2010 Outback limited

Great Function and Nice Form

All-new for 2010, the Outback is Subaru’s all-wheel-drive wagon with SUV styling based on the same platform as the Legacy sedan replacing the Legacy Wagon in the lineup. The 2010 features updated styling and an all-new chassis and a new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission.

The Outback comes in three trim levels with two engine choices starting with the base 2.5i and 2.5i Premium which designates the 2.5 liter engine. The 3.6 liter engines sport the R designation as a 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited. While the 2.5 is sufficient, I much prefer the 3.6R which adds about a grand to the $27,900 base price.

The 3.6R is the big-engine version with a new-for-2010 3.6-liter boxer six that replaces the '09 version's 3.0-liter six. The new powerplant increases horsepower by 11 to 256 horsepower but more importantly it boosts torque to 247 up 32 lb-ft of. A 5-speed automatic is the only transmission available in the 3.6R lineup.

The 2010 is larger on the outside, with a longer wheelbase and wider track. This allows for more cargo space to haul soccer gear or make trips to the hardware store. With the rear seats down, the outback has 71.3 cubic feet of cargo volume, which enhances the Outback’s ability to serve many functions.

If the commercials are true, a lot of Subaru Outback owners love to take their Outback off-road, not rugged hill climbing but back roads that conventional cars can’t take and the little bit we did of that, the Subaru was flawless. With it’s 8 plus inches of ground clearance and heralded all-wheel-drive, it handled road imperfections with ease, taking ruts with no problems and in relative comfort.

I've always considered the Subaru Outback a vehicle that appealed to the “quirky” owner but there’s no doubt that it’s becoming more mainstream. It’s bigger, better looking and actually much more refined and more fuel efficient, the 3.6 is rated at 18/25 mpg, making it a very good choice for those that don’t want an SUV or Crossover but something that offers the best of both. So if you’ve never considered the Subaru Outback, maybe now is the time.

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2010 Jeep Liberty

By Bill Zervakos

The Liberty is Jeep’s compact sport utility, fitting into the Jeep lineup between the traditional Jeep Wrangler and the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Liberty was introduced in the spring of 2001 as a replacement for the Cherokee. The Liberty received its first major redesign in 2008 with new exterior styling that integrates a more rugged, classic Jeep look along with better ride and handling.

The 2010 Jeep Liberty adds iDFSO, interactive Decel Fuel Shut Off which stops fuel flow during deceleration to improve fuel economy. A fuel-saver display indicates when the vehicle is being driven in a fuel-efficient manner. Other new standard features include front-row Active Head Restraints, premium seat trim with stain-repel fabric, an air filtration system and larger floor mats.

The Liberty is far from refined but handling overall is relatively secure. The 3.7-liter V6 feels a little lethargic and is just a bit noisy and as with most Jeeps, don’t expect very good mileage. The cockpit is rather narrow and access for me was a little awkward. The Liberty is Trail Rated and suitable for off-road duty but it does have a ride that is steadier than its predecessor, and electronic stability control is standard.

Some extras that I like that are now available on Liberty include remote start, a very nice feature for those of us that live in the desert, rain sensing wipers, and memory seats are nice touches. The Liberty has a canvass roof that will open completely that really fills the bill for those wanting that “outdoor” feeling.

One feature not usually found on a Jeep is the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System, which is a completely integrated audio, navigation, entertainment and hands-free communication system. It lets occupants use touch screen or voice commands to control features and includes a 30-gigabyte hard drive, where up to 1,500 songs and photos can be stored. It also includes a voice-memo recorder feature and supports real-time traffic information via SIRIUS satellite radio.


With Prices starting at just over $23,000 for the Liberty, you get pretty good bang for your buck. So, if you're looking for a fun, rugged yet comfortable vehicle, Jeep's Liberty may be just what you're looking for. Drive one to see for yourself.