2006 Subaru Outback: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

An available navigation system highlights the '06 changes for Subaru's highbuilt wagon. The SUV-flavored Outback shares chassis and engines with the Legacy and comes in sedan and wagon body styles. Compared to Legacy, Outback has a slightly raised suspension. Each model has all-wheel drive and a horizontally opposed engine. Outback 2.5i models have a 175-hp 4-cyl. Outback 2.5 XT models have a turbocharged 250-hp 4-cyl. Outback 3.0 R models have a 250-hp 6-cyl. The Rs come only with automatic transmission. Other models offer manual or automatic. The automatics have manual-shift capability. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags are standard. An antiskid system is exclusive to the Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited. The new navigation system is standard in the 3.0 R VDC Limited and is available on other models.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.



Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.