2015 Subaru Outback – Just enough changes

After the Subaru Legacy, it was time for the more versatile model in the range, the Subaru Outback, to be unveiled to the world. The launch took place at the New York Auto Show.

Although their names differ, the Legacy and Outback are essentially the same car, but the Outback offers a higher driving position, better ground clearance, and more versatility. On the other hand, the engines, technologies and interior are the same.

That is why the 2015 Subaru Outback shares many of its improvements with the Legacy unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show. In front, we notice new headlights decorated with stylish LEDs, a larger nose and bigger fog lights surrounded by plastic covers that add some toughness to the overall look.

From the side and the back however, the new model looks virtually the same as the current Outback. Note that the model as we know it has been very successful, so why change a winning recipe? The 2015 Outback also brings back the innovative roof rails that can quickly turn into horizontal bars and avoid the need to buy the accessory separately. It’s a small detail, but one that should be more widespread.

Inside, the center console and dashboard are a much-needed improvement compared with the current generation. It is more modern and the multimedia system can now compete with many of the Outback’s newer rivals. AWD is standard, of course, and only a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) will be offered.

The 2015 Subaru Outback will be offered with the same engines as the previous model. A four-cylinder, 2.5-liter base engine will develop 175 horsepower while a 3.6-liter V6 developing 256 horsepower will be optional. The four-cylinder model will remain fuel-efficient while the V6 will require less than 10.0 liters per 100 kilometers on average according to the Japanese manufacturer. That’s a significant improvement compared to the previous model.

The 2015 Subaru Outback will reach dealerships this summer.