2008 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited

The 2008 Subaru Outback 2.5 XT Limited packs a punch, thanks to its 243-horsepower, turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine, which sits longitudinally on the chassis, resulting in a lower center of gravity and better overall balance. The engine links to a standard fully synchronized five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic transmission with Sportshift manual control.

With this extra horsepower, fuel mileage suffers, however. The EPA rates the 2.5 XT Limited at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway with either the manual or automatic transmission.

On the good news side, the 2.5 XT Limited comes equipped with a SI-DRIVE performance management system, which enables the driver to maximize engine performance by choosing from Intelligent, Sport, or Sport Sharp driving modes. The Intelligent mode improves fuel efficiency, while the Sport and Sport Sharp modes provide more dynamic driving experiences.

The Outback 2.5 XT Limited also comes equipped with leather-trimmed upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, Sport-design electroluminescent lighting, and a 100-watt six-speaker audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, MP3 capability, and 3D audio enhancement. Symmetrical all-wheel drive also comes standard on the Outback 2.5 XT Limited.