Photos by Ulysses Ang

Subaru’s flagship crossover, the all-new 2015 Outback, takes center stage at the brand’s pavilion at the 31st Thailand Motor Expo 2014. It serves as the venue for the regional launch of the said crossover along with the all-new Legacy (which isn’t shown at the show itself). As always, the Outback combines passenger car comfort with the long-distance touring capabilities and load space of a sport utility vehicle. In developing the latest Outback, Subaru delivers class-leading performance, confident all-wheel drive handling, and all-around safety.

The Thailand market Outback runs on a re-designed FB25 Boxer engine. This normally-aspirated engine generates a healthy 175 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 235 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Enhancements include a re-designed port intake shape and a repositioned tumbler generation valve (TGV) for better power and fuel economy across the engine rev range. It’s been revealed however that the Philippine market will gain the benefit of the familiar 3.6-liter Flat-6 (EZ36D) with 260 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 350 Nm at 4,400 rpm. Improved fuel efficiency is promised thanks to the use of the Lineartronic CVT transmission. The CVT has also been enhanced with a reinforced transfer case and torque converter. It also has a new automatic kickdown function built-in.

Improving comfort and handling, the Outback’s frame shape has been completely re-designed to improve chassis rigidity. The engine mounts have also been changed to isolate unwanted noise and vibration. Aside from being equipped with the Symmetrical AWD as standard, the Outback now comes with X-MODE, an automatic single button system that enhances driving performance on poor roads by optimizing engine, AWD, braking, and throttle control. The Outback also receives Active Torque Vectoring.


The all-new 2015 Outback features a bolder body shape with bigger tires (225/60R18) and muscular flares. Enhancements have also been made to improve aerodynamic efficiency including active front grille shutters. Inside, it gets top-grade interior appointments that include a dual-dial gauge cluster with a three-dimensional look and a three-spoke steering wheel with multi-function switches.

Though the final Philippine specs have yet to be revealed, the Outback is made available with luxury appointments such as power adjustable front seats, a push-button engine start/stop, power rear tailgate, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth hands-free, and a power moonroof.

The 2015 Subaru Outback and Legacy will make its Philippine debut at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2015 on April 9-12. Meanwhile, expect our driving impressions of the all-new Subaru Outback (and Legacy) to come up real soon.