All-new Subaru Outback launched in Malaysia

The all-new Subaru Outback, a uniquely-styled crossover estate derived from the Legacy, is officially launched in Malaysia today. Whilst previous generations of the model were little more than raised versions of the Legacy wagon, this latest iteration is a standalone model as Subaru does not offer the current generation Legacy in wagon format.

Despite its official detachment from the Legacy family, however, the Outback shares much of its running gear and forward sheet metal with the Legacy sedan. Suspension has naturally been recalibrated to accommodate heavier duty off-road usage and the body’s lower half are accordingly covered in dark grey cladding for the pseudo-SUV look.

Only one variant of the Outback is being offered in Malaysia, and it is powered by a naturally-aspirated version of Subaru’s famed four-cylinder Boxer engines. Displacing 2,498cc and fed with conventional port fuel injection, the Outback’s 2.5-litre FB25 powerplant generates claimed outputs of 173hp and 235Nm. The Legacy sedan will not be officially sold here.

Completing the Outback’s Subaru DNA is the standard inclusion of Symmetrical AWD to send traction to all corners in equal proportions. Subaru’s in-house engineered Lineartronic CVT is offered as the default transmission. To enhance its off-roading capabilities, the Outback’s AWD system is further enhanced with X-Mode, a function that electronically optimizes control of engine, drivetrain, and braking on slippery surfaces.

The Outback is a serious piece of kit, and the cost of owning one will not be cheap; putting one on your driveway burns a hole the size of RM224,846.30 in your bank account with all on-road costs factored in. Available equipment for the money include seven airbags, keyless entry, electronic stability control, LED headlamps, Harman Kardon speakers, reverse camera, and powered sun roof.

Read more on the all-new Subaru Outback in our report of its ASEAN launch in Bangkok last year complete with first driving impressions.