Does Subaru make a hybrid? I'm looking to replace my Outback turbo but don't want to lose size. Just less MPG.

Question

The lease on my parent's Subaru Outback turbo runs out on Thursday. When they return the car they'll be left without a vehicle. So they want to get another Subaru that is less expensive and has better fuel mileage but not lose size/space. Any suggestions?? Thanks!!!

Answer 1

Doesn't look like Subaru has one yet. Might want to replace the outback with a Scion XB. They look small but are big in cargo and roomy. They also get great gas mpg.

Answer 2

Ford Escape Hybrid.  A hybrid SUV.  Need i say more?  get the size u need and still 35+MPG!

Answer 3

I agree the Ford Escape Hybrid is your best choice.  34mpg city / 30mpg highway.  And the Federal Government will help you buy one with a $3100 Federal Tax Credit for the '08 2WD model, $2200 for the 4WD.

The only problem is that they are in great demand right now and it may be difficult for you to find one, and some unscrupulous dealers are taking the opportunity to mark it up by thousands.  Only buy one if you can find one at MSRP or less.

Answer 4

Subaru does not currently make a hybrid.

Fuel economy hasn't changed much in the last few years for the Subaru models.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/f*g/bymake/by...

So, if they want to stay with Subaru they'll likely have to go for another Outback.  For better fuel economy, look into the 4cyl version that takes regular gasoline, rather than the 4 or 6cyl versions that require premium fuel.

The Subaru Outback starts at $21,995.

http://www.subaru.com/shop/overview.jsp?...

The Outback is currently considered to be a SUV (sport utility vehicle).  

The most fuel efficient SUV is currently the Ford Escape Hybrid/Mercury Mariner Hybrid/Mazda Tribute Hybrid.  Of these three sister vehicles, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid has the lowest base MSRP of $25,485, but it has limited availability.  http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/displayP... So I'd suggest the Ford Escape Hybrid which is available throughout the US, starting at $26,640.  http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/escapeh...

In terms of fuel economy, from best to worst, you can then skip over several other hybrid SUVs (higher starting MSRPs than the FEH above), you then come to the Jeep Compass 2WD, starting at $18,055.  http://www.jeep.com/en/2008/compass/ , and the Jeep Patriot 2WD, starting at $17,065.  http://www.jeep.com/en/2008/patriot/  Better fuel economy than an Outback, lower price than an Outback, same size as an Outback, but unfortunately it is not a Subaru.