KUALA LUMPUR: The Subaru Outback was launched here today, priced at RM224,846.30.
The Outback was the world’s first crossover, successfully combining the benefits of a passenger estate car with the all-road capabilities of an SUV.
The key highlights of the fifth-generation SUV are:
> Revamped chassis, steering, suspension and brakes
> New crossover look with a bold body shape, bigger tires and muscular fenders
> Enhanced off-road performance with Symmetrical AWD system and X-MODE
> Improved Active and Passive safety systems
It gets a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder boxer engine producing 173hp and 235Nm of torque and all-wheel drive.
Power to all four wheels of the fully imported model is relayed via a Lineartronic CVT.
“The new model combines luxury with innovative Subaru technologies that enhance the driving experience, efficiency and safety. We hope this will make the Outback an excellent value statement for customers in the Asian region.”said Tan Chong International Ltd executive director Glenn Tan.
While maintaining the distinctive Subaru Outback identity, Subaru’s designers strove to make the new model more dynamic while keeping to its rugged crossover roots. From the front, the bumper-integrated hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights maintain consistency with other models in the Subaru family, while the profile is a subtle evolution of the existing Outback.
As well as enhancements to the external look of the vehicle, reduction in wind resistance has been achieved by improving airflow over the rear of the body which also makes a major contribution to reduced fuel consumption at high speeds.
The elegant, top-grade interior includes a dual-dial gauge cluster with a three-dimensional feel and a triple-spoke steering wheel with multifunction switches. Interior materials have been chosen to achieve a quality feel.
The latest upgrades have made the new Outback more practical than ever before, with more storage and cabin space, and greater room for all occupants. The boot capacity has increased 4.5 per cent against the outgoing model to 559 litres.
To improve comfort without undermining handling, the body frame shape has been redesigned to increase the rigidity of the rear suspension and its mounting positions on the chassis.
Aside from the Subaru’s unique Symmetrical AWD system, the new Outback is equipped with X-MODE, capable of enhancing driving performance on poor roads through integrated control of engine, four-wheel drive, braking, and other functions on slippery surfaces.
The traditional active and passive safety performance have also been enhanced. All airbags have been expanded and upgraded to give both the driver and passengers maximum safety.
During the development of the new model, Subaru looked to build on the Outback’s reputation as a vehicle that can go anywhere and do anything – qualities that have appealed to Outback buyers for over 20 years.
The Outback, named after the arid wilderness in Australia, is equipped with, among others, LED headlamps, paddle shifters. five airbags (inclusive of knee airbag), touchscreen multi-function display, Vehicle Dynamics Control, smart entry/push start button, Hill Descent Control, rear view canera, power rear gate and glass sunroof.
