2007 Subaru Outback: Road Test
2007 Subaru Outback ▼
- MSRP: $21,995 - $34,195
- Invoice: $20,720 - $31,172
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Our road test for the 2007 Subaru Outback includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Subaru Outback from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Subaru Outback, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Subaru Outback help you decide if a 2007 Subaru Outback is right for you.
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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 |
Total Score: 60
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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