7 February 2011
Subaru has added the Luxury tagline to its already 'busy' model selection with the introduction of an upgraded 2.5 litre version in both the Outback and Legacy '07 range.
Another major point of difference to the upgraded Legacy and Outback models is the debut of a new SI-DRIVE system and the accompanying punch line '3 engines in 1'.
SI-Drive is an abbreviation for Subaru Intelligent Drive, a system that electronically adjusts the engine and transmission control units as well as the throttle to provide three different engine settings ranging from economy, everyday driving and high performance modes. A rotary / push button within easy reach of the driver allows easy switching to the preferred mode. In addition, the instrument panel includes an SI-Drive Multi Function Display. This communicates vehicle performance in the different modes including an economy gauge and Shift-up indicator (manual only).
By selecting 'Intelligent' mode the engine adopts a frugal fuel economy personality which is best suited for around town driving and produces a claimed ten percent fuel saving. Everyday driving, which covers most conditions one would expect in day-to-day motoring, is achieved by selecting 'Sport' Mode. For the ultimate high performance 'Sports Sharp' mode is available. Our experience using SI-Drive during our recent press drive with Subaru NZ, showed a significant change in the vehicles performance depending on the mode selected confirming the '3 engines in 1' marketing claim has credibility.
SI-Drive is available on all 3.0 litre and 2.0 litre turbocharged GT models.
The 3.0 litre 'flat' six cylinder Legacy and Outback models also benefit from a two to four percent increase in torque between 1200 rpm and 2800 rpm.
Major differences between the newly introduced 2.5i litre Luxury model for both Outback and Legacy over the base 2.5i variant are; curtain airbags, tinted rear windows, leather upholstery and power drivers seat with dual memory settings.
The exterior facelift for the entire 07 range include changes to headlights, grilles, bumper, fog/tail lights and alloy wheels. All models run 17-inch wheels apart from the Legacy 3.0 litre and 2.0 litre GT, which come standard with 18-inch rims.
Standard on every model is a six-stacker in-dash CD Player that is MP3and WMA compatible while the 3.0 litre and 2.0 litre GT Legacy range gains an improved McIntosh premium audio unit and an additional 70mm dashboard centre speaker, taking the speaker count to fourteen.
All 3.0 litre variants and Legacy GT models include audio controls on the steering wheel, paddle gearshift (auto only), self-levelling bi-xenon headlights and dual-zone climate control air-conditioning.
Subaru's trademark symmetrical All Wheel Drive system is standard across the range, as is their reputation for safety with retention of a five star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety, from the Australian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP).
Vehicle Dynamics Control (electronic stability control) is understandably fitted to the 2.0 litre turbo charged GT Legacy, which adds to the active safety package. A little harder to fathom is why Subaru have chosen to add this feature to only one other model, the Outback 3.0R Limited.
The confusion continues with another safety feature, Brake Assist, a system designed to provide maximum braking force in the event of a panic stop, being fitted to all models with the exception of the Legacy 3.0 litre and the Japanese domestic market sourced 2.0 litre GT.
Enhancements to body rigidity include a reinforced engine bay strut tower, a larger firewall corner panel and reinforcement of the sill at the A-pillar base. These measures also help in the reduction of cabin noise, vibration and harshness.
All Legacy and Outback are equipped with the latest advanced engine immobilisers and DataDot theft protection. For added security, all models have only one barrel lock, located in the drivers door.
The Legacy range commences with the 2.0R priced from $37,990. The 2.5i starts at $41,990 while the 2.5i Luxury model debuts from $44,990. The six cylinder 3.0R spec.B is $58,990 and the range topping GT spec.B starts at $59,990.
Outback pricing begins at $43,990 with the Luxury model from $47,990. The 3.0 litre pricing starts at $55,990.
For those passionate about the Subaru product, their model line up is no doubt easily understood, but for potential newcomers to the brand, we suggest you take some time to study the various models, options available and the terminology used as it can in our view, be more than a little confusing.
Its worth the effort though, once you have made your selection, you wont be disappointed.