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Ten ways 2015 Outback will be a nicer place to enjoy the backcountry

It’s the last day to see the new 2015 Subaru Outback at the New York International Auto Show.

The new fifth-generation 2015 Subaru Outback is on display at Jacob K. Javits Center for the last day today in New York. Subaru brought their newest version of the Outback for adventure seekers. But they also brought the quietest version with the best sound to New York. We used to say, if you have a noisy car, just turn up the radio. With the new Outback you can turn down the new sound system because the new cabin is quieter than the outgoing model.

The original Outback established a template for a unique crossover segment that has passenger car attributes and SUV off-road capabilities. The 2015 Outback hasn’t lost its ability to do both and now will have a more comfortable cabin for adventure seekers. With its newly refined version of the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD, it’s still an outdoor-oriented multi-use vehicle. But the new Outback will get you there in more comfort.

The new Outback cabin gets a bit more serene with the addition of a new acoustic windshield, liquid-filled engine mounts, thicker panels in key locations (floor, toeboard, rear wheel apron, inner fenders) and expanded use of foam insulation and floor damping material. The Outback will be a much nicer place to enjoy the backcountry. And you can better hear Outback's new sound system.

2015 Outback now comes with new upgraded infotainment capability. A new 6.2 Infotainment System in the 2.5i trim level provides AM/FM stereo and HD Radio; Radio Data Broadcast System; single-disc in-dash CD player; 6.2-in. multi-function touch screen display with single-touch gesture control; Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration with Aha Infotainment, Pandora Radio and iHeart Radio; a rear vision camera; Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming; iPod control capability, USB port and aux. input jack.

2.5i Premium trim gets upgraded with a 6-speaker audio system; 7-inch touch screen display with multi-touch control that offers swipe and scrolling gesture control; voice-activated controls; SiriusXM satellite radio; a vehicle information display; SMS text messaging, iTunes tagging capability and dual USB ports.

Outback Limited gets upgraded with an AM/FM/HD Radio system with a harman/kardon 576-Watt-equivalent GreenEdge amplifier. The system’s 12 harman/kardon speakers include a front center speaker and a rear subwoofer. GreenEdge technology provides increased audio performance and amplifier efficiency while consuming less power and reducing heat dissipation.

iPad uses will be able to store their device in center console armrest that provides a convenient storage area. A covered and illuminated storage bin at the front of the console incorporates a USB port, 3.5mm AUX jack and a 12v power port. And models with high-grade audio or navigation features two USB ports, making it possible to listen to music and charge two connected devices.

The all-new-generation 2015 Subaru Outback is on display for the last day at New York’s Jacob K. Javits Center. There are at least ten ways adventure seekers can better enjoy the backcountry. The quietest version with the best sound will begin arriving in Subaru showrooms in June 2014.

Other 2015 Subaru Outback stories of interest.
Is the 2015 Subaru Outback getting too soft?

Comments

Alex (not verified)    April 27, 2014 - 4:56PM

First, I would like to tell you. I like Subaru products and the Torque News web site. But lately I am getting the feeling either you own shares in Subaru or they are paying you money to post the numerous flattering articles about their product line. I have not done the math but the number articles on Subaru seem high compared to other car companies.
Is it just me? I would like to know what other people think.

Carl (not verified)    April 28, 2014 - 1:32PM

In reply to by Alex (not verified)

I suspect that it's simply the productivity of the writers. That, and since Denis lives in Colorado (where basically half of the people that live there own a Subaru - or it at least seems that way) AND with all the actual news and enthusiasm there is among car shoppers about Subarus - it makes for a lot of blog / journalism posts.

That's one thing about being a small car company - there are new things coming out all the time, like with the new Outbacks this year, the improvements to the Forester, the new WRX and STI - and enthusiasts are looking all the time for info.

Bill (not verified)    April 28, 2014 - 6:45AM

Right on! I've seen this too. And I'll say I'm now rather brainwashed into buying a Subaru. The new safety eyesight has me wanting a Subaru. I'll well wager Subaru gets more attention than any other car maker by far on this site.

Melvin (not verified)    April 28, 2014 - 3:56PM

Like Larry commented, how is the active torque split awd different for the 2015 vs the 2014 Outback. As you put it, "newly refined." Please explain. Thanks.

Denis Flierl    April 30, 2014 - 7:15PM

In reply to by Melvin (not verified)

Hey guys, thanks so much for reading and for the great questions. Here’s a brief explanation from Subaru’s press release. The 2015 Subaru Outback’s Symmetrical AWD electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch, actively controls torque distribution in response to driving conditions and wheel slippage. Taking input from acceleration, steering angle and yaw rate sensors, the new-generation Outback’s Active Torque Split AWD better optimizes traction and steering response over the 2014 model Outback. This is especially evident when accelerating through turns and curves, particularly when the road surface is slippery. We will get our hands on a test model as soon as they are available and do a real world test. Until then, I’ll be doing a story soon on the differences between the 2014 and 2015 models. Stay tuned.