[aaaaah]

Originally Posted by Faredo

I would like to keep it under 25k used. a 91 wouldn't be bad but would like a little more ground clearance.

A new/near new Golf Alltrack would fill the gap and are either manual or DSG.

[gtrsam]

Go test drive one. I was on the fence too and finally test drove a 2018 touring 3.6. I left the dealer quicker than ever..not a fan

Although they do have lots of tech options available that I like that's about it

[Mingwan]

I think there are alternatives to a brokeback that will offer more for your money. Never liked the interiors.

[pgviper]

Why not just go with an X3? Pretty much combines the best characteristics of the outback and 335 into one.

[BeEmVe]

My general feeling on Subaru is that they are good for 100k miles and then start needing more and more $$ for maintenance. We replaced a Subaru wagon at 120k miles with an X1. A bit smaller but a whole lot more fun to drive. My thoughts would be to look trading the 335 for the X1 or X3.

If you want another vehicle outright I would look at the Toyota Rav or Highlander. I think the long term reliability will be better.

[The HACK]

Originally Posted by Alfisti

Subaru reliable? That will do me, they are not, never have been. This myth continues to circulate.

In comparison to BMWs, in my experience, they are.

[Alfisti]

X3??? No fucking way. The boot is way too small, the Outback holds a shed ton more shit if the OP needs it.

[Red Bread]

Originally Posted by Alfisti

X3??? No fucking way. The boot is way too small, the Outback holds a shed ton more shit if the OP needs it.

Stop it. 28.7 for the X3 vs 35.5 for the outback Both are huge compared to, oh, say a 9-3 wagon with 25.4. And since he's looking to replace an FJC, it had 27.9. So it's clearly a solid recommendation.

How do you not drive a Pacifica or a Sprinter?

[tuco44]

I had two Subarus in the past, an Outback from about 1996 to 1999; and an Impreza for two years in the early 2000s. I would not go back there, I don't like the noise and harshness of the cars, and I don't like Subaru dealerships.

Do what pleases you, OP, but understand that BMWs and Subarus are not interchangeable.

[Alfisti]

Originally Posted by Red Bread

Stop it. 28.7 for the X3 vs 35.5 for the outback Both are huge compared to, oh, say a 9-3 wagon with 25.4. And since he's looking to replace an FJC, it had 27.9. So it's clearly a solid recommendation.

How do you not drive a Pacifica or a Sprinter?

I don't give a flying fig what the numbers say, I own a 9-3 wagon and an X3 and the 9-3 holds a lot more. My in laws have an outback and it holds more still.

Cubic measurements are a false economy, what matters is floor space with the rear seats up and the X3 is pretty small. It makes up for it with excellent rear seat room.

[Red Bread]

Are we talking F or G series X3? Trunk of the current G is a pretty good size. Point is, it's nearly the same size as the OP's FJ, so would be a viable alternative. And would also have tons more power than an Outback, get better mileage and not have quite the same stigma.

[stbm5]

had a 2008 outback 3.6, terrible seats. i'd suggest sitting in one for 30-45min before buying.

[R N M]

We have a 2017 Legacy 2.5i Sport as the family car.

For the money, its a great car. Super comfortable ride - dont feel any bumps/potholes, huge backseat that fits 2 baby seats and my wife can sit in middle when needed, great AWD system, direct steering, very good handling. Good safety features(EyeSight system), good quality - no issues, no squeaks/rattles.

The bad:
Its good as 7/10s car up to 80mph after that it falls apart in terms of dynamics.
Stereo/Multimedia/NAV is crap compared to Idrive.
Seats are horrible, no lateral support.
Seating position- its like ur sitting on the car not in it.
2.5 engine is good around town up to 35mph. It has limited passing power on highway and if you need immediate acceleration to make yellow light nobody is home.
CVT drones like crazy until car is warmed up.
The absolute worst part is the FWD platform - although its awd, everytime i press the gas i feel the power go to front wheels and then car pull you forward. No bueno.

Trading a 335i for this would be a mistake.

Ours is a lease and we have about 18months left. I would like to stick with a sedan rather than SUV but has to have RWD based AWD system. Really like the Genesis G80sport as it has much larger backseat area over new 5series or G90 but thats a lot of $$$. Not too many options.....

[ipilcher]

OP, have you looked at the F34?

[Faredo]

Originally Posted by tuco44

I had two Subarus in the past, an Outback from about 1996 to 1999; and an Impreza for two years in the early 2000s. I would not go back there, I don't like the noise and harshness of the cars, and I don't like Subaru dealerships.

Do what pleases you, OP, but understand that BMWs and Subarus are not interchangeable.

Im sure there have been a couple revisions in the last 20 years.

Ive seen a lot of good suggestions. Namely Volvo. Still exploring my options. It doesn't help that a good friend of mine came by the house this weekend to show me his new 3.6 Outback.

[Faredo]

Originally Posted by ipilcher

OP, have you looked at the F34?

not yet, ill add it to my list to research though, thank you.

[Red Bread]

The F34 is good recommendation. Audi A5/S5 Sportback is only down a couple of cubic feet and to my eyes is a much better looking car.

[Alfisti]

The question is how big do you need the cargo area? Outback big or is V60 big enough?

[Faredo]

Originally Posted by Alfisti

The question is how big do you need the cargo area? Outback big or is V60 big enough?

Big enough for a lab to stand and be comfortable. able to hold 2.5 of whatever the largest airline approved suitcase is. Dont think that would be a stretch.

The sportback is nice but I haven't seen one in person (or I haven't paid attention). From the pictures it doesn't look like there is enough vertical space in the rear for me.

[Red Bread]

Yeah, if you want a dog to be able to stand back there, the hatch cars, 3GT, 4GC, Audi SB, Audi A7, and regular Panamera etc are all gonna be non starters. You'd want a wagon or non "coupe" SUV.

Panamera wagon or E63 Touring being the logical choice if money is just bouncing around in your pockets.

My dog won't stand to not have her head out of a window, which kills all sorts of coupes and other fun cars for me.

[Cuz5150]

How many people you got to carry?

Nissan Frontier S, I-4 5 speed manual, A/c,
No power windows no power locks no of a lot of things.
MSRP 20,660. Can be had for $17K NEW!!!
They have been making it since 2004. Its bullet proof!!!
"The little truck that could".
I believe 18 its the last year they will make it.

Im picking one up as a 3rd vehicle, no doubt

[Alfisti]

Hmmmmmmmm not sure how much space you really need. Maybe go check out the Volvo V60 or VW wagons but I suspect you will find them a 1/2 size too small.

Most SUV are too small unless you go massive (X5 etc etc), an X3 won't cut it because the square floor space is too small for a dog with rear seats up and suitcases ... forget it.