Interior
While the exterior's looks caused me some disappointment, the Outback's interior has sacrificed nothing. I had one of my favorite test drives in a 2006 Outback, so I was a bit worried that the new one wouldn't match my previous experience.
I shouldn't have worried. The 2010 Outback's interior has improved upon the previous generation. There's now a lot of room for everyone. The second row is deep enough to provide plenty of legroom in the backseat and lots of space for rear-facing infant seats.
I want to clarify, though, that the Outback didn't feel monstrous, and I never felt like I had more car than I needed. How did Subaru do that? Subaru spokeswoman Jessica Tullman said that while the 2010 Outback's rear legroom increased by 4 inches, the overall vehicle length is almost an inch shorter. She didn't tell me whether magic or voodoo was employed in accomplishing this feat.
In the front seat, the driver is pampered with generous cupholders, heated seats and a few cubbies. There's woodlike trim and an abundance of silver-colored plastic that doesn't seem so bad with all of the other nice interior touches. I really liked the black-colored carpeting, which coordinated beautifully with the light beige leather seats. When it gets snowy and mucky out, the dark carpet hides lingering stains.
One thing for parents to keep in mind is the seats' leather is perforated, so keep milk and other questionable beverages out of the kids' hands if you're worried about lingering, smelly spills. The cargo area is a little bigger than the previous-generation Outback; it could easily handle a double stroller. The cargo area also has under-floor storage, which I always appreciate.
IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT
Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore
Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore
See also:
With radio mode selected
Press the “” button or “”
button. The radio will seek the next receivable station and stop on it. That station’s frequency will be shown on the audio display. ...
Heating
Heating
To direct warm air toward the floor:
1. Set the air inlet selection button to the
OFF position.
2. Set the airflow control dial to the “”
position.
3. Set the temperature control ...
Periodic inspections
To keep your vehicle in the best condition at all times, always have the recommended
maintenance services listed in the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance
Booklet” performed at ...