• 2013

• 2009 Subaru Outback

• Used Subaru Outback
• Repairs Subaru Outback

These scores and this review are from when the car was new.

Scorecard

Overall:	2009 Subaru Outback U.S. News Best Cars 8.3
Critics' Rating:	8.7
Performance:	8.0
Interior:	7.7
Safety:	9.9
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Powerful turbocharged and V6 engines
• Confidence-inspiring all-wheel drive
• Excellent crash test results

• Disappointing transmission performance
• Cramped back seat

Research Other Years

• 2013 Subaru Outback
• 2012 Subaru Outback
• 2011 Subaru Outback
• 2010 Subaru Outback
• 2008 Subaru Outback
• 2007 Subaru Outback

The 2009 Subaru Outback is a competent alternative to an SUV, thanks to its well-liked all-wheel drive system.  It doesn't match the fuel economy of more conventional wagons, however.  

The Subaru Outback is for buyers who want SUV-like capabilities, without any SUV drawbacks. As Road and Track puts it, "The Outback combines the virtues of a small SUV with carlike ride and handling." In fact, many seem to view SUVs as the Outback's primary competition. It's the Outback's SUV appeal that makes it a standout wagon.  However, that SUV appeal takes a toll on the Outback. The same ruggedness that make it an SUV alternative also make it thirstier than other wagons. Though the Outback boasts a very nice interior, its price tag is creeping considerably higher than other wagons.  If you're looking for something besides and SUV, the Outback is a good choice.  But if you're looking for a wagon first, SUV imitator second, consider other wagons, like the Volkswagen Passat.

The Outback is available in the base model, 2.5i, 2.5i L.L. Bean Edition, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Limited L.L. Bean, 2.5 XT Limited or 3.0 R L.L. Bean.

• "With rugged styling cues, a higher ride height and all-wheel drive, the Subaru Outback Wagon is a reasonable alternative to an upscale SUV." -- Forbes
• "Straddling the midsize wagon and crossover SUV segments, the 2009 Subaru Outback offers more off-road chops than other wagons and better handling than crossover SUVs." -- Edmunds
• "For 98 percent of America's drivers, there's nothing it won't do better than a herd of traditional SUVs." -- Automobile Magazine
• "There are trendier cars and sportier cars and even more practical cars, but when it comes to blending all three, Subaru deserves whatever attention it gets." -- U.S. News