A restyled look and better performance grace the 2009 Subaru Outback. The upgrades on the interior from 2008 stand and the Outback remains as a world leader for comfortable, and versatile, family transportation. Offering a respectable 20/26 mpg rating, topping the Mazda CX-7, the Outback doesn't kill you at the pumps either.

The Outback rates at 5 stars from the NHTSA for both driver and passenger frontal crash tests. The vehicles come stock with a basic warranty that is good for 36 months or 36,000 miles. The Outback is spacious and is able to go just about anywhere. All-weather, all-terrain capabilities are made possible by Subaru's premium drive train technologies.

The base engine has been awarded the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle classification and as such makes you feel a little better about your personal carbon footprint. The 2009 models offer a return to the previously discontinued independent rear suspension. Electronic stability control is standard on nearly every trim. Stylistically, the new Outback features front sheet metal, an increase in the size of the front grille, newly-designed headlamps and tail lamps, and a sleeker bumper fascia.

The sedan trim has been dropped, but there are still seven trims to choose from. This 2009 Subaru offers you a wagon-based ride that presents more ground clearance than you may be used to seeing; it stands 8.4 inches above the surface. Add in increased body protection and traction-based tires and you have a recipe for adventuresome travel. The Outback can go places that most station wagons dare not dream of.

MSRPs are affordable ranging from $21,995 for the base model up to $30,995 for the Limited trim. Your choice between three different engines is included: a 2.5L 170 hp 4-cylinder, a 2.5L 243 hp turbo and a 3.0L 245 hp V6. All engines are low-mounted and are kept compact in design to maximize interior spaciousness. The center of gravity is designed to be low-weighted for optimized control and the hood line sits low as well for enhanced visibility.

Engine and transmission dependent, all models will incorporate one of three AWD systems. The hands-free practicality and simplicity of the 2009 Outback's driving ease are quite sophisticated indeed. All trims have five seats and plenty of cargo space for your canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking and other outdoor gear. Notably, there is an L.L. Bean trim available as well - geared for the outdoor enthusiast and offering enhanced suspension and handling features for rugged terrain and inclement weather.

So, don't let the wagon-styled appearance fool you into thinking that the 2009 Subaru Outback is anything less than a tough machine that can deliver performance and safety on even your most adventuresome outings. Of course, it also does quite well for just cruising the strip in comfortable style. Any way you look at it, the Outback will get you where you need to go - anywhere you need to go - with great dependability at a very affordable price.