2007 Subaru Outback [ 2008 ]
Subaru Outback
Overall Score - 8.4 (Very Good)
The Outback delivers good power, impressive off-road capability and reassuring crash test results, but can't match the fuel economy or fine-tuned transmissions of others in its class.
The 2007 Subaru Outback, auto reviewers find, is a wagon that combines a car-like ride with an SUV's off-road prowess and exterior styling. Edmunds writes, "Although competing crossover SUVs and wagons offer more interior room and better overall value, the 2007 Subaru Outback remains a satisfying choice for consumers who want a station wagon that looks and behaves like a sport-utility vehicle." As Road and Track puts it, "The Outback combines the virtues of a small SUV with carlike ride and handling." In fact, many reviewers seem to view SUVs as the Outback's primary competition. Forbes, for instance, says, "With rugged styling cues, a higher ride height and all-wheel drive, the Subaru Outback Wagon is a reasonable alternative to an upscale SUV."
The Outback, reviewers note, is beginning to creep toward premium territory. The Detroit News observes, "You don't tend to think of Subaru as a premium brand, but in many ways, it's evolving into the sort of classy, upscale product that Saab once was." With this transformation comes a heftier price tag. Kelley Blue Book points out, "Like other Subarus, Outbacks are a little pricey compared to similar-sized sedans and wagons." Depending on the trim level, IntelliChoice gives the Outback a rating of anywhere from "average" to "excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership compared to others in its class, with the less expensive trim levels receiving the highest ratings.
The Outback is available as a 2.5i Basic, 2.5i, 2.5i L.L. Bean, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Limited L.L. Bean, 2.5 XT Limited or 3.0 R L.L. Bean.
Outback Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The 2007 Subaru Outback, reviewers find, is an able performer that strikes a good balance between ruggedness and responsiveness. Car and Driver says it "isn't exactly svelte, but it isn't too bad for a fully equipped all-wheel-drive wagon, and it certainly performs and feels like a lighter car." continue
Outback Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviewers most often compare the Outback's exterior to those of other utility vehicles, and not those of Euro or Euro-inspired wagons in its class. In this context, it fares well. The Washington Post, for instance, finds, "It has more sex appeal than most SUVs -- nicely tapered exterior lines capped by a fastback roof." continue
Outback Interior - 7.4 (Good)
The interior of the Outback can haul cargo and transport passengers in comfort and, in higher trim levels, a degree of luxury. Forbes reports, "The Subaru Outback wagon's interior is well designed and offers reasonable room and comfort no matter which model you choose." continue
Outback Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)
Reviewers most often compare the Outback's exterior to those of other utility vehicles, and not those of Euro or Euro-inspired wagons in its class. In this context, it fares well. The Washington Post, for instance, finds, "It has more sex appeal than most SUVs -- nicely tapered exterior lines capped by a fastback roof." continue
Outback Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2007 Subaru Outback reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Outback comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue
