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:

    SPORT mode
    SPORT mode is used when power is needed for rapid acceleration or for uphill driving. To select this mode, move the select lever from the “D” position to the manual gate. When selected, the SPORT ...

    Glove box
    Glove box 1) Lock 2) Unlock To open the glove box, pull the handle. To close it, push the lid firmly upward. To lock the glove box, insert the key and turn it clockwise. To unlock the glove box, i ...

    To temporarily cancel the cruise control
    The cruise control can be temporarily canceled in the following ways. • Push the “CANCEL” button. • Depress the brake pedal. • Depress the clutch pedal (MT models only). • Shift the select lever ...