It will outrun the competition when the pavement disappears because it's actually a tall, nimble car rather than a bulky, overweight truck. Outback in terms of versatility, but this rugged wagon is still certainly worth considering in a tough segment Subaru pioneered. Upon introduction, the Sport is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, H4, 165-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The H6-3.0 VDC Wagon is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, H6, 212-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The Sport has been freshened for 2006 2007. The 2006 2007 H6-3.0 VDC Wagon is a carryover from 2003.

Even the base and Limited models have a high level of standard equipment, including air conditioning, a six-way power driver seat, heated front seats and side mirrors, cruise control, a CD player and keyless entry. The Limited also features dual power moonroofs , upgraded audio and leather upholstery. Above and beyond the Limited, the H6-equipped models get automatic climate control, an air filtration system, an eight-way power driver seat and wood grain-patterned trim. Order an L.L. Bean Edition, and you'll also get special leather trim and a three-year scheduled maintenance package. The VDC sedan and wagon come with Subaru's stability control system, called Vehicle Dynamics Control, as well as an impressive McIntosh audio system.