2021 Subaru Outback

The 5-door station wagon accounts for less than 1.5% of the market in the USA, but that doesn't make the 2021 Subaru Outback any less special. The reason? This station wagon is responsible for the lion's share of sales in this tiny market segment and is, by far, the most popular wagon in America. A quick review of its specs and features shows why it has earned this title when even more luxurious offerings like the Audi A4 allroad exist.

The engine range is nothing special - just two flat-4 gas engines are available with and without a turbocharger, with 182 and 260 horsepower, respectively. What makes this wagon stand out is its raised ground clearance of 8.7 inches and standard all-wheel-drive that effectively turns it into a crossover SUV. By selling it in this specification, Subaru has added SUV features to this midsize wagon that give people many of the advantages of owning an SUV, but with better handling and fuel economy than a similarly sized vehicle.

All Outback trims use a continuously variable automatic transmission linked to a permanent all-wheel-drive system. You do, however, get a choice of two flat-four gas engines to power the setup. The base engine, a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, is capable, but not particularly competent. The better of the two is definitely the turbocharged 2.4-liter, which develops a more brawny 260 hp and 277 lb-ft.

The Outback station wagon is the ideal vehicle for families that don't want the high fuel consumption of an SUV but need more practicality than a sedan or coupe. The 2021 Subaru Outback offers the perfect middle ground with its spacious cabin, easily accommodating both people and cargo, and its 8.7-inch ground clearance gives it above-average off-road ability. It still drives like a car and uses less fuel than a similar midsize SUV, yet can do everything most people ever need an SUV for.

It's not all moonshine and roses, however, because the base engine lacks power and almost every review of the 2021 Subaru Outback wagon has complained about the infotainment system. Nothing can be done about the latter, sadly, but at least you can fix the power problem by opting for the more powerful engine option. Its reliability rating is good and the 2021 model's safety rating is exemplary - it scored the IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ award.

The 2021 Subaru Outback wagon price list starts at $26,795 for the base model, but it's not the one to have. We'd skip over the base engine and opt for a turbocharged version. Combined fuel economy falls from 29 to 26 mpg, but it's worth it for the big power boost. We also prefer the leather trim, Harman Kardon audio system, heated outboard rear seats, rear HVAC vents, and extra towing capacity, among others. The Limited XT fits this bill and starts at $37,995. If you don't need the extra power and you're not going to tow, the best non-turbo model is the Premium, which still comes standard with lots of features not found on the base model at just $29,045.