Subaru Outback Introduction Agawam MA

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New styling, more refinement.

Introduction

The Subaru Outback benefits from revised styling, enhanced performance, and interior upgrades for 2008. The changes improve upon a roomy and comfortable wagon that can go almost anywhere. The Outback offers premium drivetrain technology, composed handling and all-weather capability, lots of active and passive safety features.

The revisions to the engines for 2008 make them look less powerful on paper because of changes to rating standards, but they work just as well, and the base engine carries the oxymoronic government certification of Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle. Electronic stability control is offered on more models. The rear suspension has been retuned for more ride comfort without sacrificing any handling.

Styling changes for 2008 feature new front sheetmetal, a larger grille opening, new bumper fascias, and new headlights and taillights. The sedan model has been dropped, yet there are still seven Outback models from which to choose. Inside, fabrics and the dash are revised for 2008, the steering column now tilt and telescopes, and all models are pre-wired for satellite radio.

The Outback philosophy is similar to that of the Volvo XC70, a wagon with a bit more ride height, body protection and traction-oriented tires. However, the Outback costs less than the Volvo and, with 8.4 inches of ground clearance, can go much farther into the outback than most owners realize. Reasonable prices, operating economy and a penchant for charging through snow make Outbacks a favorite in wintry weather. But they also do very well with potholes in the Midwest and deserts in the Southwest.

Three engines are available, 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine a 243-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter, and a 245-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder. All use Subaru's horizontally opposed engine design, like that employed by the old VW Beetle and most Porsches. Subaru's engines are mounted low and are compact, keeping the weight low for good center-of-gravity dynamics and a low hood line for great forward visibility.

All come with all-wheel drive, and three different systems are used, depending on the transmission and engine chosen. The end result of good snow-climbing traction and all-weather confidence remains the same for all. None requires any driver action.

Inside, Outbacks are practical and can be quite simple or quite sophisticated, with a range of seven trim levels. All have five seats, useful cargo area and the majority of amenities and features offered in compact SUVs.

Outdoors people like its capability and utility. The Outback is a great companion for outdoors activities, fishing, hiking, skiing, kayaking. Apparently, L.L. Bean noticed this and three Outbacks come in L.L. Bean trim. It offers secure handling and traction on icy mountain passes. It handles well on gravel roads and holds up to rugged terrain. It can haul a lot of gear and it can accept a nine-foot rigged fly rod.

The Outback goes off the pavement better than many SUVs yet performs as well or better on the pavement. If you think you need an SUV, an Outback is infinitely better suited 90 percent of the time.

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