2005 Subaru Outback Review

Specifications

Upscale Style and More Performance

What manufacturer is most responsible for the current crossover craze? While a few one-offs came along prior to recent trends, such as AMCs four-wheel drive Eagle and Toyotas all-wheel drive Tercel and Corolla wagons, the Subaru has made a tidy living purveying go-anywhere AWD mobility longer than any rival.

Its Outback is a crossover legend, still immensely popular in the snowbelt due to rugged good looks, luxurious appointments, enjoyable driving dynamics and an enviable reliability rating.

Time has come once again for the Japanese manufacturer to replace its most profitable model, and by all accounts of the new Outbacks Chicago auto show introduction last month the third-generation car raises its desirability threshold measurably.

The car will come in a variety of trim levels, starting with the base Outback 2.5i and followed closely by the Outback 2.5i Limited. Both 2005 models will be powered by a 168-hp 2.5-L horizontally opposed “boxer” engine, up 3-hp from the current 2004 Outback. Of course, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the line.

A six-cylinder version will also continue to be available. With power now up from 212-hp to 250 the 3.0-L horizontally opposed engine will be part of the Outback 3.0 R L.L. Bean Edition and flagship Outback 3.0 R VDC Limited.

Even more exciting, Subaru will add two new top-of-the-line Outbacks, a 2.5 XT and a 2.5 XT Limited. Each receives an intercooled/turbocharged 4-cylinder boxer engine delivering 250-horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, derived from the brands rally winning Impreza WRX.

“By offering new high-performance, premium-content Outback models, Subaru is positioned to compete with the growing number and diversity of crossover vehicles,” commented Fred Adcock, Executive Vice President, Subaru of America, Inc. “And, quite simply, the Outback 2.5 XT is designed to be the ultimate performance crossover wagon.”

Like the current model, the 2005s are expected to boast excellent ride and handling dynamics. The new Outback incorporates a longer wheelbase, wider track, lower center of gravity, and a reduction in overall curb weight by 180 pounds.

Despite the improved performance, the 2005 Outback features increased ground clearance and a taller “command” seating position. Its interior space is maximized due to a slightly longer wheelbase, now 105.1 inches compared to the current cars 104.3 inches.

Front seat side impact airbags and side curtain airbags are expected to be standard, as will be new intelligent dual-stage deployment front airbags that incorporate sensors to detect the size and weight of the front passenger before deploying. The drivers side airbag also detects the distance the driver is sitting from the steering wheel and adjusts deployment accordingly.

Whats more, the new car incorporates active front head restraints for reducing potential whiplash injuries during impact. A similar system, developed and sold by Volvo, has been proven to dramatically reduce neck injury caused by rear impact accidents.

If youre interested, Subaru has created a new website at www.need-desire.com, for revealing Outback details as they become available. The actual car isnt expected to arrive until this coming spring.

Sporting stylishly upscale sheetmetal, more luxury and greater performance, Subaru doesnt look like it will hand over its crossover crown anytime soon.