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SUBARU OUTBACK Used Car Review

Pros

Cons

  • SUV-rivalling ground clearance aids off-roading
  • Superb ride on rough, loose surfaces
  • Bountiful cabin space since 2009 model
  • Diesel option added to 4cyl and 6cyl petrol engines in 2009
  • On-road manners not quite as good as some rivals
  • Higher-than-average servicing costs
  • Diesel's turbo lag; 2.5i's so-so performance; 3.6R's thirst
  • Stability control can be over-eager on loose surfaces
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
SubaruOutbackPetrol - Premium UnleadedDealer usedTop AdsClear all

Top2013 Subaru Outback MY13 2.5I Premium AWD White Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 139774 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Experience excellence from the 2022 IVI Dealer of the Year and benefit from our exceptional services: * FREE INTERSTATE TRANSPORT to Eastern States. * Engage with us through LIVE VIDEO CALLS. * Enjoy peace of mind with our comprehensive 12-MONTH WARRANTY. * Access complimentary CAR HISTORY REPORTS. * Trust in our INDEPENDENT VEHICLE INSPECTION REPORTS by IVI. * Conveniently located near the M2 Motorway in Sydney's Lower North Shore, we're open 7 days a week. * Enhance your car buying journey w

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Artarmon, NSW

Dealer used
02/05/2024

Top2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 2.5i CVT AWD White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 187958 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2015 SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON / 2.5 LITRE PETROL 4 CYLINDER / AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION / TRAVELLED ONLY 187,000 KILOMETRES WITH LOG BOOK SERVICE HISTORY! **Our Multi-Franchise Dealership is conveniently located 25 minutes from the Brisbane Airport and only a 5-minute walk from the Kippa-Ring Train Station. All vehicles advertised are available for sale. **FINANCE PRE-APPROVALS AVAILABLE through our competitive network of lenders, our business managers are here to work for you to get the best package

$14,990 Drive Away^
Redcliffe, QLD

Dealer used
01/05/2024

Top2004 Subaru Outback MY04 3.0R Pearl White 5 Speed Auto Sports Shift Wagon

  • 365000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

-SUBARU OUTBACK WAGON AWD -EXTREMELY POPULAR MODEL -READY TO TRAVEL -AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION -H6 ENGINE -SERVICE HISTORY -RELIABILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY ALL IN ONE -ALL WHEEL DRIVE -TRACTION CONTROL -POWER STEERING -AIR COND -AIRBAGS -CRUISE CONTROL -CD PLAYER -FOG LIGHTS -KEYLESS ENTRY -LEATHER SEATS -ALLOY WHEELS -TOWBAR -AND MANY MANY MORE OPTIONS -DRIVES AND HANDLES GREAT -RWC INCLUDED -REGO INCLUDED -WARRANTY INCLUDED -PRICED TO SELL -BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM AN APPROVED VACC DEAL

$6,499 Excl. Gov. Charges
Brooklyn, VIC

Dealer used
02/05/2024

Top2012 Subaru Outback B5A MY12 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 143311 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

This Dark Grey Subaru Outback is sensational value for money for a large body wagon with AWD capability! Featuring good Continental tyres on Subaru factory alloy wheels, upgraded head unit, boot mat, mats and the powerful yet efficient boxer engine this vehicle ticks a lot of boxes! Current NSW registration included and has just been fully serviced and inspected by us. Full one owner service history and we are pleased to offer for resale in its current condition with good kms. Enquire today

$14,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mosman, NSW

Dealer used
01/05/2024

Top2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY17 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Silver 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 111011 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We are one of Australia's largest vehicle wholesale operations open direct to the public, so this car is priced at a fixed discounted rate to sell extremely quick. Please genuine and ready to buy inquiries only. We are located Inner West Sydney, 15 minutes from CBD, 25 minutes from Sydney Airport, 15 minutes from Parramatta. Dealer charge applies to all sales. Shop from home or in store. All cars are sold with a clear PPSR certificate and NSW roadworthy. All sorts of trade ins welcome. Easy

$20,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Five Dock, NSW

Dealer used
02/05/2024

Top2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium White 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 66636 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Low K’s having travelled on average, less than 9,000km/year since its 2016 build. It comes with full Subaru stamped service history and is in good condition with only 1 previous owner! This Premium model boasts satellite navigation, keyless entry and start, adaptive cruise control, electric sunroof, electric front seats – the driver’s with memory, heated front seats and a power tailgate. Plus, it’s finished with a cream leather interior which is not only stylish but a cooler alternativ

$28,990 Drive Away^
Southport, QLD

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2013 Subaru Outback MY13 2.5i AWD Silver Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 114600 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Thank you for viewing this vehicle. We are LOCATED in Newcastle in the suburb of NEW LAMBTON 100 meters from West Leagues Club at 223 Lambton Rd New Lambton. Our Contact number is ******8599. 2013 Subaru Outback Automatic with LOW KLMS With Full Leather, Climate Airconditioning, Power Siteering, Power Windows, ABS Brakes, Cruise Control, Dual Front and Side Airbags, Factory GPS/SAT Navigation, Reverse Camera, Window Tint, Excellent Log Book Services and LOOKS & DRIVES AWESOME. Full Credi

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
New Lambton, NSW

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2011 Subaru Outback MY11 2.5I Touring White Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 129480 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

RWC/ Rego/ Warranty On-site Finance Available/ Finance Starting $35 weekly Trade ins Welcome 2011 Subaru Outback Automatic AWD 2.5i Wagon White in very good condition/ 4Cyl 2.5P/ Cheap on fuel/ 129,000kms/ Log book/Fresh Service/Central Locking/ Tow bar/ Roof Racks/ Reverse Camera/ 2X Remote Keys/ Alloy Wheels, Body Kit/Almost New Tyres/ Cold air con/ Cruise Control/ AUX,USB,Bluetooth/ Good Looked after, Clean/ Power steering, Power Mirrors, power windows/ Clear PPSR clear title, No accident

$13,997 Excl. Gov. Charges
Archerfield, QLD

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Black 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 163498 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Welcome to our dealership, where the perfect car is just a phone call away! At our dealership conveniently located near the CBD, we're revolutionizing the way you buy vehicles. With our focus on providing exceptional service and competitive pricing, we're dedicated to ensuring your car-buying experience is seamless and satisfying. Our call center isn't just a point of contact; it's your gateway to a vast selection of top-quality vehicles. From small vehicles to luxury SUVs and everything in

$19,993 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 3.6R CVT AWD Brown 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 114500 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.6L

FIND US; now with TWO convenient locations. EXCITING FEATURES - Adaptive cruise control - Remote central locking - ABS brakes - Rear cup holders - Dual zone climate control air conditioning - Reverse camera - GPS navigation system - Front cup holders - Storage compartment in centre console Safety comes first with lane departure warning. It has front bottle holders, voice recognition, 18" alloy wheels and rain sensor wipers. * TRADE-INS welcome. * BUY with confidence; best price guarantee on

$25,990 Drive Away^
Strathpine, QLD

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback 5Gen 2.5I Premium White Constant Variable SUV

  • 136397 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

WOW CARS LIKE THIS ARE HARD TO FIND AND IN AUTOMATIC , MUST BE SEEN TO BE APPRECIATED ONE OWNER AND LOW KS AND OUR 3 YEAR COMPLIMENTRY WARRANTY INCLUDED DEALERSHIP INSPECTED AND APPROVED In depth vehicle inspections can be arranged with one of our consultants to walk you through the vehicle via various methods including live video streaming. Additional photos or videos can also be provided for in depth information regarding anything to do with the vehicle in order to demonstrate the ve

$24,488 Drive Away^
Vermont, VIC

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2015 Subaru Outback MY14 3.6R Premium Blue 5 Speed Auto Elec Sportshift Wagon

  • 71148 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.6L

This one owner SUV is perfect for everyday driving! 2 Keys, Service History and only 71,090kms. Some of its standout features include: Keyless Entry and Push Button Start Rear Privacy Glass Reverse Camera Mobile Phone Connectivity Cruise Control Child Seat Anchor Points We ask that you call for an appointment to prevent overcrowding in the yard. Note: for peace of mind we are a large multi franchise dealer with 10 new car brands over 2 locations and over 100 used cars at any given time. We

$27,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
North Narrabeen, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2014 Subaru Outback MY15 2.5i AWD Black Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 174300 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Thank you for viewing this vehicle. We are LOCATED in Newcastle in the suburb of NEW LAMBTON 100 meters from West Leagues Club at 223 Lambton Rd New Lambton. Our Contact number is ******8599. 1 Owner 2015 Subaru Outback AWD Automatic with FULL FULL FULL FULL FULL FULL FULL Log Book Services ALL Serviced By Subaru with Airconditioning, Power Siteering, Power WIndows, ABS Brakes, Cruise Control, Dual Front and Side Airbags, Alloy Wheels, Reverse Camera, Window Tint, Feb 2025 Rego, FULL FULL

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
New Lambton, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable SUV

  • 65126 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

*** RESERVE ONLINE NOW at www.macarthurautomotive.com.au All our vehicles are workshop tested, had lube service completed for your peace of mind. If you require FINANCE or INSURANCE, our fully accredited Business Managers can take the hassle out of your purchase experience by offering easy and cost-effective Finance Solutions for private and business customers (TAP). We are located in Sydney’s South West. We are a 45 min drive from Sydney CBD and 40 min drive from Sydney domestic airpo

$27,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Campbelltown, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2014 Subaru Outback B5A MY14 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Premium Silver 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 137690 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Located in Western Sydney. We are a family run business and have been serving the Sydney area for many years. At kingz motors we hold approximately 80 pre owned vehicles in stock with a wide range of options and a price range between $3000 to $70,000 which caters to all clientele. We pride ourselves in only selling the best quality used cars at the most competitive prices possible. We take all precautions to ensure all our vehicles meet all legal and safety requirements with our extensive check

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2009 Subaru Outback B5A MY10 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Maroon 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 165961 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

***ONLY 160KS*** AUTOMATIC*** FULL SERVICE HISTORY*** VERY WELL MAINTAINED*** AWD*** SUPER ECONOMICAL*** VALUE PLUS*** SIMPLE: BE QUICK OR MISS IT*** *** CCC = BETTER CARS FOR LE$$ *** WE HAVE 200+ VEHICLES $4999 - $19999 *** ALL 200+ VEHICLES COME WITH A WARRANTY *** ALL 200+ VEHICLES ARE THE BEST VALUE ON THE MARKET *** ALL 200+ PRICES ARE DRIVE-AWAY NO MORE TO PAY - (VERY CONVENIENT)! *** FAST FINANCE ARRANGED ON-SITE OR OVER-THE-PHONE (CLEVER & PROFESSIONAL T

$10,999 Drive Away^
Rocklea, QLD

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 223037 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$16,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2011 Subaru Outback B5A MY11 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 219532 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Looking for a versatile and reliable vehicle to tackle all of life's adventures? Look no further than this 2011 Subaru Outback B5A 2.5i Premium Wagon with Sat Nav. With a sleek grey exterior and luxurious black leather interior, this Outback is sure to turn heads wherever you go. Equipped with a range of features including Bluetooth connectivity, GPS satellite navigation, rear vision camera, and electric sunroof, you'll have all the technology you need for a comfortable and convenient ride. Th

$9,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Black 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 218650 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Black 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2012 Subaru Outback B5A MY12 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 256198 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

*** This vehicle is still available *** Call us for a Live Virtual Walk around video demonstration on any of our Vehicles. We are located only 10 minutes from Blacktown NSW. This vehicle is ready to drive away with the following extra’s; - Alloy Rim’s - Tinted Windows - Fog Lights The vehicle presented here is presented in excellent condition throughout. Very reliable and fuel efficient. It drives beautifully, receives current inspection work, and is provided with current documentat

$9,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2012 Subaru Outback B5A MY12 2.5i AWD Premium Silver 6 Speed Manual Wagon

  • 112198 km
  • SUV
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

2012 SUBARU OUTBACK B5A MY12 2.5I AWD PREMIUM SILVER WAGON 2.5L 4WD Embark on adventures with confidence in this sleek SUBARU OUTBACK AWD PREMIUM. With its powerful yet efficient 2.5-liter 4WD engine and a smooth automatic transmission, this vehicle offers both performance and reliability on any terrain. Equipped with all-wheel drive, it ensures stability and traction in all weather conditions, making it the perfect companion for your outdoor escapades. The premium interior boasts comfor

$17,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Littlehampton, SA

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2012 Subaru Outback B5A MY12 2.5i Lineartronic AWD Premium Silver, Chrome 6 Speed Constant Variable

  • 123474 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

"Low KM gem alert! This 2012 Subaru Outback is the ultimate family car with all the bells and whistles you need. Priced at just $13,999.00 AUD, this B5A MY12 2.5i Premium Wagon with only 123474 km on the odometer is a steal. With features like GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, rear vision camera, and a panoramic electric sunroof, this Outback is ready for your next adventure. The sleek silver exterior and luxurious black interior make this vehicle stand out from the crowd. Don't miss out

$13,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Yagoona, NSW

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 128672 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

MAY MARATHON STOCK CLEARANCE. APPLIES TO ALL VEHICLE SOLD AND DELIVERED BY 31/05/2024. 2016 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium AWD Automatic Wagon. Grey. Good Klms with Log Books. Leather Trim, Sunroof, Subaru Eyesight System, Active Cruise Control, Keyless Start/Entry, Reverse Camera, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collison Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Climate Control Air Conditioning, Bluetooth Connectivity, Power Front Seats, Power Tailgate, Sat Nav , Multi Function Steering Wheel and Co

$21,995 Drive Away^
Windsor, QLD

Dealer used
15 hours ago

2010 Subaru Outback MY10 2.5i AWD Silver Continuous Variable Wagon

  • 265000 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Are you ready to take your adventure to the next level? Look no further than this 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD. With its sleek silver exterior and comfortable 4D wagon body, this vehicle is both stylish and practical. Equipped with a powerful 2.5L engine and a continuous variable transmission, this Outback offers a smooth and fuel-efficient ride. Whether you're navigating through city streets or tackling off-road terrain, the All-Wheel Drive system ensures superior traction and control in any

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Fyshwick, ACT

Dealer used
Yesterday

2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 3.6R CVT AWD Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 141990 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.6L

Buy Today - Pickup Tomorrow from Australia's #1 Car Marketplace. * Over 800 vehicles in stock. * 6 months of Free Roadside Assistance. * Trade-ins welcomed. * Queensland's Largest Fixed Price Dealership. * 5-year warranties available with all vehicles. * After-hours appointments available on request. * 140-point safety checks on all vehicles. * Tailored finance packages. * Delivery Australia-Wide. Visit our showroom, conveniently located off the Bridge, 10 mins from the CBD and 5 mins from Br

$22,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Pinkenba, QLD

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2005 Subaru Outback 3.0R

  • 275895 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

GREAT BUYING, 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK, AUTOMATIC, POWER STEERING, ELECTRIC WINDOWS, CRUISE CONTROL, ALLOY WHEELS, GOOD TYRES, DRIVES WELL. ANY INSPECTION WELCOME. Call Darrell or Mel 1143 Albany Hwy, BENTLEY WA 6102 LANEWAY PARKING AT REAR – or opposite at Bentley Plaza Shopping Centre Open Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm or Saturday 9am-1pm We're all about top quality & friendly service here. Let us help you!!! We can assist with an array of Finance and Extended Warranty options.

$4,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bentley, WA

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 3.6R CVT AWD Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 79014 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.6L

RWC, ready for instant delivery! YES - we do trade-in - extended warranty and in-house finance. We are located 25 mins from CBD Eastern Suburbs and 5 mins from local train station. Heritage Auto Group. 457 Victoria As part of our pre-sale preparation we have taken care of the following: - Oil and Filter Service using top quality products - Full Detail inside and Out using the best Automotive Products on the market - Full workshop mechanical inspection to ensure only market leading vehic

$25,999 Drive Away^
Lilydale, VIC

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2016 Subaru Outback B6A MY16 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 106900 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Deals You Cant Resist ! ! ! Looking for a SUV to take you on your next adventure? This 2016 Subaru Outback comes in grey with a 4 Cylinder, 2.5L petrol engine. It has 106000km on the dial, 2 x key remotes, service history booklet and owners manual. Its loaded with heaps of features which include 18 Inch Alloy Wheels, Independent Front Suspension, Multi-Function Steering Wheel, Selectable - Driving Modes, Roof Rails, Electric Sunroof, GPS (Satellite Navigation), AUX/USB/Bluetooth Connectivity,

$21,689 Excl. Gov. Charges
Jamisontown, NSW

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2015 Subaru Outback B6A MY15 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Blue 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 111563 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

Challenge us right now on our Best Price Guarantee! Unleash the spirit of adventure with our stunning 2015 Subaru Outback 2.5I Premium AWD. This robust and reliable vehicle, steeped in a sleek metallic finish, is the perfect companion for those who seek a blend of comfort, performance, and safety. Under the hood, youll find a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that offers a seamless blend of power and fuel efficiency. The Outbacks All-Wheel Drive capability ensures a confident and secure drive, n

$23,688 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mile End South, SA

Dealer used
02/05/2024

2017 Subaru Outback B6A MY17 2.5i CVT AWD Premium Grey 6 Speed Constant Variable Wagon

  • 39471 km
  • SUV
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.5L

easyauto123 - Your one stop shop for used cars in Brisbane. With over 500 used cars onsite, most under cover, you are assured of the largest selection of used cars in Brisbane. Located just 5 minutes from both Brisbane Airport and Brisbane CBD and just a short walk from Hendra train station, right next to the Gateway Motorway north of the Gateway Bridge. Can't make it in? One of our friendly team can even give you a tour of any car on site via video call, it's that easy! Looking to

$27,980 Drive Away^
Hendra, QLD

Dealer used
02/05/2024

Overview of the Subaru Outback

Overview of the Subaru Outback

SUBARU OUTBACK GENERATIONS (SINCE 2003)

2003-2009

2009-2014

2015 onwards

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 5.7 to 6.3 litres per 100km

2.5L 4-cylinder: 7.3 to 8.0 litres per 100km

3.6L 6-cylinder: 9.9 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO SUBARU OUTBACK

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: SUBARU OUTBACK (2009 TO 2014)

The main complaint by owners of this generation of Outback was a CVT transmission that was slow to select gears from Park.

After plenty of investigation, it seems the problem is the design of the transmission needing time to create hydraulic pressure to make the gear selection.

Subaru claimed at the time that the average delay between Park and Drive should be 1.5 seconds or less, but many owners reported that the lag was a lot longer than that.

Like other Subaru CVTs of the time, the solution was to take the car to a Subaru dealer and have the transmission reprogrammed. But again, according to owner feedback, the condition improved for a while before reverting to the way it had been before the fix.

The best advice is to drive any CVT in a mix of environments and conditions and decide for yourself whether you could live with the peculiarities of this type of transmission.

Beyond that, the head-gasket problems of previous Subarus were eradicated by this stage of the game, but check the service record is up to date and that the oil on the dipstick is clean and clear.