2008 Subaru Outback: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Subaru Outback gets freshened exterior and interior styling. These SUV-flavored wagons have all-wheel drive and horizontally opposed engines. Note that the sedan body style has been discontinued. Outbacks share their basic design with Subaru's midsize Legacy, but have a slightly raised suspension. Outbacks come in base, 2.5i, 2.5i L.L. Bean, 2.5 XT Limited, and 3.0 R L.L. Bean trims. All base and 2.5i models have a 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. XT Limiteds have a 243-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder, and the 3.0 R has a 245-hp 6-cylinder. Manual transmission is standard on 4-cylinder models. Automatic transmission is standard on 3.0 Rs, optional on other Outbacks. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. All have a 60/40 split folding rear seatback. All '08 Outback models have a revised instrument panel, and a telescopic function is added to the standard tilt steering column.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.