2013 Subaru Outback: Restyled Model Debuts at 2012 New York International Auto Show

• New, more powerful and efficient 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER engine
• Impressive fuel efficiency with standard Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive
• New, second-generation Lineartronic continuously variable transmission
• Smoother, quieter ride with enhanced agility
• Redesigned front styling
• New creature comforts and audio features
• Newly available EyeSight driver-assist system with:
  • Pre-Collision Braking
  • System Capable of Pedestrian Detection
  • Lane Departure and Sway Warning
  • Adaptive Cruise Control

MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce that the 2013 Subaru Outback will debut at the New York International Auto Show. The 2013 Subaru Outback debuts revised styling as well as the new EyeSight driver-assist system. Chassis enhancements improve ride quality in the 2013 Subaru Outback, which also offers new amenities and audio capabilities.

The 2013 Subaru Outback features a restyled front end for a sportier appearance, including new headlights, grille, front bumper and fog lights for a more powerful appearance. Standard Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive distinguishes Outback from crossover competitors, which generally offer all-wheel-drive at an additional cost. Numerous enhancements to the body structure, suspension, and steering give the Outback an even smoother and quieter ride for 2013, while also helping to increase handling agility. Body roll has been reduced by up to 40 percent.

As the adventure-ready SUV alternative, the Subaru Outback provides crisp car-like handling with the versatility of an SUV. Its 220 mm of ground clearance is higher than even many large SUVs and crossovers, while still maintaining a low step-in height.

Increased Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, 2013 Outback 2.5i Convenience models debut a new double-overhead camshaft (DOHC) 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER engine for increased performance and fuel efficiency. This new engine produces 173 hp and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, as compared to 170 hp and 170 lb.-ft. from the outgoing model. More importantly, the new engine produces greater low-end torque across a broad speed range, making it more responsive in everyday driving.

The 2013 Outback 2.5i Convenience offers a choice between a standard 6-speed manual transmission and the second-generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). The second-generation Lineartronic CVT offers more responsive and quieter operation compared to the transmission it replaces.

The 2013 Outback 3.6R continues to be offered with a 256-hp 3.6-litre 6-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine and 5-speed Electronic Direct Control Automatic Transmission with Manual Mode (5EAT). A downshift blipping feature enhances its sporty feel when using the paddle shift controls.

Although official EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available, Subaru projects that the 2013 Outback 2.5i Convenience with the Lineartronic CVT will achieve even greater fuel efficiency than the outgoing model.

New EyeSight Driver-Assist System
The 2013 Outback will also debut Subaru's new EyeSight driver-assist system, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. Combining safety and convenience features, this new technology - which uses a stereo camera design developed by Subaru to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems - can detect obstacles in front of a car and limit potential damage in an impact.

Increased Interior Comfort and Convenience
New seat fabric feels more comfortable, while a new matte wood grain trim provides a sophisticated appearance on Limited Package models. Outback Limited models for 2013 will offer a new electro-luminescent instrument cluster that has been integrated within the multi-information display, which also shows EyeSight functions when the car is so equipped. The Outback was the first in its class to feature standard raised-profile roof rails with integrated swing-in-place crossbars. For 2013, a new adjustable design allows the rear crossbar to be moved further rearward to carry longer items such as kayaks or other outdoor gear.

Five Trim Levels
The 2013 Subaru Outback is available in five trim levels - 2.5i Convenience, Touring and Limited Packages as well as a 3.6R model available with or without the Limited Package. The Outback 3.6R with Limited Package will also feature an optional brand new EyeSight driver assistance system. The entry 2.5i Convenience model features a long roster of standard features, among them power-adjustable, foldable, heated body-colour door mirrors; fully automatic headlights, a 10-way power driver's seat with heated front seats; Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and streaming audio; a USB charging port; steering wheel cruise control and audio switches; a 60/40-split flat-folding rear seat; and an electronic parking brake with Hill Holder system. The electronic Hill Holder system holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to pull away from a stop.

Outback models with the Touring Package add additional amenities such as a power tilting and sliding glass sunroof, windshield wiper de-icer, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 6-speaker system and a cargo tray.

Additionally, Outback 3.6R models also include a power tilting and sliding glass sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 6-speaker system and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Both Outback 2.5i and 3.6R models with the Limited Package additionally come equipped with leather upholstery; a touchscreen GPS navigation system with 7.0-inch LCD display, voice-activated controls and navigation, XM Satellite Radio (subscription required), rear-vision camera, and an SD card slot for convenient navigation map updates; harman/kardon speakers and amplifier; and a 4-way power front passenger seat.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada. For additional information, please visit www.pr.subaru.ca or www.subaru.ca.

* EyeSight is not designed as a substitute for due care and attention to the road. The system may not react in every situation. There are certain operational limitations, such as when weather conditions obscure the view of the cameras. Finally, even with the advanced technology used, a driver with good vision and who is paying attention will always be the best safety system.

SOURCE Subaru Canada Inc.