We have a 2012 Outback 277RL (manufactured in June, 2011) that we bought very slightly used in the Spring of 2012. It is perfect for the two of us and the dogs, and we love it. That price does seem a little high as, but not too far off if it is in really good shape - we paid about the same for ours ....
As far as quality goes, I think the Outbacks are a little better than average, but when you come from boats like we did, most the mid priced trailers use so rather inexpensive construction techniques and materials - but they need to create a function unit at an affordable price.
We really haven't had any major problems - mostly cosmetic. The Outbacks with the brown or black front caps have had fading problems due to cheap gelcoat. Luckily, ours is white, so fading is not nearly as noticeable. Our counter tops are Formica with the extruded edges. In the kitchen, the molded edge was not sealed properly, and water got down in there and swelled up the particle board counter top. I was able to get a decent fix that only I notice, but it was disappointing. The only other significant problem were the OEM cheapo tires. We got a TPMS which saved up from major damage when one blew out. They have been replaced with Maaxis LR E tires as the wheels can handle the 80psi pressure.
As far as the features of the 277RL that we like and are somewhat limiting:
The RL layout is very practical for us with lots of room and the slide out in the bedroom makes for plenty of room there also. The vanity with a folding chairs serves as a computer work desk since we do perform some work while on the road. The huge hanging closest is great.
Due the placement of the window over the stove, venting the hood to the outside is very difficult. Since we seldom cook inside, and there is a ceiling vent nearby, this has not been a problem.
The TV is all the way at the other end of the living room from the chairs and is difficult for our old eyes to see. We bought each other a 42" TV for Christmas which I will be installing before we head south this winter.
The access doors to the storage compartments are relatively small. This means tote containers or milk crate storage boxes do not fit into the opening.
Due to the all the storage being in the front of the trailer, the tongue weight is relatively heavy for an 8500 lb trailer - has to be over 1000 lbs. While this means the trailer tows nice a straight without sway, it does put a lot of weight on the hitch and tow vehicle. A good electric jack is highly recommended.
The rear hitch receiver is a little flimsy, but we had it reinforced and welded to the bumper as we haul a 100 lb inflatable boat on a rear platform.
The single air condition is barely adequate when it gets good and hot. We seldom travel during the summer - mostly winter trips south, and northern trips in the fall, so hasn't been a big problem, but if we were down south in the summer we would want a bedroom unit added.
We use the outside galley all the time, but when we got it, it had no ventilation, and the stove rusted up pretty bad. Some good vent holes solved that problem.
Good luck, I think you will love it!
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The Outback Owners Forum
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