2010 Subaru Outback Previewed
Posted on 09. Apr, 2009 by ryan in News
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If you thought that the 2010 Subaru Legacy was a shocker (pleasant or otherwise), wait until you feast your eyes on this: the 2010 Subaru Outback. Probably possibly the most extreme Legacy makeover since the BD chassis (1994+) was introduced, the 2010 redesign features a new level of luxury on the inside and significant improvements under the metal. Even the back seats can now handle full-size adults, with an increase of 4-inches for back-seat passengers. This is progress.
The top-spec motor is pulled out of last year’s Tribeca. This is the same 3.6-liter, 6-cylinder mill that runs on regular fuel and puts out 256-hp (247 lb.-ft torque.) It comes attached to the same old 5-speed automatic transmission that’s been kicking around for a while. The volume-selling 2.5i Outback features the Impreza’s 170-hp 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder either attached to a 6-speed manual box or Subaru’s new “Lineartronic” chain-type constantly-variable transmission (CVT) which features a paddle-shifting manual mode.
Power is put to the ground courtesy of Subaru’s many all-wheel drive systems, which all share the same symmetrical design. The 2.5i gets either the viscous-coupling 50:50 center-locking differential (manual) or Active AWD with electronically managed, continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch (CVT). Owners of the 3.6R enjoy Subaru’s most advanced Outback all-wheel drive system: a planetary gear-type center differential with electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch (45:55) that responds to driving conditions. This latter system is also known simply as “VTD”. All models of the new Outback also receive Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system with traction control.
Soft-roaders will appreciate the new 8.7-inches of ground clearance (increase of 0.4-inches over the 2009 model) in addition to a wider track (increase of 2-inches) and a nifty swing-out roof rail system (reduces wind noise when not in use.) Everyone else will dig the optional 440-watt Harman-Kardon audio system, voice-activated GPS navigation with back-up camera and the better-late-than-never option of Bluetooth connectivity with Bluetooth audio streaming.
What used to be nothing more than a sticker and trim package on the standard Legacy has grown into a full-fledged model of its own. The look, feel and effect over the standard Legacy is now decidedly different: It appears to have matured into a proper outdoor vehicle. We’ll have a full review to determine exactly how this new model shapes up in a future issue of Subiesport Magazine.
(4 votes, average: 4.75 out of 5)
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Spineless
09. Apr, 2009
Awesome, this is definately a whole new Outback. The new changes would definately improve the ride comfort for our 6′ tall children. The addition of bluetooth audio streaming is a nice touch, as we already have a spaghetti factory of phone chargers in our car.
Jesse
09. Apr, 2009
I thought they used up all the Ugly on the new Legacy… I guess they found more hidden in the back of the warehouse and went “well, it’d be a shame to waste it…”
Honestly, you could rebadge this as an Acura, and people would just think it’s an ugly Acura
Pete
01. May, 2009
Having a 05 LGT and 03 Outback I ditto the Ugly!!! Where are car designers for the front and back ends in the same room! Sales of the previous model should increase. The fact that only a CVT is available and that the list of former cars with CVT’s, should be an indication of the future problems Subaru will have with this car. I’ll wager the tranny will be replaced soon with a standard auto. As most companies have discontinued them. This will be Subaru’s ‘Aztec’ At least when your in the car you can’t see it, unless you pass one of those reflective window buildings.
Mike
26. Jun, 2009
sweeeeeeeett ride!!! Pity u cant get the 3.6 lt engine turbo charged. Or can you….?
Teneo
05. Jul, 2009
I test drove the new ‘10 Outback this weekend. It looks way better in person than on the Web. Itis definitely bigger on the inside and has a better stance than the ‘09. I drove the 2.5 CVT and I was surpised by the power it had, I currently have a ‘03 Infiniti G35 and while not as fast or powerful @ 90 less horsepower it was more than adequate. Over all the car is more substantial than the out going model.
Greg
14. Jul, 2009
TOYOTA VENZA LOOK A LIKE !!!!!!!
phil
20. Jul, 2010
problems, bluetooth after replacement of two bluetooth radios, still not working not a nice touch, and several recalls later on my 2010, Not happy.