The Subaru XV will be a replacement for the Impreza Outback, which is discontinued for the 2012 model year.

Click here for our original post on the Subaru XV.

The model is currently on sale in Europe and is available with a 1.6L and 2.0L Boxer flat-four. The engines are mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission and an auto start-stop system to provide some nice fuel-economy numbers.

We’ll have more details for you on the U.S.-spec 2012 Subaru XV as soon as we get them.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Straightline

Subaru announced that it is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Outback and Legacy models. The models being recall were build from Jan. 7, 2010 through May 20, 2011 and have an issue where the components inside the wiper motor bottom cover may overheat.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that if the bottom cover overheats, the windshield wipers could become inoperable

To fix the issue, Subaru will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover for free. The recall is expected to start in Nov. 2011. Owners can call Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more info.

- By: Omar Rana

A couple of geeks security researchers have made some interesting finds that they chose to show off at the Black Hat security conference in Las Vegas. Don Bailey and Matthew Solnik from iSec Partners showed the crowd that by using an Android-powered smartphone and a technique they’ve called ‘war texting’, they could lock and unlock the doors on a new Subaru Outback and even start its engine all by remote.

The two set up their own custom GSM network and through that method, they were able to intercept password authentication messages between the server and the car. The entire process of them intercepting the messages took them only a couple of hours, the duo claimed.

The two researchers also did say that their technique can be used to attack many other systems like traffic control and security systems, all of which receive firmware updates by text message. This also means that they could be used to attack SCADA sensors, which are an integral part of infrastructural systems such as the power grid and water supply.

“I could care less if I could unlock a car door. It’s cool. It’s sexy,” Bailey said in an interview. “But the same system is used to control phone, power, traffic systems. I think that’s the real threat.”

Both Bailey and Solnik haven’t disclosed what else they could exploit with the hack or what other cars are vulnerable until the manufacturers are able to fix their loopholes. However, it is know that General Motors, BMW and Mercedes-Benz all over similar remote-control apps.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: TGDaily

2011 Subaru Outback

Subaru has announced that it is now the latest automaker to offer Wi-Fi connectivity in its vehicles. The offering will start with the 2011 Subaru Outback crossover with the company’s new Subaru Mobile Internet system.

The system creates a Wi-Fi hotspot inside the Outback giving internet access to 10 or more users for up to 150 feet around the vehicle.

“Operating on the 3G network and working with all Wi-Fi enabled devices, Subaru Mobile Internet provides users a safe, fully encrypted connection with download speeds averaging 400kbps-1.2mbps,” Subaru said in a statement. “This uninterrupted Wi-Fi capability is designed for passenger access while the Outback is in motion.”

Power by Autonet Mobile, the world’s first in-car internet service provider, the option comes as a dealer-installed accessory for $499 plus a $35 activation 5. A one-year subscription will run you $29 per month, with the first three months of service offered for free.

2011 Subaru Outback:

- By: Stephen Calogera

2011 Subaru Outback - 2011 Subaru Legacy

Subaru today announced pricing on the 2011 Legacy and Outback models. Ford 2011, both models get equipment enhancement including manual-folding exterior mirrors; models equipped with harman/kardon audio (available on Premium models and standard on Limited models) now feature XM Satellite Radio and a three-month trial subscription, as well as new color options.

Pricing for the 2011 Subaru Legacy starts at $19,995 for the 2.5i. The 2011 Legacy 2.5i Premium starts at $20,995, and the starting price for the Legacy 3.6R comes in at $24,995. The Legacy 2.5i Limited is now $25,295, while the Legacy 3.6R Limited is $28,295.

The 2011 Subaru Outback model gets a $200 price bump with the Outback 2.5i starting at $23,195 while the Outback 2.5i Premium starts at $24,495. The 2011 Outback 2.5i Limited with standard Lineartronic CVT starts at $28.495 while the 6-clyinder Outback 3.6R starts at $28,195. The 2011 Subaru Outback tops out with the 3.6R Limited model, which starts at $31,495.

Follow the jump for the press release for more details.

2010 Subaru Legacy:

2010 Subaru Outback:

2010 Subaru Legacy:

2010 Subaru Outback:

Press Release:

Subaru Announces Pricing for 2011MY Legacy and Outback Models
– Starting price remains for best-selling Subaru Legacy –
– Record-breaking Subaru Outback price increase held to $200 –

CHERRY HILL, N.J., May 13 /PRNewswire/ — Subaru of America, Inc. today announced 2011MY pricing for its best-selling Legacy and Outback models. Launched in 2009, the Legacy® and Outback® have been key drivers in Subaru’s record sales success with Legacy showing an 87% increase in year-to-date sales and Outback sales more than doubling with a 128% increase year-to-date.

For 2011MY, both models receive equipment enhancements including manual-folding exterior mirrors. Also, models equipped with harman/kardon audio (available on Premium models and standard on Limited models) now feature XM® Satellite Radio and a three-month trial subscription.

A new color, Caramel Bronze Pearl, replaces Harvest Gold Metallic on both models and is paired with an Ivory interior. Ruby Red Pearl, previously only available on the Legacy and Tribeca, is now available on the Outback and comes also with an Ivory interior.

As with all Subaru vehicles, Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive is standard on both models, which helps driving performance by enhancing traction regardless of weather conditions.

2011 Subaru Legacy
Subaru maintains its focus on value, and for 2011MY, Legacy continues with a starting price of $19,995 for the 2.5i. The Legacy 2.5i Premium also remains unchanged at $20,995, and the starting price for the Legacy 3.6R holds at $24,995. Limited trim models are subject to a $300 price increase due to the inclusion of XM Satellite Radio. The Legacy 2.5i Limited is now $25,295 while the Legacy 3.6R Limited is $28,295.

For the 2011 model year, the Legacy 2.5GT sports sedan will be offered exclusively in Limited trim. It now includes a standard power moonroof as well as XM Satellite Radio, fog lights, new simulated carbon-fiber dashboard trim, silver contrast seat and armrest stitching, and aluminum pedals. It comes with a starting price of $31,395, an increase of only $405, which still keeps it priced well under most competitors’ offerings.

2011 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback, Motor Trend’s 2010 Sport/Utility of the Year, receives a modest $200 price increase with the Outback 2.5i now starting at $23,195 and the Outback 2.5i Premium priced at $24,495, still keeping the cost well under most mid-size crossover or wagon competitors.

A new feature for Outback models, a Rear Vision Camera, is added to Premium and Limited models – bundled with the Power Moonroof Package. The exclusive Rear Vision Camera includes an Auto-dim mirror with Homelink, compass display and a 3.3 inch hi-resolution display in the mirror. This convenience upgrade adds $450 to any Outback that features a Power Moonroof.

The Outback 2.5i Limited, with standard Lineartronic CVT, now starts at $28,495 while the six-cylinder Outback 3.6R is also competitively priced at $28,195. The Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited, which continues to be in high demand, now has a starting price of $31,495 and includes standard XM Satellite Radio.

Award-winning Products
The 2010 Subaru Legacy and Outback have recently received significant awards. Both vehicles were named 2010 Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and as ‘Bests’ in their class by Kiplinger’s Annual Buyers Guide. The Legacy was also named one of the ‘Best Family Cars of 2010′ by both Parents magazine and Edmunds.com.

The destination and delivery charge is $725 for all 2011MY Legacy and Outback models in the contiguous 48 states. The MSRP of 2.5i PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) models remains $300 more than the federal specification model.

harman/kardon® is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc.

XM Satellite Radio® XM is a registered trademark of XM Satellite Radio, Inc.

- By: Omar Rana

Subaru says that it plans to increase production capacity at its Indiana plant by 40 percent this year to meet high demand for the Outback and Legacy. The move comes as owner Fuji Heavy Industries targets U.S. sales of 230,000 vehicles for 2010.

Subaru’s Lafayette, Indiana plant currently has the capacity for 100,000 vehicles annually, but the company wants to increase output to 140,000. Subaru did not say whether it would add a line, increase the speed of production or take capacity that it is currently allocating to Toyota’s Camry.

Subaru’s sales goal represents a 6 percent increase over the 216,652 vehicles it sold in 2009.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Subaru of America announced today that its 2010 Subaru Outback has won the Motor Trend’s 2010 SUV of Year award. That’s two consecutive wins for Subaru, which also won the Motor Trend’s 2009 SUV of Year with its Forester model.

“The 2010 Subaru Outback offers a unique combination of comfort, efficiency, versatility and value,” said Motor Trend’s editor-in-chief, Angus MacKenzie. “It boasts car-like refinement, drivability and gas mileage on the road, yet is as capable in the rough stuff as all but the most off-road focused sport utilities. Thoughtfully engineered, cleverly detailed and competitively priced, the Subaru Outback is a terrific all-rounder with broad appeal.”

“We are doubly proud and honored to receive the MOTOR TREND 2010 Sport/Utility of the Year award for the second consecutive year,” said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America Inc. “The Subaru Outback is an icon of performance and capability and was the original SUV alternative. Now with its improved power, economy and increased dimensions it is the complete package.”

Prices for the 2010 Subaru Outback start at $22,995 with a choice of a 170-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder boxer engine or a 256-hp 3.6L 6-cylinder boxer engine.

Follow the jump to see the judging criteria and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Subaru Outback:

The judging criteria included six categories:

- Design Advancement – well-executed exterior and interior styling; innovative vehicle packaging; good selection and use of materials.
- Engineering Excellence – total vehicle concept and execution; clever solutions to packaging, manufacturing and dynamics issues; cost-effective tech that benefits the consumer.
- Intended Function – how well the vehicle does the job its planners, designers, and engineers intended it to do.
- Efficiency – low fuel consumption and carbon footprint, relative to the vehicle’s competitive set.
- Safety – a vehicle’s ability to help the driver avoid a crash, as well as the secondary safety measures that protect its occupants from harm during a crash.
- Value – competitive price and equipment levels, measured against those of vehicles in the same market segment.

2010 Subaru Outback:

- By: Omar Rana

It’s that time of the year again – when Motor Trend picks the “Motor Trend SUV of the Year” for the year 2010. Last year’s award went to the 2009 Subaru Forester. It seems as though this year, Motor Trend has focused most of its attention on luxury SUVs. Either way, stay tuned for the winner who will get all the bragging rights in their new ad campaigns.

Let us know who you think should win in the comments section after the jump.

Click through for the list.

2010 Motor Trend SUV of the Year Contenders:

Acura ZDX
Audi Q5
Cadillac SRX
Chevrolet Equinox
GMC Terrain
Lexus RX
Lincoln MKT
Mercedes GLK
Subaru Outback
Toyota 4Runner
Volvo XC60

- By: Omar Rana

Subaru has announced that pricing for the new 2010 Subaru Outback will start at $22,995 ($23,690 when you include Destination and Delivery charges).

The 2010 Outback 2.5i with a Lineartronic CVT starts at $23,995 and is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer engine making 170-hp. The 2010 Outback 2.5i Premium, which also carries the same engine, starts at $24,295 when mated to a 6-speed manual and $25,295 when mated to a Lineartronic CVT. The 2.5i Limited model starts at $27,995.

The new 2010 Subaru Outback 3.6R model also starts at $27,995 and features a new 256-hp 3.6L 6-cylinder Boxer engine mated to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. The 3.6R Premium starts at $28,995 while the 3.6R Limited starts at $30,995.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2009 New York: 2010 Subaru Outback:

Press Release:

Subaru Announces Pricing on All-New 2010 Outback

- Pricing starts at $22,995

- Roomiest Outback Ever with New Levels of Comfort, Quietness and Refinement

- New 6-speed Manual and CVT Transmissions for Outback 2.5i Models

- New Outback 3.6R Model Features More Powerful 6-Cylinder Engine

CHERRY HILL, N.J., April 29 /PRNewswire/ — Subaru of America, Inc. today announced pricing for the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback®. The fourth-generation of the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon® is a roomier and more capable interpretation of the vehicle that launched the crossover trend 15 years ago. Distinguished by bolder and crisper styling, the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback delivers enhanced performance, comfort and economy with the introduction of an all-new chassis and the new Subaru Lineartronic^TM CVT (continuously variable transmission).

Capability is enhanced with a segment-first roof rail and integrated crossbar design, 18.5 gallon fuel tank and an improved 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Interior volume increases 7 percent compared to the previous generation yet the overall length is almost one-inch shorter than the ’09 model. Rear legroom increases almost 4 inches and total cargo capacity is now an impressive 71.3 cubic feet — an increase of 6 cubic feet. Despite the larger size, fuel economy is estimated to increase by 1 MPG in both City and Highway modes with CVT.

As with all Subaru vehicles, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard, which helps driving performance by enhancing traction regardless of weather conditions.

Model Pricing Highlights:

The 2.5i is powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine and is available with either a new standard 6-speed manual transmission for $22,995 (the same price as the outgoing model) or the Lineartronic^TM CVT for $23,995.

This base model comes complete with 4-wheel disc brakes, power steering, tilt and telescope steering column, 8 cup holders, 60/40 split-folding and reclining rear seats, floor mats, cargo tray, electronic parking brake with Hill Holder® system, auto on/off exterior lights (autolights), AM/FM Stereo with single-disc CD player, auxiliary input jack and 4 speakers, dual lit visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, updated gauge cluster with ‘eco’ gauge, multi-function display with outside temperature, overhead console with sunglass holder and remote keyless entry system.

There are a number of options available for the 2010 Outback. (Availability varies by trim level):

“¢ Power moonroof at $995
“¢ All-Weather Package at $500 which includes: heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated exterior mirrors
“¢ harman/kardon® audio system for $995 which includes: AM/FM 6 CD, 440 Watt harman/kardon amplifier, 9 harman/kardon speakers, hands-free Bluetooth® phone capability
“¢ Navigation system for $2,000 which includes: AM/FM/CD/DVD, GPS navigation system 8″ LCD touch-screen, 440 watt harman/kardon amplifier, 9 harman/kardon speakers, hands-free Bluetooth phone and audio, USB port with iPod^TM control and backup camera

The 2.5i Premium comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission or the option of the all-new Lineartronic CVT and will have a starting price of $24,295 (2.5i Premium with Lineartronic CVT starts at $25,295.) Standard equipment includes all 2.5i model features (where applicable) plus halogen fog lights, cargo cover, privacy glass, 10-way power driver’s seat, driver’s side window with automatic up/down, leather-wrapped steering wheel, instrument storage bin w/door, overhead console with sunglass holder and ambient light, body-colored mirrors and 16″ Alloy Wheels. Options include: All-Weather Package, harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof.

The 2.5i Limited comes equipped with the new Lineartronic CVT and will have a starting price of only $27,995. It includes all 2.5i Premium model features (where applicable) plus dual zone climate controls, paddle shifters and a 6-speed manual shift mode, P215/50 R17 all-season tires, 17″ Alloy Wheels, perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, 4-way power front passenger seat, All-Weather Package and harman/kardon audio system. Options include: power moonroof and navigation system.

The new range-topping Outback 3.6R, which replaces the 3.0R model is powered by a 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine matched to a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6R has similar external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0L 6-cylinder recommended to achieve its rated power.

The Outback 3.6R will have a starting price of $27,995 — a $4,000 decrease from the 2009 6-cylinder Outback and includes all 2.5i model features (where applicable) plus P225/50 R17 all-season tires, 17″ Alloy Wheels, paddle shifters, driver’s side window w/automatic up and down, instrument storage bin w/door, overhead console with sunglass holder and ambient light, privacy glass and fog lights.

The 3.6R Premium will have a starting price of $28,995 and includes all 3.6R base model features (where applicable) plus a 10-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and All-Weather Package. Options include: harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof.

The 3.6R Limited will have a starting price of $30,995 and includes all 3.6R Premium model features plus perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, 4-way power front passenger seat, and harman/kardon audio system. Options include: power moonroof and navigation system (navigation system requires power moonroof option).

All Outback models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System — standard on all models — when activated, holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop.

Accessory items for all 2010 Outback models include 16″ Alloy Wheels, fog lights, a Blueconnect Bluetooth hands-free phone device, iPod auxiliary connector, puddle lights, cargo tray and trunk lid spoiler. A complete list of accessories will be available soon on www.subaru.com.

Destination and Delivery charge is $695 for all 2010MY Outback models in the Contiguous 48 States. The MSRP of PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) models is $300 more than the federal specification model.

- By: Kap Shah

Along with the new 2010 Legacy , Subaru unveiled the new 2010 Outback at the 2009 New York Auto Show. Just like the roomiest Legacy ever, the 2010 Outback is the roomiest Outback ever with the wheelbase increase by 2.8 inches with rear-seat legroom increase by almost 4 inches.

The 2010 lineup will feature three 2.5i models powered by the 170-hp 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer. All 2.5i models come with a 6-speed manual as standard or with a Lineartronic CVT as an option. The lineup will also consist of 3 new 3.6R models powered by a 3.6L 6-cylinder Boxer making 256-hp. Of course, like every vehicle in its lineup the 2010 Subaru Outback features Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive as standard.

Follow the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2009 New York: 2010 Subaru Outback:

Press Release:

SUBARU INTRODUCES ALL-NEW 2010 OUTBACK
AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

- Roomiest Outback Ever with New Levels of Comfort and Refinement
- Bold New Design Language Redefines Sport Utility Wagon
- New 6-speed Manual and CVT Transmissions for Outback 2.5i Models
- New 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-Cylinder Engine in 3.6R Models

NEW YORK, APRIL 8, 2009 – Subaru of America, Inc. introduced the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback® at the New York International Auto Show today. The fourth-generation of the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon® is a roomier and more capable interpretation of the vehicle that launched the crossover trend 15 years ago. Distinguished by bolder and crisper styling, the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback delivers enhanced performance, comfort and economy with the introduction of an all-new chassis and the new Subaru Lineartronic^T CVT (continuously variable transmission). Capability is enhanced with a segment-first swing-out roof rail and crossbar design and an improved 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

The all-new 2010 Subaru Outback is smart-sized compared to other crossover vehicles, featuring mid-size interior volume in an easy-to-maneuver and off-road capable wagon body. Subaru engineers have increased interior volume by almost 8 percent in a package that is actually shorter than the outgoing model. The wheelbase has been increased by 2.8 inches and improves rear seat legroom by almost 4 inches. A new rear double wishbone suspension improves chassis dynamics and rear cargo space. The 2010 Outback is 2 inches wider to improve passenger comfort, has more headroom and is more fuel efficient than the outgoing model.

Building on the tremendous success of previous Outback models, the 2010 Outback caters to a wide variety of customer tastes and needs. The Outback line for 2010 will include three 2.5i models powered by a revised 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine. The efficient Outback 2.5i models offer a new standard 6-speed manual transmission, or the available Lineartronic^TM CVT. Both transmissions help to improve acceleration, response and fuel economy.

Three new range-topping Outback 3.6R models are powered by a new 256-hp 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine teamed with a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine it replaces, the more powerful 3.6 has the same external size and uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 3.0 required.

Subaru is the only company that features Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment on every vehicle in its product line. This invaluable performance and safety-enhancing system distinguishes the Outback from crossover competitors, which generally offer all wheel drive as an extra-cost option. The 2010 Outback model line employs three different versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, each tailored to the specific engine and transmission.

Bold New Design and New Level of Interior Comfort
The 2010 Outback, while still clearly related to its predecessors, marks a departure in design toward a new, bolder look. The new Outback blends a sophisticated crossover design with SUV details. The upright grille features the Subaru circular badge and wing design as the focal point and is offset by dramatic hawk-eye headlamps. The new functional molded lower valence and side skirts hint at the Outback’s improved capability and are more durable for off-road adventures.

The 2010 Outback also has a greater road presence with a wider track and expressive wheel arches. Ground clearance on the new model has been increased to 8.7 inches. As a new characteristic of the Outback, the D-pillars project a powerful SUV-like presence. The taillamps blend into the rear hatch, which highlights the more clearly defined beltline.

The 2010 Outback interior is not only more spacious, but takes another step up in refinement from an already-praised design in the previous model. The four-dial instrument panel is augmented in all Outback models by a multi-information display with trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including a new 3-spoke steering wheel. A new electronic parking brake (with electronic Hill Holder System) eliminates the traditional parking brake handle, freeing up space in the center console.
Seat comfort, long a Subaru strong point, is further enhanced in the 2010 Outback with new front and rear seat designs. The rear seat includes a new recline feature. The front seatback shape provides extra rear-seat knee room, and the front-seat cushion design allows more rear-seat foot room.

Right-Sized for the Times
The original Outback established a template for the many competitive crossover models that followed, and the new-generation 2010 Outback further strengthens the melding of passenger car and SUV attributes that today’s crossover shoppers seek.

Built on an all-new platform, the 2010 Outback showcases Subaru’s mastery of vehicle packaging efficiency. A 2.8 inch longer wheelbase, now 107.9 inches, contributes to a smoother ride and increased interior space. Total passenger room is increased by 8 cubic feet, now 105.4 cu. ft., and maximum cargo capacity (with the standard 65/35 split rear seatbacks folded) is up by 6 cubic feet to 71.3 cu. ft. The Outback also features a rear cargo area that is deeper and wider than in many small SUVs and easier to access through its wide aperture rear hatch.

Rear seat legroom is increased by nearly 4 inches to 37.8 inches. With a 2.0-in. increase in vehicle width, the 2010 Outback offers greater hip room (+3.5 inches in front, +1.3 in. in back) and shoulder room (+1.9-in. front, +2.4-in. in back).

Remarkably, the roomier 2010 Outback is almost one inch shorter than the previous model, due to reduced front and rear overhang dimensions. The new Outback is also four inches taller than the previous model, increasing headroom and cargo area height. The new packaging thus preserves the maneuverability, agility and parking ease that Outback customers highly value.

Surefooted Handling and Safety for any Road or any Weather
The new Subaru Outback improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform that makes for a smoother, quieter ride – still with crisp handling. Outback customers have long valued the way Outback models have balanced comfort with capability, and the 2010 Outback improves on both. Reduced front and rear overhang dimensions, combined with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, help enhance Outback’s off-pavement maneuverability.

All Outback models for 2010 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control capability. The all-new electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop. Previous systems held the car in place for only a few seconds.

MacPherson-type strut front suspension is mounted to a new engine cradle, and the engine is attached to the cradle using new hydraulic mounts. The new cradle is designed to also enhance crash-worthiness in front. A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces the previous multi-link configuration to provide improved ride and handling. The enhancement of body rigidity and the new suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Increased wheel travel and optimized suspension geometry improve ride comfort.

All 2010 Outback models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Brake Assist safety system is also available on all models. Significantly, the stiffer body structure and new suspension combined with higher profile tire ( 215/70R16 on base Outback 2.5i) yields a more comfortable ride without sacrificing handling agility. Models with 17-in. wheels likewise benefit from a higher-profile tire size, 225/60R17 compared to 225/55R17 used before.

Efficient New Powertrains
The 2010 Outback 2.5i models are powered by a revised 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, teamed for the first time to a new 6-speed manual transmission or the available new Lineartronic^TM CVT. The CVT is standard in the Outback 2.5i Limited, where it is also equipped with a manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters.

The 2.5-liter engine, which is also available as PZEV-certified, is modified for 2010 to improve performance, driveability, and economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 4,000 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds, while also helping to improve fuel efficiency. All Outback models for 2010 feature a larger fuel tank, now 18.5 gallons vs. 16.9.

Whether teamed to the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic^TM CVT, the roomier 2010 Outback provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption than comparable 2009 Outback models. Either transmission helps make the Outback 2.5i models more responsive in everyday driving.

Subaru has adopted a chain-type CVT, the world’s first longitudinally mounted CVT system for AWD production vehicles. It employs smaller pulley cores, which helps make the unit more compact and can help provide better fuel efficiency compared to belt-type CVTs. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts.

The CVT smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Because a CVT does not “shift” gears, the driver enjoys smoother performance in all driving situations. The manual mode of the Subaru Lineartronic^TM CVT offers the driver a more engaging driving experience by operating through six pre-selected steps. The driver can “shift” manually using steering wheel paddle controls.

New 3.6-liter H6 Engine: Premium Performance with Regular-Grade Fuel
The 3.6-liter H6 engine replaces the previous 3.0-liter H6, yet features the same external dimensions thanks primarily to a unique shortened connecting rod design. As a result, the new, more powerful engine maintains its excellent low center of gravity. The 3.6 Boxer engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, compared to 245 hp and 215 lb.-ft. of torque for the previous 3.0-liter engine. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust valves optimizes power delivery across the engine’s speed range while helping to reduce emissions.

Not only does the 3.6-liter engine produce more horsepower and torque than the 3.0-liter unit, but does so using regular-grade fuel compared to premium required in the 3.0 engine. The specially tuned five-speed automatic transmission, combined with the greater torque output of the 3.6 engine, helps make the Outback 3.6R models more responsive.

New Level of Comfort and Convenience in All Models
Standard comfort and available luxury are increased across the Outback line for 2010. The base 2.5i model, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise control buttons, a new electronic parking brake with electronic Hill Holder System, automatic lights-on function and auxiliary input audio jack. A standard multi-function display with onboard computer provides readouts for mileage/range and outside temperature.

Underscoring its versatility and attention to detail, the 2010 Outback comes standard with an innovative new roof rack system. Its integral crossbars swing into position only when needed. Stowing the crossbars in the roof rails when they’re not needed helps to reduce a potential source of wind noise.

Outback Premium models add more amenities and offer additional comfort and convenience options, including a harman-kardon® audio system, a power moonroof, and the All-Weather Package that adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. The Outback Limited models feature leather upholstery, a dual zone automatic climate control system, and a 4-way power passenger seat. Limited models also exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with backup camera, hands-free Bluetooth® connectivity and streaming Bluetooth audio.

The Subaru Safety Story
The Outback, like all Subaru models, has consistently earned top scores in government and insurance industry crash tests. The 2010 Outback is designed to further raise the safety quotient. Subaru’s Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models, again forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety in the new-generation 2010 Outback. A new engine cradle design improves front impact safety, and the 2010 Outback features greater use of high-strength steel.

The 2010 Outback models include as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to detect the presence and weight of a front passenger and also the driver’s distance from the steering wheel. The system determines front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection.

New in the 2010 Outback, high-strength front seat frames provide enhanced protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. With the entire seat optimized for a rear-end collision, Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key to Brand Identity
Subaru offers three different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2010 Outback line, each one tailored to the engine and type of transmission. In Outback 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the system uses a viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set.

Outback 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic^TM CVT use an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Outback 3.6R models use advanced Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive with a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. A planetary center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. The VTD system normally sends more power to the rear wheels to enhance handling agility, and it continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving and road conditions.