New Subaru Outback spied for the first time

Fri, 21 Mar 2014

The Outback has been a strong seller for Subaru, especially in its most recent generation when it combined station wagon utility with crossover looks. The model is getting an imminent redesign just like its platform-mate the Legacy, and here are the first spy photos of it testing in Europe against an Audi Q5.

The cladding makes it very hard to tell what exactly Subaru is doing with the styling, but it's clear that they are sticking to the combined wagon/CUV look from the current gen. Many parts appear taken almost directly from the new Legacy like the door-mounted mirrors, creased hood and angular headlights. The windshield also appears more steeply raked than today's Outback, and at the rear the taillights look thinner and more vertical.

We are expecting the new Outback to use the revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder and possibly the 3.6-liter boxer six-cylinder from its sedan counterpart at launch. However, a previous rumor indicated the possibility of a smaller six-cylinder and a turbocharged four-cylinder being added to the lineup, but these new engines might still be a few years away.

We likely don't have to wait long to see the Outback without all of the camo. The debut is slated to be at the New York Auto Show in April. In addition to the exterior and platform changes, the wagon is expected to carry the improved interior quality and comfort over from the new Legacy with with liquid-filled engine mounts, an acoustic glass windshield, increased sound deadening, interior tech. Maybe Subaru will be adventurous with the styling to show off all of the changes.

By Chris Bruce