If you do a lot of mountain driving or towing, look for this one. It’s thirstier on gas but much smoother and more powerful. What to Check Before You Buy

Take it for a long test drive. Acceleration should be smooth. If it hesitates or "shudders," it might need a transmission fluid flush or a closer look.

While much better than the Outbacks of the early 2000s, it’s always worth asking a mechanic to give the seals a quick look. The Verdict

Thinking About a 2014 Subaru Outback? Here’s the Lowdown The 2014 Subaru Outback is a bit of a legend in the "practical car" Hall of Fame. It was the final year of the fourth generation, meaning Subaru had pretty much ironed out the kinks before moving on to the next body style. If you’re scouting one today, it’s likely because you want that perfect middle ground between a sensible wagon and a rugged SUV. Here is what you need to know before you sign the title. The "Why Buy" Factors

This is the fuel-efficient choice. It’s not "fast," but it’s plenty for daily commuting. Most are paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that Subaru had significantly improved by this year.

The 2014 Outback is a "Swiss Army Knife" vehicle. It isn't flashy, but it’s incredibly loyal. If you find one with a solid maintenance history and under 150,000 miles, it likely has a lot of life left for weekend adventures.

No used car is perfect. When you’re inspecting a 2014, keep an eye on: