2009 Subaru Outback Features Review

July 13, 2009

FEATURES | 6 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

all Outbacks come fairly well-equipped
Cars.com

interior standard appointment levels are high
The Auto Channel

The 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback doesn't have an especially long—or robust—feature set; even though all-wheel drive is standard, there's still a lot of room for improvement inside.

Edmunds states, "Standard equipment on the base trim includes 16-inch steel wheels, roof rails, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel...keyless entry, an outside temperature display, and full power accessories." Cars.com reports that all 2009 Subaru Outbacks "come fairly well-equipped with power windows and door locks ... and remote keyless entry"—but little more, which is a disappointment, considering the base 2009 Subaru Outback sticker price. A 440-watt Harman-Kardon premium audio system is newly standard for 2009.

The 3.0R Limited model can be lavishly equipped, yet prices will top $35,000 with a few options. And still, these vehicles are without Bluetooth, standard satellite radio, or iPod connectivity, features that are becoming commonplace in vehicles costing far less.

Conclusion

The 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback lacks some features that buyers have come to expect.

FEATURES | 6 out of 10Expert Quotes:all Outbacks come fairly well-equippedCars.cominterior standard appointment levels are highThe Auto Channel The 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback doesn't have an especially long—or robust—feature set; even though all-wheel drive is standard, there's still a lot of room for improvement inside. Edmunds states, "Standard equipment on the base trim includes 16-inch steel wheels, roof rails, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel...keyless entry, an outside temperature display, and full power accessories." Cars.com reports that all 2009 Subaru Outbacks "come fairly well-equipped with power windows and door locks ... and remote keyless entry"—but little more, which is a disappointment, considering the base 2009 Subaru Outback sticker price. A 440-watt Harman-Kardon premium audio system is newly standard for 2009. The 3.0R Limited model can be lavishly equipped, yet prices will top $35,000 with a few options. And still, these vehicles are without Bluetooth, standard satellite radio, or iPod connectivity, features that are becoming commonplace in vehicles costing far less. ConclusionThe 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback lacks some features that buyers have come to expect. 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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