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2008
Subaru Outback

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$21,995
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Available trims

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  • 4dr H4 Man
    Starts at
    $21,995
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Man
    Starts at
    $22,195
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto
    Starts at
    $22,995
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto
    Starts at
    $23,195
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Man 2.5i
    Starts at
    $23,595
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Man 2.5i
    Starts at
    $23,795
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto 2.5i
    Starts at
    $24,595
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto 2.5i
    Starts at
    $24,795
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $26,295
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $26,495
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto LL Bean w/Nav/VDC
    Starts at
    $26,595
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto LL Bean w/Nav/VDC
    Starts at
    $26,795
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd
    Starts at
    $27,395
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd
    Starts at
    $27,595
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd w/VDC
    Starts at
    $27,695
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd w/VDC
    Starts at
    $27,895
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $28,995
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $29,195
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd LL Bean w/Nav/VDC
    Starts at
    $29,295
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto Ltd LL Bean Nav/VC
    Starts at
    $29,495
    20 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Man XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $30,995
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Man XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $30,995
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H6 Auto 3.0R LL Bean
    Starts at
    $31,495
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H6 Auto 3.0R LL Bean
    Starts at
    $31,495
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $32,195
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto XT Ltd
    Starts at
    $32,195
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H6 Auto 3.0R LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $33,495
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H6 Auto 3.0R LL Bean w/Nav
    Starts at
    $33,495
    17 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto XT Ltd w/Nav
    Starts at
    $34,195
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr H4 Auto XT Ltd w/Nav
    Starts at
    $34,195
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback 2008 Subaru Outback

Notable features

Slightly modified front styling
Standard AWD
Sedan or wagon body styles
Three available engines

The good & the bad

The good

AWD operation
Seat comfort
Automatic-transmission operation
Ground clearance

The bad

Ride comfort on rough surfaces
Limited offroad capability
No low-range gearing
Interior not as luxurious as some competitors

Expert 2008 Subaru Outback review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By G. Chambers Williams III
Full article
our expert's take


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 the RAV4.

Nobody knew to call either of these vehicles a “crossover” until years later, however. They were just small SUV-like vehicles built on the chassis of cars.

At the time of the Outback’s arrival, Subaru and other manufacturers were scrambling to compete in a market that was going crazy over the new truck-based sport utility vehicles, whose sales began in earnest with the introduction of the Ford Explorer in fall 1990.

Subaru, with no trucks in its lineup, took its Legacy midsize sedan/wagon platform, and created a new beefy-looking wagon it dubbed the Outback.

To bolster its image as a real into-the-wilds sort of vehicle (like those popular SUVs), Subaru signed up Australian actor Paul Hogan, as “Crocodile Dundee,” to promote the Outback.

It was an overnight success, and has been outselling the Legacy sedan model ever since. The Outback name also was later given to a beefed-up Legacy sedan, and an even beefier-looking version of the smaller Impreza wagon. But for 2008, only the Legacy wagon version carries the Outback name; the sedan version is gone.

The Outback is still a worthy competitor to the other pioneering mini-crossovers, the RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, which followed the RAV onto the market for 1997. It can be argued that the Outback is by nature a better utility vehicle than the base versions of the RAV4 and CR-V, because all Outbacks come with all-wheel drive; that’s an option on the Toyota and Honda models. (Subaru includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature on all of its U.S. models.)

This year’s makeover isn’t dramatic – the vehicle still has the same body style and is instantly recognizable as an Outback

But for 2008, the Outback comes with a slightly redesigned exterior that includes new front sheetmetal, a larger grille opening, new front and rear bumpers, and new headlights and taillights.

Inside, there are a few changes as well, including a new instrument panel and revised seat fabrics. A telescopic steering wheel and an ignition key with built-in remote are standard now.

Outback models start at $22,640 (including freight) for the base model with a five-speed manual gearbox, and $23,640 with a four-speed automatic.

Those come with a normally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine (in which the cylinders are horizontally opposed, two on each side). It’s rated at 170 horsepower and 170 foot-pounds of torque.

Prices range as high as $34,840 for the top-of-the-line 2.5XT Limited model with navigation and electronic-stability control, which is the version we tested.

Under the hood of this model is a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine, rated at 243 horsepower and 241 foot-pounds of torque.

Also offered is a normally aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder boxer, with 245 horsepower and 215 foot-pounds of torque. It comes in the special L.L. Bean Outback models, priced at $32,140 with stability control only, and $34,140 with the nav system and stability control.

Our turbo four, with the higher torque rating, is the most fun to drive, especially with the five-speed automatic sport-shift transmission that’s included in the price of the XT Limited.

This gearbox can do all the shifting for you, or you can put it in manual mode and shift gears yourself using the paddles on the steering wheel (without having to worry about a clutch, of course).

It’s a kick to drive, thanks to that engine, the sport transmission, and Subaru’s Intelligent Drive system, which allows for putting the vehicle’s electronic throttle control system into a sport mode for what Subaru calls “lightning-quick throttle response” for “more power sooner.”

Also included with the 2.5 XT Limited is Subaru’s best all-wheel-drive system, which includes variable torque distribution. This feature normally sends more power to the rear wheels “to enhance handling agility,” Subaru says, and “continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving and road conditions” – automatically, with no driver input required.

The Outback has seating for up to five people; unlike the RAV4, there is no third seat offered. But the CR-V doesn’t offer a third seat, either.

With no third seat taking up space, there is a 33.5 cubic-foot cargo area.

Our XT model, as well as the L.L. Bean six-cylinder versions, have unique fog lights and wheels. On the XT, the wheels are 17-inch aluminum alloy; base models come with 16-inch wheels.

Safety features, besides the stability control and standard traction control, include front seat-mounted side air bags, as well as roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows of seats. There are three-point seatbelts in all positions, active head restraints for the front bucket seats, and antilock brakes are standard. New for 2008 is a standard tire-pressure monitoring system.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the Outback its highest crash rating – “good” – in front-, side- and rear-impact tests.

The Outback comes with a heavy-duty four-wheel independent suspension, and the rear suspension has been redesigned to provide more ride comfort, the automaker says. Outback’s SI-Drive, or intelligent drive, system has three driver-controlled settings: “Intelligent,” for the smoothest acceleration; “Sport,” for quicker throttle response, and the “Sport Sharp” mode for the best acceleration for passing and merging.

The all-wheel-drive system is not intended for serious off-road driving, as it does not come with low-range gearing. But the all-wheel drive is not just for wet or snowy roads; it’s designed to give the car great performance on dry roads as well, and is especially effective on those curvy roads.

The car has just under nine inches of ground clearance, which is good for most semi-improved gravel or dirt park roads.

Other standard features on our 2.5XT Limited model included a tilt and sliding moon roof, roof rails with cross bars, dual-zone automatic climate control, an AM/FM/compact-disc stereo with six-disc in-dash changer and auxiliary input jack (for iPod), cruise control, multi-function trip computer, power driver and passenger seats, and a cargo-area cover.

Also standard was an all-weather package, which brought heated front seats and outside mirrors, as well as a windshield-wiper de-icing system.

An anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer was standard as well.

Extras on our test model included the Convenience Group 2 ($268), which added a self-dimming rearview mirror with digital compass and a rear dome reading light; all-weather floor mats ($55); and XM satellite radio ($466). Sirius satellite radio is available; Subaru is one of the few manufacturers offering a choice in satellite providers.

EPA fuel-economy ratings are on par with most vehicles in this class. The base engine has ratings of 20 miles per gallon city/27 highway with manual gearbox, or 19 city/26 highway with the four-speed automatic.

Our test vehicle, with the turbo engine and five-speed automatic, was rated at 18 city/24 highway. All of these ratings are based on the new, more-realistic formula that EPA began using this year.

The tank holds 16.9 gallons of fuel, and unleaded regular is acceptable.

At a Glance: 2008 Subaru Outback

The package: Compact, five-door, four- or six-cylinder, all-wheel-drive, five-passenger crossover utility vehicle.

Highlights: Slightly redesigned for 2008, this is the sport utility wagon version of the Subaru Legacy midsize sedan. It comes with room for five, lots of cargo space, and many standard features, even at the base level.

Negatives: Can get quite pricey for a compact crossover without a luxury brand name.

Engine: 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder (normally aspirated or turbocharged); 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder.

Transmission: Five-speed manual, four-speed automatic or five-speed automatic.

Power/torque: 170 horsepower/170 foot-pounds (H-4); 243 HP./241 foot-pounds (Turbo); 245 HP./215 foot-pounds (H-6).

Brakes, front/rear: Disc/disc, antilock.

Side air bags: Front seat-mounted, front and rear side curtain, standard.

Vehicle stability control: Standard on uplevel models.

Length: 189.0 inches.

Cargo capacity: 33.5 cubic feet (behind rear seat).

Curb weight: 3,350-3,625 pounds.

Fuel capacity/type: 16.9 gallons/unleaded regular.

EPA fuel economy: 20 miles per gallon city/27 highway (H-4 manual); 19 city/26 highway (H-4 automatic); 18 city/24 highway (Turbo automatic).

Major competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Escape/Mercury Mariner, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mazda Tribute, Chevrolet Equinox/Pontiac Torrent/Saturn Vue.

Base price: $21,995 plus $635 freight.

Price as tested: $35,619 including freight and options (2.5XT Limited model with navigation).

On the Road rating: 8.3 (of a possible 10).

G. Chambers Williams III is staff automotive columnist for the San Antonio Express-News and former transportation writer for the Star-Telegram. His automotive columns have appeared regularly in the Star-Telegram since 1995. Contact him at chambers@star-telegram.com.

2008 Subaru Outback review: Our expert's take
By G. Chambers Williams III


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 the RAV4.

Nobody knew to call either of these vehicles a “crossover” until years later, however. They were just small SUV-like vehicles built on the chassis of cars.

At the time of the Outback’s arrival, Subaru and other manufacturers were scrambling to compete in a market that was going crazy over the new truck-based sport utility vehicles, whose sales began in earnest with the introduction of the Ford Explorer in fall 1990.

Subaru, with no trucks in its lineup, took its Legacy midsize sedan/wagon platform, and created a new beefy-looking wagon it dubbed the Outback.

To bolster its image as a real into-the-wilds sort of vehicle (like those popular SUVs), Subaru signed up Australian actor Paul Hogan, as “Crocodile Dundee,” to promote the Outback.

It was an overnight success, and has been outselling the Legacy sedan model ever since. The Outback name also was later given to a beefed-up Legacy sedan, and an even beefier-looking version of the smaller Impreza wagon. But for 2008, only the Legacy wagon version carries the Outback name; the sedan version is gone.

The Outback is still a worthy competitor to the other pioneering mini-crossovers, the RAV4 and the Honda CR-V, which followed the RAV onto the market for 1997. It can be argued that the Outback is by nature a better utility vehicle than the base versions of the RAV4 and CR-V, because all Outbacks come with all-wheel drive; that’s an option on the Toyota and Honda models. (Subaru includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature on all of its U.S. models.)

This year’s makeover isn’t dramatic – the vehicle still has the same body style and is instantly recognizable as an Outback

But for 2008, the Outback comes with a slightly redesigned exterior that includes new front sheetmetal, a larger grille opening, new front and rear bumpers, and new headlights and taillights.

Inside, there are a few changes as well, including a new instrument panel and revised seat fabrics. A telescopic steering wheel and an ignition key with built-in remote are standard now.

Outback models start at $22,640 (including freight) for the base model with a five-speed manual gearbox, and $23,640 with a four-speed automatic.

Those come with a normally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine (in which the cylinders are horizontally opposed, two on each side). It’s rated at 170 horsepower and 170 foot-pounds of torque.

Prices range as high as $34,840 for the top-of-the-line 2.5XT Limited model with navigation and electronic-stability control, which is the version we tested.

Under the hood of this model is a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine, rated at 243 horsepower and 241 foot-pounds of torque.

Also offered is a normally aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder boxer, with 245 horsepower and 215 foot-pounds of torque. It comes in the special L.L. Bean Outback models, priced at $32,140 with stability control only, and $34,140 with the nav system and stability control.

Our turbo four, with the higher torque rating, is the most fun to drive, especially with the five-speed automatic sport-shift transmission that’s included in the price of the XT Limited.

This gearbox can do all the shifting for you, or you can put it in manual mode and shift gears yourself using the paddles on the steering wheel (without having to worry about a clutch, of course).

It’s a kick to drive, thanks to that engine, the sport transmission, and Subaru’s Intelligent Drive system, which allows for putting the vehicle’s electronic throttle control system into a sport mode for what Subaru calls “lightning-quick throttle response” for “more power sooner.”

Also included with the 2.5 XT Limited is Subaru’s best all-wheel-drive system, which includes variable torque distribution. This feature normally sends more power to the rear wheels “to enhance handling agility,” Subaru says, and “continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving and road conditions” – automatically, with no driver input required.

The Outback has seating for up to five people; unlike the RAV4, there is no third seat offered. But the CR-V doesn’t offer a third seat, either.

With no third seat taking up space, there is a 33.5 cubic-foot cargo area.

Our XT model, as well as the L.L. Bean six-cylinder versions, have unique fog lights and wheels. On the XT, the wheels are 17-inch aluminum alloy; base models come with 16-inch wheels.

Safety features, besides the stability control and standard traction control, include front seat-mounted side air bags, as well as roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows of seats. There are three-point seatbelts in all positions, active head restraints for the front bucket seats, and antilock brakes are standard. New for 2008 is a standard tire-pressure monitoring system.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has given the Outback its highest crash rating – “good” – in front-, side- and rear-impact tests.

The Outback comes with a heavy-duty four-wheel independent suspension, and the rear suspension has been redesigned to provide more ride comfort, the automaker says. Outback’s SI-Drive, or intelligent drive, system has three driver-controlled settings: “Intelligent,” for the smoothest acceleration; “Sport,” for quicker throttle response, and the “Sport Sharp” mode for the best acceleration for passing and merging.

The all-wheel-drive system is not intended for serious off-road driving, as it does not come with low-range gearing. But the all-wheel drive is not just for wet or snowy roads; it’s designed to give the car great performance on dry roads as well, and is especially effective on those curvy roads.

The car has just under nine inches of ground clearance, which is good for most semi-improved gravel or dirt park roads.

Other standard features on our 2.5XT Limited model included a tilt and sliding moon roof, roof rails with cross bars, dual-zone automatic climate control, an AM/FM/compact-disc stereo with six-disc in-dash changer and auxiliary input jack (for iPod), cruise control, multi-function trip computer, power driver and passenger seats, and a cargo-area cover.

Also standard was an all-weather package, which brought heated front seats and outside mirrors, as well as a windshield-wiper de-icing system.

An anti-theft alarm with engine immobilizer was standard as well.

Extras on our test model included the Convenience Group 2 ($268), which added a self-dimming rearview mirror with digital compass and a rear dome reading light; all-weather floor mats ($55); and XM satellite radio ($466). Sirius satellite radio is available; Subaru is one of the few manufacturers offering a choice in satellite providers.

EPA fuel-economy ratings are on par with most vehicles in this class. The base engine has ratings of 20 miles per gallon city/27 highway with manual gearbox, or 19 city/26 highway with the four-speed automatic.

Our test vehicle, with the turbo engine and five-speed automatic, was rated at 18 city/24 highway. All of these ratings are based on the new, more-realistic formula that EPA began using this year.

The tank holds 16.9 gallons of fuel, and unleaded regular is acceptable.

At a Glance: 2008 Subaru Outback

The package: Compact, five-door, four- or six-cylinder, all-wheel-drive, five-passenger crossover utility vehicle.

Highlights: Slightly redesigned for 2008, this is the sport utility wagon version of the Subaru Legacy midsize sedan. It comes with room for five, lots of cargo space, and many standard features, even at the base level.

Negatives: Can get quite pricey for a compact crossover without a luxury brand name.

Engine: 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder (normally aspirated or turbocharged); 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder.

Transmission: Five-speed manual, four-speed automatic or five-speed automatic.

Power/torque: 170 horsepower/170 foot-pounds (H-4); 243 HP./241 foot-pounds (Turbo); 245 HP./215 foot-pounds (H-6).

Brakes, front/rear: Disc/disc, antilock.

Side air bags: Front seat-mounted, front and rear side curtain, standard.

Vehicle stability control: Standard on uplevel models.

Length: 189.0 inches.

Cargo capacity: 33.5 cubic feet (behind rear seat).

Curb weight: 3,350-3,625 pounds.

Fuel capacity/type: 16.9 gallons/unleaded regular.

EPA fuel economy: 20 miles per gallon city/27 highway (H-4 manual); 19 city/26 highway (H-4 automatic); 18 city/24 highway (Turbo automatic).

Major competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Escape/Mercury Mariner, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mazda Tribute, Chevrolet Equinox/Pontiac Torrent/Saturn Vue.

Base price: $21,995 plus $635 freight.

Price as tested: $35,619 including freight and options (2.5XT Limited model with navigation).

On the Road rating: 8.3 (of a possible 10).

G. Chambers Williams III is staff automotive columnist for the San Antonio Express-News and former transportation writer for the Star-Telegram. His automotive columns have appeared regularly in the Star-Telegram since 1995. Contact him at chambers@star-telegram.com.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2008 Subaru Outback base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Side driver
5/5
Side rear passenger
5/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 years / 80,000 miles
Basic
Coverage available for purchase
Dealer certification
152-point inspection

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    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    5,495 lbs
    Payload Capacity
    N/A
    Towing Capacity
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  • 2005
    4.2
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    Starts at
    $19,145
    23 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
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    All-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
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    -
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    Mazda CX-9
    Starts at
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    16 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
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    4.5
    Mazda Mazda3
    Starts at
    $13,895
    24 City / 32 Hwy
    MPG
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  • 2011
    4.7
    Subaru Impreza Outback Sport
    Starts at
    $19,995
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas Flat 4
    Engine
    All-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
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    Payload Capacity
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  • 2005
    4.7
    Subaru Baja
    Starts at
    $22,345
    21 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas 4-Cyl
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    All-wheel drive
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Consumer reviews

4.6 / 5
Based on 57 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.4
Value 4.6
Exterior 4.7
Reliability 4.7

Most recent

  • I was given this car back in November 2023.

    I was given this car back in November 2023. I owned the car for 1 year and 3 months. Loved the heated cloth seats. Drove from Washington to California and back no problem. Near the end I drove it though the Washington winter. I had to sell it because my mother wanted me to get a newer vehicle. A new driver is driving the car now. Highly recommend this car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • This is literally the best car I've ever owned.

    This car is truly phenomenal. Take good care of it, and it takes good care of you. Keep up on maintenance and you have no problems. Wait for the engine to fully warm up before you romp on it and you won't have head gasket problems. It's pretty fun to slide around gravel roads as it gets loose and swings the tail pretty easy, but it's super easy to recover simply by countersteer and lifting off the gas. But stay in it and countersteer and beautiful drifts take place. Super funny to drift a station wagon. Had it to 110 mph once. Didn't feel unsafe or unstable. Car looks good from most angles. Daily communting was what I did with it (although obviously some fun stuff too), and it satisfied my needs with the helpful storage space of an SUV but good gas mileage of a crossover. Engine isn't super powerful, but has enough torque and grunt to get you by, just don't expect any supercar levels of acceleration. It's got great handling on dry and wet pavement, but take it out to a gravel road and she shines. Mine was at 268000 miles before I sold it to family, they say it's still going strong. Even at that mileage you can still drive it like a rented mule and it likes it. At over 200,000 miles I stopped driving it at 75-80 on freeway. Keep it to 70 and oil consumption stays pretty good. I extreme offroaded (being some things you might see on the trans-america trail, like mud pits, sand and river crossings) it a few times with all season Goodyear's and it had no problem. I can't say enough about this car if I ever have the chance to drive another one I will. Just make sure the engine warms up first before doing anything stupid.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Subaru has head gasket problems

    Even low mileage examples have problems with head gaskets. Only practical way to fix is to pull the engine. Everything else is failing as well. I was under the false impression that Subaru is a sturdy brand. At 120,000 miles the car needs an overhaul.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love the car, hate the heater controls!

    I needed a vehicle to perform driving in snow, enuf room for my 90lb Am Bulldog & 2wks worth of laundry. It is stylish & has sufficiently provided for my needs. BUT: the heater/ac controls r positioned way down below the radio, and u have to physically look down anytime it needs adjustment. The fan control is tiny & has separate up/down controls instead of a knob, which, I feel is unsafe. The dual dials only control on/off & separate temp for the driver & passenger. Which I only use starting the car & adjusting b4 I leave. Oh, btw, when backing up & lane changing I do feel there are blind spots. Overall, it's a good car & recommend buying. But, as I am planning, install a rear back-up camera & navigation system screen.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    12 people out of 15 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • A Reliable AWD Wagon

    I've owned this car for 7 years, replaced the clutch and timing belt/water pump recently, other than that just regular maintenance. However, the car has everything you need, the 2.5L box v4 motor which has enough grunt especially when it picks up speed it cruises in the wet or dry. I have the touring dual range luxury model with no sunroof. I had the recalls done, fuel consumption is okay, better than a v6. I use it for fun away, driving up and down the SEQ region of QLD Australia, the Sunshine State. Only done 131k, thought about selling it but what would I buy, probably a 2016 Subaru Outback, something not too new on the price range under 5yrs old, I'd like to try the 3.6L but still prefer the manual.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 9 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • best car I've owned

    I have a child and this car had plenty of room for us. Very reliable. Keep up with oil changes and it will last forever
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    8 people out of 11 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Excellent and safe car

    This car was great in the winter with the AWD and had enough room for all my photo equipment and props, amazing car! Would love to have another one someday.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best car I've ever owned!

    Great daily driver and adventure vehicle! Very reliable, never have had any mechanical issues with the car. Great dual sunroofs, AWD for all weather situations, seats are comfortable for short or day-long drives.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most dependable car

    Very dependable car, handles well in all road conditions, AWD great for ice and snow driving, comfortable ride. Just overall a great car. Good gas mileage.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I love the way it looks

    I am very very happy with my car I love it thank you very much. I get great gas mileage and have gone to California last year
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great lasting car

    They are great cars and engines last. Enough space for all your family needs. They are great to drive in all in all seasons. The do great in the New England snow.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Subarus are a quality made car. Last a long time.

    Plenty of room but, not to big. Lots of features to numerous to mention including heated seats and all wheel drive for winter. Handles well on the road.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2008 Subaru Outback?

The 2008 Subaru Outback is available in 14 trim levels:

  • (4 styles)
  • 2.5i (2 styles)
  • 3.0R LL Bean (2 styles)
  • 3.0R LL Bean w/Nav (2 styles)
  • LL Bean w/Nav (2 styles)
  • LL Bean w/Nav/VDC (2 styles)
  • Ltd (2 styles)
  • Ltd LL Bean Nav/VC (1 style)
  • Ltd LL Bean w/Nav (2 styles)
  • Ltd LL Bean w/Nav/VDC (1 style)
  • Ltd w/VDC (2 styles)
  • XT Ltd (4 styles)
  • XT Ltd w/Nav (2 styles)
  • i (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2008 Subaru Outback?

The 2008 Subaru Outback offers up to 19 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2008 Subaru Outback?

The 2008 Subaru Outback compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2008 Subaru Outback reliable?

The 2008 Subaru Outback has an average reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2008 Subaru Outback owners.

Is the 2008 Subaru Outback a good Wagon?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2008 Subaru Outback. 96.5% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 57 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.4
  • Value: 4.6
  • Exterior: 4.7
  • Reliability: 4.7

Subaru Outback history

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