We had a 2012 with 13000 miles and loved it but wanted leather and a better stereo so got the 2013. Several friends have new and old Subarus and they seem to have exceptionally good build quality and long-term endurance. The newer/bigger/taller models (2011-2013) are very quiet, roomy and comfy. I liked the looks of the 2012 front end better as it was dressier, but the 2013 is more sporty looking. This wagon is surefooted on Pacific Mountain highways where we drive. The suspension/steering "fix" made the 2013 handle more like a SUV. The 2012 had a feeling more like an Avalon on the road.
Favorite Features
AWD with traction controsl and airbags all around for safety is our #1 concern. Crash tests have been good for these models.
We drive a lot
and average 30 mpg at 75% highway and 25% city driving. The Outback handles well on dirt BLM roads, takes us skiing and cruises at 75
very quietly and zippy. The dual power
heated seats and individual climate control features are
nice, especially on
longer trips. Seating is spacious. The rear seat protectors are a nice feature and the Puddle Lights are helpful to see where one is stepping at night. The engine is exceptionally quiet and the CVT is very smooth. We love pearl white.
Suggested Improvements
Tone down the 2013's front end. Put some storage space on the back side of the front seats for the rear passengers. A couple pockets for stoarage up front would be nice too for pens, phones, maps, etc. Tow hitches should be more available -has anyone ever seen a factory installed hitch? It's listed as a possible option but where are they in real life? We dont like the looks of the black plastic exterior body trim. It is too bold. Different color options for that protection trim would look better. A mid section accessory plug for charging a phone or i-pad would also come in handy.
Hi, congrats on your purchase and great to hear that your new car is of liking. Regarding the hitch, I think the factory/dealer installed one is 1) expensive (I was quoted $600-800) and 2) they have to make a little cutout on the bottom of the rear bumper. I would recommend aftermarket ones, you can anywhere from $150-$300 depending on your towing needs, a $200-250 one should be sufficient for bike racks and similar. If you find a dealer who is used to install hitches on a regular basis and are familiar with a particular brand of hitches, they can wrap it up in about an hour, ie approx $90 labor. Torklifts Stealth Hitch is very "hidden" and can be installed using the existing holes after the rear bumper has been removed, unlike most others where two extra holes need to drilled to accommodate the install. Best of luck! Cheers, plex.
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on 09/18/12 06:24 AM (PDT)
Hi, congrats on your purchase and great to hear that your new car is of liking. Regarding the hitch, I think the factory/dealer installed one is 1) expensive (I was quoted $600-800) and 2) they have to make a little cutout on the bottom of the rear bumper. I would recommend aftermarket ones, you can anywhere from $150-$300 depending on your towing needs, a $200-250 one should be sufficient for bike racks and similar. If you find a dealer who is used to install hitches on a regular basis and are familiar with a particular brand of hitches, they can wrap it up in about an hour, ie approx $90 labor. Torklifts Stealth Hitch is very "hidden" and can be installed using the existing holes after the rear bumper has been removed, unlike most others where two extra holes need to drilled to accommodate the install. Best of luck! Cheers, plex.
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