There are plenty of reasons why people love (and hate) Subaru
cars. On one hand, most of them are equipped with AWD and have legitimately cheap insurance rates
. However, a lot of them also don't have the best designs, and most drivers don't want to be stuck with ugly cars. Fortunately, the Subaru Outback is the best of both worlds with its rugged abilities and variety of special editions. One of our favorites is the L.L. Bean collaboration vehicle, as highlighted on AutoEvolution
. All about the L.L. Bean Subaru Outback
The L.L. Bean Subaru Outback was released in the 2000s after the automaker formed a partnership with this outdoorsy clothing brand.
At the time, the current Outback could only produce between 145-165 horsepower. However, this Outback was given a new platform and a 212-horsepower flat-six engine.
While L.L. Bean had no say in the mechanical workings of these Outbacks, it did handle the interior design. These models had leather seats with extra bolstering and faux woodgrain for the center stack. They also received some flashy alloy wheels and dual-pane moonroofs.
The L.L. Bean Subaru Outback also had some highly advanced tech for the time. Their interiors included a McIntosh stereo system, a CD changer, and even a touchscreen on the Japanese models.
After the L.L. Bean Outback model was released, several other Subaru models got the L.L. Bean treatment. In the United States, the L.L. Bean Subaru Outback was offered until the 2008 model year.
How does it compare to its competition?
In the early 2000s, the Toyota Camry was one of the Outback's biggest rivals. The top-specced models came with a 194-horsepower V6 while boasting sporty handling and upscale interiors.
However, the Toyota Camry didn't have AWD and wasn't as roomy as the Outback. The seats were also notoriously uncomfortable, according to Edmunds
. The Subaru Outback's body style is more similar to the Ford Freestyle, which was offered from 2005-2007. Still, even with its advanced tech features and generous cargo area, it never sold as well as the Outback. The noisy engine needed a lot of refinement, and the interior looks drab even on the highest trims.
MORE: Subaru Makes Better Cars Than Mazda and BMW According to Consumer Reports
Is this the best Subaru Outback available?
The most recent special edition model is the Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition. It's packing 260 horsepower and a lot of spiffy off-roading features.
This model has new roof racks, stain-resistant seats, and even copper trim on the steering wheel. While the interior looks nice (especially with that huge touchscreen), some might still long for the L.L. Bean aesthetic charm.
Unfortunately, it's not easy to find one of these L.L. Bean Outbacks on the used market, let alone in good condition. AE was only able to find one for $5,000 and it had over 170,000 miles on the odometer.
These models were also released during the prime of Subaru's infamous head gasket problems. If you're lucky enough to find one, don't buy it until you get a thorough vehicle history report.
MORE: The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition Is a Camping Enthusiast's Dream
How much does L.L. Bean Subaru Outback insurance cost?
If you buy a new Subaru Outback
today, you'll usually pay around $2,295 in yearly insurance premiums. That's steeper compared to some of its rivals, as well as other Subaru vehicles. However, because the L.L. Bean Subaru Outback is over 20 years old, its insurance rates will be much lower.
Though, some insurance carriers will still charge more for vintage vehicles compared to others. With a quick search through Jerry
, you can save up to $800. That's because this super-app analyzes rates from top insurance companies in seconds, so you'll always get the best deal. 
4.7
