Best year of fourth gen Outback?

(Photo for attention)

Hello folks! My wife needs a new car, and much to my chagrin, wants a Subaru Outback. Im a Honda/Toyota guy at heart, because their “known issues” are always simple like a water pump or similar. Subarus, all I hear is blown head gaskets and glass transmissions!

But also this community LOVES Subaru, so I am willing to give it a try! Our budget allows for a 4th gen, I know there’s new engines and new transmissions for this generation. What is the best engine/transmission combo, subsequently, the best year? I am referring specifically to reliability. Power, vibration, mpg, etc is not much of a concern. Thanks in advance!

(Photo for attention)

Hello folks! My wife needs a new car, and much to my chagrin, wants a Subaru Outback. Im a Honda/Toyota guy at heart, because their “known issues” are always simple like a water pump or similar. Subarus, all I hear is blown head gaskets and glass transmissions!

But also this community LOVES Subaru, so I am willing to give it a try! Our budget allows for a 4th gen, I know there’s new engines and new transmissions for this generation. What is the best engine/transmission combo, subsequently, the best year? I am referring specifically to reliability. Power, vibration, mpg, etc is not much of a concern. Thanks in advance!