Subaru releases 2013 Legacy, Outback details ahead of New York debuts

From AB


2013 SUBARU LEGACY® DEBUTS NEW POWERTRAIN, EYESIGHT™ DRIVER-ASSIST
SYSTEM AND REVISED STYLING

New, more powerful, more efficient Boxer engine

Up to 32 mpg highway – best of any midsize sedan with all-wheel drive

New, second-generation Lineartronic® continuously variable
transmission

Revised suspension for smoother, quieter ride with enhanced agility

New conveniences and audio features

Available EyeSight driver-assist system with:

Pre-Collision Braking

System Capable of Pedestrian Detection

Lane Departure and Sway Warning

Adaptive Cruise Control

NEW YORK, April 4, 2012– Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the
2013 Subaru Legacy. The 2013 Legacy is powered by either a 3.6-liter
H6 or a new, more efficient 2.5-liter 4-cylinder powertrain and debuts
revised styling as well as the new EyeSight driver-assist system.
Chassis enhancements improve both ride quality and agility in the 2013
Legacy, which also offers new amenities and audio capabilities.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy features a new, sportier front styling with new
headlights, grille and front bumper. The changes will further enhance
the appeal of the Subaru Legacy, which has sold in record numbers
since its 2010 redesign. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive,
the 2013 Subaru Legacy remains the most fuel-efficient midsize
all-wheel drive sedan in America. At the same time, the Legacy rewards
drivers with engaging performance and a high level of driving comfort
and offers outstanding safety performance. For added safety, the 2013
Legacy adds a new Brake Override system.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy remains a standout in the midsize field in
terms of roominess. At 103 cu. ft., the Legacy offers more total
passenger room than some of its competitors, and rear seat legroom
measures a generous 37.8 inches. The 14.7 cu. ft. trunk is on par with
front-wheel drive competitors, a significant achievement considering
that the Symmetrical AWD system requires packaging for a rear
differential and drive axles.

The Most Fuel-Efficient All-Wheel Drive Midsize Sedan with up to 32
MPG

The 2013 Legacy 2.5i models debut a new double-overhead-cam (DOHC) FB
series 2.5-liter 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. from the previous 2.5-liter SOHC
engine. More significant is that the new engine produces greater
low-end torque across a broad speed range, making the 2013 Legacy 2.5i
models more responsive in everyday driving.

The 2013 Legacy 2.5i offers a choice between a standard 6-speed manual
transmission and the second-generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously
variable transmission); the latter is standard on the 2.5i Premium and
Limited. The second-generation Lineartronic CVT offers more responsive
and quieter operation compared to the transmission it replaces.

The 2013 Legacy 3.6R continues with a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter
6-cylinder Boxer engine and 5-speed electronically controlled
automatic transmission. A downshift "blipping" feature adds
a sporty feel when using the Legacy 3.6R steering wheel paddle
shifters.

Although official EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available,
Subaru projects that the 2013 Legacy 2.5i with the Lineartronic CVT
will achieve 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 mpg combined, compared to
23/31/26 for the 2012 model. That makes the 2013 Legacy 2.5i
competitive with many midsize sedans that come only with front-wheel
drive.

Unlike a conventional automatic transmission that uses fixed gear
ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the lowest and
highest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT
continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to
keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. 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.

New EyeSight Driver-Assist System

The 2013 Legacy (and Outback®) 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.

The EyeSight system processes stereo images to identify the vehicles
traveling in front, as well as obstacles, traffic lanes and other
items. Below a speed differential of approximately 19 mph, EyeSight is
capable of detecting pedestrians or objects in the vehicle's path and
can activate in order to mitigate or even avoid the collision. Under
certain circumstances, Eyesight is able to bring the car to a complete
stop.*

At relative speeds above approximately 19 mph, EyeSight can apply the
brakes when an object is detected, and will attempt to brake if the
driver takes no evasive action, or does not brake appropriately, to
help mitigate collision damage.

The Lane Departure and Sway Warning feature can detect if the car
begins to wander outside the intended lane without a turn signal being
used, or if the car begins to sway within the travel lane. Intended
for freeway use, Eyesight's Adaptive Cruise Control system can
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and/or
accelerating the car as needed to maintain the driver-selected target
speed and traveling distance. Adaptive Cruise Control is operational
from 1-87 mph and can fully brake the vehicle to a stop if the system
"locks on" to a vehicle ahead. As an added convenience,
Adaptive Cruise Control assists the driver in heavy "stop and
go" freeway traffic by maintaining distance from the vehicle
ahead.

In heavy traffic conditions, EyeSight will also alert the driver when
the vehicle ahead has moved if he or she doesn't react within several
seconds. The technology can also help reduce collision damages by
cutting the throttle when it senses an obstacle in front, but the
accelerator pedal continues to be pushed.

Retuned Suspension Enhances Agility and Ride Quality

Numerous enhancements to the body structure, suspension and steering
give the Legacy a smoother and quieter ride for 2013, while also
delivering improved handling agility. Greater stiffness at key points
of the structure, including the front strut mounts and rear frame
rails, helps reduce the transmission of vibration while also
contributing to more responsive handling.

In tandem with the structural enhancements, Subaru has increased the
diameter of the double-wishbone rear suspension's sway bar and also
increased the spring and damper rates and bushing stiffness. As a
result, body roll has been reduced by up to 40 percent. The Legacy
driver will experience a more responsive, yet quieter vehicle
overall.

Increased Interior Comfort and Convenience

New seat fabric feels more comfortable and enhances comfort in the
2013 Legacy, while dark, glossy wood grain trim provides a luxurious
appearance on Limited models. Limited trim level models for 2013
feature a new rear-seat A/C outlet.

With the Keyless Access & Start system, the driver can unlock the
car by touching the door handle while carrying the remote control in a
pocket or purse. (The trunk also has an unlock touch sensor.) A
start/stop switch operates the ignition. A new electro-luminescent
instrument cluster in the Limited models integrates a 3.5-inch color
screen for the multi-information display, which also shows EyeSight
functions when the car is so equipped.

Three Trim Levels

The 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i is available in three trim levels – base,
Premium and Limited. The Legacy 3.6R is available in base and Limited.
The base 2.5i features a long roster of standard features, among them
Bluetooth® hands-free phone and streaming audio, a USB charging port,
steering wheel cruise control and audio switches; a 60/40 split
fold-down rear seat, electronic parking brake with Hill Holder System
and an automatic headlight function. The electronic Hill Holder System
holds the vehicle in place until the driver applies the throttle to
pull away from a stop.

Legacy Premium models add the Lineartronic CVT plus additional
amenities, including a 10-way power driver's seat (with power lumbar
support adjustment) and driver's auto up/down window; leather-wrapped
steering wheel and shifter; instrument panel storage bin with door;
ambient light for the overhead console, body-colored side mirrors and
17-in. alloy wheels (all 3.6R trim lines have 17-in. alloy wheels as
standard).

The 2013 Legacy Premium models offer three option packages: (1) The
All-Weather Package adds heated front seats and mirrors and a
windshield wiper de-icer; (2) power moonroof, and (3) The
harman/kardon® display-type premium audio system with standard XM®
Satellite Radio service (now with a 4-month free trial subscription
included), a 4.3-in. color display, and 440-watt high-performance
audio amplifier and 9 harman/kardon premium speakers, with subwoofer.

The Limited models feature perforated leather upholstery, dual zone
automatic climate control, the display-type harman/kardon premium
audio package, rear A/C duct, electro-luminescent gauges, and a 4-way
power front passenger seat. The Limited models also exclusively offer
an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with a rear vision
camera and XM® NavTraffic (now with a 4-month free trial subscription
included), among other features. (See "Updated Audio
Technology" section, below.)

Updated Audio Technology

The standard audio system in the Legacy 2.5i model is upgraded for
2013. New features include Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and
audio streaming, iPod® control capability and a USB port. The system
continues with an AM/FM stereo, single disc CD player, Radio Data
Broadcast System (RDBS), 3.5mm aux. input jack and 4 speakers. The
Premium trim level adds a pair of dash-mounted tweeters.

The top-level Legacy Limited models exclusively offer an optional new
navigation system that includes all of the features in the
harman/kardon audio package plus: touch-screen GPS navigation system
with 7.0-inch LCD display; voice activated controls and navigation; XM
NavTraffic (subscription required); rear vision camera, and an SD card
slot for convenient navigation map updates.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Three Different Types

Subaru offers three different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in
the 2013 Legacy line, each tailored to the type of transmission. In
Legacy 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the
Continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center
differential to distribute power a nominal 50/50 front to rear.
Slippage at either the front or rear wheels will cause the system to
send more power to the opposite wheels. Legacy 2.5i models equipped
with the Lineartronic CVT use Active Torque Split AWD. An
electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively
controls power distribution in response to driving conditions and
wheel slippage.

The 2013 Legacy 3.6R exclusively features the Variable Torque
Distribution (VTD) AWD system with a 5-speed electronic automatic
transmission. A planetary center differential works with an
electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer
clutch to manage power distribution. The VTD system normally sends
more power to the rear wheels (45:55) to enhance handling agility, and
it can continuously adjust power distribution in response to driving
and road conditions.

Subaru Safety

The Subaru Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure has been
proven for occupant protection in more than a decade of use. Inside,
the Legacy features standard front side pelvis/torso airbags and side
curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) combines stability and traction control
functions, and traction control works to augment the Symmetrical
All-Wheel Drive functionality. The 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) integrates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the
Brake Assist safety system that automatically applies maximum braking
pressure in an emergency stop.

The electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the
driver presses the accelerator pedal to pull away from a stop. New for
2013, a Brake Override system ensures that engine power will be cut
when both the brake and accelerator are pressed simultaneously.

Subaru produces a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and
SUVs, and for 2013 has also introduced the rear-wheel drive BRZ sports
car to its portfolio.

The Legacy 2.5GT model is discontinued for 2013.

About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy
Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the
company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600
dealers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured
in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive
Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a
backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For
additional information visit www.subaru.com.

* EyeSight is not designed as a substitute for due care and attention
to the road. The system may not react in every situation. There are
certain operational limitations, such as when weather conditions
obscure the view of the cameras. Finally, even with the advanced
technology used, a driver with good vision and who is paying attention
will always be the best safety system.


2013 SUBARU OUTBACK® DEBUTS NEW POWERTRAIN, EYESIGHT™ DRIVER-ASSIST
SYSTEM AND REVISED STYLING

New Boxer engine with higher power and better efficiency

Up to 30 mpg highway with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

New second-generation Lineartronic® CVT

Redesigned front styling

Smoother, quieter ride with 40% less body roll

New convenience and audio features

Available EyeSight driver-assist system with:

Pre-Collision Braking

System Capable of Pedestrian Detection

Lane Departure and Sway Warning

Adaptive Cruise Control

NEW YORK, April 4, 2012 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced
the 2013 Outback models, powered by a new, more efficient powertrain
and debuting the new EyeSight driver-assist system and revised
styling. Chassis enhancements improve both ride quality and agility in
the 2013 Outback, which also offers new amenities and
audio/infotainment capabilities.

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. The Outback continues with 8.7 inches of ground
clearance, which is higher than many crossovers and some dedicated
SUVs.

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 feel
more responsive in everyday driving.

Up to 30 MPG

Outback 2.5i and 2.5i Premium models offer a choice between a standard
6-speed manual transmission and the second-generation Lineartronic
CVT; the latter is standard on 2.5i Limited models. Outback 3.6R
models continue with a 256-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer
engine and 5-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
(continuously variable transmission) will achieve 24-mpg city/30 mpg
highway/26 mpg combined, up compared with the 22/29/24 for the 2012
model. Subaru also projects that the 2013 Outback will achieve a
5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA). The 2013 Outback models add a new Brake
Override system, and now an airbag deployment signals a fuel cutoff.

Unlike a conventional automatic transmission that uses fixed gear
ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the lowest and
highest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT
continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to
keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. 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.

New EyeSight Driver-Assist System

The 2013 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.

The EyeSight system processes stereo images to identify the vehicles
traveling in front, as well as obstacles, traffic lanes and other
items. Below relative speeds of approximately 19mph, EyeSight is
capable of detecting pedestrians or objects in the vehicle's path and
can activate in order to mitigate or even avoid the collision. Under
certain circumstances, Eyesight is able to bring the car to a complete
stop.*

At relative speeds above approximately 19 mph, EyeSight can apply the
brakes when an object is detected, and will attempt to brake if the
driver takes no evasive action, or does not brake appropriately, to
help mitigate collision damage.

The Lane Departure and Sway Warning feature can detect if the car
begins to wander outside the intended lane without a turn signal being
used, or if the car begins to sway within the travel lane. Intended
for freeway use, Eyesight's Adaptive Cruise Control system can
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and/or
accelerating the car as needed to maintain the driver-selected target
speed and traveling distance. Adaptive Cruise Control is operational
from 1-87 mph and can fully brake the vehicle to a stop if the system
"locks on" to a vehicle ahead. As an added convenience,
Adaptive Cruise Control assists the driver in heavy "stop and
go" freeway traffic by maintaining a safe distance from the
vehicle ahead.

In heavy traffic conditions, EyeSight will also alert the driver when
the vehicle ahead has moved if he or she doesn't react within several
seconds. The technology can also help reduce collision damage by
cutting the throttle when it senses an obstacle in front, but the
accelerator pedal continues to be pushed.

Blending the Best of Car and SUV

The Subaru Outback is smart-sized compared to other 2-row crossover
vehicles, featuring a mid-size interior in an easy-to-maneuver and
off-road-capable wagon. The 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.

Total passenger volume of 105.4 cu. ft. and maximum cargo capacity of
71.3 cu. ft. (with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded)
rivals that of larger, heavier vehicles. The Outback also features a
rear cargo area that is deeper and wider than in many SUVs.

Revised Suspension for Enhanced Agility, Smoother Ride

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. Greater stiffness at key
points of the structure, including the front strut mounts and rear
frame rails, helps to reduce transmission of vibration while also
contributing to more responsive handling.

In tandem with the structural enhancements, Subaru increased the
diameter of the double-wishbone rear suspension's sway bar and also
increased the spring and damper rates and bushing stiffness. As a
result, body roll has been reduced by up to 40 percent, and Subaru
tests show a significant increase in emergency handling maneuver
speed. The Outback driver will experience a more responsive, yet
quieter vehicle overall.

Enhanced Interior Comfort and Convenience

New, more comfortable seat fabric and a new light matte wood grain
trim provide a sophisticated appearance. The Outback Limited models
for 2013 offer a new Special Appearance Package option that provides a
new Keyless Access & Start system along with a two-position memory
system for the already-standard 10-way power driver's seat. With the
Keyless Access & Start system, the driver, while carrying the
remote control in a pocket or purse, can unlock the car by touching
the door handle button. The rear gate also has an unlock touch
sensor.

Also in the Limited models, a new electro-luminescent instrument
cluster integrates the 3.5-in. color screen for the multi-information
display, which also shows EyeSight functions when the car is so
equipped. Rear A/C outlets have also been added as standard to Limited
models, to make the standard 60/40 split-reclining rear seats an even
more hospitable place to be.

The Outback was the first crossover to feature as standard
factory-installed foldable roof crossbars. For 2013, a new adjustable
design allows the rear crossbar to be moved rearward to carry longer
items; the distance between the front and rear bars can now be
increased from the standard 29.9 inches up to 39.7 inches. This
enhancement, made as a direct result of Outback owner feedback, allows
greater ease in carrying longer items like kayaks and other outdoor
gear on the already easy-to-use roof rack system.

Three Trim Levels

The 2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i models are available in three trim levels
– base, Premium and Limited. Outback 3.6R models will be offered in
base and Limited. The base 2.5i features a long roster of standard
features, among them steering wheel cruise control and audio switches;
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming capability; a 60/40
split fold-down rear seat with recline feature; electronic parking
brake with Hill Holder System and an automatic headlight function.

Outback Premium models add additional amenities, including a 10-way
power driver's seat (with power lumbar support adjustment) and
driver's auto up/down window; leather-wrapped steering wheel and
shifter (CVT); instrument panel storage bin with door; ambient light
for the overhead console; body-colored side mirrors and 17-in. alloy
wheels (all 3.6R trim lines have 17-in. alloy wheels as standard).

The Premium models offer three option packages. (1) The All-Weather
Package adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper
de-icer. (2) The Power Moonroof Package with Rear Vision Camera also
includes an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink garage-remote
function. (3) The harman/kardon® display-type premium audio system
with standard XM® satellite radio service (4-month free trial
subscription included), a 4.3-in. color display, and 440-watt
high-performance audio amplifier and 9 harman/kardon premium speakers,
with subwoofer.

The Limited trim lines add to the Premium a standard Lineartronic CVT,
perforated leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control,
the display-type harman/kardon Premium Audio Package, rear A/C ducts,
electro-luminescent gauges and a 4-way power front passenger seat. The
Limited models also exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS
navigation system with a 7-in. LCD display, Rear Vision Camera and XM
NavTraffic, among other features. (See "Updated Audio
Technology" section, below.)

Updated Audio Technology

The standard audio system in the Outback 2.5i models is upgraded for
2013. New features include Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and
audio streaming, iPod® control capability and a USB port. The system
continues with an AM/FM stereo, single disc CD player, Radio Data
Broadcast System (RDBS), 3.5mm aux. input jack and 4 speakers.

The top-level Outback Limited models exclusively offer an optional new
navigation system with premium audio. In addition to all of the
features in the harman/kardon Premium Audio Package, this option
includes: touch-screen GPS navigation system with 7.0-inch LCD
display; voice activated controls and navigation; XM NavTraffic
(subscription required); Rear Vision Camera, and an SD card slot for
convenient navigation map updates.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Three Different Types

Subaru offers three different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in
the 2013 Outback line, each tailored to the type of transmission. In
Outback 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the
Continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center
differential to distribute power a nominal 50/50 front to rear.
Slippage at either the front or rear wheels will cause the system to
send more power to the opposite wheels.

Outback 2.5i models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT use Active
Torque Split AWD. An electronically managed continuously variable
transfer clutch actively controls power distribution in response to
driving conditions and wheel slippage.

The Outback 3.6R uses the Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) AWD
system with a 5-speed electronic automatic transmission. A planetary
center differential works with an electronically controlled
continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power
distribution. The VTD system normally sends more power to the rear
wheels (45:55) to enhance handling agility, and it can continuously
adjust power distribution in response to driving and road conditions.

Subaru Safety

The Subaru Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure has been
proven for occupant protection in more than a decade of use. Inside,
the Outback features standard front side pelvis/torso airbags and side
curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) combines stability and traction control
functions, and traction control works to augment the Symmetrical
All-Wheel Drive functionality. The 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) integrates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the
Brake Assist safety system that automatically applies maximum braking
pressure in an emergency stop. The electronic Hill Holder System holds
the vehicle in place until the driver presses the accelerator pedal to
pull away from a stop. New for 2013, a Brake Override system ensures
that engine power will be cut when both the brake and accelerator are
pressed simultaneously.

Subaru produces a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and
SUVs, and for 2013 has also introduced the rear-wheel drive BRZ sports
car to its portfolio.
 
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