News Subaru's top model "Legacy Outback" officially announced. Why was it released in Japan two years after the North American market?

Formal announcement of Subaru's top model "Legacy Outback". Why was it released in Japan two years after the North American market?

Looking at the Outback EyeSight for overseas markets, the North American market is equivalent to the previous generation EyeSight Ver.3, which was released in February 2021. The European version is the new-generation EyeSight. On the other hand, the Japanese specification is equipped with "EyeSight X" that supports advanced driving support such as hands-off. These differences in EyeSight affected the timing of the launch, and it took time to load the EyeSight X for Japan. Furthermore, the engine also differs depending on the destination. The North American specification has 2.5L NA and 2.4L turbo, and the European version has 2.5L NA, but the Japanese Legacy Outback has a 1.8L downsizing turbo. It is a selection that aims to achieve both fuel efficiency and performance in line with the road environment in Japan, which is often used in the low speed range. That is the Subaru development team's claim. However, the 1.8L turbo and EyeSight X are basically the same as those installed in the current Levorg, which debuted in the fall of 2020, and are the flagship "Legacy." ” may not make sense as the reason for the time lag that the full model change is about a year behind. Of course, eyesight X needs to be calibrated for each model, so it may be difficult to launch at the same time. Regarding the powertrain, the engine specs themselves are the same as the Levorg, with a maximum output of 177ps and a maximum torque of 300Nm, but it took time to create a unique driving taste by reviewing the control system such as the final gear ratio and throttle map. There will also be a part called. Nonetheless, the impression that it is a second brew of the Levorg cannot be denied, and it may be the fan's true feelings that they wanted the flagship to be prioritized. In any case, the body, which is larger than the previous model with a total length of 4870 x width of 1875 x height of 1670 mm, is suitable for the flagship model, and the minimum ground clearance has been reduced from 200 mm to 213 mm. Expectations are also high for the improved 4WD performance on rough roads, such as squeezing. In addition, the interior is equipped with options that make you feel like a premium SUV, such as Nappa leather seats and Harman/Kardon speakers. It can be said that the fact that a player is also available as an accessory so that you can enjoy DVDs on the 11.6-inch large information display fully considers the tastes of the target user. How will Subaru enthusiasts, known as Subaruists, evaluate the new Legacy Outback? Text: Shinya Yamamoto (automotive communicator and columnist)

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