R18, the 225 is the section width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 18 is the wheel diameter in inches. This radial size applies to other 2017 Subaru Outback sub-models and keeps a very similar overall tire height while pairing with an 18-inch wheel. The key difference for the buyer is not just the size code itself, but confirming that the vehicle is equipped with the proper 18-inch rim before moving into product selection. It is the fitment to use when the Outback's trim and wheel package call for the larger wheel diameter.
Tire fitment on the 2017 Subaru Outback varies by sub-model, so trim identification matters before choosing a tire. The main split is between 17-inch and 18-inch wheel packages, which determines whether the vehicle uses 225/65R17 or 225/60R18.
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2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i uses the 225/65R17 radial tire size. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation straightforward and shifts the decision toward choosing a tire that matches the vehicle's road use, ride expectations, and overall tread character.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited uses the 225/60R18 radial tire size. Tire selection here starts with the 18-inch wheel fitment, then moves to comparing tires that suit the vehicle's intended mix of daily driving, weather use, and appearance.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium uses the 225/65R17 radial tire size. Buyers with this sub-model should verify that the vehicle still carries its 17-inch wheel setup, especially if wheels have ever been changed, before comparing available tire choices.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Touring uses the 225/60R18 radial tire size. That places the focus on proper 18-inch fitment first, with the next step being a tire choice that supports the vehicle's normal road use and any preference for tread style or tire character.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited uses the 225/60R18 radial tire size. For this sub-model, correct tire selection begins with the 18-inch wheel package and then shifts to choosing a tire with the right specifications for the vehicle's weight, use, and setup.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 3.6R Touring uses the 225/60R18 radial tire size. Buyers should confirm that the vehicle remains on the proper wheel diameter and then compare tire options based on how the Outback is driven, stored, and maintained.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2017 Subaru Outback Tires for Sale
Available tire choice for the 2017 Subaru Outback currently centers on 225/65R17, with a BFGoodrich radial option in the All-Terrain T/A KO2 series. That gives buyers a product to compare by tread character, RBL sidewall styling, rim-width compatibility, and load specification.
For the 2017 Subaru Outback, the biggest questions usually involve identifying the correct trim-level tire size, confirming 17-inch versus 18-inch wheels, and choosing a tire that suits daily driving, weather use, and any modified wheel setup.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2017 Subaru Outback?
The 2017 Subaru Outback uses either 225/65R17 or 225/60R18, depending on sub-model. The 2.5i and 2.5i Premium use 225/65R17, while the 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 3.6R Limited, and 3.6R Touring use 225/60R18.
The practical difference comes down to wheel diameter, since these sizes mount on 17-inch and 18-inch rims respectively. Trim level is the quickest guide, but the safest next step is checking the actual wheels on the vehicle in case they have been changed since new.
What size rim does a 2017 Subaru Outback use?
A 2017 Subaru Outback uses either a 17-inch or 18-inch rim, depending on the sub-model. The 225/65R17 tire size pairs with a 17-inch rim, and the 225/60R18 tire size pairs with an 18-inch rim.
Wheel diameter needs to match the tire exactly, so this is the first fitment detail to confirm before shopping. Looking at the tire sidewall or measuring the wheel setup already on the vehicle helps prevent ordering a tire size that belongs to a different Outback trim.
Do all 2017 Subaru Outback sub-models use the same tire size?
No, the 2017 Subaru Outback does not use one tire size across every sub-model. Some trims use 225/65R17, while others use 225/60R18, and both are radial fitments tied to different wheel diameters.
That means tire selection starts with the exact sub-model or the actual wheel size on the vehicle, not just the year and model name. It is especially important to check this on used Outbacks, where replacement wheels can blur the line between original trim-based fitment and current setup.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2017 Subaru Outback?
Start with the correct primary size for the specific 2017 Subaru Outback sub-model, either 225/65R17 or 225/60R18. From there, compare construction, intended use, load specification, and wheel compatibility rather than focusing on appearance or tread style alone.
A daily-driven Outback may call for a different tire character than one that sees rough roads, gravel, or more demanding weather use. It also helps to confirm that all four wheels match, especially on a used vehicle, so the tire choice supports consistent fitment and balanced road behavior.
What brands offer tires for the 2017 Subaru Outback?
BFGoodrich is available in the 225/65R17 fitment for the 2017 Subaru Outback. The available product in that size is part of the All-Terrain T/A KO2 series and uses an RBL sidewall treatment.
Brand matters most when it reflects the kind of tire being considered, whether the goal is highway use, mixed-surface driving, or a more aggressive tread style. Once the correct size is confirmed, compare the tire's overall purpose, rim-width range, and load specification before deciding.
How do I choose between the available 225/65R17 tires for a 2017 Subaru Outback?
For a 2017 Subaru Outback that uses 225/65R17, the first step is confirming that 17-inch wheels are actually installed. After that, compare the tire's construction, tread character, sidewall style, load rating, and rim-width specification rather than treating every tire in the size as interchangeable.
The currently available BFGoodrich option is an all-terrain style radial, so it may appeal to buyers who want a more utility-focused look and use case. Matching that tire to the vehicle's real driving pattern helps avoid choosing a tread style that does not suit mostly paved-road use.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2017 Subaru Outback?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2017 Subaru Outback even when the tire size appears close to stock. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel widths, suspension changes, or ride-height changes can all influence how a 225/65R17 or 225/60R18 tire sits and clears the body.
Checking actual wheel diameter is only the starting point. Tire selection should also account for clearance at full steering lock, suspension travel, and whether all four corners of the vehicle still share the same wheel and tire setup after any previous owner changes.
What should I inspect before driving a 2017 Subaru Outback on new tires?
Before driving a 2017 Subaru Outback on new tires, inspect wheel condition, valve stems, lug hardware, and basic alignment-related tire wear patterns on the old set. It also makes sense to confirm that the replacement tires match the correct size and rim diameter for the sub-model.
A short visual check after installation can prevent larger problems. Look for proper bead seating, adequate fender and strut clearance, and stable air pressure, then pay attention during the first drive for vibration, pulling, or rubbing that could point to a setup issue.
How often should tires on a 2017 Subaru Outback be inspected?
Tires on a 2017 Subaru Outback should be inspected regularly, not just when tread looks worn. Routine checks for pressure loss, uneven wear, cuts, bulges, and sidewall damage are especially important on a vehicle that may see changing road conditions and year-round use.
Monthly checks are a practical habit, with extra attention before longer highway trips or seasonal weather changes. An Outback that spends time on gravel roads or rough pavement also benefits from more frequent inspections, since impact damage and irregular wear can develop without being obvious at a glance.
