2000 Subaru Legacy Outback Price, Specs, Review & Road Test

Subaru continues to lead the anti-SUV brigade with the new Legacy Outback. In top-line Limited form, the sport/utility wagon is dressed to impress any outdoorsy type in need of all-wheel-drive transportation. Standard equipment includes full power amenities, unique dual moonroof, eight-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, keyless entry, heated seats and mirrors, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and air conditioning. Faux wood trim, leather upholstery, roof rack, white-letter tires, and massive foglamps complete what seems like a New England-bound ride fresh from the L.L. Bean catalog. We added only a four-speed automatic transmission ($800) and amplified subwoofer ($260) to our long-termer. Initial logbook entries target the tepid 2.5-liter SOHC four-cylinder engine, which delivers decidedly weak acceleration for a near-$30K car. Also criticized is the overly complicated shiftgate that, despite good intentions, makes it easy to miss Drive and select Neutral. On the plus side, the fully adjustable driver's seat is quite comfortable, and passengers are likewise treated to good accommodations.