sagebrushsubaru

....from Chrysler, Ford, GM, Nissan or Toyota? Hi, first post here. This isn't a joke, though it might border on heresy! I'm starting the search for a new primary vehicle. I'm looking for something with full-time AWD that's also capable of carrying four people comfortably and towing a 1,500-pound trailer on interstate highways as well as unpaved roads, pastures, etc. (but no serious off-roading). A 6-cylinder wagon, small SUV, or small club-cab truck would be preferable to a sedan. AWD performance is a top priority, and reliability is up there, too. I'm interested in Subaru because of its reputation for AWD performance and reliability. I like the specs on the Subaru Outback wagon w/ H-6 engine, but haven't driven one, since, unfortunately, I live two hours away from the closest dealer. I haven't ruled out Subaru on that point alone, but would be more comfortable buying locally, which means I would be limited to the manufacturers mentioned above. I do tend to keep a car for years after the warranty ends, but don't do any of my own maintenance. So, I'm seeking comments on the following......... 1) Would the Outback 3.0 R VDC Ltd. wagon be a good match? (The H-6 engine is only offered on Outbacks, right?) 2) Is there any maintenance item that's best done by a Subaru dealer only, or can any **competent** mechanic handle everything (warranty service as well as timing belts/chains, etc., when needed)? 3) (Now for the heresy part) Is there any vehicle from one of the above manufacturers that matches the AWD capability and handling of a Subaru? Some, like the Toyota Highlander or Nissan Pathfinder/Murano have been on the market for a while. Others like the Dodge Magnum and the Ford Freestar, are relatively new on the market, but I'm hoping some of you out there may have experiences to share re the AWD capabilities of ther manufacturers. TIA, SS