2018 Subaru Outback

Pros: Spacious interior with wagon versatility; controlled, comfortable ride; standard all-wheel drive

Cons: Middling fuel economy with 6-cylinder engine; some ergonomic issues with climate controls and available navigation system

CG Says: The Subaru outback has new front-end styling for 2018. There is also more sound insulation for a quieter interior. Subaru’s midsize wagon has two engine choices: a 175-horsepower 2.5-liter four cylinder and a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder. All-wheel drive is standard and both engines are paired with a CVT automatic transmission. Available safety features include pre-collision warning and autonomous braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic reverse braking. Outback blends midsize station wagon and SUV attributes while delivering a host of welcome safety and convenience features. Car loyalists, crossover intenders, and even those searching for an at least mildly off-road-capable SUV will find a lot to like with the Outback.