Subaru introduces all-new 2010 Outback at New York International Auto Show
Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce the debut of the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback at the New York International Auto Show. The fourth generation of the Outback is roomier and more capable - moving this versatile vehicle outside the scope of easy categorization just as the first Outback did 15 years ago. Distinguished by bolder and crisper styling, the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback delivers enhanced performance, comfort, and fuel economy with the introduction of an all-new chassis and the new Subaru Lineartronic(TM) CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Capability is enhanced with a segment-first swing-out roof rail and crossbar design and more ground clearance.
Building on the tremendous success of previous generations, the 2010 Outback caters to a wide variety of customer tastes and needs. Available with two engines and a variety of packages-the entry-level PZEV, the 2.5i Sport or Limited package and the 3.6R or Limited package-the new Outback is an outstanding example of packaging efficiency, with mid-size interior volume inside the easy-to-manoeuvre and off-road-capable 5-door body. Subaru engineers have increased interior volume by almost 8 percent in a package that is actually shorter than the outgoing model.
In addition, Subaru's Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive is standard equipment on every vehicle it sells. This award-winning performance and safety-enhancing system significantly distinguishes the Outback from would-be competitors, and is crucial to Outback's outstanding reputation for dynamic off-road ability and spirited on-road performance.
Bold New Design and New Level of Interior Comfort
True to the original concept, the new Outback maintains the benefits of both a passenger car and SUV positioned as a unique and capable alternative. The new functional moulded lower valence and side skirts hint at the Outback's improved capability and are more durable for off-road adventures. The 2010 Outback also has a greater road presence with a wider track and expressive wheel arches. Ground clearance on the new model has been increased to 220mm (8.7 inches).
The 2010 Outback interior is not only more spacious, but takes another step up in refinement. The 4-dial instrument panel is augmented by a multi-information display with trip computer. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including a new 3-spoke steering wheel. A new driver-selectable electronic parking brake (with the electronic Hill Holder System) eliminates the traditional parking brake handle, freeing up space in the centre console.
Seat comfort, long a Subaru strong point, is further enhanced in the 2010 Outback with new front and rear seat designs. The rear seat includes a new recline feature. The front seatback shape also provides extra rear-seat knee room, and the front-seat cushion design allows more rear-seat foot room.
Efficient New Powertrains
The 2010 Outback PZEV and 2.5i models are powered by a revised 2.5-litre 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine, teamed for the first time with a new 6-speed manual transmission or the optional new Lineartronic(TM) CVT. The Lineartronic(TM) CVT is also equipped with a "6-speed" manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters. The 2.5-litre engine is modified for 2010 to improve performance, driveability, and fuel economy. The engine delivers 170 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. All Outback models for 2010 feature a larger fuel tank, now 70 litres (18.5 gallons) vs. 64 litres (16.9).
Whether teamed with the new 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic(TM) CVT, the roomier 2010 Outback provides quicker acceleration and lower fuel consumption. The new 3.6-litre H6 engine produces 256 horsepower and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque, and does so using regular-grade fuel.
New Level of Comfort and Convenience in All Models
Standard comfort and available luxury are increased across the Outback line for 2010. The entry-level PZEV, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise controls, heated front seats, power-adjustable heated door mirrors, power driver's seat, fully automatic headlights, and auxiliary input audio jack. A standard multi-function display with onboard computer provides readouts for mileage/range and outside temperature.
Underscoring its versatility and attention to detail, every 2010 Outback is also equipped with an innovative new roof rack system. Its integral crossbars swing into position only when needed. Stowing the crossbars in the roof rails when they're not needed helps to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise by lowering overall wind resistance.
To this extensive list of standard equipment, the new Outback 2.5i Sport and 3.6R add a standard windshield wiper de-icer, power sliding moonroof with sunshade, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, a media hub with complete iPod and USB integration, voice activated "Blueconnect" Bluetooth(R) hands free phone system and SIRIUS(R) Satellite Radio with a 3-month trial subscription.
A Limited Package may be fitted to the 2.5i Sport and 3.6R models. This includes automatic dual-zone climate control, 6CD AM/FM/MP3/WMA premium audio system with 9 Harman Kardon(R) speakers, woodgrain interior trim, leather upholstery, and a power front passenger seat. A Multimedia option may be added to the 2.5i Limited Package and 3.6R Limited Package, including a multimedia centre with CD/DVD player, voice-activated navigation system with backup camera, screen displayed voice activated Bluetooth(R) connectivity, and streaming Bluetooth(R) audio.
The Subaru Safety Story
The Outback, like all Subaru models, has consistently earned top scores in government and insurance industry crash tests. Subaru's Advanced Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models, again forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety. The 2010 Outback models also include standard front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to detect the presence and weight of a front passenger and also the driver's distance from the steering wheel.
New in the 2010 Outback, high-strength front seat frames provide enhanced protection against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision. With the entire seat optimized for a rear-end collision, Subaru replaced the previous active front head restraints with a more comfortable design.