Review: 2008 Subaru Outback First Impressions

Link:

http://www.auto123.com/en/info/news/roadtest,view,SUBARU.spy?artid=83719

Pics:

http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/83719/2008-Subaru-Outback-i018.jpg

http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/83719/2008-Subaru-Outback-i015.jpg

Like its corporate sibling the Subaru Legacy, the Subaru Outback has just received mid-cycle enhancements for 2008. These improvements have combined to make the off-road-ready wagon a more refined ride without compromising any of its noted toughness.

 

The Outback can still be had with a choice of 3 engines and 3 transmissions.

 

Choice of three engines, three transmissions

The Outback comes with the same engines as the Legacy--a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder normally-aspirated boxer (170 hp, 170 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo boxer (243 hp, 241 lb-ft of torque). It also offers a normally-aspirated 3.0-litre 6-cylinder boxer that delivers 245 hp and 215 lb-ft of torque.

 

Of the three engines, the only one to receive upgrades for 2008 is the first on the list; different cam timing and other revisions have resulted in better mid-range torque for improved drivability, efficiency and emissions.

 

The Outback is available with three different transmissions: a 5-speed manual (for the 2.5i and the turbo 2.5XT), a 4-speed automatic (2.5i) or a brand new 5-speed automatic (2.5XT and 3.0R).

 

This latter unit has been substantially improved for 2008 and now delivers shifts in 0.2 seconds flat. While this 5-speed doesn't come with paddle-shifters (as in the 2008 Legacy), it does feature the same automatic throttle blipping on downshifts. Slick.

 

Hi-tech engine management

The Outback 2.5XT and 3.0R now feature Subaru's SI-DRIVE system, which debuted in the Legacy Spec.B last year. This engine management system enables the driver to select from one of three drive modes that alter the variable valve timing, throttle and turbocharger (where applicable).

 

In driving the Outback along the hilly terrain around Collingwood, the difference in the three modes is noticeable. While climbing a steep hill, the SportSharp setting provides the added oomph needed to clear the precipice in short order.

 

The Intelligent mode, on the other hand, encourages the driver to assume a more leisurely pace. SI-DRIVE is not quite a "push-to-pass" button, but it's not that far removed, either.

 

Even more rough 'n' ready

From a distance, the Subaru Legacy and Outback are clearly related. But with the exterior revisions to both vehicles for 2008, the differences have been emphasized. The Outback features a more closed lower front fascia, different headlights and different hood.

 

Most noticeable of all, though, is the difference in ground clearance: 221 mm for the Outback versus 214 mm for the Legacy. This feature identifies the Outback as an off-road-ready vehicle--and a viable alternative to the average car-based crossover.

 

One of the drive roads was little more than a farm access path; it forced the vehicle over some serious ruts that would've been impassable in the average wagon. In the Outback, it was no problem whatsoever, like cruising down the highway.

 

Due to the Subaru's symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive and a revised suspension that reduces bump steer when the car bottoms out over obstacles, the Outback also handles uneven or slippery surfaces such as gravel roads with ease. In fact, when the going gets tough is when this Subaru really starts to shine.

 

Versatile interior gets a makeover

Not so long ago, Subaru's glaring weak point was their interior design: too much plastic, too much of it black. Over the past few years, though, the improvements have been substantial.

 

That trend continues with the new Outback, which has been influenced by the interior of the Tribeca. The steering wheel is sportier and now features buttons for the audio system and cruise control. The dash has been redesigned as well; it's now sleeker and more cohesive.

 

Of course, most prospective Outback owners will appreciate the 60/40-split folding rear seats, 1,851 litres of cargo space and optional roof rails. Those drivers looking for a little bit of luxury with their toughness will respond to the 3.0R Premier Package, which offers a navigation system, power moonroof and leather seating.

 

A crossover with a difference

In many respects, the 2008 Subaru Outback represents the best of both worlds. It possesses the dynamic handling qualities of a sport wagon and the off-road readiness of a true SUV--all in a sleek-looking package. That's a value equation no matter how you slice it.

 

"the difference in ground clearance: 221 mm for the Outback versus 214 mm for the Legacy"

What? is that true? In Sweden we get the JDM Subaru's and our Outback have 200mm and Legacy 150mm

I thought the L. L. Bean Edition wasn't turbo'd? How come in two of the pics in the article there's a two-toned Outback with a hoodscoop? Is it because it's a Canadian model - what gives? A friend of mine emailed SOA with the pics and they responded that a two-toned XT doesn't exist and the pictures are "doctored." Anyone have an explanation? I only ask because my friend wants an Outback XT but in two-tone...but clearly that specific trim isn't available on Subaru's Web site - yet these pics are confusing

http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/83719/2008-Subaru-Outback-i070.jpg

http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/83719/2008-Subaru-Outback-002.jpg

Another pic I found:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/xt.jpg

And another one ('07):

http://non.skyphix.com/2006/Cars/obxt-first/IMG_5609.JPG

"the difference in ground clearance: 221 mm for the Outback versus 214 mm for the Legacy"

 

What? is that true? In Sweden we get the JDM Subaru's and our Outback have 200mm and Legacy 150mm

The article screwed the specs up. Legacy = 150 mm, Outback = 221 mm.

I think you guys get lower profile tires for the Outback, explaining the difference.

Hank3:

Here in Canada, the only solid single color Outbacks were black, red, and white. All the other colors - silver, blue, olive - came in two tone.

The Subaru Canada site still only shows the 2007MY cars, but for the 2008MY, I'm sure we will still get two-tone silver/blue/olive Outbacks.

http://www.subaruoutback.ca

The article screwed the specs up. Legacy = 150 mm, Outback = 221 mm.

 

I think you guys get lower profile tires for the Outback, explaining the difference.

Ahhh.. that might be it. We get for 2007 model 17" 215/55. My 2006 had 16" 215/60