Subarus are synonymous with the outdoors, LL Bean and rugged living. The Outback received a mid-cycle refresh in 2013, laying the groundwork for attributes that carry over into the new 2014 Subaru Forester. But what separates the Outback from the contenders is its distinctively wagon-esque physique.
The EyeSight driver assistance system is now standard on the 2.5i Premium model, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and vehicle lane departure warning. Adaptive control is standard on continuously variable transmission (CVT) models.
ZoomTwo engines are available including a 2.5-liter that produces 173 horsepower and receives an EPA rating of 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with the manual transmission and 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with a CVT.
The 3.6-liter boxer-six engine—available only in top-spec trim—produces 256 horsepower and earns an EPA rating of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Subaru offers the Outback in four trim levels:
The Outback offers a more grounded driving experience and is also more fun to drive than your average SUV. Unless you're on a tight budget, we think the 2.5i Premium offers excellent value for near-luxury features like leather and the Harman Kardon sound system.
