SUBARU EXPANDS TRENDSETTING OUTBACK LINE FOR 2007

New 2.5 i Basic Model Expands Market Reach With Lower Entry Price Point

• New SI-Drive on Turbo Model Offers Selectable Engine Performance
• Two New L.L.Bean Edition Models with Navigation
• New Audio System Offers Satellite Radio Capability

Subaru of America, Inc. for 2007 is expanding the market reach of its trend-setting Outback line, the vehicle that launched the crossover category more than a decade ago. The Outback line for 2007 introduces a new value-equipped entry model, the 2.5 i Basic. In addition, the new 2.5 i L.L.Bean Edition and 2.5 i Limited L.L.Bean Edition models, featuring the 2.5 i powertrain and standard navigation system, join the 6-cylinder 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition flagship model.

All Subaru models comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a significant all-road, all-weather traction advantage over competitors that offer front-wheel drive as standard and make All-Wheel Drive an extra-cost option. The 6-cylinder Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition becomes the flagship model, inheriting the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability system from the discontinued 3.0 R VDC Limited. The sole turbocharged Outback model for 2007, the 2.5 XT Limited, also gains the VDC stability system. This high-performance model is now LEV 2 emissions certified, due to a new turbocharger and other engine revisions.

All Outback audio systems for 2007 feature MP3/WMA CD playback and an auxiliary audio input jack for iPods and other portable audio devices. The Outback 2.5 i Limited, 2.5 XT Limited and all L.L.Bean Edition models feature upgraded audio system with SRS® WOW technology, and all Outback audio systems offer XM Satellite Radio Capability for 2007.

A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has been added to all Outback models for 2007 (except the new 2.5 i Basic), and all models with an automatic transmission now come factory pre-wired for a remote engine starter system. A new two-piece flexible flywheel helps make performance smoother in all Outback models equipped with a manual transmission.

The Subaru Outback has earned the highest rating in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests. The Outback received 5-star ratings in both the frontal and side-impact crash tests for both the driver and passenger seating positions. In addition, the Outback earned the highest rating (“Good”) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for front, side and rear crash tests.

Getting Back to Basics
Outback was the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon® when it was introduced for the 1995 model year. melding passenger car and SUV attributes, such as generous ground clearance and a command-seating position. Outback quickly became basic equipment for a generation of outdoors enthusiasts who needed all-road capability and SUV-like versatility but with the comfort, handling and fuel economy of a passenger car. Since then, Subaru has expanded the Outback line, offering a wide range of choices up to powerful, sophisticated high-end models, including sedan versions of the 2.5 i Limited and 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition.

For 2007, the new Outback 2.5 i Basic brings back the original idea of being a smart, economical SUV alternative for customers who put a priority on outdoor enjoyment. Like all Subaru models, the Outback 2.5 i Basic is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which powers all four wheels all the time and automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. Also contributing to its all-road, all weather capability is the generous 8.4 inches of ground clearance.

A review of the extensive standard equipment list will confirm that the 2007 Outback 2.5 i Basic is anything but basic in comfort. Compared to the standard Outback 2.5 i Wagon, the new Outback 2.5 i Basic substitutes 16-inch styled steel wheels for 17-inch alloy wheels, and, at its lower price point, gives up the power driver’s seat and All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, windshield wiper defroster and limited-slip rear differential). Standard safety features shared with all Outback models include a 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags.

New 2.5 i L.L.Bean Edition Models for 2007
Subaru has offered a 6-cylinder Outback L.L.Bean Edition since the 2001 model year and added a Forester L.L.Bean Edition for 2005. For 2007, this successful co-branding extends to two additional Outback models, both powered by the 175-hp 2.5-liter Boxer engine.

The Outback 2.5 i L.L.Bean Edition comes equipped with a navigation system and an automatic climate control system as standard. In addition to L.L.Bean branding, this model also features the same wheel design as the flagship Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition. The new Outback 2.5 i Limited L.L.Bean Edition builds on that package, adding more amenities from the 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition, including the distinctive two-tone dark taupe leather-trimmed upholstery with taupe bolsters and L.L.Bean logo embossed seats.

New SI-Drive for Outback 2.5 XT Limited: Three Engines in One
The Outback 2.5 XT Limited is powered by a 2.5-liter intercooled turbo Boxer engine that produces 243 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 241 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 3,600 rpm. Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing optimizes power at all engine speeds. A functional hood scoop supplies air to the engine-mounted intercooler. The new SI-Drive system allows the driver to maximize engine performance, control and efficiency by choosing from among three selectable modes – “Intelligent,” “Sport” and “Sport Sharp” – using a rotary dial on the center console.

The SI-DRIVE system enables three distinctively different modes of vehicle performance characteristics by regulating the engine control unit (as well as the transmission control unit in automatic transmission models), and by fine-tuning the electronically controlled throttle. With Intelligent mode selected, the system reduces engine torque and maximum power and switches to a more relaxed throttle response curve. Intelligent mode is an ideal choice for smoother response while commuting in traffic, for example, where it can also help boost fuel efficiency by up to 10 percent. In addition, Intelligent mode’s more relaxed responses and lower torque output make it an ideal complement to the low-traction surface driving safety provided by the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System.

In “Sport” mode, performance is similar to the 2006 model, with quick throttle responses and powerful, linear acceleration. In “Sport Sharp” mode, SI-Drive modifies the engine’s electronic throttle mapping to deliver lightning-quick throttle response and more power sooner. Delivering maximum driving enjoyment, this mode is ideal for tackling twisty roads and for merging or overtaking other vehicles on the highway with confidence.

With the optional 5-speed automatic transmission, SI-Drive also changes the transmission’s shift patterns. It will hold each gear longer through the rpm range and downshift more quickly under hard acceleration, depending on the mode selected. The SI-Drive system includes instrument panel displays that allow the driver to monitor performance. The multi-information display located in the tachometer face – in addition to providing trip computer functions – denotes the selected SI-Drive mode and provides an active torque curve display. An ECO gauge helps encourage efficient driving habits. When “Intelligent” mode is selected in the manual transmission model, a shift-up indicator blinks to signal the optimal shift point for maximum fuel efficiency.

More Power Choices
The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine that powers all Outback 2.5 i models is among the most powerful in its displacement category, with 175 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 169 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift system helps to ensure responsive performance at all engine speeds. This engine is unique in that it offers Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle certification in California, Massachusetts, Maine, New York and Vermont with the same power output as the 45-state certified model. In contrast, many PZEV-compliant vehicles sacrifice some power to achieve zero evaporative emissions.

The Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition Sedan and Wagon models are exclusively powered by a 3.0-liter DOHC 6-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 245 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 215 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm. The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing system, in concert with Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) technology, helps optimize power at all engine speeds.

Offering both the turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer and 6-cylinder Boxer Outback models gives customers a choice between two distinct kinds of high-performance driving: the 6-cylinder 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models provide a linear power feeling that is characteristic of a higher-displacement engine; the turbocharged Outback 2.5 XT Limited offers a more sporty and exciting type of engine performance, now especially enhanced with the addition of SI-DRIVE for 2007. The turbo engine also offers outstanding performance at high altitudes, where changes in atmospheric pressure reduce the power output of naturally aspirated engines.

A 5-speed electronic direct control automatic transmission is standard on the Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean models. The Outback 2.5 XT models come equipped with a standard 5-speed manual transmission and offer the 5-speed automatic as an option. With the automatic, the SPORTSHIFT feature allows manual shift control from the console-mounted shifter and, on the Outback 2.5 XT Limited, steering wheel shift buttons, as well.

Premium Design, Outside and In
The third-generation Outback design expresses its dynamic performance and nimbleness. The pronounced wedge body shape conveys a strong and stable presence, accentuated by aerodynamic side ground effects, pronounced wheel arches and protective side cladding.

Premium design details include glass-look D-pillars on wagons, an extensive color palette featuring several two-tone and monochromatic choices, judicious use of chrome trim, a rear gate spoiler and raised black-letter tires. Outback 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L.Bean models feature body-color exterior mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.

Inside the Outback, flush surface treatments, a soft foam upper dashboard, and soft foam door trim all provide a premium appearance and ambience. The two-tone color arrangement uses high-quality cloth upholstery for the Outback 2.5 i Basic, 2.5 i and 2.5 i L.L.Bean Edition models, and leather-trimmed upholstery for all others. The 2.5 i Limited models, 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L.Bean add numerous desirable amenities.

All Outback models feature a standard trip computer. On the 2.5 XT Limited, it is integrated with the SI-DRIVE display in the instrument cluster. The trip computer is part of the navigation system on models so equipped. On all other models, it is combined with a digital clock display located in the center of the dashboard. Some of its functions and displays include outside air temperature, fuel consumption, driving range and estimated driving time. The Outback 2.5 XT Limited exclusively features an electroluminescent LED (light-emitting diode) gauge display.

A power glass moonroof is standard on all Limited models and the 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition. On wagons, it is a large dual-panel design that provides a single large opening when the tilt-up front section and retracting rear section are opened. The sedan models feature a single-panel power glass moonroof. A navigation system is standard on the 2.5-liter Outback L.L.Bean models and is available on the Outback 2.5 XT Limited with automatic transmission and the Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models.

Chassis Designed for Performance, Ruggedness and Comfort
Outback models offer the rugged, go-anywhere capability that Subaru customers want while also providing the crisp handling response and smooth, quiet ride comfort expected in a premium model. _The stiff unitized body structure makes extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum, as well _as advanced construction techniques including hydroforming and tailored-blank welding. The multilink rear suspension attaches to a hydroformed steel sub-frame for added rigidity.

The 4-wheel independent heavy-duty raised suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels and 225/55 R17 raised _black letter tires (16-inch steel wheels with 225/60 R16 tires on 2.5 i Basic) contribute to Outback’s all-road, all-weather agility. Generous ground clearance compares to that of many SUVs -- 8.7 inches for Outback 2.5 XT Limited and 8.4 inches on the other Outback models. The rack-and-pinion steering system has been designed for quick response, high precision and excellent feel.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity
All-Wheel Drive is a cornerstone of Subaru brand identity, not just an add-on feature. Consistent with this philosophy, all Subaru All-Wheel Drive systems are organized under the “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive” branding umbrella. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a total system that integrates a lightweight, low profile horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine and a full-time power transfer system. The system provides excellent balance due to the longitudinally mounted Boxer engine and the way power flows from it through the transmission and to the rear differential along a straight, near-horizontal path.

Subaru offers three different versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in the 2007 Outback line, each tailored to the model and transmission. With the 5-speed manual transmission, the system uses a viscous-coupling locking bevel gear center differential to distribute the power 50:50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set of wheels. In Outback 2.5 i and Outback 2.5 i Limited models equipped with the 4-speed automatic transmission, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration and available traction, also transferring more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

The Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models – and Outback 2.5 XT Limited when equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission – use a version of the system called Variable Torque Distribution (VTD). A planetary gear center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution. VTD normally sends more power to the rear wheels (45:55) to enhance handling agility, but the system continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving conditions. Exclusive to the 3.0 R L.L.Bean models and the 2.5 XT Limited Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), an advanced stability system that controls VTD operation and integrates an electronic 4-wheel traction control system (TCS). Traction control functions as a second line of defense against wheelslip, after All-Wheel Drive.

Advanced Safety Construction
Built around the proven Ring Frame Reinforced safety structure, all Outback models feature as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to detect the presence and weight of a front passenger and also the driver’s distance from the steering wheel.
The system determines front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. Active front head restraints can help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision.

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 All-Wheel Drive Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. _Subaru is the only car company that offers Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment _on every vehicle in its product line.

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