Subaru survived the recent auto industry turmoil by simply releasing a new product that people wanted to buy. The redesigned Forester helped Subaru keep sales rolling earlier this year, and now the company has rolled out a redesigned version of its Outback wagon. Senior editor David Thomas reviews the new Outback and finds a lot to like, even though the 2010 is more like a crossover than his own wagon-like 2008.
2010 Subaru Outback Review
2010|Subaru|Outback
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I saw one of these for the first time last week and it looks HUGE compared to the previous generation. It was more attractive than I thought it would be based on pictures. I wish Subie would bring their diesel over.
"The leather seats in my Limited model could have been a bit more padded. Our 2008's cloth seats aren't the most comfortable, either. At least with the new model I didn't feel any back discomfort until a full hour into my commute."
I see Subaru still cannot engineer reasonably comfortable seats. I got rid of my 2002 Outback after 13K miles just because of the constant backaches. Make the engineers sit in those seats for a few hours, then schedule an appointment at a chiropractor. I don't care how great the car is, if it's a pain to sit in the seat, what good is it?
I was thinking of getting one of these but I drive 12-14 hours at a time and good seats are a must. I guess I better think of something else.
The only safe way to test the seating out in a vehicle you are considering purchasing is to rent one for a day and see how it treats you. I've learned my lesson. It's worth the cost of the rental.
Well to clarify:
1. If I don't feel anything until the END of my commute an hour + or so, that is pretty good.
2. Most drivers are not like Rob. If you drive 12-14 hours at a time you would probably not be looking at the Outback. I would say Venza has more comfortable seats but the ride isn't as pleasant. Maybe go for a soft cruiser like a Taurus or Camry.
What color is that? Looks nice!
If you like the outdoors and like kayaking then look closely at the roof rack - its awful and a design flaw. Who cares if you can hide it when you are not using it if its dangerous. Good luck carrying a boat on top without risking an accident - the bar spread is minimal and cant be adjusted for long cargo - like a kayak.
Very disappointing.
I've had my 2010 Outback 2.5 Limited for about a month now, and 1700 miles. This is my ninth straight Subaru, and I've had 4 previous Outbacks, beginning with the original. Frankly, this one blows them all away! For those who blogged before me, I can't understand why they are complaining about the seats: my Outback seats are actually more comfortable than the ones on my '07 Lexus. The seating position is fabulous, and I am enjoying it TEN times more that the '08 LL Bean I traded in.
As an old-time Subie owner I have always been concerned about gas mileage, and this one is far more economical than my last. The power is enough, but not spectacular. The handling is great, and the ride is, to me, perfect. I love to drive this car!
Of course there are a couple of problems: to adjust the clock I have to take it to the dealer! The nav system actually drove me in circles, and the ignition key locks the car every time I put it in my pants pocket and sit down. But hey: That's what makes a Subaru, a Subaru!