Acceleration

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
6	6	6	5.9

No opportunity to test 175-hp model. Turbocharged 243-hp 4-cyl models provide good power--7.8 sec 0-60 mph in our tests. But throttle response dulled by annoying turbo lag. Some find manual transmission to have imprecise, overly long shift action. Note that short-throw shifter is optional. Six-cyl models muster less midrange muscle than turbos and can also suffer delayed around-town throttle response. Test 3.0 R L.L. Bean did 7.9 sec 0-60 mph.

Fuel Economy

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
4	4	5	5.1

Test XT with manual transmission averaged 15.5 mpg in mostly city driving. XT with automatic averaged 18.3 mpg in city/highway driving. Outback 3.0 R averaged 21.6 in mostly highway driving that included gas-eating performance runs. Turbocharged and 6-cyl models require premium-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
7	7	7	6.1

Outback rides more firmly than a traditional family sedan, but ride is always controled and never harsh.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
6	6	6	6.2

All Outbacks have linear, predictable steering. Some body lean noticed, but they handle better than virtually any SUV. Brakes feel strong on all.

Quietness

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
7	7	7	6.2

Turbocharged and 6-cyl engines subdued, refined. Little tire noise, though some testers complained of body drumming over broken pavement. Wind rush evident only above 70 mph.

Controls

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
7	6	7	6.7

Gauges clear, easily seen. All controls within arm's reach. Navigation system easy to use, operates independently of audio and climate controls. Interior materials a mix of budget-grade plastics and richer-feeling fabrics and coverings. Two test examples had loose plastic side panels on front seats.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
6	6	6	6.8

Plenty of leg room, but head room tight for taller riders. All seats comfortable. Unobstructed visibility to all corners.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
5	5	5	5.1

Tall passengers may lack head room. Good leg room, unless front seats pushed far back. Toe space cramped if front seats aren't raised. Good thigh support for long-trip comfort.

Cargo Room

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
7	7	7	4.8

Sedans have wide trunk opening, low liftover. Hinges shrouded, but take up some space. Standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks fold almost flat. Wagons have low liftover but no opening glass. Standard cargo cover and under-floor storage bin are additional wagon conveniences.

Value within Class

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
5	5	5	6.3

Outbacks offer the flavor of SUVs but with carlike size, ride, and handling. They're pricey against front-wheel-drive competitors, but appeal for their all-wheel-drive capability and numerous standard safety features.

Total Score

2.5 XT, man.	2.5 XT w/nav. sys., auto.	3.0 R L.L. Bean wgn	Class Average
60	59	61	59.2

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		47
Average Score		59
High Score		69