Great car to drive but in the last two years I've had to replace the front discs twice, rear wheel bearing and clutch cylinder. Unfortunately the engine problems: running rough at idle, pulling away the engine loses a lot of power and at 2500-3000rpm the engine jerks are not fixable. Got to know the (very friendly) dealer well in the last two years. Oh, and the driving position is flawed: seat and wheel movement is limited, heated seats don't heat fully up the back - tall people be warned.
I recently purchased an Outback and have been very impressed. Its excellent fit, finish and fun rival all others, but importantly it adds something else - exclusivity. Now that the 3-Series outsells the Mondeo finding a car that offers all the refinement to match the market leaders but isn't a motorway clone isn't easy. However, for my money, the Outback is as close as it gets. It's a fast, practical driver's car ideal for a one car family able to look beyond Germany.
Excellent car now done 90,000 miles. Very reliable only replaced tyres, brake pads and 3 headlight bulbs in 90,000 miles. The car is a pool car for my mail order comany so has many different drivers, so although it gets thrashed it still performs faultlessly. Will be buying another when this one wears out.
I've read most of what's been written about this car, and after owning one now for 6 months I can confirm that they've got it right. This is a great, useable car that continues to bring a smile to my face, especially when pushing on. The ride and handling are superb, corners a real pleasure. It continues to surprise and I love how understated it is. The only downside is the engine pull from low revs it's not as good as the competition (this engine needs to be worked) & the stereo is dire!
