The Outback has always been a staple of the Subaru world.  Outback referring to the “outback of Australia” still brings back memories of Croc Dundee driving through the mud and plans helping people, or getting chased in the 90’s Subaru commercials.  I have always been a Subaru fan, They are reliable, usable and fun to drive.   Growing up in Chicago you are always subject to oily roads, slick rain, Snow and black ice.  When conditions were bad my Subaru was the only thing on the road.  The one thing that always caught me off guard though was the loyalty and friendliness of other Subaru owners, I would get waved at by passing Subaru’s and always engage in conversations at the gas station.  People love these cars and continue to buy them.

The Outback is a Sport Utility Wagon or Crossover for the new age.  An outdoors  car or family vehicle it does it all.  The stance is the first thing people notice offering great ground clearance for any terrain,  all weather tires on 17 inch wheels and tough side skirts to protect against rocks and scratches from your adventures.  AWD, Vehicle dynamics control (VDC) and four way antilock disc brakes will make sure your adventures don’t leave you stuck.  When you are on the open road hiking or going to the beach the 2.5l Boxer engine has the power to get you there and still deliver 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.  Roof racks for your bikes, boards or camping gear are easily accessible and willing to haul it all.

When you look inside you notice the cargo space, very roomy and has a weather mat that is easily removed to hose down after your muddy boats and wet clothes were tossed back there after the long haul.  Flip fold rear seats give you even more room but you lose rear passenger space.  8 cup holders, yes that is right when you and your friends go on the long trips there is a place for drinks for everyone, a very nice feature that many people overlook.  I recommend the all weather package as it offers heated seats, mirrors and window washer deicers, be prepared for it all. 

Driving the Outback is more like a car than a SUV.  The steering is very responsive and corners well and effortlessly.  I have yet to see a blind spot as you can see everything around you, a safer drive for sure.  The manual mode transmission is pretty fun and offers paddle shifting for passing on the highway thanks to the CVT automatic.  Rugged outdoors and family all rolled up into one impressive Outback.

Starting around $25,095 this is a steal when you factor in everything the outback can do.  $30,110.00 as tested with the all weather package, 440 watt 9 speaker Harman/Kardon premium audio, bluetooth wireless XM satellite radio w/ 4 month free subscription.  Power Moonroof auto dimming rearview mirror w/ integrated rear vision camera and Homelink.