Plastic cap on windshield fluid tank in the engine bay broke off.
Front window got scratched by defective buffers for the frame-less windows - the dealer replaced them and removed the scratches under warranty.
Sound system speakers are awful and need replacing for even the casual listener.
Accelerator pedal makes a creaking noise when pressed - dealer could not fix.
Internal plastics on B-pillar scratch easily.
Wind-noise from passengers side.
Very sluggish engine. The car is very underpowered.
Fuel economy is not that great.
An immobilizer and security system did not come standard on this car. I had to pay extra for a dealer-installed option.
Leather seats are somewhat slippery.
All Wheel Drive system is perfect.
Engine is loud and rattles which is unexpected in a car of this size and price.
Handles very nicely in winter on snow and rain.
Two sunroofs are a nice feature.
Almost everything in the Limited version is standard, which means that you do not buy expensive accessories later on.
Subaru reliability and exclusivity and low price makes this a good car to own by families. This car is what a Volvo used to be 20 years ago.
Jacking system for spare tire is one of the best and easiest systems I have used in terms of vehicle stability.
You mentioned the quality and reliability is similar to Volvo of the 80s. Couldn't agree more. I've got a Volvo 245 with 250,000 miles and it's fine. It's as if the car could care less about the whole aging process. A friend has a 2001 Outback and I'm always blown away when we take it to the mountains.