The 2002 Subaru Outback's slogan could easily have been "No Worries." The popular Australian slang phrase captures much of what the 2002 Outback wants to convey -- a safe, reliable, durable, rugged family alternative to an SUV. With full-time AWD, limited slip differential, reinforced body and suspension, large 16-inch tires, and dual front and side airbags, the Outback is built to keep you secure no matter what road you take.

Though we associated the Outback with its popular wagons, it comes as a sedan as well. The Limited sedan and wagon and the base wagon have a 2.5-liter, 165-hp H4 engine and choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto tran. Last year, the 3.0 L.L. Bean and 3.0 VDC wagons were introduced, with a 3.0-liter, 212-hp H6 and 4-speed automatic. The 2002 Outback welcomes two new sedans into the fold, the 3.0 and 3.0 VDC. The VDC sedan and wagon are the top of the line, with full power features, leather and wood trim, heated power seats, a Momo wheel, and a combination of stability, traction and torque control that adjusts the Outback's performance according to road conditions. This year, the VDC gets an on/off button, for drivers who prefer to feel the road a bit more. Other new additions include a lighted ignition switch and an internal trunk release in the 2002 Outback sedans.

Wagons feature a roof rack, retractable cargo cover, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that expands the 34 cubic foot trunk to 68 cubic feet. Though drivers feel the 4-cylinder Outback is underpowered, the six-cylinder accelerates confidently and handles smoothly and quietly. The AWD performs admirably in snow, and drivers prefer the car-like maneuverability to more unwieldy SUVs. There have been problems with the head gaskets over the years, and though larger brakes were installed last year, owners feel they are still inadequate for the size of the car. They also don't like that the 3.0 Outbacks only take premium gas with a so-so 21/27 mpg.