Electric Cars

In a significant move expanding its automotive presence, Amazon has announced a collaboration with Ford, allowing Ford dealerships to list their certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles directly on the e-commerce platform. This development mirrors a similar initiative launched by Hyundai two years prior, marking a growing trend of automakers leveraging major online retailers to reach a broader customer base for their used car inventory.

Under this new arrangement, Ford dealerships in key metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas, are among the first to participate. The program maintains dealer autonomy over vehicle pricing and servicing, while providing customers with an integrated online shopping experience. Prospective buyers can explore available CPO vehicles, manage financing options, and complete purchases entirely through Amazon’s platform. Once a purchase is finalized, customers can then arrange to pick up their new-to-them vehicle directly from the participating dealership.

The listings on Amazon provide comprehensive details for each vehicle, ensuring transparency for buyers. This includes a clear breakdown of pricing, a detailed history of the vehicle's past ownership and maintenance, full specifications, and comprehensive condition reports. A crucial aspect of Ford's CPO program is its multi-tiered certification system: Gold, EV, and Blue. Each level denotes specific age, mileage, inspection, and warranty criteria, designed to assure quality and reliability.

For instance, Gold certified vehicles must be no older than six years with less than 80,000 miles on the odometer. These vehicles undergo a rigorous 172-point inspection and come with a 12-month or 12,000-mile Ford Blue Advantage limited warranty. The EV certification, specifically for electric vehicles, requires a 127-point inspection and adheres to the same age, mileage, and warranty standards as the Gold tier. The Blue certification is more inclusive, covering Ford vehicles and other makes up to ten years old with less than 150,000 miles. These cars receive a 139-point inspection and are backed by a 90-day or 4,000-mile limited warranty, covering essential components such as the engine, transmission, battery, and electrical system. Additionally, all CPO vehicles purchased through this program include roadside assistance and a 14-day, 1,000-mile money-back guarantee, providing added peace of mind for buyers.

The introduction of certified pre-owned Ford vehicles on Amazon represents a significant step towards modernizing the used car buying experience. This partnership offers consumers increased convenience, transparency, and a wider selection of inspected and warrantied vehicles. The initial launch in major US cities is expected to be followed by expansion into additional markets, further integrating the online retail giant with the automotive sales landscape. Dealerships participating in this program also have the flexibility to offer supplementary services, such as extended service plans, directly to their customers.

Subaru's Outback, which began its journey as a unique niche vehicle, has evolved into one of the brand's most sought-after models. The latest iteration, diverging from its wagon roots, now fully embraces a crossover identity, offering enhanced space and technology. This shift allows Subaru to maintain its relevance in a competitive market, providing consumers with a modern and improved driving experience. For those considering a new vehicle, Subaru has introduced compelling lease deals this November on both the 2026 and 2025 Outback models, allowing prospective buyers to choose between the latest design and its more traditional predecessor. These promotions are designed to make the Outback accessible to a wider audience, with terms structured to fit various budgets.

November's Notable Lease Offers on the Subaru Outback

This November, prospective Subaru Outback drivers can take advantage of two distinct lease offers, catering to different preferences and budgets. The 2026 Subaru Outback Premium trim is available with a 36-month lease, priced at an attractive $365 per month. This offer requires $4,364 due at signing and includes a mileage allowance of 10,000 miles per year. Any mileage exceeding this limit will incur a charge of $0.15 per mile. This particular promotion is set to conclude on December 1, 2025.

For those who appreciate the Outback's classic wagon-like aesthetic, the 2025 Subaru Outback Base model also features a special lease deal. This option allows drivers to lease the vehicle for $275 per month over a 36-month period, with $4,274 due at signing. The terms and conditions for this offer, including the annual mileage limit and overage charges, are identical to those of the 2026 model. This provides a sweet deal for individuals favoring the earlier design. Both lease offers are available until December 1, 2025, giving interested customers ample time to explore their options.

The 2026 Subaru Outback, particularly the Premium trim, comes generously equipped with features designed to enhance safety, connectivity, and comfort. It includes EyeSight advanced driver-assist systems, a sophisticated 12-inch infotainment screen, and MySubaru connected services. Convenience features such as a power tailgate, heated front seats, and heated exterior mirrors are standard. The robust roof rails add to its adventurous appeal. Stepping up to the Limited trim introduces luxurious leather seats, heating for both the steering wheel and rear seats, and a premium Harman/Kardon sound system. The top-tier Touring trim elevates the luxury further with Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated front seats.

For off-road enthusiasts, the Wilderness trim offers significant enhancements, including a powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, increased ground clearance (from 8.7 inches to 9.5 inches), electronically controlled dampers, and 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tires. The Limited XT and Touring XT models mirror the equipment levels of their standard counterparts but are distinguished by larger wheels and the potent turbocharged boxer engine, denoted by the 'XT' designation.

The evolution of the Subaru Outback from a Legacy-based wagon to a contemporary crossover signifies Subaru's commitment to adapting to market demands while enhancing vehicle capabilities. This strategic transformation has endowed the Outback with significant improvements, notably in interior space and technological integration. Far from being a mere facelift, the latest Outback represents a thoughtful re-engineering, blending rugged utility with refined comfort. It serves as a testament to Subaru's ability to innovate and expand its appeal without sacrificing the core values of durability and versatility. Therefore, before drawing conclusions based solely on its updated design, one should experience the new model firsthand to fully appreciate its advancements and how it seamlessly integrates into modern lifestyles, whether for daily commutes or adventurous excursions.