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Subaru Legacy/Outback

11746 messages,  Last post on Dec 06, 2011 at 12:51 PM

You are in the Subaru Legacy & Outback Forum.

What is this discussion about? Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Wagon

Messages Page 863 of 1176

#8614 of 11746 Bought a 2003 Outback by taoman

Jun 24, 2003 (9:49 am)

I've been lurking in the Subaru discussions for a couple of years since we purchased a 2001 Legacy L sedan for my wife. I live in Louisiana
and we really make use of the all-wheel drive with all of the rain we get. I just purchased a 2003 Outback wagon (automatic transmission) for myself with the all-weather package using Subaru's VIP Partner's program through IMBA. The options I purchased are the automatic-dimming mirror/compass, security system, tweeter kit, upgraded door speakers, trailor hitch, differential protector, air-filtration system, locking lug nuts, and leather shift handle. For anyone considering purchasing a new Subaru, the VIP program is the way to go. I purchased my 2003 Outback with the factory-installed options for $1,000 under invoice, as there was a $1,000 rebate to the dealer. However, I did have to negotiate for the dealer-installed options.
 
Having driven a manual for the past fifteen years, I am impressed with the smooth shifting of the automatic transmission and quiet nature of the engine. I should say quiet nature during normal driving !!!. My last car was a 2 seat coupe that felt like it was a couple of inches off of the ground. I've been driving the Outback for 3 weeks now and I could kick myself for not purchasing one sooner. Great visibility and driving position and tons of room in the cargo. It is a smooth and refined driving experience and fits my recreational lifestyle. My outdoor hobbies include mountainbiking and rollerblading. Can someone recommend a hitch mounted bike rack that will hold 3 or 4 bikes? What kind of gas mileage can I expect when the engine is broken in?

#8615 of 11746 by ateixeira

Jun 24, 2003 (10:18 am)

Congrats Neil.
 
The engine is still very green. My mileage improved by 2mpg when I compare brand-new to 15k miles later.
 
The OE hitch-mounted bike rack only holds 2 bikes, though I've rigged a 3rd one on there. I'd get a different one to carry 3-4 bikes regularly.
 
-juice

#8616 of 11746 by bat1161

Jun 24, 2003 (10:51 am)

Congrats Neil and welcome to the "Outback Family".
 
BTW, what color did you get?
 
Mark

#8617 of 11746 by taoman

Jun 24, 2003 (11:12 am)

Thanks for the welcome Mark.
 
The color is Seamist Green.
 
Neil

#8618 of 11746 Mileage improvement by francophile

Jun 24, 2003 (11:13 am)

I have a MY '00 Legacy GT. My mileage improved 1.5 to 2 MPG as the engine became more broken in.
 
Congratulations on your second Subie! Nice to see folks buying Legacies (your 2001 model) and not just Outbacks; Subaru is pinning a lot on the success of the next iteration of that model.
 
Cheers,
-wdb

#8620 of 11746 by ateixeira

Jun 24, 2003 (11:48 am)

That was a new color for 2003, replacing the Wintergreen. Wintergreen was more silver, Sea Mist has a touch of gold in it. Both are nice.
 
-juice

#8621 of 11746 cladding by c_hunter

Jun 24, 2003 (6:11 pm)

"Right now it has two-tone paint that looks like cladding, the new model gets a discrete layer of real cladding over the fenders. Plus it's raised."
 
Current generation Outbacks *do* have lower bodyside cladding (painted).
 
Craig

#8622 of 11746 by ateixeira

Jun 25, 2003 (6:03 am)

Not over the fenders, though. It only goes up to about knee height.
 
-juice

#8623 of 11746 by taoman

Jun 25, 2003 (8:03 am)

Our 2001 Legacy L sedan is Wintergreen metallic, and that was my favorite color until I saw the new 2003 Seamist Green color.

Messages Page 863 of 1176

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