2005-2008 Subaru Outback and Legacy: Full Review

We've had no opportunity yet to test these Subarus with the 175-hp 4-cyl engine. The 250-hp turbocharged models have good power, though; a test manual-transmission Legacy GT wagon clocked 0-60 mph in a brisk 7.8 sec. Turbo lag is present, but not annoying. Not so the manual transmission, which some testers criticized for imprecise shift action and overly long lever movements. Subaru's optional "short-throw" shifter might solve these problems, but we haven't had a chance to try it. Curiously, the 6-cyl engine musters no more horsepower and actually less peak torque than 4-cyl turbo unit despite greater displacement. A test Outback 3.0R timed 0-60 mph in a fairly disappointing 7.9 sec. We expected better. So, too, with fuel economy, which is nothing to write the EPA about. A test Legacy GT wagon with automatic transmission averaged just 15.5 mpg in mostly city driving, and a sedan with manual managed only 20.1 with more highway miles. A test Outback XT also returned 15.5 mpg. A test Outback 3.0 R averaged 21.6 mpg, but that was with mostly medium-speed highway driving; it's thirstier in the stop-and-go grind. These Subarus show a bit more variation in ride and handling. Legacys have standard 17-inch tires and a firm suspension that can jolt on rougher roads. Outbacks also come on 17-inch tires but ride more comfortably, thanks to softer suspension tuning. All models benefit from all-wheel-drive stability. Outbacks show more cornering lean than Legacys, a function of the elevated suspension, but are still far more nimble and assured than any SUV, even car-based "crossover" types. Legacy GTs are the most agile of all, though even the racy-looking spec.B isn't sports-sedan sharp. All models have accurate steering, but some testers thought effort too light on 2.5i models, a bit too quick on Legacy GTs, enough to hinder straightline tracking at highway speeds. Brakes do a fine job regardless of model. Refinement hits a new high for Subaru cars. All engines are reasonably quiet at full throttle, subdued at cruising pace, and always sound pleasant. Wind rush isn't a problem below 70 mph, but coarse-surface tire noise can be, especially in wagons. We've also noted some unwanted body drumming over broken pavement, railroad tracks and other rough stuff. Interiors are a mix of good and not-so-good. They have a pleasantly open ambience, which we like, but only adequate six-footer head room. Leg space is fine in front, a bit tight behind a tall front-seater, and three adults in back will be squeezed for shoulder space. But all passengers enjoy supportively comfortable seats, and drivers will appreciate the large, legible instruments and simple, easy-reach controls, plus clear sightlines to all corners. Cabin d¿cor mixes budget-grade plastics with fairly rich fabrics, but even leather-trimmed models don't quite have a "quality" look and feel. As proof, perhaps, the front seats in two different test models had loose plastic side panels. We've not yet had a chance to evaluate the optional navigation system. Utility gets mixed marks. Sedan trunks have a wide opening and low liftover, but also subpar volume and no fold-down rear seat, though a trunk pass-through is standard. Wagons have liftgates that open wide to a low cargo floor, plus standard 60/40 split rear seats that fold almost flat to provide plenty of cargo space. A standard cargo cover and under-floor storage are additional wagon conveniences.

Value for the Money
Legacy's all-wheel drive one-ups the mostly front-wheel-drive competition, performance is good with the turbo 4-cyl engine, and all the required safety features are on hand. Otherwise, there's little reason to prefer Legacy over a comparable Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, though it is different, and the wagon body style is a plus for some buyers. Outback wagons, however, earn our Recommended ribbon for combining most "real SUV' attributes with carlike ride, handling and fuel economy. Don't bother with the 6-cyl Outbacks, though. They're no quicker or quieter than the turbo 4-cyl versions, and they cost more, even secondhand. Besides, they're the least popular models in this bunch, so used examples will be scarce anyway.