Used 2002 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
Almost a Great Car
Had the clutch "shudder" early and dealer eventually fixed it after repeated failed attempts to duplicate the problem. No problems since it was replaced. Wind noise on highway is annoying. Leg room in rear seats is too small. Mileage hasn't been up to advertised. Never gotten more than 26 mpg and usually it's only 20-22, even on highway. Great in snow, suspension and tire life are fantastic, extremely versatile, brakes are decent, winter package and amenities make this a real enjoyable car overall and I have found it reliable.
Good car, but...
Had this car 5 years & like it. Really like the way it hugs the road & handles curves with low center of gravity due to "pancake engine". 4 cyl engine a little lacking in "get up & go." Love the AWD; I've driven in snow and sand, NEVER put on chains. Interior comfort just OK; still find myself wanting better place to put my elbows while driving. No one wants to ride in middle of back seat. No major mechanical repairs in 5 years, but have had minor oil seepage for last couple years - not enough to drop oil level, but enough to produce burning oil smell from engine & can't find source. CHECK ENGINE & AT OIL TEMP lights keep coming on though no malfunction & no one can figure out why. Annoying.
- L.L. Bean Edition WagonMSRP: $4,44423 mi away
- Base WagonMSRP: $5,999623 mi away
- Base WagonMSRP: $2,699963 mi away
Excellent small AWD
This is my 1st Subaru, having had a number of Honda's before, I would rate this cars quality as equal, if not better than any of them. The ride is very solid and quiet, yet fun to drive, even with the automatic. 24.5 MPG average in 3300 miles. No defects or problems so far. I shopped the 02 Honda CRV also but found the Outback to be more refined and a better value.
my outback
great car. fun, handles well, versatile. built right.
2002 Outback wagon
Car performance in snow/ice is great. Car has poor passing/climbing performance. WAY too much wind and road noise at freeway speeds.