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2009 Subaru Outback Review

July 13, 2009

STYLING | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

dropped the awkward SUV styling cues of yesteryear
Edmunds

wedge-shaped profile...bolder stance
Kelley Blue Book

new bumper and a restyled grille
Cars.com

Most agree that the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is a good-looking vehicle overall—even though its fundamental design hasn't changed in many years.

Cars.com reports that there were a few updates in 2008, "most notably a new bumper and a restyled grille...higher trim levels of the Outback lose their two-tone paint scheme for a monotone bumper with gray cladding at its lower edges." Although Edmunds says the 2009 Subaru Outback has "dropped the awkward SUV styling cues of yesteryear and now embraces its midsize wagon body," Kelley Blue Book notes that despite its "wedge-shaped profile...its SUV-like attributes are subtle but noticeable." However, this source praises the way its "aerodynamic ground-effects components blend with more pronounced wheel arches to give it a bolder stance."

As reported by Edmunds, the interior of the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is defined by "simple controls, tasteful faux wood and aluminum accents" that give this Subaru 2009 interior "an uncluttered and classy ambience." Kelley Blue Book provides more detail: "two-toned interiors are fitted with cloth upholstery on [2009 Subaru Outback] Basic, 2.5i and 2.5i L.L. Bean trims, while the 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L. Bean Editions receive leather trim...dashboard and control layout convey a down-to-business personality."

Conclusion

The 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is a good-looking vehicle inside and out.

STYLING | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:dropped the awkward SUV styling cues of yesteryearEdmundswedge-shaped profile...bolder stanceKelley Blue Booknew bumper and a restyled grilleCars.com Most agree that the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is a good-looking vehicle overall—even though its fundamental design hasn't changed in many years. Cars.com reports that there were a few updates in 2008, "most notably a new bumper and a restyled grille...higher trim levels of the Outback lose their two-tone paint scheme for a monotone bumper with gray cladding at its lower edges." Although Edmunds says the 2009 Subaru Outback has "dropped the awkward SUV styling cues of yesteryear and now embraces its midsize wagon body," Kelley Blue Book notes that despite its "wedge-shaped profile...its SUV-like attributes are subtle but noticeable." However, this source praises the way its "aerodynamic ground-effects components blend with more pronounced wheel arches to give it a bolder stance." As reported by Edmunds, the interior of the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is defined by "simple controls, tasteful faux wood and aluminum accents" that give this Subaru 2009 interior "an uncluttered and classy ambience." Kelley Blue Book provides more detail: "two-toned interiors are fitted with cloth upholstery on [2009 Subaru Outback] Basic, 2.5i and 2.5i L.L. Bean trims, while the 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L. Bean Editions receive leather trim...dashboard and control layout convey a down-to-business personality." ConclusionThe 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is a good-looking vehicle inside and out. 2009 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK STYLING | [7 out of 10] Edmunds: "dropped the awkward SUV styling cues of yesteryear" Kelley Blue Book: "wedge-shaped profile...bolder stance" Cars.com: "new bumper and a restyled grille" Most agree that the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback is a good-looking ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

If you like the 2009 Subaru Outback, you might also consider the Volvo XC70, Audi A6 Avant, or Volkswagen Passat Wagon. Although a number of the more upscale compact SUVs might be a substitute for the 2009 Subaru Outback, all of the rugged wagon alternatives are somewhat pricier. 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 the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is no longer available; the VR6 engine option is gone, too. 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, with all-wheel drive, and is priced well over $50,000.

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See the Subaru Outback in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2005 | 2001

Comments (1 total)

  1. By Raj #1, Posted: 8/26/2009

    very disappointing release....as usual Subaru again merely dress up a piece of old tech (yet reliable machine) ....no innovation as evident by lack of modern accessories such as bluetooth/ipod connectivity/etc...I am very surprise reviewers continue to rate their car so highly.

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