UNCOMMON ENGINEERING

Unlike other cars, the core technology inside every Subaru comes from a perfect idea. We start by creating ideal balance by mating the Subaru BOXER engine to the permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. It is this pioneering technology that ultimately makes a Subaru a Subaru.

BALANCE

The layout of the Subaru BOXER engine and permanent Symmetrical AWD naturally balance not just the drivetrain's mass but its response as well. Together they deliver power more smoothly and distribute it more effectively to all four wheels, providing the superb grip and balance that defines a Subaru.

CONTROL

The Subaru BOXER engine's flat configuration gives the vehicle a lower centre of gravity. Paired with the superior handling of the permanent Symmetrical AWD, this combination provides more precise, responsive and satisfying control in virtually any driving condition.

SAFETY

In poor weather, or in the precious seconds it takes to react to an unexpected situation, the combination of the balanced Subaru BOXER engine and surefooted Symmetrical AWD provide the agility that can help drivers avoid a collision.

UNCOMMON BALANCE 

PERMANENT SYMMETRICAL AWD

Since introducing permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in 1972, Subaru has continually advanced its technology to meet the evolving needs of drivers around the world. A Subaru is engineered to deliver the best possible traction and stability through its AWD, with its engine and drivetrain in a symmetrical, straight-line layout. Power is routed to all four wheels simply and directly, for perfect balance and ultimate driver control.

UNCOMMON ROADHOLDING

SUBARU BOXER ENGINE

The horizontally-opposed configuration of the Subaru BOXER engine places the pistons opposite each other, for a lower, flatter profile than other engine types. This gives the engine, and therefore the overall vehicle, a lower centre of gravity and better sense of balance. Furthermore, the pistons' opposing movements inherently counteract each other, naturally helping to reduce vibration.

BETTER BALANCE	SMOOTHER OPERATION	GREATER TRACTION
With its horizontally-opposed configuration, the Subaru BOXER engine lays flatter, and can sit lower, than other engine designs. The lower centre of gravity for the entire vehicle delivers more balanced handling and flatter cornering.	The pistons lay flat on each side of the crankshaft in the Subaru BOXER engine, so they thrust away from each other in a horizontally-opposed configuration. This "punch-counterpunch" action naturally counteracts vibration, for inherently smoother running.	Whether you're negotiating a road in bad weather or reacting to avoid an accident, Symmetrical AWD is designed to deliver exceptional traction, and therefore driver confidence, by keeping all four wheels engaged at all times.

UNCOMMON STABILITY

Unlike other cars, innovative Subaru engineering balances handling precision, occupant protection and driving passion. The Outback features Subaru's Dynamic Chassis Control Concept to extend the benefits of its lower centre of gravity, AWD stability and ultimately its breathtaking performance.

SUBARU DYNAMIC CHASSIS CONTROL CONCEPT

The Outback elevates the inherent advantages of its signature Subaru layout - balance, composure and response - with the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept. The body uses high-tensile steel in critical areas to achieve high strength with lighter weight. A rigid new Cradle Mount front-end structure delivers more accurate, natural steering feel whilst allowing the engine and suspension to be more effectively isolated from the cabin for a smoother, quieter ride. The result is more of everything that makes driving a pleasure: giving confidence with comfort, sportiness with safety, and elegance with efficiency - all in perfect balance.

UNLIKE OTHER ENGINES, THE SUBARU BOXER ENGINE IMPROVES PERFORMANCE IN ALL AREAS

Naturally smoother than other engines and capable of generating torque fluently throughout the rev range, the Subaru BOXER engine is a powerful contender. With strong, linear acceleration, and a low-profile configuration that lowers the centre of gravity of the entire vehicle, it delivers a level of handling precision unexpected in a vehicle this comfortable, capable and spacious. The result is uncommonly breathtaking.

2.0-LITRE DOHC SUBARU BOXER DIESEL WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION

The inherent rigidity, smoothness and quiet operation of the Subaru BOXER engine make it the ideal configuration for the world’s first BOXER diesel engine to power a passenger vehicle. Higher-pressure common-rail fuel injection, an improved oxidising catalyst with closed Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), a variable-nozzle turbo and electric power steering reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. New ceramic glow plugs provide quick starting in cold weather. And while it meets the ultra-clean EURO5 emissions standards, it also delivers all of its prodigious 350 Nm of peak torque from just 1,800 rpm.

2.5-LITRE SOHC SUBARU BOXER WITH LINEARTRONIC TRANSMISSION

The SOHC engine delivers high fuel efficiency with ultra-clean EURO5-certified emissions. Refinements to its pistons, ports, intake manifold and even its spark plugs help to make it more responsive around town, more satisfying on the motorway, and cleaner- running on virtually any road.

3.6-LITRE DOHC SUBARU BOXER WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The largest, most refined engine ever offered in the Outback gives smooth power, quiet operation  and commendable efficiency. Light, compact and perfectly balanced by design, it features the dual Active Valve Control System for impressive torque. Lower friction and increased rigidity further reduce noise, vibration, fuel consumption and emissions.

UNCOMMON CONTROL

The full range of Outback models offer a choice of drivetrains that are thoroughly and thoughtfully engineered to fit your needs, however you enjoy driving. Three transmission choices, each perfectly matched to its own AWD system, deliver total control. Every Outback also includes a new ECO indicator among its backlit instruments that lets you keep an eye on your driving efficiency too.

UNLIKE OTHER TRANSMISSIONS, LINEARTRONIC DELIVERS SEAMLESS PERFORMANCE

Seamless performance with no changing gears — Lineartronic variable transmission is continuously working with the driver to provide the ultimate link between power and control. The Continuously Variable Transmission longitudinally paired with AWD uses a chain instead of a belt. This allows greater ratios for improved performance and efficiency and a faster response to your throttle input. It keeps the engine operating in the most favourable rpm range for any driving speed, with a balance of both power and fuel economy. Specifically tuned for instant response with minimal movement of the accelerator pedal, and a more compact design for greater legroom, Lineartronic is the perfect harness for the pure power and broad torque curve of the Subaru BOXER engine.

LINEARTRONIC AND ACTIVE TORQUE SPLIT AWD 

For instant, seamless response to changing conditions, Outback 2.5i models are fitted with the new Lineartronic transmission. It’s mated to an active torque-split AWD system that responds to traction conditions. Paddle shifters also provide a six-step manual mode for instant response on demand.

5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION AND VARIABLE TORQUE DISTRIBUTION AWD

Outback 3.6R models are equipped with a newly refined E-5AT automatic transmission paired with Variable Torque Distribution AWD. The electronically controlled 5-speed transmission features driver-adaptive shifting, blipping control for quicker, smoother downshifts, and manual-style control via paddle shifters.

6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND VISCOUS CENTRE DIFFERENTIAL AWD

For maximum control a slick-shifting new 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all Outback 2.0 BOXER diesel engines.
It’s paired with a limited-slip differential AWD system utilising a centre differential with viscous coupling. Whenever the balance of traction changes, this limited-slip differential immediately redistributes the torque to the front and rear wheels as needed.

CRUISE CONTROL

The electronic cruise control standard on all Outback models allows the driver to maintain a preset speed on the open road. Elegant metallic-finished controls are located on the steering wheel for convenience and safety.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, AWD MEANS ALL FOUR WHEELS ARE ALWAYS FULLY ENGAGED 

The permanently engaged Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is complemented by the refined chassis and stability control, combining to provide supreme driver confidence in any weather with each wheel working in harmony to give the ultimate handling control.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL SYSTEM

Standard in every new Outback, Vehicle Dynamics Control monitors and analyses if the vehicle is following the driver's intended course via an array of sensors. If the vehicle approaches the limits of stability, the AWD torque distribution, engine output and brakes at each wheel are adjusted to assist in keeping the vehicle on course.

MORE STABLE MANOEUVRES 

In a corner or an evasive manoeuvre, Vehicle Dynamics Control compares the driver's intentions with the vehicle's actual movements, based on steering and braking, as well as the lateral acceleration and yaw (rotation). The system then adjusts engine output and braking of individual wheels as needed to assist in keeping the car close to the desired course.

1. CORNERING

The rigidly mounted suspension, lower centre of gravity and standard Vehicle Dynamics Control work in concert to provide crisp cornering, along with clear communication between the driver and the road. 

2. ROUGH ROAD 

Designed to optimise tyre contact and provide generous wheel travel, the rigidly mounted yet luxuriously compliant suspension has been proven on some of the world's most challenging roads. 

3. SMOOTH HIGHWAY 

The refined, low-friction 4-wheel independent suspension and rigid body structure minimise the transmission of vibration and noise from the road to the passenger cabin for a smooth quiet ride.

4. CHANGING WEATHER 

The permanent Symmetrical AWD, Vehicle Dynamics Control and precise independent suspension team up to optimise how the tyre responds to the road, to make the most of available traction.

FRONT SUSPENSION 

The strut type front suspension is mounted to a highly rigid Cradle Mount System, and features a wider track and longer wheel travel. Together they deliver flatter cornering as well as a quieter, more comfortable ride over all road surfaces. 

REAR SUSPENSION 

Expertly balancing sporty handling with refinement, the new double wishbone rear suspension handles rough roads and sharp corners with poise and precision. To minimise noise and vibration in the cabin, all suspension links and the rear differential are rubber-isolated from their rigid subframe, which is further insulated from the body by larger rubber mounts. 

UNCOMMON SAFETY FEATURES 

Subaru knows the best way to survive a collision is to avoid one, so the Outback's permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive agility and active safety systems will help keep you from experiencing its acclaimed crashworthiness.

COLLISION AVOIDANCE 

Many of the same features which make the Outback so rewarding to drive also contribute to keeping its occupants out of harm's way. The lower centre of gravity of the Subaru BOXER engine enhances the stable, responsive handling of its permanent Symmetrical AWD. The Vehicle Dynamics Control fitted as standard and generously sized brakes endow it with athletic reflexes, whilst the added precision of the Cradle Mount System for the front suspension and steering equip the driver for excellent evasive abilities. All of this, coupled with world renowned Subaru build quality, make the Subaru Outback the ideal choice to keep you and family safe regardless of what the weather throws at you. 

PASSIVE SAFETY FEATURES 

Even with the most advanced active safety systems, sometimes an accident is unavoidable. The Outback is designed to protect its occupants with a series of advanced systems and features, balancing rigid strength with controlled deformation in key areas to better mitigate impact forces. The Cradle Mount System for the engine and front suspension effectively lengthens the front crumple zone and helps guide the engine and gearbox under the cabin in the event of a heavy front-end impact.

Each side door includes two side-impact protection beams. A comprehensive suite of air bags, whiplash-reducing front seats, retracting pedals and 3-point seat belts help protect occupants directly. It's a core value of the Subaru philosophy that peace of mind is the first step in providing driving enjoyment. 

BRAKING SYSTEM 

The standard 4-wheel disc brakes include lightweight aluminium rear callipers and a redesigned booster for more reassuring brake feel, along with a 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake-force Distribution reapportions front and rear- braking pressure when the vehicle is loaded. Brake Assist provides provides maximum braking force in the event of sudden braking should the driver not apply enough brake pressure quickly enough. And Subaru's innovative 'Hill Holder' functionality helps prevent rollback when starting off on a 5% or steeper grade, by holding the vehicle on the brakes for an addtional second after the driver releases the brake pedal. 

RING-SHAPED REINFORCEMENT FRAMES 

The Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frames strengthen the passenger cabin from the roof down to the doors, pillars and floor. This design helps to divert and dissipate impact energy away from the occupants in a collision. The front crumple zone is integral to the frame, whilst the cradle mount for the engine and front suspension is designed to help keep these components away from the passenger compartment in a frontal impact. 

SEATS, SEAT BELTS AND AIRBAGS 

Standard on the Outback are front, front-side and curtain airbags. Height-adjustable front seat belts include pre-tensioners to hold passengers firmly in place, and load limiters that minimise forces to the chest. In a rear collision, front seats utilise new, more rigid frames, redesigned headrests and a new system incorporating energy-absorbing mountings for the inner seat springs, all to helping to reduce the chance of whiplash. 

UNCOMMON REFINEMENT

The Outback is as luxurious as it is practical.

Inside its more rigid body is a decidedly flexible cabin. Dual-zone automatic climate control air-conditioning with rear ducts (petrol models only) ensures you and your passengers travel in comfort.

And with multi-adjustable front and rear reclining seats and smarter use of space, the Subaru Outback is ready when you are.

UNCOMMON LOGIC

Behind the wheel of the new Subaru Outback, you will find your driving controls are right where you expect to find them. Within easy reach. With the audio and cruise controls conveniently mounted on the leather steering wheel, and the dual zone climate controls situated within easy reach on the centre console, everything is logically positioned with nothing to distract you. You can even answer your phone using the controls on your steering wheel.

UNLIKE OTHER CAR INTERIORS, WE’VE EVEN CONSIDERED YOUR SENSES

The sounds you hear, the direction you’re heading and the way you drive; the Outback envelops your senses, making your driving experience a real pleasure.

HIGH RESOLUTION DVD NAVIGATION

Fitted to the NavPlus models and the 3.6R the DVD navigation system with its extra large 8-inch high resolution VGA touch screen, provides faster, more accurate guidance. An advanced voice recognition system lets you operate the system in a normal speaking voice, whether in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian or Spanish. The DVD player features audio and video playback capability when stationary.

FINGER TIP CONTROLS AND HANDS FREE

Satellite switches on the steering wheel place audio controls conveniently at the driver’s fingertips. A Bluetooth® hands-free system automatically links with your registered mobile phone.

ENHANCED REAR VISION

For easier parking, a Rear Vision Camera System is included on NavPlus models and the 3.6R. When the driver shifts into reverse, the camera displays a live colour image on Outback’s 8-inch in-dash display, along with guidelines to assist in parking manoeuvres.

PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEM

Fitted to the NavPlus models and 3.6R the 6-speaker premium sound system includes an in-dash DVD/CD player with MP3 and WMA capability, and automatic audio-volume adjustment based on your driving speed. The sound system incorporates Dolby® Pro Logic II sound processing for a rich sound stage optimised for Outback’s roomy, quiet cabin.

SRS CIRCLE SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM

The standard 6-speaker audio system includes an in-dash 6-disc CD auto-changer and automatic speed-sensing volume adjustment. SRS Circle Surround Automotive technology offers pure, natural audio reproduction with crisp digital surround sound acoustics that delivers the sound precisely at ear level.

MP3 PLAYBACK

Plug your iPod® or other mobile music device into the Outback's auxiliary audio input jack, and your digital music plays through the audio system. Models with the navigation system also provide a visual input jack to connect other devices.

Dolby, Pro Logic II and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved. SRS, SRS Circle Surround Automotive, and symbol are trademarks of SRS Labs, Inc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of BluetoothSIG, Inc. USA. iPod is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc.