Debating Between 2.5i or 3.6r - Which is More Worth It?
Hello! In a few months when my lease ends I'll be in the market for a new-to-me vehicle and I want an Outback and would like some guidance/advice on choosing the right one for me.
I've heard that 2018/2019 are pretty reliable years, and I've spent the past several months researching and fixing my eye on several 2018 3.6rs. Specifically I've been looking at a couple 2018 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl CVT) vehicles. I've heard in online posts and from testimonials that the 3.6r is generally better for reliability - especially with it being an 8-year-old car that's an important factor to me - so that's been my front-runner for a while. However, with all that's happening in the Middle East and gas prices rising with the fear they won't come down for a while, I'm worried about how much more I'll end up paying at the pump compared to the higher fuel economy of the 2.5i. I'm also curious how much people have noticed/experienced a difference between the 2018 and 2019 models, as my insurance quote for the 2019 has a much lower APR offer than the 2018.
So these are my main questions:
Is it worth it to choose an Outback with the 3.6r engine over the 2.5i engine in terms of maintenance costs, get-up-and-go (which I value), longevity, etc? And if so, by how much more is it worth it?
Is there any noticeable difference between the 2018 and 2019 models?
For reference, this would be my daily driver and I usually drive 15 miles to and from my job in Baltimore with minimal to no off-roading. I don't often haul much, but after leasing a Hyundai Kona for 3 years, I desperately miss the trunk space.
Thanks in advance!