Outback wagon.

I have a rule never to review a used car until it has been on the market for at least three years.
This rarely causes a problem, but just occasionally I find myself counting the days until a car qualifies.
And that is what has happened with the Subaru Legacy Outback wagon.

It was launched late in 2003 and secondhand it provides a near perfect combination of space, practicality and refinement.
It also offers four-wheel-drive ability for the same money as a new Ford Focus.

2005s' crisper new flanks hinted at what’s new for that year. Subaru was building on the success of its Impreza WRX by spreading
some of that flavor throughout the family. A class-leading 250 horsepower had been achieved by two routes: through a high-pressure
turbo 4 or last year’s flat 6. 5-speed automatics with SportShift were new and hooked up with either of the fast-forward engines;
the base 2.5-liter was stuck with four gears. Outback models, after officially splitting off from the Legacy line some years ago,
continue to be raised, rugged-looking versions of Legacys. The exception is the Outback Sport, which remains hard riding and
Impreza-based.

Today, there is a choice of two engines: a 2.5 litre producing 162bhp and a turbo with 243 bhp.
Both are boxer units, where the cylinders lie horizontally opposed rather than in the more conventional V or in-line configuration.

As well as giving the car a lower centre of gravity these power units produce a distinctive engine note and tend to pull strongly
from low revs. Both perform well, but it is the turbo that endows the car with some real performance.
On paper a 0-62mph time of 8.5sec may sound only modest but on the road the car feels much quicker, the standard five-speed
automatic transmision provides slick gearshifts and the high levels of grip ensuring that you do not have to shed much speed through
the corners.

For those requiring a little less off-road ability, Subaru also produces a Legacy Sports Tourer, effectively an identical vehicle
but sitting on lower, slightly softer suspension. It is also available with a smaller, 2 litre engine. With a basic list price currently
of around $ 28,000 in the showroom, a used example makes a great alternative to more mainstream offerings such as a
Ford Taurus, Chevrolet HHR, Malibu Maxx or Toyota Matrix,  and you still get the added benefit of four-wheel drive.

All models are well specified with climate control, CD player, electric windows and leather-bound steering wheel as standard.
Security is dealt with thanks to remote central locking and an immobiliser, together with a useful keyless entry system on the
most expensive version.

The overall fit and finish of the Outback’s interior may come as a revelation to first-time buyers.
The soft-touch dashboard is worthy of a BMW or Audi while the car’s large, clear dials and good ergonomics make a mockery
of complicated systems such as BMW’s iDrive that claim to make modern cars more user friendly.

Front and rear space is good and the 459 litre boot offers a wide, level loading area together with a luggage blind as standard.

In terms of running costs, while smaller engine models should prove reasonable on fuel it comes as little surprise that the flagship
turbo automatic is unlikely to ever top 30mpg. Indeed when driven enthusiastically my personal experience has recorded closer to
20mpg.

Subaru dealers have a reputation for higher than average labour rates, but this should be offset by the better than average
build quality and a reliability record that means additional repairs are less likely.

The Subaru Legacy Outback sets out to be a jack of all trades, but unlike most such cars, which go on to achieve
master-of-none status, the Outback delivers a very balanced package of abilities. If there is one vehicle you need to test drive
before buying another used car, make it the Subaru Legacy Outback.

Four-wheel drive gives excellent grip and has proved to be extremely reliable

Trunk: The 459 litre boot is smaller than that in some competitors but load area is wide and flat with split-fold rear seats

Spare wheel: Full-size spare wheel and tyre is fitted to all models; check it is present and undamaged

Underbody damage: The Outback’s off-road ability means suspension, sills and exhaust should be checked for signs of impact

Tyres: Check for uneven wear due to steering being knocked out of alignment when driving off road or by keen owners
            taking on high kerbs

Warranty Three years/60,000 miles from date of first registration, but only if the correct service schedule has been followed

Suspension Self-levelling rear suspension as standard keeps the car on an even plane when loaded and helps towing characteristics


Or for similar money consider:

2002 Volvo V70 Cross Country 2.4 T SE

2002 Audi Allroad 2.7 T quattro

2004 Jaguar X-type 3.0 V6 SE

2005 VW Passat 2.8 V6 4Motion

2005 Mazda6 2.3 AWD estate