Hi -
Yes, we have an Outback and as a "gear hauler" I like it overall, but the major problem if you get the four cylinder is that it's really underpowered (especially in the automatic, my friends say the straight drive is better, but it can't be that much better, and they are slow drivers anyway!
). You cannot put your foot on the gas and expect any kind of real reaction. I have changed my driving style considerably with this car because of that (i.e., no drag racing at the stop lights) In fact, I don't even let Charlie drive it anywhere (no joke) because it's a constant "I hate this car" or "this car sucks" because of it's lack of power. If you get the 6-cylinder, it may be better.
On the positive - it's incredibly safe (other than the lack of power thing), and with kids, I would feel really good about that. It rides really nicely once it's up to speed, reacts well driving, and hauls a lot of stuff. The gas mileage averages about 23 - 24 and always has. I have 130k on it, and had to shell out about $1000 on a computer issue at 100K - but knock wood, I'd like to get to 200k without any real issues.
The final note - we really wanted a Honda wagon, but they stopped making them and we couldn't find a used one that was any good. I'm a Honda fan at heart and I still wish I was driving one.
Good luck with your decision -
Go Pack - dominate ECU this weekend! (yea right...
)
Mo
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