My wife is picking up a 2012 Subaru Outback in the morning and we're very excited, but it now has me thinking of eventually selling my 02 Trooper and picking up a more affordable (i.e. economical) vehicle. Although I love the Trooper, I just don't use it for its intended purpose. Gas is just too expensive to spend $70 for a tank and a day of fun in the dirt and rocks. So, I'm thinking of beginning to look for a Subie. Forester seem's like the best bet for light trail use, but I'm open to ideas as Outbacks and Imprezas and ???? are out there.
I'm wanting solid build, reliable engine, easy maintenance and capability for up to trails a bit rougher than graded FS dirt (ones that could require occasionally stacking a rock or two.)
Are there years of Foresters (and the other models as well) to avoid? Are there years that are sought out? Subaru specific quirks to look for when looking at used vehicles?
Mods? Tires and maybe springs and struts/shocks. No bumpers, etc ... forecast.
Budget? Well, I don't really have one as I'm wanting to find out more about these vehicles before jumping in. If I found a $1000 high mileage well maintained old wagon, I might bite. Or it could be a recent model if the right deal was there (briefly looked at a 2010 with 91K for $13K)
As of now, my wife's will be the main machine for family trips, including camping, and my eventual machine will be more for me to get to work, get kids to school and to get out, do some photography, have some fun, camp, etc ...
Thanks!
