The Subaru Outback ranks high in the mid-size station wagon segment. It scores low though in fuel economy. With its AWD system, it is a good alternative to an SUV. This 5-passenger, 4-door wagon is SUV-like with a higher ride and ruggedness functionality and appeal on and off the road. The interiors have been given consideration including nine nicely-sounding speakers. The price tag, however, is a little too high in its category.
The 2009 Outback is available in 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition, 2.5i Limited, 2.5XT Limited, and 3.0R Limited. The base engine is a 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder 16-valve, SOHC generating 170 horsepower at 6,000 RPM. An intercooled turbocharged version churns out 243 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and DOHC. The biggest one is found on the 3.0R, a 3-liter, 6-cylinder, 24-valve, DOHC that gives 245 horsepower at 6,600 RPM. All the Outbacks have the Subaru Boxer engine with I-active variable valve lift system (AVLS) and electronic throttle control (ETC) giving it ample pulling power.
Base MSRP for New Subaru Outback: $23,195
Estimated Price Range for Used Subaru Outback: $1,200-$22,000
Estimated MPG for Subaru Outback: 22 City/29 Hwy
Available Trims: Base, Sport, Limited
Below are Pre-Owned Subaru Outback from Ebay and 6 of the top used-car sites on the web:
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The high-end 3.0R gets an active valve control system (AVCS) variable valve timing. The ride is smooth enough and comparable to Subie sedans. It has front MacPherson struts suspension with lower L-arms and rear multi-link suspension system with anti-squat. The brakes deliver smooth stopping power. It is fitted with 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).
The manual and automatic transmissions are not very smooth, however. The Outback is furnished with 5-speed manual and 4-speed Sportshift automatic. The 2.5 XT and 3.0R both get a Sportshift 5-speed automatic. The 2.5XT and 3.0R is equipped with the very convenient SI-Drive system performance tuner that sets fuel efficiency and better drive responsiveness.
