2006 Subaru Outback

The VIPS Scale - Value - Image - Performance - Safety

VALUE -  Subaru is offering 10 different versions of the Outback for 2006.  I drove the new 2.5 i Outback with the GPS Navigational System.  It also came with a smooth 5-speed Auto transmission...with Sportshift.  The automatic 5-speed is standard on all Outback 3.0 models.  The 2.5 models come equipped with a standard 5-speed manual transmission..and offer the 5-speed automatic as an option.  I recommend it, along with the Sportshift.  The model I drove, fully loaded, came with an MSRP of just over 34K.  Throw in a couple of options and dealer destination and delivery charges and you are looking at 35K...a little pricey if you ask me.  Now, there are 10 Outback models to choose from...so you might find one a little higher or another a little lower. 

IMAGE - In a somewhat limited station wagon category, the Outback continues to stand out.  Outback's familiar wedge-body shape says I can play nice...or I can be rugged and tough.  A good combo that will serve you well on a camping trip...hauling the kids and the dogs or pulling up in the parking lot at the country club.  It's the perfect vehicle for "tweeners"..who don't want an SUV - but don't want a sedan.

PERFORMANCE - Pretty simple: performance and handling are equal to or better than most any vehicle on the road.  If you live at altitude, splurge a little and get the turbo.  You'll be glad you did.  It's especially nice for mountain driving.  That's what makes the Outback the "unofficial" state car of Colorado.  The ride is comfortable.  The dash and instrument panel was easy to use and read.  There was more than enough room and the heated front seats might make you forget about the sticker price on a cold winter day.  The backseat room is adequate and the 60/40 split in the rear seatback makes hauling Fido or groceries a lot easier.  EPA mileage estimates....19 MPG in the city, 24 MPG on the highway....are worse than they were six years ago, by about 3 miles per gallon.

SAFETY - Side seat and side curtain airbags are standard on all models.  All 2006 models feature active front head restraints, to help reduce potential whiplash injuries.  In government tests, the Subaru Outback received 5-Star ratings (the highest possible) for both frontal and side impact for driver and passenger seating positions.

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