Subaru 05' Outback and newer, DANGEROUS ON ICE!

So should I try LSD in my Volvo and report back? Ironically that could be considered a control.

As I've been considering getting another car, wanted the mythical wonder car with all-wheel drive, ground clearance, good mileage along with room and comfort, we were close to going with a newer or new Outback, but after reading Brian's report and questions, and all of your responses I'm bagging the idea.  Here's a link to a suburu forum wherein 13 pages of discussion in which many reports both document this problem as well as many careful, and some not so reasoned, attempts to explain the cause.  www.subaruoutback.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=11267 .  There seems to be no concensus on the cause, with many attempts to solve it - involving repeated realignments, new tires, changing suspension links, changing weight loading, etc. - as well as the usual recommendations to change driving practices, etc.  I suspect the multilink suspension system in the post '04 Sub's is the culprit; it is rumored that the 09 Suburu will have a different rear suspension design.  Bryan's dead on right - no new car in this day and age should exhibit this kind of behavior, nor need expensive user alterations to make it driveable and safe.  Having ridden in and driven a lot of older sub's, I have to say they were bullet proof and great snowcars.  But probably a great deal simpler mechanically!  With gas at 3.50 now, I'm really looking for something to replace my bulletproof F250 4x4, which is unperturbed by any road condition whether in 2 or 4 wheel drive.  Any suggestions?  Anyone driving the RAV4?  or Volvo XC70?Thanks!  Gerry H.

So sad! Our 2000 outback was superb on packed snow and ice (manual, 4 cyl, Les Schwab's best Toyo ice tire, can't remember name); only problem was the seats would not provide me with adequate support for a good posture once I developed degenerative disc disease. so we had to trade in on a Volvo XC70 (a bit bigger, heavier, but infinitely more expensive!). I always thought the sub legacies and outbacks were the best buy for the money for a winter sports enthusiast; oh well ...

I drive a Suburu Impreza RS (hatchback, auto, '05).

It is the best thing ever on snow and ice, and I was even able to go over some small downed trees while a suburban behind me got stuck.

I also have new tires on it...nothing fancy though, just run of the mill all arounds.