Used 2008 Subaru Outback 2.5i

Subaru's 2008 Outback is offered with three different engines, depending on the model. Base, 2.5 i, and 2.5 i Limited models get a 169-horsepower, 2.5L horizontally opposed four; the sporty 2.5 XT Limited gets a 243-horsepower, 2.5L turbocharged flat-four; and the 3.0 R L.L. Bean gets a smooth, 245-horsepower 3.0L flat-six.

Models with the base four-cylinder engine have a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, while the XT turbo model has a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with Sportshift paddle-shift feature. The six-cylinder engine comes only with the Sportshift five-speed automatic.

All Outback models come with all-wheel drive. Automatic models use systems that can actively manage power to send it toward the wheels where it's most needed, while manual-transmission cars get a viscous-coupling system that sends power equally to front and rear wheels until slippage occurs, then to the wheels with more traction.

The Outback has a heavy-duty, raised four-wheel independent suspension that has up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance, especially useful in deep snows or rutted forest trails.

Turbo and six-cylinder Outback models now both get the SI-DRIVE system, which enables three different modes or performance characteristics, by fine-tuning the electronic throttle and transmission shift pattern. Sport mode yields quick throttle response and linear acceleration, Sport Sharp delivers quick throttle response, and Intelligent mode reduces maximum engine power and torque and allows smoother throttle response so as to also improve fuel efficiency by up to ten percent.

Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution are standard, along with front-seat side air bags, side-curtain air bags, and active front head restraints. The VDC electronic stability control system is optional on all but the base 2.5 i.

From the base model to the top 3.0 R L.L. Bean, the Outback covers a wide range of equipment and ranges more than $10,000 in price. Base and 2.5 i models are quite simply equipped, but they include air conditioning, cruise control, roof rails, and power windows, locks, and mirrors; 2.5 i models add alloy wheels, heated seats and mirrors, and a limited-slip rear differential, among additional items. Top-of-the-range models get dual-zone climate control, a dual-panel power moonroof, leather upholstery, touch-screen navigation, and LED turn signals.

Rough-road, All-weather Capability

Confident Handling

Roomy Interior.

For 2008, the Subaru Legacy Outback sedan has been dropped from the lineup. Otherwise, the Outback wagons get a modest redesign in front and back, along with some interior appearance and equipment changes.

From the outside, there's a new grille with chrome crossbars, along with new front and rear fascias, new headlights and taillights, and a redesigned hood and fenders to give a more rugged look. XT and six-cylinder models receive new wheels and unique fog lights. Inside, the instrument panel has been redesigned and interior fabrics have been revamped, a telescopic adjustment for the steering has been added, and a new integrated key and remote entry unit is standard. Electromechanical gauges are now standard on all turbo and six-cylinder models. On top models, a redesigned steering wheel now offers integral audio controls, cruise control, and SI-Drive controls.

Availability of the VDC electronic stability control system has been expanded.

The 2008 Subaru Legacy Outback is virtually the same vehicle as the Legacy wagon, but with a heavy-duty suspension, higher ground clearance for rough roads and deep snow, plus protective cladding and rugged styling cues. The Outback remains a compelling alternative to most sport-utility vehicles, with a low center of mass for safer handling and better maneuverability, while the interior is quite spacious and flexible to suit a small family.