I’ve been clear that I’ve been secretly in love with Subaru’s since 1983. It’s a love that may end up being unrequited, but, a love no less… So, I keep trying to find a reason to buy a Subaru. Case in point; I was out on reconnaissance for a client one day and there was a Subaru dealership directly across the street from one location. I’d been meaning to test drive an Outback and decided – No time like the present…

Why an Outback? I’ve been reading specs on small SUV’s because that’s what I want. In comparison, the Outback is now statistically close to the other vehicle’s I’ve test driven: The Volvo XC60 and The Range Rover Evoque. Seems odd, right? Well, here are the results:

Drive: The Outback has a 3.6 liter inline six engine, 285 hp. Not as fast as the Volvo, but, faster and stronger than the Evoque. In fact, I was quite surprised at how strong the acceleration was. No excess torque… Not working too hard… really nice.

It also comes in second in handling. Great turning circle and tight cornering. And the driving position was comfortable, with good visibility. It gets an A for Drive…

Styling: Subaru’s aren’t known for their innovative design as much as they’re known for more quirky designs. This vehicle has come a long way in size and in design. It’s much closer to the size of the other vehicles now – inside and out – and has almost as much technology. The controls are laid out in a logical manner and easy to use. Gets a B in style and design…

Amenities: The Outback has all of the creature comforts of a luxury vehicle – Heated leather seats, navigation with bluetooth, tilt and slide moonroof – you name it, Subaru’s now have it. So, there should be no surprise that with all of the fun toys comes a bigger price tag. Also gets a B for Amenities. One does have to pay for the things we love…

Rating: I’m giving this vehicle a B+ overall. It really is a great little SUV – better than I expected. But, $36,000? And while that’s Volvo and Land Rover money (mostly Volvo), I’m having a little trouble with a $36,000 Subaru. $29,000… Maybe…

Statistics aside, it’s still a Japanese automaker – not in the luxury category – and just doesn’t have that extra feel of quality you get from a European automaker. I’ve owned both. For those of you who’ve owned both, you know what I say is true. It’s hard to go back…

So, I think on this one, I’m going with the Volvo. If I have to pay that much, I’d rather have the Volvo…