Subaru has always been a niche company and going mainstream with the new Legacy and Outback is a risky challenge. But judging from what we drove, it looks promising. The put those new editions together, Subaru took an already good vehicle and tighten all the bolts a little more.
Better fuel economy
With the base 4 cylinder PZEV engine, we were able to achieve an average on 9.5 liters per 100 km during our week of testing. PZEV stands for Partial Zero Emission Vehicle. This designation is awarded to vehicles that meet strict emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board and comply with the Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle tailpipe. Simply put, Subaru’s PZEV is 90% has 90% cleaner emissions and runs on regular unleaded gas.
Better technology
The PZEV engine is mated with a new six-speed manual transmission or the optional new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This production-car first -longitudinally paired with AWD that uses a chain instead of a belt – allows for a near infinite selection of gear ratios, keeping the engine in the most favourable rpm range at all times. The engine is also fitted with an i-Active Valve Lift System to ensure a broader torque curve and smoother response. There is also new rear double-wishbone suspension, which not only improves the chassis dynamics but also opens up rear cargo space. With the standard Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive both the Outback and the Legacy felt rooted to the road, even road covered with snow.
Better Safety equipment
The whiplash-reducing front seats are specially designed to lessen impact in a rear-end collision by absorbing energy and better supporting the body and head to minimize the risk of injury. The advanced ring-shaped reinforcement frame creates a uniform, interconnected safety cell comprised of the roof, door beams, side pillars and floor. That technology has earn Subaru a five star rating for collision for all the vehicles in the family. Every Outback and Legacy comes standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), a system that uses a network of sensors to monitor and analyze if the vehicle is following the driver's intended course. VDC automatically adjusts torque distribution*, engine output and the brakes at each wheel to keep your vehicle within the limits of stability. (*LineartronicT CVT and 5EAT SS only)
Better than the previous generation
I will admit that the Subaru Outback is not for the performance oriented driver, even in the H6 version. The GT version of the Legacy will be the one for you want in that matter. But overall there smooth, roomy and comfortable. It’s well priced, well equipped and arguably the best winter vehicle around.
Technical data
ENGINES
(2.5i, PZEV)
H4 2,5 l SOHC, 170 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 170 ft-pi @ 4000 rpm
Transmission 6 speed manual,
CVT (option)
0-100 km/h 10,2 s
Top speed: 200 km/h
Fuel Economy (100 km) man. 9,0 l, CVT 7,8 (octane 91)
(2.5 GT LEGACY)
H4 2,5 l turbo DOHC, 265 hp à 5600 rpm
Torque 258 ft-pi @ 5200 rpm
Transmission 6 speed manual
0-100 km/h Legacy 6,2 s
Top speed 210 km/h
Fuel Economy (100 km) man. 9,8 l (octane 91)
(3.6R)
H6 3,6 l DOHC, 256 hp à 6000 rpm
Torque 247 ft-pi à 4400 rpm
Transmission 5 speed automatic
0-100 km/h 8,0 s
Top speed 210 km/h
Fuel Economy (100 km) 10,1 l (octane 87)
Tires : Legacy 2.5i/ 2.5i PZEV P205/60R16, option 2.5i
P215/50R17 3.6R P225/50R17 2.5GT P225/45R18
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase : 2750 mm
Lenght 4735 mm
Width : 1820 mm
Height 1505 mm
Curb weight 2.5i man. 1485 kg 2.5i auto. 1534 kg 2.5 GT 1580 kg
3.6R 1598 kg
Turning radius: 11,2 m
Trunk : 415 l
Fuel capacity : 70 l
Prices : From 23 995 to 38 995$
