Subaru Outback

Cargo space and driver visibility are both generous. A new continuously variable transmission (CVT) notably improved fuel economy; we measured 24 mpg overall with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder. The 3.6-liter six-cylinder is smoother and quicker, at the expense of about two mpg. A manual transmission is also available on more basic trims. Ride quality was impressive, but handling became less crisp, and the car was a handful in our emergency maneuver. A 2013 update helped handling, but the Outback lost its cushy ride comfort in the process. That update also introduced Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety equipment, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking. We suggest getting this feature, but it was only optional on high-trim models. A built-in roof rack is clever, but lash-down flexibility is limited; this improved slightly after the update.

Thin roof pillars and large windows make for easy outward visibility. Ride comfort is impressive, but cabin noise can be annoying, particularly with the four-cylinder. Everyday handling is responsive, though the car can slide its tail out in emergency maneuvers. For many years, only 3.0 VDC versions got standard electronic stability control; this spread slowly to other trims, with all Outbacks finally getting this desirable safety feature by 2009. Fuel economy is mediocre; we measured only 21 mpg overall from the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an automatic. Acceleration with this combination is adequate, but nothing more. Turbocharged XT models feel very powerful, while the 3.0-liter six-cylinder adds smoothness and quiet refinement; expect only 19 mpg overall on premium fuel with the six. The sedan version was dropped after 2007. Front seats are comfortable and controls are easy to use. Later model years gained a telescoping steering wheel. Cargo area is generous, with a flat load floor after folding the rear seats.

While most Outbacks are wagons, a sedan version was also available. The ride is steady and absorbent, and other than some wind noise, it is relatively quiet inside. Nicely weighted steering aids handling, but it doesn't feel as crisp as the Legacy. The rare and pricey 3.0 VDC model has a stability control system that marginally improves the otherwise twitchy emergency handling. Acceleration is relatively poky from the standard 2.5-liter four -- expect 20 mpg overall with the automatic. The 3.0-liter six is smoother and quicker.