Subaru has been successful in this zone for decades. In fact I'd hazard to say that they set the standard for this and would be the point of comparison if Ford launches a model like that.
You don't buy a Subaru to impress anyone. And that's precisely the point ;)
Even when a head gasket replacement goes well, the gasket will degrade again in due time and your right back where you started. 300k miles in a newer Subaru without major work just isn't common.
Q: Can people be happy with a car that requires a $2500 repair at 100,000 miles.
A: Yes
As on I know multiple people that bought a Subaru, had to replace the head gaskets. And then later bought another Subaru. And they're happy.
I'm never going to take my car into get fixed in Seattle.
Additionally, the oil consumption and leakage seems to start a bit after 70k miles. I don't know anyone who made it to 100k before needing the head gasket done, my aunt generally parts with Subarus right before they hit 65k due to this. Its an expensive addiction if your a skier.
Comparatively, a serpentine belt (rated to 100k, can easily do 120k) on a Lexus engine will run you $1200, and is one of the few things you'd need to change besides oil as you get up there in mileage.