So, with the CARS bill passed and going into action, it’s time to ditch the Jeep. The options at this point are an Outback or a Compass.
The Outback:
- All Wheel Drive (symmetrical, which based on reviews is nice)
- Drives like a car
- Shorter vertically for easier kayak loading
- Comes with a 2500 lb tow rating
- More interior space
- Mileage: 22 combined
- Current promotions: $2000 cash back, $3500 cash-for-clunkers, invoice pricing. Total, about $7000 off
The Compass:
- Front wheel with auto-engaging four wheel drive
- Not sure how it drives
- Tow rating is 2700 lbs with the tow package
- More headroom
- Comparably equipped about $1500 cheaper
- Mileage: 25 combined
- Current promotions: $1000 for Jeep ownders, $3500 cash, $4500 cash-for-clunkers, hopefully starting at invoice pricing. Total, about $9000, maybe $10500 off, making it about $5000 cheaper than the Subaru.