Subaru will unveil a fully redesigned new Legacy Outback on April 16, 2025. It’s scheduled to debut at the New York Auto Show on April 16, 2025, with sales expected to begin later this year. The current Legacy Outback model in Japan will be released on December 2, 2021, marking its first full redesign in six years. This model will feature next-generation EyeSight and the next-generation e-BOXER strong hybrid S:HEV, which employs Toyota’s hybrid system, THS (TOYOTA Hybrid System). Additionally, the lineup is expected to include an electric vehicle model, the e-OUTBACK. Here’s a thorough explanation of what kind of model it will be.
Like the previous model, it is expected that the US model will undergo a full model change in 2025, about two years earlier than the Japanese model, and will be unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show on April 16, 2025.
- It is scheduled to debut at the New York Auto Show on April 16, 2025. Sales are expected to begin later this year.
- The new design concept “BOLDER” will be adopted, and the quality of the interior and exterior will be significantly improved.
- It uses the next-generation platform “SUBARU GLOBAL PLATFORM (SGP)” and “full inner frame structure.”
- Equipped with an “11.6-inch full HD large screen display” and ” digital cockpit 12.3-inch full LCD meter .”
- It is equipped with “EyeSight X” and is compatible with the connected service “SUBARU STARLINK.”
- It is equipped with the ” next-generation e-BOXER ” strong hybrid “S:HEV” that uses Toyota’s hybrid system THS .
About the new Legacy Outback full model change
The new Legacy Outback, which will be fully redesigned , will adopt the next-generation platform “SUBARU GLOBAL PLATFORM (SGP)” and the new design concept “BOLDER.”
The quality of the interior and exterior has been significantly improved, and the car will be equipped with the same ” Digital Cockpit 12.3-inch full LCD meter ” and ” 11.6-inch full HD large screen display ” as the current model. Subaru will not only adopt a “horizontally opposed engine” and “Symmetrical AWD (4WD)”, but will also be equipped with the “next-generation e-BOXER” strong hybrid “S:HEV” that uses Toyota’s hybrid system THS . Of course, it will also be compatible with the further evolved “EyeSight X” and the connected service “SUBARU STARLINK” .
New Legacy Outback Fully Redesigned Exterior
The latest design features an expanded grille and a line that is integrated with the headlights, giving the car a cutting-edge yet more luxurious feel.
The current model’s sleek lines will be replaced by more angular body panels and muscular wheel arches. This design has much in common with the design language of the recently announced new Forester, suggesting Subaru’s intention to build a consistent brand image across its SUV lineup. The front mask will have a powerful impression, with a larger grille and a higher-positioned hood. The headlights may adopt the latest trend of split LEDs, which may be a matter of personal preference, but will appear more refined compared to Subaru’s recent designs.
In the rear section, the long rear overhang that was a characteristic of the Outback has been maintained, but the roofline has been made flatter and the tailgate has been changed to a squarer shape. This is thought to contribute to an increase in luggage space capacity, further improving the Outback’s high practicality. The nearly vertical rear glass and large tailgate opening are the result of pursuing ease of loading and unloading. The full-width LED taillights and large roof rails add modern accents to the design.
This change to an SUV-like form is thought to be a strategy to appeal to a wider range of customers. While the traditional wagon design has been supported by a small number of enthusiasts, SUVs remain popular with a wider range of people and represent a sense of security and status. By bringing the Outback closer to a more conventional SUV shape, Subaru may be aiming to strengthen ties with its existing SUV lineup, such as the Forester and the Ascent three-row SUV, and to differentiate it from the Crosstrek, the entry-level crossover SUV model.
Legacy Outback new and old body size comparison
| Specifications | 5th generation Legacy Outback |
6th generation Legacy Outback |
Old model size comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,820mm | 4,870mm | +50mm |
| Overall width | 1,840mm | 1,875mm | +35mm |
| Overall height | 1,660mm | 1,675mm | +15mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,745mm | 2,745mm | +0 mm |
The current sixth generation has grown in body size overall. The seventh generation, which will be a full model change, is expected to be roughly the same size as the current model. The reason is that the Outback has been getting bigger every year, and it is thought that it will not be made any larger.
About the new Legacy Outback interior
The interior is equipped with a navigation system equipped with a large 11.6-inch full HD display. It uses an HMI (Human Machine Interface) that can be operated easily like a smartphone, and is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Additionally, to improve interior quietness and comfort, the car uses more sound-absorbing materials, robust welding techniques and additional structural adhesives to reduce noise from the roof panels by 39%.
New Legacy Outback undergoes full model change with next-generation EyeSight X advanced driver assistance technology
- The safety system is the next-generation EyeSight with triple cameras, and EyeSight X, which allows hands-off driving at all speeds.
The stereo camera has been changed from Hitachi to a wide-angle camera made by Swedish company Vionia, which has a resolution of 2.3 megapixels, up from 1.2 megapixels, and a horizontal angle of view that is just under twice as wide.
Furthermore, in addition to the conventional rear side radar and rear ultrasonic sensors, millimeter wave radars have been installed on both sides of the front of the vehicle. The camera’s field of view has been expanded largely due to the camera cover being attached to the windshield, allowing the installation position to be moved forward. The brake booster has also been changed to an electric type, improving the response of EyeSight.
The processor used is Xilinx’s FPGA, Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC (multi-processor system-on-chip).
The Crosstrek, Impreza, and Levorg, all of which are equipped with the next-generation EyeSight system, have dominated NASVA’s overall rankings of automobile safety performance, proving the high level of safety of these vehicles.
New Medium-Term Management Vision “STEP”
Subaru’s new mid-term management vision, “STEP,” which it has already announced, calls for Subaru’s autonomous driving to achieve automated parking (Level 4) on highways and other roads (Level 2 or above) by 2024.
Subaru’s New Mid-Term Management Vision “STEP”
Reference: Subaru’s new mid-term management vision “STEP”
The current model of EyeSight X allows hands-free driving at speeds up to approximately 50 km/h, but it is expected that the new model will expand hands-off driving to all speed ranges.
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EyeSight X
The new generation EyeSight has an add-on “Advanced Driving Assistance Function,” which utilizes a 3D high-precision map unit developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric and high-precision GPS information from the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System “Michibiki.”
Hands-off assist in traffic jams
You can take your hands off the steering wheel when driving at speeds below approximately 50 km/h.
Start assist in traffic jams
When using ACC, the time it takes for the vehicle to automatically restart from a stopped position has been extended from the previous 3 seconds to approximately 10 minutes. This is due to the addition of a front radar and an expanded field of view of the stereo camera, which allows for more accurate detection of vehicles cutting in front of the vehicle.
Active Lane Change Assist
When driving at a speed between 70 and 120 km/h, steering assistance is provided when the turn signal lever is operated, assisting with lane changes.
Speed control before a curve
Controls the speed to an appropriate level for curves. Speed control before toll gates Controls the speed to an appropriate level for passing through ETC gates.
Driver emergency response system
If the system detects a driver abnormality, it will automatically activate the hazard warning lights and horn to alert those around, and slow down or stop the vehicle. This function only works when Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is activated and the lane centering and leading vehicle steering functions are activated. These functions are primarily intended for use on expressways, toll roads, and other roads for motor vehicles only. Use on general roads is not recommended. If the system determines a sharp curve based on 3D high-precision map data, it will reverse the vehicle and stop, but will not pull over to the shoulder.
High-precision 3D map data
It is updated four times a year.
*Vehicles equipped with EyeSight X
New Legacy Outback Fully Redesigned Engine
At its financial results briefing on May 12, 2022, Subaru announced plans to reorganize its domestic production system to expand and accelerate the development of electrified vehicles. As part of this plan, production of vehicles equipped with the next-generation e-BOXER, which uses Toyota Motor Corporation’s hybrid system “THS (TOYOTA Hybrid System),” is scheduled to begin in the mid-2020s.
The new Legacy Outback will be equipped with Toyota’s hybrid system, the THS, and Subaru’s next-generation e-BOXER, a strong hybrid system called the S:HEV, which uses a horizontally opposed engine and symmetrical AWD (4WD) . This is really exciting.
| Specifications | Outback Strong Hybrid |
|---|---|
| engine | 2.5L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC naturally aspirated “FB25 type” + motor (THS) |
| Maximum power | 118kW (160PS) / 5,600rpm |
| Maximum torque | 209Nm/ 4,000-4,400rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
88kW (119.6ps) |
| Motor Max Torque |
270Nm |
transmission |
Electric continuously variable transmission |
| Drive system | AWD |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
Electric vehicle model “e-OUTBACK”
The SUVs produced at the Yajima plant will be the next-generation e-BOXER, with production of BEV models also set to begin around 2026. Furthermore, this SUV is also scheduled to be supplied to Toyota Motor Corporation, so there may also be a Toyota version of the e-OUTBACK!
The e-OUTBACK is based on the similar SUV model SOLTERRA, which is sufficient, but it is expected to be an EV model that will be brushed up over the next few years and have even better performance.
2024 EV model Solterra specs
| Specifications | Solterra |
|---|---|
| full length | 4,690mm |
| Overall width | 1,860mm |
| Overall height | 1,650mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850mm |
| motor | AC synchronous motor |
| Front maximum output | 150kW (2WD) 80KW (4WD) |
| Rear maximum output | 80KW (4WD) |
| System Maximum Output | 150kW (2WD) 160KW (4WD) |
| Drive battery | Lithium-ion 71.4kWh |
| Drive system | Front-wheel drive system Four-wheel drive system |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people |
| Minimum turning radius | 5.7mm |
| WLTC mode driving distance per charge |
487km to 567km |
New Legacy Outback full model change price forecast
The current model is priced at 4,147,000 to 5,027,000 yen, but prices are expected to rise due to improvements such as the hybrid model. Prices are expected to rise by 200,000 to 700,000 yen, to around 4.5 million to 5 million yen.
2024 Legacy Outback Japanese model price and grade
| grade | engine | Transmission | Drive system | Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Limited EX | Horizontally opposed 4-cylinder 1.8L DOHC direct injection turbo “DIT” |
CVT | AWD | 4,290,000 yen |
| X-BREAK EX | 4,147,000 yen |
About the Legacy Outback
The Legacy Outback is a derivative model of the Legacy manufactured and sold by SUBARU, and is a crossover SUV that is a cross between a station wagon and an SUV.
First generation BG series
It was released in Japan in August 1995 as the Legacy Grand Wagon. It underwent a minor change in June 1996. The engine format remained the same, but was updated to the MASTER4. In August 1997, the sub-name in Japan was changed to Lancaster and a minor change was made.
Second generation BH series
A full model change was made on June 17, 1998, along with the Touring Wagon. A partial improvement was made on May 24, 1999. A partial improvement was made on May 24, 2000. A minor change was made on May 22, 2001.
3rd generation BP series
On October 22, 2003, it was renamed the “Outback” for global standards and underwent a full model change. On May 17, 2004, it underwent a partial improvement. On May 24, 2005, it underwent a partial improvement. On May 24, 2006, it underwent a minor change. On May 15, 2007, it underwent a partial improvement. On May 8, 2008, it underwent a partial improvement.
4th generation BR series
On May 20, 2009, it underwent a full model change along with the Touring Wagon and B4. On May 18, 2010, it underwent a minor change. On May 8, 2012, it underwent a minor change. On May 14, 2013, it underwent some improvements.
5th generation BS series
A full model change was made on October 24, 2014. A partial improvement was made on September 10, 2015, and the model was released on October 1, 2015. The special edition “LEGACY OUTBACK Limited Smart Edition” was introduced on December 10, 2015. It was released on January 5, 2016. A significantly improved model was announced on September 4, 2017. It was released on October 5, 2017. An improved model was announced on September 10, 2018. At the same time, the special edition “X-BREAK” was added. It was released on October 4, 2018. A partially improved model was announced on September 3, 2019. It was released on November 8, 2019. Some changes were announced on August 6, 2020. It was released on October 2, 2020.
6th generation BT series
Its world premiere took place at the New York International Auto Show on April 17, 2019, and production began at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) on July 29, 2019. US models went on sale in October 2020. Sales in the Oceania market began on February 20, 2021, and the European model was officially announced on March 29, 2021. The Japanese model was unveiled on September 2, 2021, with pre-orders opening at dealerships. It was officially announced in Japan on October 7, 2021. A partially improved Japanese model was announced on September 8, 2022. The lighting switch specifications were revised, changing from the previous single position (sidelights/taillights & OFF) to two positions (sidelights/taillights and OFF). The improved Japanese model and the special edition “Limited EX ‘Active x Black'” were announced on September 7, 2023. In addition to the EyeSight being upgraded to a triple camera system, a smart rearview camera with a built-in camera in the shark fin antenna is now standard equipment on all vehicles. The aluminum wheels have been redesigned, and a remote air conditioning function has been added to the “SUBARU STARLINK”. It now supports wireless connection with Apple CarPlay, and the 11.6-inch center information display has an expanded display screen when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
When will the new Legacy Outback undergo a full model change?
The fifth-generation Legacy Outback went on sale on October 24, 2014. The current sixth-generation Legacy Outback was released six years later on October 7, 2021. Considering the full model change cycle of the previous model, it is expected that a fully redesigned model will be released after October 2027, a full six years from now.
Should you wait for the new Legacy Outback full model change?
As for whether you should wait for the Legacy Outback’s full model change, I think you should. While a price increase is expected, the car will likely be significantly improved over the current model, with the latest equipment, interior, and exterior improvements. Furthermore, the introduction of Toyota’s hybrid system will improve fuel economy, making it a more attractive and affordable model.
A word from the editorial department
The full model change of the Legacy Outback is extremely well-equipped. Of particular note is the next-generation e-BOXER, which employs Toyota’s hybrid system, THS . This system, which combines a horizontally opposed engine with a motor, is truly a dream come true. By combining the reliable THS with the latest horizontally opposed engine, not only can fuel economy be improved, but powerful motor assistance can also be expected. Furthermore, the horizontally opposed engine, which reduces vertical shaking when starting, also contributes to stability.
It is also noteworthy that the new Legacy Outback will be equipped with the next-generation EyeSight system, which also boasts excellent safety features. This combination may give the Legacy Outback a stronger product than its competitors. We are already looking forward to the arrival of the new Legacy Outback.
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