The new Subaru Outback has made its debut at the New York motor show. Following on from the launch of the all-new Legacy saloon in Chicago earlier this year, the Outback is billed as a more rugged estate version of the Legacy.
Subaru quotes a ground clearance of 22cm, which it claims is superior to some crossover SUVs. The Outback’s doorsills have been changed to a low step-in design, aiding entry and exit. Cargo and passenger space is slightly improved, with rear seatback releases added to the cargo area.
Only US-market Outback details were released in New York, with the engine line-up including the choice of a 175bhp 2.5-litre flat-four or a 256bhp 3.6-litre flat-six petrol units. They are both solely hitched to a CVT automatic transmission. As before, all-wheel drive is standard. We expect Subaru’s latest 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel to be the engine of choice in the international markets.
On the chassis side, suspension has been tuned for both improved handling and increased ride comfort. The power steering features a quicker ratio and is now electric. The brakes have been enlarged and the rear discs are now vented.
Subaru’s focus on safety continues on the latest Outback. Blind spot detection, lane change assistant, and rear cross traffic alert are available as part of the Rear Vehicle Detection System.
Also offered is the company’s latest EyeSight driver-assist system, which uses stereo cameras and integrates lane departure warning, pre-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control technology.
Expect the latest Outback to go on sale later this year, with full UK specifications released closer to its launch date.