New Subaru Outback will start at Rs. 26.08 lakhs in UK

The new Subaru Outback, the fifth-generation of the brand’s pioneering crossover, will go on sale in the UK from 1 April 2015 priced from £27,995 (on-the-road) (Rs. 26.08 lakhs). Introduced in 1995 as the first ever crossover and spawning a whole range of copy cat models ever since, the Outback has continued to successfully combine the virtues of a tourer with those of an SUV, winning over drivers with its practical, all-road nature.

The on the road price range of £27,995 to £32,995 (Rs. 30.73 lakhs) means the all-new Outback stays in the same price bracket as the outgoing version despite having new exterior design, a more spacious and higher quality interior and a range of advanced safety equipment and in-car technology. The new Outback also boasts a very generous standard specification.

There are two engines available in the UK – a pair of horizontally-opposed four-cylinder ‘Boxer’ engines, fitted deep in the engine bay to ensure a low centre of gravity for improved handling, despite the car’s raised ground clearance. Buyers can choose between a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, producing 150 PS and 350 Nm torque, or a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol unit, with power and torque outputs of 165 PS and 235 Nm respectively.

Diesel engines will be offered with either a six-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission; the 2.5-litre petrol engine is sold exclusively with Lineartronic.

There are two trim levels available in the UK – SE and SE Premium – which both offer a generous level of standard equipment.

SE models are equipped as standard with automatic LED headlamps and headlamp washers, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass, as well as a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, incorporating satellite navigation, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera. Petrol SE models also feature an emissions-reducing start-stop system and Subaru Intelligent Drive, which allows drivers to select different engine modes depending on road conditions for improved economy and performance.

SE Premium models add a sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate for added functionality.