2010 Subaru Outback: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 Subaru Outback is redesigned with freshened styling, a revised model lineup, and a new 6-cylinder engine. This midsize car is about 3 inches wider and longer in wheelbase than the 2009 Outback. Two engines and six models are offered, all with horizontally opposed engines and standard all-wheel drive. The 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, and 2.5i Limited have a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, and a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves like an automatic is optional on those two and standard on 2.5i Limited. The top-line 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, and 3.6R Limited have a new 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that teams with a 5-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. A wireless cell-phone link is standard on Limiteds and optional on all other Outbacks. Heated front seats are optional on 2.5 Premium and standard on 2.5i Limited, 3.6R Premium, and 3.6R Limited. Leather upholstery is standard on Limiteds, while a navigation system is optional.

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 the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord sedan, Honda Accord coupe, Mazda 6, Mercury Milan, and Toyota Prius. Our Recommended picks are the Kia Rondo, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chrysler Sebring, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord Crosstour, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Suzuki Kizashi, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius. Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan also gain gas/electric hybrid models for 2010.