Subaru took an alternative direction 17 years ago when it launched the Outback, a more practical, fuel-efficient and better handling alternative to the SUV. It was the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon, and the Outback launched an entire automotive segment that continues to grow in popularity.
Although there is more direct competition today, the Subaru Outback (MSRP starting at $23,295) still possesses unique innovations that no other sport utility wagon offers. Innovations like the signature SUBARU BOXER® engine – a flat, horizontally opposed design that reduces center of gravity for better stability, handling and safety – as well as the Subaru-exclusive Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive® system for superior traction in all conditions.
With an all-new design in 2010, the current Outback is roomier inside than it has ever been, offering 105.4 cubic feet of total passenger volume and 71.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, numbers that best competitors like the Ford Escape. The Outback features an eye-catching exterior design and focuses on useful fun
ctionality and capability like its 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road prowess that bests many SUVs including the Jeep Liberty.
The three 2012 Subaru Outback 3.6R (MSRP $28,295) models feature a 3.6-liter six-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine that produces a healthy 256 hp and 247 lb/ft of torque, paired with a five-speed adaptive electronic automatic transmission (with paddleshifters on the tilting/telescoping steering wheel) for fuel efficiency of 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Most crossover and SUV competitors offer AWD as a costly option, but like every Subaru, the Outback is equipped standard with Symmetrical AWD. When you combine the SUBARU BOXER engine and Symmetrical AWD in the Outback, it equates to a vehicle with more nimble handling and balance than any competitor can deliver.
The 3.6-liter engine is available in 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited models. New for 2012 is a standard six-speaker audio system for the 3.6R Premium that features Bluetooth phone integration and steering wheel controls, Radio Data Broadcasting and iPod integration with USB and auxiliary input. As an option on the Premium and standard on the Limited is a nine-speaker harman/kardon audio system with 4.3-inch display, HD Radio and XM Satellite Radio.
The 2012 Subaru Outback 3.6R is generously equipped with standard features like 17-inch alloy wheels, body-colored side mirrors, roof rails with retractable crossbars, rear privacy glass, 60/40-split/fold-down rear seats that also recline and remote keyless entry.
The Outback 3.6R Premium adds standard features like a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats and side mirrors and can be outfitted with a power moonroof and a Rear Vision Camera.
The Outback 3.6R Limited features standard leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and a four-way power passenger’s seat. Limited models can also be equipped with a voice-activated navigation system with eight-inch LCD screen.
Another available high-tech feature on the 2012 Outback is the Subaru Mobile Internet that creates a Wi-Fi hotspot inside the car to connect 10 or more users as far away as 150 feet from the vehicle. Delivering a fully encrypted, 3G network connection with fast download speeds, Subaru Mobile Internet gives everyone (but the driver) Wi-Fi access while the vehicle is in motion.
The Outback was designed with safety in mind, and features the Subaru Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement safety structure for outstanding impact absorption and occupant protection. The high-tensile strength steel used in the Outback also helped it earn the prestigious “Top Safety Pick” award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlighting its status as one of the safest cars on the road today.
All trim levels come with standard safety features like four-wheel disc Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Vehicle Dynamics Control and Traction Control systems.
Drivers seeking a safe family vehicle that gets outstanding fuel economy and handles like a car, yet can pack away cargo and has the off-road prowess of an SUV, have found the Subaru Outback to be the perfect blend of all attributes for more than 15 years. With a total of six well-optioned models available, there’s a 2012 Subaru Outback that’s just right for you. Stop in today and we’ll help you figure out which one best suits your needs.
