Why get an SUV when you can have a terrific wagon instead?

By: Juan G. Robbin

Subaru Outback Limited 2.5i (2011)

Redesigned for the 2010 model year, the Subaru Outback offers great value, excellent foul weather performance and a contemporary look that seems to fit well in almost all situations.

Most people today dismiss small wagons as something of a bygone era. Subaru has stayed in the segment with their attractive offering, the Outback.  This is a wagon that offers most everything a small SUV does, yet retains civilized, car-like manners that for some, is exactly what they need. Of course, for others, they hear the call of the well, yes; Outback, and use this capable namesake to explore it.

The Subaru look is unmistakable, so is the Outback lineage that goes back to wagons made by Subaru for several decades. Exterior fit and finish is excellent, with good panel gaps and excellent paint. Bright-work is not over-done, yet seems to work perfect where you see it. Our test car came in Azurite Blue Pearl color, giving this Outback an elegant and resplendent silhouette.

Once inside you are greeted by a no-nonsense cockpit featuring large, well-positioned indicators and instrumentation. Switchgear is noticeably smooth and offers good tactile feedback, something that I find, heightens the experience of the brand. Seats are impressively comfortable, with easy adjustment, even for the most finicky driver. Rear seats are a smidge tight for those with long legs. Rear, cavernous-like cargo area is accessed by a traditional hatch that is easy to pull down and close, even by shorter people.

Driving the Outback is a delight, the symmetrical all-wheel drive system is non-obtrusive nor does it take away from the ride quality, quite the contrary, it heightens the feedback and reassurance to the driver, especially in heavy rain or, I am sure, snow. Our test car came with the CVT transmission, yes it doesn’t shift, don’t worry, they are designed that way. The 2.5 liter, 170 HP engine works fine, although if you plan on doing any towing, the more powerful 6 cylinder motor should be strongly considered. Brakes are direct and offer a reassuring linear feel. Throttle pedal has a nice, easy to modulate feel to it that makes for a smooth driving experience.

On the road, the Outback feels composed and stable, quite comfortable really. I would have loved to be given the chance of driving the Outback across the country just because I could, knowing that the time spent in the vehicle I would be quite comfortable.

No, the Subaru Outback is not an “objet-d’ art” design, but it does what it is supposed to do perfectly; Offering comfort, safety and efficiency to the driver and its passengers. Go ahead, get off your SUV and try one of these, you will be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to get used to one.

The Essentials:

MSRP: $28,195.00                                                      MSRP (As tested): $32,398.00
Fuel Economy: (Observed): 24 MPG
Engine: Opposed 4 cylinder, 2.5L, 170 HP
Popular Options: Power moon roof, nav. system, rear vision camera, Bluetooth connectivity
visit: www.subaru.com