2008 Subaru Legacy Outback vs. Its Competition

Meta Rating 7.2 out of 10

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Aug 19, 2008

Although a number of the more upscale compact SUVs might be a substitute for the 2008 Subaru Outback, all of the rugged wagon alternatives are somewhat pricier.

The Volvo XC70 costs just a few thousand more than a fully loaded Outback, yet it has a much more refined, distinctive interior that also feels a bit roomier.

The Volvo also excels in safety and safety features.

The Audi Avant wagon model is another possibility that's about the same size as the Outback, though it comes only in V-6 form and is priced at close to $50,000.

And the Passat wagon is a spacious and safe alternative; its 2.0T engine is both more fuel-efficient and more powerful than the Outback's standard engine.

But in order to get the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system on the Passat, you need to pay many thousands more, for a sticker price of almost $40,000.

2008 Subaru Legacy Outback Browse Used Listings	2008 Audi A6 Browse Used Listings	2008 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Browse Used Listings	2008 Volvo XC70 Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
7.2 With good performance and enviable safety, the 2008 Subaru Outback remains the top choice for families who value practicality but want a little more toughness.	8.6 The 2008 Audi A6 has plenty of competition, but its graceful look and feel set it apart from more brutal German and more clinical Japanese iron.	7.8 With its especially roomy, versatile, and quiet interior and especially powerful and refined powertrains, the 2008 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is a great family alternative to an SUV.	8.2 The 2008 Volvo XC70 brings an extra dose of real off-road ruggedness to a wagon that’s comfortable and spacious but not all that sporty.
MSRP From
$21,995	$42,950	$25,200	$36,775
Gas Mileage
17 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy	16 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy	16 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy	15 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy
Engine
Gas 4-Cyl	Gas V6	Turbocharged gas I4	Gas I6
EPA Class
Mid-Size Station Wagon	Midsize	Mid-Size	4WD Sport Utility Vehicle
Style Name
4dr H4 Man	4dr Sedan 3.2L FrontTrak Ltd Avail	4dr Man Turbo FWD Ltd Avail	4dr Wagon
Drivetrain
All Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	All Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
4 Door Wagon	4 Door Sedan	4 Door Wgn	5dr Wagon
Transmission
Manual	Automatic CVT	Manual w/OD	Automatic,