2012 Subaru Outback 2.5i AWD CVT

Model Highlights

Five different Outback models and two separate powerplants are available for 2013: 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R and 3.6R Limited. The 2.5L 4-cylinder "boxer" engine makes 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. When optioned with Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) transmission, the Outback is rated to achieve 29 mpg on the highway, outstanding for a vehicle with full-time all-wheel-drive. The optional 3.6L 6-cylinder boxer engine has 256 hp and 247 ft-lb of torque, and a standard 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Rev-Matching Downshift Blipping Control, which sounds as fun as it is to use with the paddles. The 2.5i is the base model for the Outback, but like all Subaru models, it has Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitoring, daytime running lights and airbags as standard equipment. The two available transmissions include a 6-speed manual transmission and the Lineartronic CVT. Air conditioning, auxiliary audio jack, power locks, mirrors and windows, cruise control and eight cupholders are standard. The 2.5i Premium adds a 10-way power driver's seat, larger 17-inch alloy wheels, halogen fog lights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard equipment. Options include an all-weather package with heated seats, mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer, the harman/kardon audio system and a power moonroof. The 2.5i Limited takes it all a step further with standard CVT, 4-way power passenger seat, dual-zone climate control and leather-trimmed upholstery. Options at this level include a navigation system with rear vision camera. The 3.6R base level has the immediate advantage of 85 more horsepower, thanks to its larger, more powerful horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine. It comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels and larger brake rotors. The 3.6R Premium adds the all-weather package as standard equipment, a power driver's seat and leather steering wheel are also standard equipment. The harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof are optional. The top-end 3.6R Limited adds the power passenger seat, premium audio system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, dual-zone climate control and leather-trimmed upholstery, with optional power moonroof and navigation system with backup camera.