Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced new SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security features and other enhancements for the 2016 Outback, the new-generation design of The World's First Sport Utility Wagon that debuted for 2015. A deft blend of confident design, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, interior refinement, award-winning safety technology and exemplary fuel efficiency has helped push the Outback to new sales records.

The combination of Subaru's acclaimed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and standard Active Torque Vectoring gives Outback confident grip in all weather conditions. Standard X-Mode, Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist augment Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to assist the driver in navigating rough roads, slippery surfaces or steep inclines.

In addition to the new STARLINK Safety & Security features, the Outback receives several other refinements for 2016. On all models, a new auto on/off mode operates the windshield wipers with the headlights. Subaru retuned the electric power-assist steering for all Legacy and Outback models to provide an even more linear and natural feel. In the 2015 redesign, the Outback Limited trims gained exclusive Stablex suspension dampers, and these have been further refined to reduce vibration over rough roads, especially those with washboard-texture concrete surfaces.

BOXER Engines

The Outback 2.5i is powered by a 175-horsepower double overhead camshafts (DOHC) 2.5-liter Boxer engine that produces 174 lb-ft. peak torque. It's paired with a standard Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) with manual mode and paddle shifters. The combination achieves 25 MPG city/33 MPG highway EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings, among the highest for midsize crossovers with all-wheel drive. The CVT features with manual mode and paddle shifters. The Active Grille Shutter system helps to improve fuel economy by reducing wind resistance.

The DOHC 3.6-liter BOXER 6-cylinder engine in the Outback 3.6R Limited produces 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of peak torque. Notably, the 3.6R sustains at least 225 lb-ft of torque from 2,000-6,000 rpm, making the Outback 3.6R Limited feel exceptionally smooth and responsive in everyday driving. The 3.6R is fitted with a high-torque Lineartronic CVT with manual mode and paddle shifters.

Safety

For 2016, Outback Premium and Limited trims now include the new SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security features. Two STARLINK packages are available and are among the most affordable in the industry.