The 2.5L engine produces 182 horsepower. Those keen on greater power can opt for a 260 horsepower, 2.4L turbo flat-four. Power reaches all wheels via a CVT transmission regardless of engine choice. The cars are roomy and comfortable and the cabins are nicely finished. The trunk on the sedan is commodious, and while the cargo bay on the Outback is long and quite wide, it is shallower below the windows than some other competitors. Subaru’s Eyesight active safety suite is standard on all trims. Adaptive cruise control, long an Eyesight feature, now includes a new lane centering device.

With fog lights, roof rails, heated front seats and lit vanity mirrors, the base Convenience trim is reasonably equipped. The Touring adds a large format touch screen, wireless iOS-Android cellphone hookup and charging,  a foot-gesture power tailgate, cargo mat, dual zone climate control, rear seat climate vents, auto dim driver’s mirror, sunroof, reverse auto braking, auto-dim rearview mirror, garage door opener, six-speaks and a number of smaller comfort and convenience features, but looks expensive. Compared with the Touring, the Onyx adds an X-Mode drive system, alloy pedals, heated rear seats, a Harmon-Kardon audio system and bigger wheels, and is good value. Compared with the Touring, the 2.5L Limited adds navigation, reverse-tilt door mirror, driver’s seat cushion extender, a Harmon-Kardon audio system, a memory system, a power passenger seat, leather seating, heated rear seats and bigger wheels, and is good value. Limited buyers opting for the XT turbo will pay $3000 for their extra power. The Premier XT includes a CD player, power-fold drive mirrors and Nappa leather at a fair price. Compared with the Touring, the Wilderness adds a Harmon-Kardon audio system, more off-road capability and the turbo engine, but looks very expensive.

Predicted reliability is above average. Subaru claims the oil leaks and expensive head gasket failures of the past have been addressed. Expensive servicing.