2011 Subaru Outback

Pricing:  $23,195 to $31,495 MSRP/$21,848 to $29,484 Invoice Price

EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 18 - 22 City/25 - 29 Highway:

After going through a major redesign last year, the 2011 Subaru Outback SUV-esque wagon returns still featuring impressive fuel economy, ample power, and versatile interior space at a great value.

The 2011 Subaru Outback is available in two models, distinguished by different engine configurations.  The 2.5i is powered by a 170-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that is mated to either the new CVT or a six-speed manual transmission.  Next up is the 3.6R, which sports a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter six-cylinder under its hood.  All models get Subaru’s all-wheel drive system standard.  The Outback delivers up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is better than most crossovers and wagons.  The 2011 Outback competes with other wagons like the Volkswagen Passat and Volvo XC70 as well as a few compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tiburon.

The 2011 Subaru Outback features 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear-folding seat and 71.3 cubic feet total.  Subaru also extended the Outback’s length where rear passengers can enjoy a gargantuan four-inch increase in rear legroom; there’s more room for comfort here than in a Nissan Rogue or Volvo XC60, or many other competitors.  A standard roof rack has hinged cross-members that tuck into the side rails when not in use, which improves aerodynamics and decreases noise.

To fill all that interior space, Subaru loaded the Outback full of goodies.  The base model features an electronic parking brake with a hill holder feature that keeps the car from rolling back while stopped.  The Premium model boasts a 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar adjustment, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and options like a 440-watt Harmon/Kardon® stereo and heated front seats, among others.  The flagship Limited line offers premium perforated leather seats, dual zone climate control, and an optional GPS system with an eight-inch LCD display screen.

The 2011 Subaru Outback features standard antilock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control, and stability control, as well as a full complement of airbags.

If you’re looking for an SUV-esque wagon that excels around town and in the great outdoors, the affordable and versatile 2011 Subaru Outback is for you.