Subaru has launched the 2015 Outback, the fifth generation of what the company calls its “Sport Utility Wagon.” Indeed, the raised wagon blurs the lines between wagon and SUV, and many companies that sell wagons sell raised versions of some sort.
The 2015 Outback features new exterior styling, based of course on the Legacy sedan and wagon gamily. The car is reportedly roomier, more capable on and off-road, and more comfortable than previous versions.
The base engine is a 175-hp 4-cylinder gasoline engine with 2.5 liter displacement. The 3.6-liter 256-hp flat-six is still available as an option. The trademark symmetrical all-wheel drive system adds hill descent control, hill start assist, and the new X-Mode electronic system. X-mode is supposed to enhance driving dynamics by letting the electronics “take control of the of the engine, transmission, AWD, brakes, and other components to safely navigate through bad roads, slippery surfaces and even the steepest hills for maximum confidence.”
All Outbacks will feature continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shift controls. Active grille shutters shut down air openings selectively to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
Body features include aluminum hood, one-piece grille and bumper, HID headlamps, greater windshield rake, and door-mounted side-view mirrors. Wheelbase goes up by a mere 5mm, but Subaru claims greater shoulder, hip and elbow room. The cargo area behind the rear seats goes up to 1005 liters (up from 971 liters), while with the seats down it can swallow up 2075 liters (up from 2018 liters). The car still comes with an SUV-worthy 220-mm (8.7 inches). Step-style doorsills allow one to stand to secure cargo on the roof, and a power rear gate with memory height is available.
Other safety features include rear-view camera, rear-vehicle detection system, and the trademark EyeSight assist that can automatically brake the car when obstacles are detected.
Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.
