Overview

All-new for 2010, and sharing platforms with the Subaru Legacy (the name "Legacy," previously in the model's nomenclature, has been removed for 2010), the Subaru Outback is a midsize crossover SUV now in its fourth generation. The Outback is offered with a choice between 4- and 6-cylinder powerplants, and in three trim levels, each with a standard all-wheel-drive powertrain.

• Redesigned for 2010
• Larger in nearly every dimension when compared to its predecessor
• Longer wheelbase means more passenger room
• Three trim levels: Standard, Premium and Limited
• Standard stability and traction control
• Standard automatic headlights
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Standard 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter flat-4 engine (2.5i models)
• Standard 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter flat-6 engine (3.6R models)

The rugged Subaru Outback, a 5-passenger all-wheel-drive station wagon, has undergone a redesign for 2010. The suspension and brakes have been upgraded; the interior is roomier; and audio controls have been added to the steering wheel. The Outback is a rough-terrain performer, and Subaru positions it to compete with larger crossover SUVs.

The 2010 Subaru Outback offers three trim levels with a choice of two engines. The base-level Outback 2.5i trim features 16-inch wheels, cruise control, adjustable roof apparatus, automatic headlights, some power accessories, and a 4-speaker sound system. The Outback 2.5i Premium and Limited trims add various enhancements, while the Outback 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, and 3.6R Limited feature a larger and more powerful engine. The Outback Limited trim, with either engine, offers the most features. It boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, power driver's seat, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and more. A navigation system with touch-screen interface is optional with the Limited trims, and a sunroof is optional on all trims except the base 2.5i. The Outback provides 71.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the second-row seats folded down, according to the manufacturer.

The standard power plant in all 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i trims is a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter flat 4-cylinder engine with 6-speed manual or optional continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is standard with the Outback Limited trim. This engine produces 170 lb.-ft. of torque and delivers 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. The Outback 3.6R trims feature a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter flat 6-cylinder engine that delivers 247 lb.-ft. of torque, 18 mpg in the city, and 25 mpg on the highway with its standard 5-speed automatic transmission.

Standard safety features on the 2010 Subaru Outback include anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front side air bags, and side curtain air bags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Outback its highest-possible "Good" ratings in front- and side-impact crash tests.

Starting MSRPs for the 2010 Subaru Outback ranged from $22,995 to $30,995.