A minor front-end restyling and more standard features are the only changes to the 2003 Subaru Outback, a sporty SUV alternative for those looking for better stability, handling, and fuel economy than the more traditional sport utility vehicles. Aside from a tweaked front bumper, the 2003 Outback also gets new front struts. Inside, the base wagon gets a CD player, while the Limited VDC models boost that to a 6-CD player. All of the 3.0 models now come with OnStar, and the 2.5 models get the All-Weather Package standard, which means they now include heated seats and mirrors and a wiper de-icer.

Boosting the list of equipment even on the base models makes the 2003 Outback more competitive with SUVs, and even the base model has a power driver's seat and remote entry. Moving up the chain, you add leather seats, a dual-pane sunroof (single in the sedans), and automatic climate control. A 2.5-liter, 165-hp H4 engine powers the base wagon and the Limited sedan and wagon. A 212-hp, 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder is found in the L.L. Bean wagon and VDC wagon and sedan. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission in the 3.0s, while a 5-speed is also offered in the 2.5s. All 2003 Outbacks have dual front-side airbags, ABS brakes, foglights, large 16-inch wheels, cruise control, power seats, and all-wheel drive. The VDC adds traction and stability control, for premium handling.

Sitting up a bit higher than the Legacy, upon which it is based, and having a limited slip differential opens up more roads to the 2003 Outback. The full-time AWD automatically apportions torque where needed. The wagons are more geared towards an active lifestyle, with a rubber cargo mat, retractable cover, roof rack, and up to 68 cubic feet of space. Drivers of the 2003 Subaru Outback are pleased with is sturdy reliability, AWD performance, and the long list of features, particularly the heated seats. Legroom can feel cramped and seats uncomfortable for long trips, and drivers don't like that the headrests have to be removed from the split-folding rear seats. Premium gas in the 3.0 Outbacks gets expensive, especially with a 21/27 mpg. Though overall handling is smooth, drivers report some clutch shudder on cold starts.