The new 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six produces 212 horsepower and 210 pounds-feet of torque. This compares with 165 horsepower and 166 pounds-feet in the four-cylinder engines found elsewhere in the Subaru lineup.

The power boost from the bigger motor is not readily apparent except in high-demand situations, like passing. Many of us who have owned four-cylinder cars over the years have become accustomed to tepid performance as a tradeoff for fuel economy and learn to wait for a stiff tailwind before attempting a passing maneuver. No need in the VDC. The power peaks at 6000 rpm, so when you kick down the automatic transmission and step out to pass you're not out there for too long. By the federal EPA's reckoning, fuel economy measures 20 mpg city/27 highway for the six-cylinder VDC - almost the same as the four cylinder models. My test drive netted 22 miles per gallon in a mix of city/country driving.

Handling is more car-like than truck-like because the Outback is essentially a car. Seven-plus inches of ground clearance and high-profile tires don't make the VDC corner like a sports car, but it is noticeably nimbler than the taller, slower-maneuvering SUVs. The Outback delivers a comfortable ride quality to boot. And you won't need a rope ladder or a running start to hoist yourself into the cabin.

Three Subaru systems work in concert to assure that you get a grip - and keep it. They are: VTD, VDC and TCS. Here's how to decode the alphabet soup:

Variable Torque Distribution is Subaru's latest all-wheel-drive system. VTD splits the power almost equally among all four wheels, all the time. (Other Subarus put 90% of the power to the front tires, shifting to all four when traction is poor.)

Vehicle Dynamics Control, or VDC, is Subaru's new stability control system. This system monitors the angle of the steering wheel, throttle position, brakes and other inputs while the car is in motion, then makes adjustments if you're steering in a different direction from where the car is heading.

The Traction Control System comes into play only if all-wheel drive doesn't right your course. This traction control system applies brakes and/or reduces engine power to reduce wheel spin to help you keep your footing.

The net effect to the driver is a sophisticated system that enhances driver control in poor conditions. This is not to say that you won't ever get into trouble if you encounter bad road conditions or exercise poor judgment. But, it is reassuring to know that the Subaru system is there to help you maintain control, when foul weather or ragged roads make for rough sledding. Subaru's technology also helps make driving in adverse weather much easier, less stressful and more enjoyable.

Subaru's line of Outbacks can conquer the worst road conditions, and the Outback Wagons continue to serve as sensible alternatives to big, heavy sport-utility vehicles. They are practical, comfortable, useful vehicles.

The VDC and Bean models inject power, luxury and enhanced traction into the relentlessly sensible Subaru lineup. Six-cylinder engines coupled with the latest electronic stability control systems improve safety and increase performance at the same time. Though loaded with features, these top two models are also pricey. At $31,895, the Outback VDC is priced close enough to invite comparisons with base models from upscale manufacturers: Volvo V70 Cross Country ($34.900), Lexus RX300 ($35,655), and Acura MDX ($34,370).

The best values in the Outback lineup remain the less expensive and highly competent four-cylinder models, starting at $22,895.