The 2013 Subaru Outback will formally debut at the NY Auto Show next week.
We almost don’t need to bother going to next week’s NY Auto Show. Almost. But while virtually everything planned for the media preview has already been previewed in advance there’s still nothing like checking out the sheet metal in person.
For now, though, enjoy these images of the latest offerings to break cover. Subaru previously revealed the new XV CrossTrek. Now, it’s providing pics of the new 2013 Legacy and Outback models, both getting moderately extensive updates.
But what may draw the closest attention is the fact that Subaru claims the 2013 Legacy will deliver segment-leading 32 mpg fuel economy.
Among other things, both updates will be offered with the maker’s new EyeSight system, a lower-cost way of providing such advanced safety systems as Adaptive Cruise Control, Vehicle Lane Departure Warnings and Pre-Collision Braking.
The 2.5-liter version of the 2013 Subaru Legacy will deliver 32 mpg on the highway.
(For a closer look at Subaru EyeSight, Click Here.)
More immediately, New York show-goers will notice some modest styling changes as well as improvements to the powertrains in both vehicles meant to both improve performance and enhance fuel economy.
Both models adopt a new front fascia. And there are modest improvements to the traditionally Spartan Subaru interiors. But the visual changes are, on the whole, modest, with more attention paid to beefing up the structure and retuning the suspension to give both the 2013 Legacy and Outback a more planted yet comfortable ride, the maker contends.
The big news, considering fuel prices could reach previous records in the coming days, is that the updated 2.5-liter boxer powered-version of the Legacy will deliver 32 mpg on the highway, which Subaru claims to be the best number for any midsize sedan with all-wheel-drive. The city mileage is 24 with a combined 27 mpg number likely to come closest to what owners will see day-to-day.
The Outback, with its 8.7-inches of ground clearance, sacrifices some fuel economy for its added flexibility but will still make 24 City/30 Highway and 26 Combined with the 2.5i mated to Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT gearbox.
For those with a passion for more performance, both the Legacy and Outback will be available with Subaru’s 3.6-liter flat-six, making 256 hp. That’s mated to a 5-speed automatic and drives all four wheels – the new BRZ being the only Subaru now in the line-up that doesn’t offer AWD.
Along with the new EyeSight system, Subaru belatedly adds Bluetooth hands-free calling to the 2013 Legacy and Outback models. A 6.5-inch navi display is, meanwhile, available on higher trim levels.
Subaru hasn’t released prices but officials signal the numbers will be “similar” to the outgoing line-up, which would mean something close to the current $20,745 for the Legacy 2.5i and $24,070 for the Outback 2.5i. Add another $775 for destination charges.