2010 Subaru Outback
Subaru's Outback wagon got longer and wider for 2010.

You can count on one hand the number of automakers that are seeing overall sales increases in calendar 2009 compared with 2008; Subaru is one of the fortunate few. As its Forester compact SUV continues to fly off dealer lots, the Japanese manufacturer wants to keep its mojo working with the introduction of redesigned Legacy sedans and Outback wagons. While these mainstream models will share the spotlight in model-year 2010, some of Subaru’s other vehicles gain new features. As usual, every Subaru has standard all-wheel drive and a horizontally opposed “boxer” engine. Note that models not listed here see minor trim or otherwise no significant changes.

2010 Subaru Impreza: A Bluetooth wireless cell-phone link is now included on Imprezas equipped with the optional navigation system. Heated front seats are newly available on the 2.5i Premium model.
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2010 Subaru Legacy: Subaru’s midsize car gets a clean-sheet redesign. The 2010 version is about as long as the 2009 model, but its wheelbase, width and height increase by about 3 inches each. The resulting gains in interior volume move Legacy from one of the smallest midsize cars to one of the largest. Three engines and three transmissions are offered. Base 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, and 2.5i Limited models have a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that teams with a 6-speed manual or new continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission. The sport-themed 2.5GT Premium and 2.5GT Limited have a 265-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a mandatory 6-speed manual transmission. The top-line 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, and 3.6R Limited have a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Available features include leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a navigation system with wireless cell-phone link.

2010 Subaru Outback: Like the Legacy, Subaru’s Outback wagon is similarly redesigned. It’s also wider and longer in wheelbase than the previous-generation model. In addition to standard all-wheel drive, Outbacks have a raised suspension designed for light off-road use. Trim levels include 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, and 2.5i Limited, each with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 6-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is offered. The top-line 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, and 3.6R Limited have a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder that teams with a 5-speed automatic. The turbocharged 2.5XT versions have been discontinued.

2010 Subaru Tribeca: Subaru’s slow-selling SUV gets a few changes. The five-passenger models of this midsize crossover have been discontinued, leaving only seven-seat versions. The Limited trim level moves from the top of the Tribeca lineup to the middle. Newly offered for 2010 are entry-level Premium and top-line Touring trims. All models have a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that pairs with a 5-speed automatic transmission. An uplevel audio system, sunroof, rearview camera, and specific trim are standard on the Touring.

10.28.2009