Outback Hi

Subaru has released a teaser image of the 2015 Subaru Outback (Legacy Outback in Europe and Japan) ahead of its unveiling at the New York International Auto Show later this month. The jacked-up, beefier version of the forthcoming Legacy estate (which this car should also preview) will be the fifth such model since its debut in 1994.

From the looks of it, the Outback will follow the template set by its predecessors, looking much like the Legacy except with lower body mouldings, roof rails, new wheels and a new grille design. The interior should also owe a lot to its regular D-segment sister.

subaru-outback-spied-c

As previously reported, the Outback is expected to utilise the Legacy's existing engines – a 175 hp 2.5 litre flat-four and a 256 hp 3.5 litre flat-six – although the Forester's turbocharged 2.0 litre flat-four and the VIZIV-2 concept's diesel-hybrid powertrain (likely for European markets only) could also be included. Regardless of the engine choice, Subaru's Lineartronic CVT will almost certainly be offered.

Subaru states that the new Outback will "blend car-like handling and SUV capability" (isn't that what the Outback has always been about?). Production is expected to begin in June.