Subaru of America will introduce the 2013 Outback models at the New York International Auto Show. The 2013 Outback features a restyled front end, with new headlights, grille, front bumper, and fog lights, for a more powerful appearance. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive distinguishes the Outback from crossover competitors, which generally offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option. Numerous enhancements to the body structure, suspension, and steering give the Outback an even smoother and quieter ride for 2013; while also helping increase handling agility. Body roll has been reduced by up to 40 percent. The Subaru Outback provides the crisp car-like handling with the versatility of an SUV. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance is higher than for many large SUVs and crossovers while maintaining a low step-in height.
The 2013 Outback 2.5i models debut a new double-overhead-cam (DOHC) 2.5-liter FB series Boxer engine for increased performance and fuel efficiency. The new engine produces 173 hp and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, compared to 170 hp and 170 lb.-ft. with the previous engine. More significant is that the new engine produces greater low-end torque across a broad speed range, making the 2013 Outback 2.5i models more responsive in everyday driving. Outback 2.5i and 2.5i Premium models offer a choice between a standard six-speed manual transmission and the second-generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission).
Models with the CVT also feature a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios. Outback 3.6R models continue with a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine and five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. Official EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available, but Subaru projects that the 2013 Outback 2.5i with the Lineartronic CVT will achieve 24-mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined, up compared with the 22/29/24 for the 2012 model.
The 2013 Subaru Outback (and Legacy) models debut Subaru’s new EyeSight driver-assist system, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. Projected to be one of the most affordable such technologies available in the U.S. market, EyeSight uses a stereo camera design developed by Subaru to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems.
