The all-new 2015 Outback has been spotted roaming European streets while dressed in bulky camouflage garb. Though the car is fully disguised, its easy to tell Subaru->ke86 has slicked up its best-selling model for the last half of the decade.
Starting with the updated front fascia that includes xenon headlights, lower fog lights, and the traditional-to-Outback high approach angle, the design seems to be more styled than before. The hood has some nice character lines riding just over the front fenders and rising into the A-pillars, which rise at a more sloped, aerodynamic angle.
Just below the A-pillars, the side mirrors are repositioned on the door. The body cladding along the rocker panel returns, as does the cladding along the lower front valance. The matte-black painted wheels should look nice one coated in a proper finish. Out back, the rear bumper still includes a step and large red reflectors. Up above, the rear glass enjoys a more forward rake, much like the front windshield. The roof rails return as well, assuring us the Outback won’t lose that utilitarian, do-anything, carry-all we’ve come to love.
Though it’s hard to see from the photos, the photographer notes the dash has an all-new design with two large gauge pods, a sportier-looking steering wheel with silver paddle shifters, and new HVAC vents.
We expect the Outback to get an updated version of its current 2.5-liter flat-four to serve as the standard mill. Rumors swirl around Subaru dropping the upmarket 3.6-liter flat-six for the 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four from the Forester->ke1151 in premium-trimmed Outbacks, though nothing is confirmed. Of course, Subaru’s standard AWD will return, making this wagon a capable winter weather hauler and light-duty off-roader.
Click past the jump for information on the 2015 Subaru Outback
Spy shots
The new outback is expected to make its official debut at the 2014 New York Auto Show->ke226 in April with production beginning shortly after in June. Sales will then follow, likely starting sometime in the fourth quarter of 2014. We expect Subaru to stick closely with their current pricing scale. The base price on a new Outback is $23,495 with prices increasing to $32,095 for the 3.6R Limited trim package, and growing even higher with extra options selected.
The 2014 Subaru Outback comes standard with a 2.5-liter boxer-four that cranks out 173 ponies and 174 pounds of twist. Optionally, buyers can equip the AWD station wagon with 3.6-liter boxer-six with 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. This go-anywhere wagon features Suby's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Traction Control and up to 71.3 cubes of cargo room.