Access to the interior is easy and the amount of room available to front occupants is generous. Those sitting in the back are not as lucky since the rear door opening is relatively narrow and legroom becomes limited when the front buckets are moved back. A liftgate gives access to the cargo area, the latter being more than accommodating, especially when the rear seatbacks are folded forward.
Finding a good driving position is easy. The seat cushions are firm yet comfortable over long distances. Ride quality is slightly above average and the Outback's tall ride height allows pleasant visibility on the road. The frameless side windows further improve visibility.
A true Subaru
Of course, consumers usually pick Subaru for its acclaimed all-wheel drive technology. While the engine of the PZEV only generates 170 horsepower, accelerations are really explosive thanks to the symmetrical AWD -- not what you would expect from this type of machine. Overall, performance is respectable and efficient. Credit also goes to the 4-speed Sportshift automatic transmission.
The suspension is slightly firm though extremely confidence-inspiring. Handling is great despite the significant length of the vehicle. The AWD system obviously teams up with Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control (TCS) for lively driving dynamics. On that particular note, the car is truly exceptional and safety is never in jeopardy.
Competition
Other than hybrids, nothing really compares to the Subaru Outback PZEV with regard to eco-friendliness. Then again, no hybrid is available as a family wagon, let alone with AWD. This is really a one-of-a-kind vehicle and, considering today's auto market, it could take a while before we finally see direct competitors emerge. Right now, we could even say that Subaru has pioneered a whole new segment.
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| The cargo area, the latter being more than accommodating, especially when the rear seatbacks are folded forward. |
Finding a good driving position is easy. The seat cushions are firm yet comfortable over long distances. Ride quality is slightly above average and the Outback's tall ride height allows pleasant visibility on the road. The frameless side windows further improve visibility.
A true Subaru
Of course, consumers usually pick Subaru for its acclaimed all-wheel drive technology. While the engine of the PZEV only generates 170 horsepower, accelerations are really explosive thanks to the symmetrical AWD -- not what you would expect from this type of machine. Overall, performance is respectable and efficient. Credit also goes to the 4-speed Sportshift automatic transmission.
The suspension is slightly firm though extremely confidence-inspiring. Handling is great despite the significant length of the vehicle. The AWD system obviously teams up with Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control (TCS) for lively driving dynamics. On that particular note, the car is truly exceptional and safety is never in jeopardy.
Competition
Other than hybrids, nothing really compares to the Subaru Outback PZEV with regard to eco-friendliness. Then again, no hybrid is available as a family wagon, let alone with AWD. This is really a one-of-a-kind vehicle and, considering today's auto market, it could take a while before we finally see direct competitors emerge. Right now, we could even say that Subaru has pioneered a whole new segment.
 |
| Other than hybrids, nothing really compares to the Subaru Outback PZEV with regard to eco-friendliness. |