Subaru restyled its two midsize cars, the Legacy and Outback, for 2007. The Outback's makeover is milder than that of the Legacy, as it doesn't affect much beyond the front. Tweaks include a slightly modified interior, as well as an upgraded automatic transmission with steering-wheel pa... Read Full Report
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Notable Features
The newest version of the popular Subaru Outback has arrived for 2008. This is the continuation of the vehicle introduced for 1995 and billed by Subaru as the world's first sport utility wagon. The Outback was ahead of its time, as it's now clear that it was the first true crossover utility vehicle - despite Toyota's claim to have created that genre with the 1996 introduction of ... Read full review for the 2008 Subaru Outback
I bought an '08 Outback with 49K miles, partly for the AWD aspect since we live in the mountains and get snow and a lot of rain. What's really impressed me is the comfort, which I would rank with the ... Read Full Review
Recalls
There are currently 4 recalls for this car.
Safety defects and recalls are relatively common. Stay informed and know what to do ahead of time.
Service & Repair
Bumper-to-Bumper
36mo/36,000mi
Powertrain
60mo/60,000mi
Roadside Assistance Coverage
36mo/36,000mi
What you should get in your warranty can be confusing. Make sure you are informed.
Bumper-to-Bumper
Often called a basic warranty or new-vehicle warranty, a bumper-to-bumper policy covers components like air conditioning, audio systems, vehicle sensors, fuel systems and major electrical components. Most policies exclude regular maintenance like fluid top offs and oil changes, but a few brands have separate free-maintenance provisions, and those that do offer them is slowly rising. Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire faster than powertrain warranties.
Powertrain
Don't be misled a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty doesn't promise a decade of free repairs for your car. It typically covers just the engine and transmission, along with any other moving parts that lead to the wheels, like the driveshaft and constant velocity joints. Some automakers also bundle seat belts and airbags into their powertrain warranties. With a few exceptions, powertrain warranties don't cover regular maintenance like engine tuneups and tire rotations.
Roadside Assistance
Some automakers include roadside assistance with their bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranties, while others have separate policies. These programs cover anything from flat-tire changes and locksmith services to jump-starts and towing. Few reimburse incidental costs like motel rooms (if you have to wait for repairs).
Free Scheduled Maintenance
Some automakers include free scheduled maintenance for items such as oil changes, air filters and tire rotations. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others do not. They are typically for the first couple of years of ownership of a new car.
