Flaunting almost luxurious appointments, the top-shelf 2012 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited nevertheless retains the utility and value of its lesser siblings. This midsize wagon once again boasts standard all-wheel drive (AWD), enough cabin room to seat 5 comfortably, and the cargo space to tote up to 71.3 cubic feet of gear with the rear seats folded. A redesigned roof rack is new for this year, while 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and heated power-adjustable mirrors again adorn the profile of this high-end Outback trim. Inside, look for stuff like leather-trimmed upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, reclining rear seats, full power accessories, and leather, simulated wood and simulated alloy accents.
Meanwhile, a leather steering wheel mounts audio and cruise controls, while the standard 440-watt Harman Kardon premium audio system boasts a single-CD player, 9 speakers, satellite radio, auxiliary iPod integration and a USB Port, with all of this embraced by dual-zone climate control. Finally, Bluetooth hands-free calling also remains a standard feature in this feature-laden trim.
Well-equipped as it is, the Outback 2.5i Limited offers a number of options packages. The Power Sunroof Package includes a power sunroof and rear-view camera, with a voice-activated navigation system thrown in for a bit more money. The Popular Equipment Group 1B throws in a universal remote garage door opener and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, while standalone options include added cabin illumination, a short-throw shifter (manual transmission only) and rear-seat DVD entertainment.
As its name implies, the 2012 Outback 2.5i Limited packs a variable-valve-timed 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (“boxer”) engine hitched to a standard 6-speed manual transmission and puts out 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. Or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be selected that’ll put out the same performance numbers. Towing is maxed out at 2,700 pounds with an optional towing system installed, and this four-banger’s mileage remains estimated at 19 mpg city/27 highway with the stick-shift, 22/29 with the CVT. Finally, a tweaked emissions system results in the 2.5i Limited PZEV (Partial Zero-Emissions Vehicle) sub-trim.
The full-time symmetrical AWD system, meantime, is geared to divert added torque from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance mean that this stylish wagon can handle light off-road duties with comparative ease.
Standard safety features aboard the 2012 Outback 2.5i Limited and its PZEV sibling include 4-wheel antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, and front side-mounted airbags. Daytime running lights and dusk-sensing headlights also come standard, as does a remote antitheft alarm. Front fog/driving lights, meantime, as well as an upgraded antitheft alarm system (with the Popular Equipment Group 1B) can be delivered as safety options.
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