While thirsty V-8s have long been the darlings of the traditional-SUV market, the Outback, weighing just 3655 pounds, manages adroitly with four- and six-cylinder offerings. The boxer four is an updated version of last year's 2.5-liter naturally aspirated mill, and now pairs with either a CVT or a new six-speed manual -- a welcome addition for enthusiasts. With the CVT, the Outback wrings out 22/29 city/highway EPA mpg -- a new Outback benchmark. Optional is a new, DOHC 3.6-liter boxer six that -- using regular fuel instead of the premium required on the outgoing 3.0-liter -- delivers 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. "Loves to rev and feels smooth and refined all the way to redline," writes Kiino. The six mates to a standard five-speed automatic that now includes paddle shifters with "blipping logic" to match revs when downshifting.