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Subaru For 2001 |
By Carey Russ |
Subaru invented the SUV-like car "crossover" vehicle genre with its Outback, and stays ahead of the increasing competition as it introduces its first six-cylinder engine in several years in the 2001 Outback H6-3.0 VDC and L.L. Bean Edition models. Other Outback wagons and sedans continue, as do the Legacy sedans and wagons. The Forester has been significantly revised, and the Impreza line has minor changes. All Subarus feature all-wheel drive for maximum traction in all conditions, and have horizontally-opposed engines for smooth operation.
The 2002 Subaru Impreza looks to be introduced in Spring, 2001. The most notable addition will be a real US-legal WRX. With 227 horsepower and all-wheel drive, it should give Subaru a serious presence in the compact performance segment.
Outback
Subaru is moving upscale with two new Outback wagons, the H6-3.0 VDC and H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition. Both use an all-new 3.0-liter, 212-hp six-cylinder engine. Like the 2.5-liter, 165-hp four found in other Subarus, it's a horizontally-opposed design for compactness and a low center of gravity. While it is not much larger than the four, the new engine is significantly more powerful. The sporty VDC model features a sophisticated new all-wheel drive system and namesake "Vehicle Dynamics Control" electronic stability control system. Its appointment level is above that of the Outback Limited. The L. L. Bean Edition is also well-appointed, and uses a slightly different all-wheel drive system. The four-cylinder Outbacks, available in wagon and sedan styles, were all-new last year and continue with new safety features for 2001.
Forester
The 2001 Forester has freshened styling, a re-tuned suspension, and enhanced safety, comfort, and luxury features. It uses the same 2.5-liter, 165-hp four-cylinder "boxer" engine as the larger Outbacks, giving it a power advantage over most other small SUVs and crossover vehicles.
Legacy
The Legacy is the Subaru for people who appreciate all-wheel drive handling and versatility, but don't need or want an Outback. The Legacy sedans and wagons were all-new last year, and get new safety and convenience features this year.
Impreza
Subaru's small Impreza lineup consists of sedans and wagons, and the 2.5 RS rally-replica sedan and coupe and Outback Sport wagon. The 2.5 RS have minor trim changes this year, while the others are unchanged.
Subaru Specifications 2001 Outback H6-3.0 VDC and L.L. Bean Edition ENGINE 3.0-liter horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder Peak horsepower: 212 @ 6000 rpm Peak torque, lb-ft: 210 @ 4400 rpm DRIVE TRAIN All-wheel drive 4 - speed automatic CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Unit construction chassis Front suspension: independent MacPherson strut Rear suspension: independent multilink BRAKES Four-wheel antilock disc EPA ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY City / Highway: 20 / 27 Fuel tank: 16.9 gallons Forester ENGINE 2.5-liter horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder Peak horsepower: 165 @ 5600 Peak torque, lb-ft: 166 @ 4000 DRIVE TRAIN All-wheel drive 4 - speed automatic 5 - speed manual CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Unit-construction chassis Front suspension: independent MacPherson strut Rear suspension: independent MacPherson strut BRAKES Forester L: disc/drum, antilock standard Forester S: disc/disc, antilock standard EPA ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY City / Highway: 21/28 manual, 22/27 automatic Fuel tank: 15.9 gallons