U.S. buyers get left out again with this 2015 Subaru Outback feature

The all-new 2015 Subaru Outback is launching in Canada and gets a feature that U.S. buyers won’t ever see. Like the new-generation 2015 Legacy, new-generation Outback Canadian buyers get the six-speed manual transmission option and U.S. buyers only get the Outback with a CVT automatic transmission. The Canadian 2015 Subaru Outback comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional.

Why did Subaru drop the 6-speed manual on the U.S. models? It’s because of tighter fuel mileage regulations here in the U.S. So Subaru needed to drop the 6-speed standard gearbox to meet the more stringent fuel-mileage regulations here in the U.S. market. Subaru equips Outbacks with the new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission because its more fuel efficient in the U.S. and Canadian models.

Fuel economy ratings improve on 2015 Outback

The Canadian 2015 Outback 2.5i with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) models are estimated at 8.0 L/100 km city, 6.0 L/100 km highway and 7.1 L/100 km combined. 6-cylinder Outback models have estimated fuel economy ratings of 11.2 L/100 km city, 7.4 L/100 km highway and 9.5 L/100 km combined.

Other changes with the CVT

Subaru still uses their excellent Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system on the new-generation Outback. Canadian 2015 Subaru Outback models equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission are connected to a viscous-coupling limited-slip center differential that provides “near neutral handling and maximum control for the driver.”

But 2015 Outback models equipped with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT gain a newly refined version of the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD. How does it work? An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively controls torque distribution in response to driving conditions and wheel slippage.

Added traction in slippery conditions

The system can send additional torque to the rear wheels either proactively or when it senses more slippage at the front wheels. Taking input from acceleration, steering angle and yaw rate sensors, Outback with the CVT’s, Active Torque Split AWD, optimizes traction and steering response when accelerating through turns and curves, particularly when the road surface is slippery.

While there may be some buyers who still want Outback with the 6-speed manual gearbox, the new-generation 2015 Subaru Outback with the new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission option will have two benefits over the 6-speed manual. Outback with CVT will get better fuel mileage and an improved Active Torque Split version of Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD. Look for the all-new 2015 Outback to arrive in Subaru showrooms across North America this summer.

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