Found this after searching for "new outback."
First thought: what a nice birthday present!
Next thought: so THAT'S what those paddles are good for.
I just bought an Outback, and it's my first car w/paddle shifters. Had to ask the salesman how they work/why they have them. Your post was a good lesson- thanks!
There's usually not a lot of snow around here (San Diego)- but hoping to use this car for many trips in the year to come, so...hope to find a reason to use them.