Outback in the Market

Utility and crossovers go hand-in-hand, and the Outback comes up strong on all the basics. Like every Subaru, its success will be limited by the automaker's insistence on standard all-wheel drive, which typically raises prices and lowers gas mileage — great in Maine, not so much in Mississippi.

More than other carmakers, Subaru has managed to lessen the sting in both price and mileage, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the Outback: It boasts competitive mileage and a lower starting price than much of the front-drive competition. Add to that Subaru's loyal owner base, and the Outback's future looks bright.

    See also:

    Control panel
    1) Fan speed control dial 2) Temperature control dial 3) Airflow control buttons 4) Air conditioner button 5) Air inlet selection button 6) Rear window defogger button (Refer to “Defogger and d ...

    Windshield wipers
    Windshield wipers OFF: Off : Intermittent LO: Low speed HI: High speed To turn the wipers on, push the wiper control lever down. To turn the wipers off, return the lever to the “OFF” ...

    While climbing a grade
    When driving up a hill, undesired upshift to 4th gear is prevented from taking place when the accelerator is released. This minimizes the chance of subsequent downshifting to a lower gear when acceler ...