New Motors Subaru

One of Subaru's goals with the new Outback was to greatly expand the passenger compartment. Mission accomplished. Due to a 2.8-in.-longer wheelbase, along with 2.3 in. more height and 2.0 in. more width, Subaru increased passenger volume by 8.4 cu. ft. Most notably, rear-seat leg room is up by almost 4 in. and front-seat hip room by 3.5 in., while there's an extra 5.9 cu. ft. of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded - this last item largely due to the adoption of a new double-wishbone rear suspension. Yet, because Subaru shortened the car's front and rear overhangs, the car's total length is almost 1 in. less than before.

Subaru gave the Outback's interior a thorough going-over as well, highlighted by a bold new dash and center stack. Subaru continues to work on the quality of its interiors, and once again it's a strong step forward in terms of quality. There are more cubbies, too, including one on the door pull that's perfect for a cell phone.