Subaru announces more info on the latest fifth generation Outback model.

• All new exterior design and significantly upgraded cabin for Subaru’s flagship
• ‘A second pair of eyes’ – introduction of new EyeSight safety assist technology
• 2.0-litre diesel and 2.5-litre Boxer engines, with greater fuel economy
• Manual and Lineartronic CVT transmissions cater for all tastes
• All-Wheel Drive with Active Torque Vectoring and X-Mode all-terrain system
• More comfortable ride and improved handling
• Generous standard equipment with two trim levels
• Priced from £27,995 (OTR)

Launched in the UK in 1995 and spawning a whole new vehicle segment, the Outback was the world’s first crossover, successfully combining the benefits of a passenger estate car with the all-road capabilities of an SUV. For 20 years, the Outback has acted as Subaru’s flagship model in the UK, winning praise for its practical, all-road nature and long distance capabilities.  

Next month the new, fifth generation Outback goes on sale, sporting an all-new exterior design, a significantly higher quality interior and a raft of new safety technology compared to the outgoing model. The new Outback officially goes on sale in the UK from 1 April 2015.

During the development of the new model, Subaru looked to build on the Outback’s reputation as a vehicle that can go anywhere and do anything – qualities that have appealed to Outback buyers for over two decades.

The new Outback has been developed to offer space and practicality; world-class safety; all-conditions and all-terrain versatility; a higher quality cabin; a more contemporary yet timeless exterior and interior styling; and improved environmental performance to meet changing customer and regulatory demands.

While clearly maintaining the distinctive Subaru Outback identity, Subaru’s designers strove to make the new model more dynamic while keeping true to its rugged crossover roots. From the front, the bumper-integrated hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights maintain consistency with other models in the Subaru family, while the profile is a subtle evolution of the existing Outback.

More significant changes can be found on the inside. The new model’s revamped interior uses a range of higher quality materials throughout for a more premium fit and finish, complemented by a new 7.0-inch touchscreen factory-fit infotainment and sat nav system.

The latest upgrades have made the new Outback more practical than ever before, with more storage and cabin space, and greater room for all occupants. The boot capacity has increased 4.5 per cent against the outgoing model to 559 litres, with a new Smart Power Tailgate for greater ease-of-use, while a new side sill footstep makes for easier access to the car’s standard-fit roof rails.

New to the latest model, EyeSight is Subaru’s advanced collision avoidance technology which acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers, employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards. This is the first time the technology has been made available in the UK and Europe, contributing to the Outback’s maximum five-star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating.

The system’s two colour cameras are located either side of the rear view mirror to detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards. EyeSight is fitted as standard to every Outback fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission, and includes six features: Pre-collision Braking, Pre-collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure & Sway Warning, Pre-collision Steering Assist and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.

With the addition of Eyesight and Subaru’s active and passive safety features, the new Subaru Outback benefits from lower insurance ratings, amongst the most competitive in its class.

There are two engines available in the UK – a pair of horizontally-opposed four-cylinder ‘Boxer’ engines, fitted deep in the engine bay to ensure a low centre of gravity for improved handling, despite the car’s raised ground clearance. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, producing 150 PS and 350 Nm torque, or a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol unit, with power and torque outputs of 175 PS and 235 Nm, respectively.

Diesel engines will be offered with either a six-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission; the 2.5-litre petrol engine is sold exclusively with Lineartronic.

Handling and ride quality have improved over the outgoing Outback through the adoption of new, stiffer front struts, which cut roll, and revised spring and damper rates for a more flexible reaction to bumps.

The steering ratio has been quickened in the new model, resulting in more accurate and linear steering response. A more natural steering feel is aided by the steering wheel, now 13 per cent stiffer with a new metal core.

To ensure best-in-class on-road handling, every new Outback model is fitted with Active Torque Vectoring – effectively braking the inside wheels under cornering, quelling understeer and oversteer and allowing a more predictable course through corners. The Outback is now even more capable off-road, with the addition of the new X-Mode control feature on Lineartronic models and carry-over 200 mm ground clearance.

There are two trim levels available on the Outback for UK buyers – SE and SE Premium – which both offer a generous level of standard equipment.

SE models are equipped as standard with automatic LED headlamps and headlamp washers, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass, as well as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, incorporating satellite navigation, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera.

Petrol SE models also feature an emissions-reducing start-stop system and Subaru Intelligent Drive, which allows drivers to select different engine modes according to road conditions for improved economy and performance.

SE Premium models add a sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate for added functionality.

Model	Price (OTR)	CO2 (g/km)	VED Band	Insurance Group
2.0D SE	£27,995	145	F	22E
2.0D SE Lineartronic	£29,995	159	G	18E
2.0D SE Premium	£30,995	145	F	23E
2.0D SE Premium Lineartronic	£32,995	159	G	19E
2.5i SE Lineartronic	£28,495	161	G	19E
2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic	£31,495	161	G	20E

Subaru announces pricing and specs for the new Outback Crossover.

• Six Outback model variants starting from £27,995 (on-the-road)
• Choice of two engines, equipped with manual or Lineartronic transmissions
• On sale in the UK from 1 April 2015

The new Subaru Outback, the fifth-generation of the brand’s pioneering crossover, will go on sale in the UK from 1 April 2015 priced from £27,995 (on-the-road). Introduced in 1995 as the first ever crossover and spawning a whole range of copy cat models ever since, the Outback has continued to successfully combine the virtues of a tourer with those of an SUV, winning over drivers with its practical, all-road nature.

The on the road price range of £27,995 to £32,995 means the all-new Outback stays in the same price bracket as the outgoing version despite having new exterior design, a more spacious and higher quality interior and a range of advanced safety equipment and in-car technology. The new Outback also boasts a very generous standard specification.

EyeSight safety assist – a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers

New to the latest model, EyeSight is Subaru’s advanced collision avoidance technology which acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers, employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards. This is the first time the technology has been made available in the UK and Europe.

The system’s two colour cameras are located in front of the rear view mirror to detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards. EyeSight is fitted as standard to every Outback fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission, and includes autonomous Pre-collision Braking Control and Pre-collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure & Sway Warning.

New Outback goes more upmarket

While clearly maintaining the distinctive Subaru Outback identity, Subaru’s designers strived to make the new model more dynamic while keeping true to its rugged cross-over roots. From the front, the bumper integrated hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights maintain consistency with other models in the Subaru family, while the profile is a subtle evolution of the existing Outback. 

More significant changes can be found on the inside. The new model’s revamped interior uses a range of higher quality materials throughout, resulting in a much more premium cabin, complimented by a new range of factory-fit infotainment and sat nav systems. The interior is also more spacious for passengers.  

Two engines, two transmissions

There are two engines available in the UK –  a pair of horizontally-opposed four-cylinder ‘Boxer’ engines, fitted deep in the engine bay to ensure a low centre of gravity for improved handling, despite the car’s raised ground clearance. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, producing 150 PS and 350 Nm torque, or a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol unit, with power and torque outputs of 165 PS and 235 Nm respectively.

Diesel engines will be offered with either a six-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission; the 2.5-litre petrol engine is sold exclusively with Lineartronic.

Generous standard specification

There are two trim levels available in the UK – SE and SE Premium – which both offer a generous level of standard equipment.

SE models are equipped as standard with automatic LED headlamps and headlamp washers, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass, as well as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, incorporating satellite navigation, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera. 

Petrol SE models also feature an emissions-reducing start-stop system and Subaru Intelligent Drive, which allows drivers to select different engine modes depending on road conditions for improved economy and performance.

SE Premium models add a sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate for added functionality.

Pricing

Model	Price (OTR)	VED band	CO2 (g/km)
2.0D SE	£27,995	F	145
2.0D SE Lineartronic	£29,995	G	159
2.0D SE Premium	£30,995	F	145
2.0D SE Premium Lineartronic	£32,995	G	159
2.5i SE Lineartronic	£28,495	G	161
2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic	£31,495	G	161

USA - 2015 Subaru Crosstrek & Hybrid gets updates for new M.Y.

• Subaru-developed driver assist technology, EyeSight® now available on XV Crosstrek
• EyeSight-equipped vehicles also add Steering Responsive fog lights standard
• New 6.2-inch infotainment system with rear vision camera standard on 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and Hybrid models
• XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium with EyeSight, 2.0i Limited and Hybrid Touring trims receive 7-inch multi touch gesture infotainment system

Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced the 2015 XV Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek Hybrid crossover models. The sales success of the XV Crosstrek line has contributed to the carmaker’s record-breaking sales every year for the past six years. 2015 models will arrive in dealers this December.

The versatile, fun-to-drive XV Crosstrek combines bold five-door design, a highly capable chassis, best-in-class fuel economy and updated infotainment features. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, high ground clearance (8.7 inches), 17-inch alloy wheels and ample room for passengers and cargo make Subaru XV Crosstrek a high-capability crossover. The model is one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive crossover utility vehicles in America, delivering 34-mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy.

Both the gasoline and hybrid models feature the Subaru BOXER engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard. All gasoline models are powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter BOXER engine, teamed to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive via a five-speed manual transmission or available second- generation Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid model’s 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine uses a slightly higher compression ratio (10.8:1) than in the standard gas model (10.5:1), along with reduced-friction piston rings and valve springs and a higher capacity exhaust gas regeneration (EGR) system with an EGR cooler. The main performance boost comes from the permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric drive motor, which produces 13.4 hp from 1,500 rpm-6,000 rpm, for a total hybrid system output of 160 hp at 6,000 rpm. The starter and alternator functions are combined into one unit.

The drive motor also contributes 47.9 lb.-ft. of torque from 0-1,500 rpm. The result is total system torque of 163 lb.-ft. at just 2,000 rpm. The electric drive motor, which weighs 28.7 lbs. (77.2 lbs. with frame), is integrated into the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT includes a manual mode with steering wheel paddle switches.

A 100.8V, 13.5kW nickel-metal hydride battery, with 0.55kWh capacity, is located under a revised rear floor area. The battery, placed low in the vehicle, contributes to handling agility, which has also been enhanced with quicker-ratio electric power steering and special suspension tuning.

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid automatically adapts to driving needs, using only the electric drive motor, the gasoline engine or combining output of the two, depending on conditions and always prioritizing maximum efficiency. Initial acceleration is performed in EV mode with the driving force generated by electric drive motor only. The gasoline engine will then start depending on conditions, including pressure on accelerator pedal, state of battery charge, air conditioner use and other factors.

When the vehicle is stopped, Auto Stop-Start stops the engine to help reduce fuel consumption. When the brake is released, the system transitions to a creep state using the electric drive motor. If the climate control is operating, Stop/Start may not operate and instead, the engine uses the electric motor to charge the battery.

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid employs regeneration when the accelerator is released during driving, and when braking. The motor then acts as a generator, using the still-turning wheels to charge the hybrid battery. For times when the vehicle is operating only in EV mode, an audible vehicle approach pedestrian warning system generates sound from a small speaker below the right headlight and directed toward the front of the car.

The Subaru XV Crosstrek incorporates numerous body and chassis enhancements for its expanded-capability mission. Black side- and wheel-arch cladding, rocker spoiler and roof rails provide a rugged contrast to the body color. The higher ride height, body-color roof spoiler and unique-design 17-inch wheels bolster the Subaru XV Crosstrek model’s go-anywhere stance and attitude. Front and rear bumpers and the front grille are unique to the Subaru XV Crosstrek, and dark-tint privacy glass is standard.

Subaru offers the 2015 XV Crosstrek in 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited models, the latter adding additional luxury amenities and infotainment technology. Among the standard features in the Premium are the All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer); a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth® control switches; power windows, door locks and side mirrors; multi-function display with fuel economy information; security system with engine immobilizer; outside temperature gauge, and carpeted floormats.

Both the standard five-speed manual transmission and the CVT include the Subaru Incline Start Assist feature, which can briefly hold the vehicle while the driver pulls away from a stop on a hill. Available for the XV Crosstrek Premium and standard on the Limited, the Subaru Lineartronic CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios. With either transmission choice, a standard ECO gauge helps the driver to operate the vehicle as economically as possible.

The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. A 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters allows the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios. The transmission also allows “second gear” starts in order to limit the likelihood of wheel spin on slippery surfaces.

A 103.7-inch wheelbase yields impressive interior roominess in the Subaru XV Crosstrek, including 35.4 inches of rear seat legroom. With the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded, this versatile five-door crossover provides a flat load floor and up to 51.9 cubic feet of carrying space. Three golf bags or a large baby stroller can be easily loaded.

The cargo area is fitted with tie-down hooks and grocery bag hooks and on the 2.0i Premium and higher trim levels are outfitted as standard with a cover that can be pulled into place or removed, along with a removable waterproof cargo tray. Subaru dealers offer a number of accessories for the standard roof rails for carrying items such as bicycles and kayaks.

The sporty instrument panel and three-spoke steering wheel are augmented in all XV Crosstrek models by a multi-function display with a trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Rich-looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. For 2015, Welcome Lighting is standard on XV Crosstrek Limited, Hybrid and Hybrid Touring models.

A new 6.2-inch infotainment system in the XV Crosstrek 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and XV Crosstrek Hybrid models uses a 6.2-inch touch display with rear vision camera, swipe and scroll multi-function control for audio and other features. System features Subaru STARLINK™ smartphone integration with Aha™ Infotainment, Pandora® and iHeart® Radio. (4 speakers for the 2.0i; 6 speakers for Premium trims).

XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium with EyeSight and 2.0i Limited get new mid-range infotainment system with features included in the standard system plus 7-inch multi touch gesture display screen, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (subscription required), voice activated controls and dual USB ports (6 speakers). A color LCD in the gauge cluster has been added.

In addition to featuring the Lineartronic CVT as standard, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Limited adds leather-trimmed upholstery, steering wheel and shift handle; automatic climate control system; auto on/off headlights, a rear seat armrest with dual cupholders and turn signal exterior mirrors.

Available navigation infotainment system for XV Crosstrek Limited with EyeSight and XV Crosstrek Hybrid Touring adds navigation, SiriusXM NavTraffic® and NavWeather® services (subscription required).

While standard on all Hybrid trims, Keyless Access with Push Button start system is an available option on XV Crosstrek Limited and now features Pin Code Access.

Subaru offers two different versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in the XV Crosstrek. With the five-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute torque 50:50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more torque to the opposite set.

Models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. The Active Torque Split system automatically transfers more torque (up to 100 percent) to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

Inside, the Subaru XV Crosstrek fills out its safety roster with a driver’s knee airbag, standard front side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to determine front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. The passenger-seat front airbag features a shell-type design with a center groove, thus exposing the passenger to less impact force upon deployment.

Subaru produces a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and SUVs, along with the rear- wheel drive BRZ sports car.