I put on slightly larger tires and heavier rims on an SUV that also pushed out the width an inch or so and it changed the ride and handling completely. Did not like, felt disconnected and not surefooted and ended up going back to stock rims and tires.
Many times changing the offest (or stance width) does funny things. Usually with larger lifts (trucks and Jeeps) you need to go wider to ensure off-road stability. In a street car anything under 3" that is not a concern.
I added some offset to the wheels I bought for my 1995 Leggy L. Those wheels made it handle more like a go-kart. That's Ok for that car at that time.
But as you said, many times that extra weight (unsprung suspension weight) Numbs out the road and steering feel. Again, another reason to add performance sway bar bushings. Otherwise, this here happens to stock bushings with lifts and bigger tires.
That is an Outback.