Safety

As mentioned, the Outback boasts excellent crash-test ratings and a better rollover rating than an SUV. The standard stability system automatically means there's antilock braking and traction control. The front seats have side-impact airbags and active head restraints, and standard curtain airbags cover the side windows, front and rear, in the event of a side impact.

Outback in the Market

This trailblazing model has aged well. Compared to similar wagons, the Outback is a bargain — especially when you consider its standard all-wheel drive. However, the AWD's added weight makes the mileage lower than it otherwise would be. Even the hefty Venza beats it in efficiency, with either front- or all-wheel drive. The spoiler is that even Subaru loyalists have another choice, with a little more room for a little less money: the 2009 Forester.

    See also:

    Adverse safety consequences of under-inflation
    Driving at high speeds with excessively low tire pressures can cause the tires to flex severely and to rapidly become hot. A sharp in- crease in temperature could cause tread separation, and ...

    Children
    If a child is too big for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and be restrained using the seatbelts. According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly ...

    Hill Holder indicator light
    WARNING If the Hill Holder indicator light does not illuminate even when the Hill Holder switch is pressed to activate the Hill Holder function, the electronic parking brake system may be malfu ...