2008 subaru outback

Subaru finally has a diesel -- and it's the first boxer turbodiesel in a passenger car. Ever. The diesel option not only gives the company a real presence in Europe, but the engine's excellent fuel economy -- near an estimated 50 mpg on the highway -- will make it easier to comply with the upcoming CAFE legislation (even though it won't be sold in America for another two years).
Powering the Legacy sedan/wagon and Outback trio is a 2.0-liter DOHC horizontally opposed flat-four common-rail diesel putting out 148 horses and 258 ft-lbs. (VW's 2.0-liter turbodiesel, coming later this year, provides 140 horsepower and 235 ft-lbs.) Its acceleration won't break any records, but its excellent torque, available at a measly 1800 rpm, ensures that this car effortlessly goes up grades in fifth gear and has no trouble merging at freeway speeds. The boxer layout provides the same advantages as in Subaru's gas-powered offerings: lower center of gravity, reduced vibration, and lighter weight.