Outback is Best SUV Under $40,000

SYDNEY – November 27, 2009: The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Subaru Outback has won its first ever Australian award, being named Best SUV Under $40,000 in Fairfax’s Drive Car of the Year 2009 awards.

New generation Outback placed ahead of the updated Mazda CX-7 Classic, Kia Sorrento Si and last year’s winner, the Renault Koleos, to take the honours in a unanimous decision by the nine judges.

The online summary on www.drive.com.au says: “…while the judges agreed it was still not the “perfect” soft-roader it comes the closest of the many we have sampled in the last four years.

“The Outback boasted excellent space efficiency, a flexible rear load area and good engine/transmission combination. The 2.5-litre four cylinder was responsive and worked well with the continuously variable transmission.

“The Outback impressed on the track and out on the road loop, although its tyres were a little noisy.

“Interior fit and finish was a strong point as was the use of quality feel materials.

“The Outback’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system sealed the deal.

“So, while it may not be the best looking tool in the shed, the Outback raised the bar - edging ever closer to the “perfect” soft-roader.”

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: “We’ve had fantastic acceptance of our new generation Outback models and this award is great independent proof of their ability.

“Outback established the crossover SUV wagon class in Australia and this award shows it’s still ahead of the game.”

The full results will be published in tomorrow’s Drive sections of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in Melbourne and can also be viewed now at www.drive.com.au.