2010 Subaru Outback: Road Test
2010 Subaru Outback ▼
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- MSRP: $22,995 - $30,995
- Invoice: $21,663 - $29,024
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Our road test for the 2010 Subaru Outback includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Subaru Outback from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Subaru Outback, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Subaru Outback help you decide if a 2010 Subaru Outback is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5 |
Outbacks with the 4-cylinder engine and the CVT have decent power in most situations, but they lack reserve muscle for passing and merging. The CVT can become confused in hilly driving conditions. can get Six-cylinder models feel usefully stronger in nearly all situations.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 4 | 5.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a CVT-equipped Outback averaged 27.6 mpg, a very good result even in a test that included mostly highway driving. All models use regular gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Outback is always controlled, never harsh, and more comfortable than many family sedans nearly any similarly sized SUV. Larger bumps are felt, but Outback's compliant suspension and stout body structure work together so occupants aren't jostled.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Outbacks have linear, predictable steering. Some body lean is present, but on the road these Subarus behave more like a car than a SUV. During light off-road duty on dirt trails and rutted gravel roads, Outback remains confident and sure footed. Brakes are strong with good pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 5.7 |
Though an improvement over other Subaru "boxer" engines we've tested, Outback's 4-cylinder motor still lags top midsize rivals for refinement. Its cause is not helped by the CVT, which allows engine speed to race ahead of road speed during even moderate acceleration. The 6-cylinder engine sounds better and is quieter overall. Most other noise sources are effectively squelched, though some testers complain that the tires are too noisy on concrete road surfaces.
CONTROLS
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 5 | 6.1 |
Controls are clearly marked and easy to use on models without the navigation system. Outback test cars equipped with navigation absorb some audio functions, complicating their use. It's a bit puzzling that navigation-equipped models substitute a 6-disc CD changer for a single-disc unit, especially since the navigation data comes on a DVD disc that must be ejected before one can play an audio CD. Some testers dislike the pushbutton climate controls, others aren't bothered by them.
DETAILS
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Outback interiors are finished with price-appropriate materials. Upholstery is tasteful cloth in Premium, and leather in Limited. Contrasting metal-look accent finishes add a touch of class to both models, but the woodgrain trim in Limiteds isn't particularly convincing.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.6 |
Plenty of headroom and legroom for six-footers. Visibility is good from behind the wheel, and the seats are comfortable, even for bigger folk.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.3 |
A highlight. Outbacks have excellent headroom and good legroom for adults, even behind a front seat set for a six-footer.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 4.2 |
Standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks fold flat. Underfloor storage and an available cargo cover--with its own underfloor storage slot--are additional conveniences. Interior small-item storage is better than average with a good-size glovebox and console bin, door pockets, cupholders, and a useful assortment of cubbies, bins and trays.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Subaru's Outback is a well-rounded combination of midsize car, station wagon, and sport-utility attributes. Engine noise and refinement are issues, particularly with the CVT automatic, but 2.5i models compensate by providing surprisingly good fuel economy. Competitive pricing and a roomy cabin are additional pluses across all Outback models. Some similar-in-concept competitors ultimately feel compromised by trying to be too many things at once, but this is a pleasant and capable wagon. Car loyalists, crossover intenders, and even those searching for an at-least mildly off-road-capable SUV will find a lot to like here.
Total Score
| 2.5i Premium, CVT | 2.5i Limited w/navigation | 3.6R Limited w/Navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74 | 72 | 71 | 61.2 |
Total Score: 72
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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