New car reviews » 2008 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT
Better than: 2008 Subaru WRX
But not as good as: Outback 3.0R Limited
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 62.51
The 2008 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT continues to show Subauru’s upward trend toward more luxurious and comfortable cars. Thankfully, it also remains as capable as ever thanks to a moderately powerful turbocharged, 2.5-liter, flat-four engine and a reliable all-wheel-drive system.
The interior is probably the clearest indication that the car is headed in an upscale direction: The quality of the leather used on the seating surfaces is as high as anything we’ve encountered lately. The controls are simple and intuitive, although we don’t see a real use for the much-ballyhooed SI-DRIVE system.
This system offers three settings to choose from: Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp—there’s even an S# button on the wheel—but we can’t imagine why anyone would drive in anything but S# mode. There don’t seem to be any fuel economy or ride comfort benefits to using the other modes, so why would we want slower throttle response? We’ll just keep it in S#, thanks. We also think the smoother 3.0-liter six-cylinder would suit the car better than the peaky, turbocharged 2.5.
The cozy ride is well-suited to the car’s go-anywhere nature. The Outback would be a fine choice for residents of the snow belt, but track day junkies should shop other Subaru choices.
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2008 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Specs:
- Drivetrain Layout:
- Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
- Engine:
- 2.5 liter flat-4
- Horsepower:
- 224 bhp at 5200 rpm
- Torque:
- 226 lb.-ft at 2800 rpm
- Transmission:
- automatic
- Suspension:
- MacPherson Strut front; multilink rear
- Wheels:
- 17x7-in.
- Brakes:
- (front)
(rear) - Weight:
- 3605 pounds
- Price:
- Base: $34195
As tested: $35508 - MPG:
-
EPA City: 18
EPA Highway: 24
Staff Ratings:
- Stock Performance:
-
- Performance Potential:
-
- Daily Driver Manners:
-
- Fit and Finish:
-
- Overall:
-
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