Overview & Reviews

For the 2008 Subaru Outback, the sedan version is dropped, a few new standard features (including tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and an auxiliary audio jack) and updated instrument panel debut and a minor face-lift updates the front and rear ends.

• Tight backseat for a midsize car, automatic transmissions sap performance, stability control not available on lower trim levels.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 120.00

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  Solid choice - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Spec - February 22 - 7:16 am

  Youll be hard-pressed to find a family-sized wagon in this price range that has a decent reliability record. I opted for the Outback because of its very smooth ride and generous cargo space compared to similarly-priced SUVs. I have not been disappointed. Enjoyable to drive. City mileage for me (~17) is a little disappointing, but highway mileage (~29) has been a pleasant surprise. I wish at times it had a little more power, but in most cases it is more than adequate.

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  Some good, some bad - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Monica - December 7 - 4:49 am

  After One Year I have owned this car for a year, now. Would I buy it again? Maybe - due to the clearance and AWD technology. Do I love it? No. It has started to rattle in the dashboard. Wind noise is still there. Rear door is still annoyingly slow. Computer screen is still functionally obsolete (I just want an image of my phone and I want to see the time and temperature larger). Gas mileage has never hit 33 for any length of time. Original opinion I had the 2008 2.5i. This vehicle has a lot of good - the engine seems to have more power, the continuous shifting makes for a smoother ride and better acceleration. On the "just ok" is the control screen. Its big, it catches dust and glares, the weather is useless for me because I dont live in a select city. Why would I use the navigation when I have my phone with all the addresses and a voice that talked me through the directions? The two data points that I do hunt for (literally) are the time and outside temperature. These are small and tucked at the bottom of the screen. I started with the good, to be fair.. However, there are two things I hate (hate) about the car. Unfortunately, they are in your face, all the time. #1: wind noise, wind, wind, wind. It sounds as though the window isnt closed so you are constantly trying to close the windows. #2: the rear gate is sllllooooowwwwwwww to open and close. I am constantly standing by the gate , waiting for it to open or close. I hate that too. Really hate it.

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  Satisfied - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Ted - December 6 - 7:36 am

  Ive had my Outback for 6 months and have put over 8000 miles on it. Initial impression of quality is good. I bought the car due to its safety features, additional room for my family, and reputation for quality. I havent been let down. My only real gripe about the car is the lack of horsepower. This car could really use an extra 20 hp. Not a big deal since Im not out to win any races. However, the car is slightly under-powered in my opinion.

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  PZEV - "My Inner Treehugger" - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By highmile - August 9 - 10:10 pm

  We had already decided to buy a 2008 2.5i Outback when I happened across an Outback on the dealer lot with a different badge on the back that said "PZEV - Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle". I was curious as to what this was. Basically, it is the exact same car as your regular Outback, but with a more thorough burning of fuel and an emissions system on steroids. The emissions are as clean as a hybrid. My "Inner Treehugger" decided to splurge for the extra $200 for the PZEV option. We have been extremely happy with the vehicle. Unfortunately, I had to discover the PZEV since there seems to be little to no marketing for this "green" option.

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  Still great cars, more fun than ever! - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By gtskier - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle, moving upscale to compete with the likes of Audi and Acura in the AWD crossover arena. Too bad they got rid of the steering wheel buttons/paddles on the limited, went to other controls for stereo and cruise. The iDrive system is cool, maps the throttle response and upshift points to economy, sport and sport sharp. If you keep it in economy, expect mixed driving mileage at about 22-23. In sport or sport# mode expect maybe 16 mpg and lots of tickets!

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  Different strokes - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By mikeb - June 18 - 1:03 pm

  Obviously people have had differing experiences. Mine have been superb. I had a 2004 Outback with 100,000 miles; loved it, but decided it was time for a change. Tested the RAV4, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Acura RDX; kept coming back to the Outback. After 2000 miles, its nothing but delightful. The ride is firm but quiet. The transmission selection system works well; gear selection on hills is much better than with the 2004. Biggest surprise is the mileage; guided by the gas consumption guage, and trying to maintain a fairly light foot, Ive been getting 23 mpg in-town and 27 on the Interstate (contrary to the 17/24 official rating). The car is great fun to drive.

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  Dont believe the hype - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By TL - June 9 - 12:34 am

  This car is a POS. Blown head gasket, rods, timing chain......all before 100,000 miles. Bought it brand new and every maintenance visit was scheduled on time. Just bought another Subie and wish to God I hadnt. Last Subaru Ill ever buy,

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  A Happy Subie owner - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By A Happy Subie owner - June 6 - 12:30 am

  I absolutely fell in love with this vehicle after I saw quite a few on the road driving around. After doing my research and going to this website (www.edmunds.com) and Subarus website, reading all of the great comments people had on this particular vehicle, I was sold. I got the sport package with the heated seats and the heated mirrors. I think the heated seats will help me in those cold winter early mornings to work when i have to clear the sidewalks at a school where i work at.

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  Ranch Mom Liking 08 OB - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By Ranch Mom - May 3 - 3:40 pm

  After 3 years of researching I decided it was time to downsize from my Ford Excursion. I love my Excursion, but couldnt stomach the cost of driving it any longer. Even though the Subaru is a world apart from my "bus", I am getting used to the small size. The Ltds fit and finish compared to other crossover vehicles was far superior. It is smooth to drive and after two tanks Ive averaged 28 mpg in mixed driving. Im 6 foot tall and with the much loved sunroof, the head room is tight and the leg room is adequate, while the backseats leg room is snug for adults. I enjoyed driving the XT but with the premium fuel requirement and decreased mpg I couldnt justify it.

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  Utility meets Luxury and Reliablitity - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By FXOFFROAD - April 19 - 7:46 pm

  This is a blast to drive. Mileage is good and the sport shift truly rises to the occasion. Hard to believe this is 4 banger that cost under 30,000 for the 2.5i Limited. I trade a 2003 Ford F250 so it was a dramatic change, but definitely for the best. Test drove Honda CRV, Ford Edge, Escape & Explorer, Audi wagons. But for the value, the Outback was truly the best choice. Extremely satisfied. Taken up to the Colorado Rocky Mountains often and its performs extremely well. Compared to my 07 Lexus ES, this vehicle is truly a great value for its outstanding build quality, AWD, and economy.