发表于 2011-09-12 21:44 IP属地:未知
What's next for the 2012 Subaru Outback back to top
Along with the Subaru Legacy, the 2012 Outback should receive a midcycle update for model-year 2014. This would not be a full redesign but likely include minor styling tweaks to nose and tail, a few new interior touches, and perhaps some added features. Expect a fully redesigned fifth-generation Outback for the 2016 model year.
At that, don’t expect Subaru to venture far from the current Outback’s successful formula. The next generation will likely remain similar in size, shape, and function. It will be recast with increased fuel economy in mind, particularly with a 40 percent boost in the federally mandated corporate average fuel economy requirement phasing in between the 2012 and 2016 model years.
Expect the redesigned 2016 Outback to be constructed with weight savings in mind, since weight directly influences fuel economy. Anticipate a more efficient engine lineup, too, with a direct-injected turbocharged four-cylinder likely replacing the six-cylinder engine in top-line models. Replacing the 2.5-liter four-cylinder as the base engine will probably be a modified version of Subaru’s new 2.0-liter four-cylinder that’ll debut in the 2012 Impreza compact car. Manual and automatic transmissions will be in the mix, but probably with at least six speeds. A CVT also could survive.
A gas-electric hybrid version of the next-generation Outback also is possible, with technology sourced from Subaru minority shareholder Toyota. Perhaps even a plug-in version will join the line at some point.
As is the case with most other midsize crossovers, the next-generation Outback will probably play catch-up in terms of the infotainment and driver-aid technology. Expect lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems, for example, plus a rear-seat entertainment system and more complex interfacing with mobile technology.