No manual-transmission Bajas have been made available for test so far. With automatic, the 165-hp non-turbo models feel sluggish, doing 0-60 mph in about 10.5 sec. The Turbos feel much stronger off the line and in highway passing-0-60 mph takes about 9 sec-but suffer some "turbo lag" in power delivery. With either engine, the automatic transmission is a bit slow to kick down for passing, though the manual-shift feature can help compensate. Fuel economy is nothing special even among compact SUVs. In city/highway driving with automatic transmission, a test Turbo averaged 18.0 mpg, a test Sport 21.0. Subaru recommends premium-grade fuel for the turbo engine. In all, Baja performs much like the parent Outback wagon, as you'd expect. The same applies to road manners. Like the Outback, Baja furnishes a more-controlled ride than most SUVs, even car-based "crossovers". It's less smooth than some compact cars, but sails comfortably over most bumps and dips. Handling is also quite carlike and far more assured than the SUV norm, though cornering lean is noticed on the elevated suspension. The standard all-wheel drive reassures on slick roads, but it's not designed for severe off-roading and it doesn't cope with all hazards. Indeed, we saw a Baja get stuck in California beach sand during the press introduction. Brakes don't feel particularly strong, but provide drama-free stops. Baja is quieter than the typical crew-cab pickup, but only average by car standards. Subaru's "flat four" engines are a bit gruff and throbby compared to most inline 4-cyl units, but are tolerably quiet except near maximum rpm. Coarse-pavement tire drone is audible but not irksome, and wind rush is modest, though crosswinds created an annoying whistle in one test Baja. The four-seat interior provides decent six-footer room in front, but just adequate space in back. Front seats are comfortable but could use longer tracks, though that would eat into rear leg space that isn't generous to begin with. A standard tilt steering wheel helps drivers get comfortable, but some controls are small or hard to find, and the roof styling impedes visibility to the right-rear. The back window is fixed, by the way. Too bad it doesn't lower for ventilation. Workmanship passes muster for the class, but materials are only average in quality, even in the leather-trimmed Turbo versions. Most hard-core pickup owners would consider Baja a "toy truck," but it's useful for hauling sports gear and other small, light cargo. A larger pass-through panel would help with long items, however. Cabin storage is good, but unexceptional.

Value for the Money
Baja lacks the utility of conventional compact pickups, but its versatility, features and carlike manners have appeal. So does the all-wheel drive, which provides SUV-like traction without excess bulk or fuel thirst. On the other hand, Baja is the sort of thing Barbie might drive--which might explain why more people didn't take to it.