2007 Subaru Outback

More Power Choices

The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine that powers all Outback 2.5 i models is among the most powerful in its displacement category, with 175 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 169 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift system helps to ensure responsive performance at all engine speeds. This engine is unique in that it offers Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle certification in California, Massachusetts, Maine, New York and Vermont with the same power output as the 45-state certified model. In contrast, many PZEV-compliant vehicles sacrifice some power to achieve zero evaporative emissions.

The Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition Sedan and Wagon models are exclusively powered by a 3.0-liter DOHC 6-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 245 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 215 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm. The Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing system, in concert with Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) technology, helps optimize power at all engine speeds.

Offering both the turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer and 6-cylinder Boxer Outback models gives customers a choice between two distinct kinds of high-performance driving: the 6-cylinder 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models provide a linear power feeling that is characteristic of a higher-displacement engine; the turbocharged Outback 2.5 XT Limited offers a more sporty and exciting type of engine performance, now especially enhanced with the addition of SI-DRIVE for 2007. The turbo engine also offers outstanding performance at high altitudes, where changes in atmospheric pressure reduce the power output of naturally aspirated engines.

A 5-speed electronic direct control automatic transmission is standard on the Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean models. The Outback 2.5 XT models come equipped with a standard 5-speed manual transmission and offer the 5-speed automatic as an option. With the automatic, the SPORTSHIFT feature allows manual shift control from the console-mounted shifter and, on the Outback 2.5 XT Limited, steering wheel shift buttons, as well.

Premium Design, Outside and In

The third-generation Outback design expresses its dynamic performance and nimbleness. The pronounced wedge body shape conveys a strong and stable presence, accentuated by aerodynamic side ground effects, pronounced wheel arches and protective side cladding.

Premium design details include glass-look D-pillars on wagons, an extensive color palette featuring several two-tone and monochromatic choices, judicious use of chrome trim, a rear gate spoiler and raised black-letter tires. Outback 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L.Bean models feature body-color exterior mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.

Inside the Outback, flush surface treatments, a soft foam upper dashboard, and soft foam door trim all provide a premium appearance and ambience. The two-tone color arrangement uses high-quality cloth upholstery for the Outback 2.5 i Basic, 2.5 i and 2.5 i L.L.Bean Edition models, and leather-trimmed upholstery for all others. The 2.5 i Limited models, 2.5 XT Limited and 3.0 R L.L.Bean add numerous desirable amenities. 

All Outback models feature a standard trip computer. On the 2.5 XT Limited, it is integrated with the SI-DRIVE display in the instrument cluster. The trip computer is part of the navigation system on models so equipped. On all other models, it is combined with a digital clock display located in the center of the dashboard. Some of its functions and displays include outside air temperature, fuel consumption, driving range and estimated driving time. The Outback 2.5 XT Limited exclusively features an electroluminescent LED (light-emitting diode) gauge display.

A power glass moonroof is standard on all Limited models and the 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition. On wagons, it is a large dual-panel design that provides a single large opening when the tilt-up front section and retracting rear section are opened. The sedan models feature a single-panel power glass moonroof. A navigation system is standard on the 2.5-liter Outback L.L.Bean models and is available on the Outback 2.5 XT Limited with automatic transmission and the Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models.

Chassis Designed for Performance, Ruggedness and Comfort 

Outback models offer the rugged, go-anywhere capability that Subaru customers want while also providing the crisp handling response and smooth, quiet ride comfort expected in a premium model. The stiff unitized body structure makes extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum, as well as advanced construction techniques including hydroforming and tailored-blank welding. The multilink rear suspension attaches to a hydroformed steel sub-frame for added rigidity.

The 4-wheel independent heavy-duty raised suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels and 225/55 R17 raised black letter tires (16-inch steel wheels with 225/60 R16 tires on 2.5 i Basic) contribute to Outback’s all-road, all-weather agility. Generous ground clearance compares to that of many SUVs — 8.7 inches for Outback 2.5 XT Limited and 8.4 inches on the other Outback models. The rack-and-pinion steering system has been designed for quick response, high precision and excellent feel.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity

All-Wheel Drive is a cornerstone of Subaru brand identity, not just an add-on feature. Consistent with this philosophy, all Subaru All-Wheel Drive systems are organized under the “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive” branding umbrella. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a total system that integrates a lightweight, low profile horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine and a full-time power transfer system. The system provides excellent balance due to the longitudinally mounted Boxer engine and the way power flows from it through the transmission and to the rear differential along a straight, near-horizontal path.

Subaru offers three different versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in the 2007 Outback line, each tailored to the model and transmission. With the 5-speed manual transmission, the system uses a viscous-coupling locking bevel gear center differential to distribute the power 50:50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set of wheels. In Outback 2.5 i and Outback 2.5 i Limited models equipped with the 4-speed automatic transmission, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration and available traction, also transferring more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

The Outback 3.0 R L.L.Bean Edition models – and Outback 2.5 XT Limited when equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission – use a version of the system called Variable Torque Distribution (VTD). A planetary gear center differential works with an electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch to manage power distribution.

VTD normally sends more power to the rear wheels (45:55) to enhance handling agility, but the system continuously adjusts power distribution in response to driving conditions. Exclusive to the 3.0 R L.L.Bean models and the 2.5 XT Limited Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), an advanced stability system that controls VTD operation and integrates an electronic 4-wheel traction control system (TCS). Traction control functions as a second line of defense against wheelslip, after All-Wheel Drive.

The Shift