2009 Subaru Outback review
A longtime Cars.com favorite, the Subaru Outback remains a versatile, desirable model whose greatest shortcoming is that it's no longer unique. Along with competing wagons like the Volvo V50 and XC70 and Volkswagen's Passat wagon, it now faces small crossovers like the Toyota Venza, too. This has happened gradually as the SUV market has moved away from bulky, truck-based SUVs toward lighter, more refined unibody models that are more fuel- and space-efficient yet retain the attributes many buyers have come to appreciate: all-wheel drive, additional ground clearance and the flexibility of a hatchback.
For 2009, Subaru eliminated last year's base, Premium and L.L.Bean trim levels. Now the lineup starts with the 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition and 2.5i Limited. More powerful engines come in the turbocharged 2.5 XT Limited and six-cylinder 3.0 R Limited, along with some additional convenience features not found on the other Limiteds. Subaru simplified matters last year by making the Outback only a wagon, and the Legacy, on which it's based, only a sedan. Little else has changed this year, though an electronic stability system is now standard, and the two higher trim levels include a premium stereo. (There's also an Outback version of the smaller Impreza hatchback called the Impreza Outback Sport. All clear?)
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When “CHECK DISC” is displayed
Press the eject button to unload the discs. Check that the disc is not damaged
or scratched, and also check that the disc is inserted correctly. This message may
appear when using some CD-RW discs ...
Checking the coolant level
Check the coolant level at each fuel stop.
1. Check the coolant level on the outside of the reservoir while the engine is
cool.
2. If the level is close to or lower than the “LOW” level mark, ad ...
Locking and unlocking from the outside
To lock the driver’s door from the outside with the key, turn the key toward
the rear. To unlock the door, turn the key toward the front.
Pull the outside door handle to open an unlocked door.
...