New- starting on late 2011 Limiteds, the alloy wheel center cap has a blue logo. You can buy these center caps from your local dealer parts dept
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2012 Outback side logo, ruby red color shown
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for many many more, please check the exterior photo page, interior photo page, options and upgrades page,  window stickers

new color for 2012 - Ice Silver Metallic, replaces steel silver.

new color for 2012- Deep Indigo Pearl, replaces azurite blue.  Photo courtesy Karl L

new for 2012- ruby red comes with gray interior. This is a base 2.5i with the new for 2012 Option Package #11.  From this angle you cant tell if its a 2.5i base with Package #11 or a Premium.
The easiest way is to check for the lightly tinted or dark tinted side and rear glass. The light tint means is a base 2.5i...
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new for 2012- optional Alloy Wheel Package #11	new for 2012 optional Alloy Wheel Package #11, available on base 2.5i only- includes 17" alloys, All Weather Package, fog lights, body colored mirrors, upper windshield tint band. Ruby Red shown
new for 2012 Outback- ruby red pearl now with gray interior, and off-black seat. Premium shown with cloth and power driver seat.	Outback Sunroof, hand measured 30.25x15.5" inside opening. Crossbars in place have a 30" spread,  Aftermarket crossbars will attach to the factory crossbars in the closed position with a 24" spread. Rear crossbar to open gate app 20". The heavy duty cargo basket  attached to the cross bars and then you can use other cross bars for a wider spread (36).
new for 2012 -the cross bars are smooth bottomed without the wind deflectors like on all 2011/10 models	new for 2012 smooth bottomed cross bar
the All Weather Package - the lower windshield heats to warm and defrost the front wipers. Part of the All Weather Pkg that also includes heated front seats and defrosting outside mirrors. Optional on 2.5i and Premium, standard on Limited models	New for 2012 optional factory installed Rear Seat Entertainment. 2  DVD players in the front headrests for the back seat passengers. Includes 2 7" LCD screen DVD players/ monitors, 2 wireless headsets, remote control, 2 AV and aux wires for using other devices. Audio is through the headphones or stereo speakers. More photos on the options, upgrades page

2.5i 16" steel wheel without full wheel cover installed. Alloy wheels are optional.

2.5i 16" steel wheel with full wheel cover installed. New- The 17" alloy is optional starting with the 2012 model

Premium 17" alloy wheel, center cap with a stamped logo.

new- starting with late 2011 models, the Limited 17" alloy wheel center cap has a blue logo

 for many more photos, please check the exterior photo page, interior photo page, options and upgrades page,  window stickers

3/6 Outback and Legacy- orders are no longer accepted for 2012 Outback and Legacy 3.6R models and Legacy 2.5i manual transmission models - the 2.5i, Premium and 2.5GT - as Subaru prepares for the end of the model year. There will be a good selection of these models for a while but if you want a 2012 3.6L Outback, or 3.6L or manual transmission Legacy, its time to look seriously.
12/17/11 a safe car- the 2012 Outback continues as an IIHS.org  Top Safety Pick with Good (the top rating) performance in front, side, rollover, and rear tests and standard electronic stability control
11/27/11  master cylinder recall issue on 2012 Legacy, Outback, and Impreza.
Last week Subaru announced a delay shipping Outbacks, Legacys and Imprezas. On the 25th, they confirmed rumors that its due to a brake master cylinder issue, and dealers cannot sell or deliver affected vehicles until they are repaired.  That means cars expected to arrive in November or early December may be pushed back.  This does not involve Forester, WRX/STI or Tribeca. This is safety recall campaign code WVY-35. Subaru is acting quickly- parts are already being shipped and arriving at dealers, and letters will be sent to owners. In an emergency, the Impreza still has a manual parking/emergency brake, the Legacy/Outback's electric parking brake will function as an emergency brake if gently tapped but be careful.
'SoA received a limited number of reports of intermittent excessive brake pedal travel in 2012 Impreza models built through November 15 as well as 2012 Legacy and Outback models built between October 27 and November 23. While braking capability in these vehicles is maintained, drivers have reported their concerns about greater than normal brake pedal travel"
11/18/11 Subaru has announced a delay shipping Outbacks, Legacys and Imprezas.  That means cars expected to arrive in November or early December may be pushed back. No explanation given yet.
10.11.11 2012 Outback and Legacy brochures arriving at dealers. 10 pages.  2011 brochures were 15 pages and included a 2 page fold-out.
9.15.11 cars start arriving at dealers
9.2.11  prices and specs announced.
8.12.11 orders accepted and colors announced.

No major changes.
The 2012 Outback uses the same 2.5L 4 cylinder engine as it did in 2011 and previous years.
It was rumored it might get the 2.5L DOHC used in the 2011 Forester but it didn't happen.
The Premium model gets standard Bluetooth handsfree cell and wireless audio streaming, USB port.

Prices: small increases on all models: 2.5i $100, Premium $300, Limited $200, 3.6R $100, Premium $300, 3.6R Limited $200
Destination now $775 from $725. $925 to Alaska

New Features
No changes on 2.5i or 3.6R base model.
New  optional upgrade Package #11 Alloy Wheel Package, available on base model only. Includes the All Weather Package, 17" alloy wheels, fog lights, body colored outside mirrors, tinted upper windshield band.
New Premium models get new stereo, 6 speakers including tweeters, plus Bluetooth handsfree cell phone connectivity, steering wheel has Bluetooth, audio and cruise controls, wireless music audio streaming, USB port, 3.5mm aux input, antenna is in the rear window
New Stereo -  Harman/Kardon audio features now include new 4.3" LCD display, HD radio, single CD replaces 6 disc changer, XM now has 4 mos free instead of 3. Previous years it was a 6 disc CD changer. The H/K audio continues to be optional on Premium, standard on Limited.
New for 2012 Rear seat entertainment DVD player optional on all models, 2 rear seat headrest DVD montors and players.
New for 2012 the gate rear trim piece above the license plate is now molded and part of the gate. In 2010/11 it was separate and you could even get an optional chrome trim piece (gate garnish) instead of the body colored
New for 2012 steering wheel now with black audio and cruise control switches with white text for better visibility (replaces silver buttons with black text)
New for 2012 roofrack cross bars- the bottom of the cross bars is now smooth (2010/11 models have small wind deflectors). The cross bars are the same pivoting, fixed width, that didn't change.
New Power lumbar support button on the power driver's seat no longer has an image.

Gone- the optional chrome rear gate trim has been dropped since that body colored piece is now molded into the gate and not a separate piece

Colors
New Deep Indigio Pearl with ivory interior
New Silver Metallic with gray interior with off-black seats.
New Ruby Red Pearl now with the dark gray interior with off-black  seats, instead of ivory interior.
Gone Azurite Blue Pearl
Gone Steel Silver Metallic

The Outback is a great car but not quite perfect (yet)
Maybe Next Year- here are the top things I'd like to see in the 2012  2013

 

- Outback Dimensions- 2012 scroll down for cargo area measurements  subject to change, correction, updating. -
model	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited
Dimensions	Wheelbase:  107.9"  Overall Length:  188.2 Width:  71.7" includes folded-in outside mirrors, width with mirrors folded out: 81" Height: 66.1" with crossbars in use, 65.7" with crossbars on rails, not used Headroom front/rear: 40.8"/39.3" Headroom with moonroof front/rear 38.7"/39.3" Legroom front/rear: 43.0"/37.8" EPA Interior passenger volume 105.4cf, with moonroof 102.4cf EPA Cargo volume 34.3cf EPA cargo volume with seats flat 71.3cf Track:  front/rear 61/61" Turning circle- 36.8ft.  turns lock-to-lock 3.2 Ground clearance- 8.7" Angle of approach- 18.9* Breakover angle- 19.5* angle of departure- 22.2*
model	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited

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start cargo and seat measurements

. 2012, 2011, 2010 Cargo and Seat Measurements and photos  these are unofficial and  hand measured. subject to change, correction, No changes from 2010 model - there's room in the back for a lot more than just 1 set of clubs -
front power seat goes up and down from 25.5" - 27.75" hand measured from the middle of the side bolster to the ground, so the actual seating surface will be a few inches lower. This image is the lowest, look at the seat and console, and then  check the image to the right.	front power seat goes up and down. This is the highest, look at the seat and console
cargo area width measurements *****	the rear gate lifted up, the white arrows pointing at the little push button to open the gate, and at the rear-view camera (with Navigation).  Those are the license plate lights on either side of the handle. cargo area width measurements (no changes from 2010) A- width along base of gate opening- 39.5"  B- width between wheel wells- 43" C- width of driver rear seat- 16.5" D- width of passenger rear seat- 26" E- width along middle of gate opening- 44.5" F- width at top of wheel wells- 51.5" G- width along top of gate opening- 39" H- width into open storage pockets- 55.25" > Back of rear seat height from ground when folded flat is 28.5", measured at the rear door > Cargo floor height at gate 28"
cargo area length and height measurements rear seat fold down split is 35/65.  *****	cargo area length and height measurements 1- length with seats up 40.25" 2- length to stereo 110" 3- length to top of rear seats folded flat 66"  (not to the back of the front seat) 4- height, floor to ceiling in middle of cargo area 33.5" 5- height of gate at opening, angled from top out to gate lip 34"  5B- height of gate at opening, straight from top down to floor (a few inches inside the gate lip) 30.5" 6- angle from lower left to upper right 50" 7- lip to back of wheel well 17" > Back of rear seat height from ground when folded flat is 28.5", measured at the rear door > Cargo floor height at gate 28" > Moonroof-  interior opening 30.25 x 15.5" (see images above and below)
cargo area with cargo cover	cargo area with cargo cover
rear driver's cargo area cubby hole with arrow pointing at power outlet and pop-out hook.  Shown without the cargo cover.	rear passenger side with pop-out cargo hook. Limited shown with Harmon Kardon subwoofer speaker
hook holds the cargo floor up to access the spare and storage bin	lift up the cargo floor and there is a storage bin above the spare tire.  Shown with floor sides lifted out so the cargo cover can be stored
shown with the cargo cover stored under the floor	cargo cover stored with sides of the floor in place
spare tire, shown with floor sides out	Moonroof- 30.25" x 15.5" hand measured inside opening, New for 2011, it includes new rear view mirrors with back up camera

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start warranty and maintenance
 

- 2012 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE subject to change and correction see your local servicing dealer for full details and coverage on your specific car -

the full maintenance schedule Break-in period  for the first 1000 miles Don't race the engine, keep RPMs under 4,000 for the most part and vary the speeds with normal city/highway driving. 2.5L models- the first oil change is required at 7500 miles or 7.5 months. Its recommended to do it around  3months/3,000 miles. 3.6R  models- the first oil change is required at 3months/3,000 miles.  Service schedule Oil- Use 5W-30. Regular oil is ok, synthetic oil is recommended. Subaru does have some conflicting information about regular vs synthetic oil. Synthetic is recommended. Its required to replace the oil and filter every 7,500 miles or 7.5 months. With stop and go or hard driving, towing etc its recommended to replace every 3750 miles or 3.75 months First service- 2.5L models- the first oil change is required at 7500 miles or 7.5 months. Its recommended to do it around  3months/3,000 miles.  First service- 3.6R  models- the first oil change is required at 3months/3,000 miles.  7,500 miles/7.5 months- oil/filter service, rotate tires. equal tread is required on all tires. 15,000 miles/yearly- repeat 7500 mile service, replace cabin air filter, check hoses, belts, brakes etc 30,000 miles/30 months- 15k service plus replace air filter and brake fluid. inspect other all fluids, filters,  60,000 miles/60 months (5 years)- repeat 30k service plus spark plugs. 3.6L models use transmission fluid. 2.5L CVT does not.  90,000 miles/90 months- repeat 30k service plus replace all fluids, filters 105,000- replace timing belt on 2.5L models. The 3.6R Timing chain does not need replacement Radiator fluid is Super Coolant long life. The first replacement is 11 years. 2.5L CVT Transmission: Life Time oil and should not need to be replaced unless driven under hard conditions, towing etc-change every 24,855 miles. Note- there is no CVT oil dipstick.  Radiator fluid is Super Coolant, with over 10 year replacement schedule.

- WARRANTY subject to change and correction see your local servicing dealer for full details and coverage on your specific car the roadside assistance phone number is on drivers window, also on 2 wallet cards included with the owners manual. Call 800 261.2155. good for 36months, 36000 miles. - -

Bumper-to-bumper: 3 year/36,000 miles, includes  Wear Item warranty covering pre-mature wear: brakes, clutch linings, remote batteries, wiper blades etc. Roadside assistance 3yr/36000 miles by the Cross Country Motor Club at 800 261-2155, break-down, lock-out, flat repair etc Powertrain: 5 year/ 60,000 miles Corrosion: 5 year/100,000 miles Emissions: Federal spec LEV (low emission vehicle) 3 years/36,000 miles plus 8 year/80,000 mile extended defect warranty covering Major Emission Control Components (catalytic converter, electronic emission control unit, diagnostic device) California spec PZEV (partial zero emission vehicle) sold and registered in CA, CT, NH, NY, MA, MS, RI, VT: 3 years/50,000 miles, plus 7 year/70,000 mile extended defect warranty with extensions to up to 15years/150,000 miles Note Warranties do not cover wear or damage due to abuse, lack of maintenance or competitive driving. Exclusions may apply, wear replacement may be one time. see your local servicing dealer for full details and coverage on your specific car

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start safety
 

- SAFETY  2012 OUTBACK subject to change, correction - Safety 12/17/11 a safe car- the 2012 Outback continues as an IIHS.org  Top Safety Pick with Good (the top rating) performance in front, side, rollover, and rear tests and standard electronic stability control
All Wheel Drive	Full time all wheel drive
TPMS- tire pressure monitor system	S (must re-sync monitors whenever tires or wheels are replaced)
VDC and TCS	VDC Electronic Stability Control and TCS full time all wheel, all speed Traction Control System
Seatbelts	5 passenger, all with full shoulder harness and lap belts Height adjustable shoulder harness anchor points  (except center rear)
Child Seat	LATCH system (lower anchor and tether for children) Child seat anchors hidden under flap
Front Airbags	Standard with Dual Stage Deployment. Dual Stage means: Driver: detects distance of driver from steering wheel Passenger seat: detects weight and will turn off airbag if passenger is under app 75-80#. This status is displayed by the trip computer
Side Airbags	Standard front side airbags
Side Curtain airbags	Standard Front and Rear side Curtain airbags
Headrests	5 headrests
Crumple Zones	Front and rear
5mph Impact Bumpers	Front and rear
Re-Inforcements	Ring-Shaped reinforcement safety structure dual front, single rear, all tied into a full perimeter protection system
Brakes	4 wheel, 4 channel anti-lock power disc brakes  2.5L ventilated front discs 3.6L ventilated front and rear discs
DayTime Running lights (DRL)	DRL are standard with auto-off headlights
Auto-off headlights	Headlights are auto on-off with the ignition. A green indicator light is on when headlights are on.
Childproof rear door locks	Standard
Panic Alarm	Standard using remote lock/unlock key fob

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- 2012 OUTBACK CRASH TESTS INSURANCE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHWAY SAFETY- IIHS.org 12/17/2011: 2012 Subaru Outback is a Top Safety Pick from IIHS.org -  Top Safety rating, and good (the top) performance in front, side, rollover, and rear tests and standard electronic stability control subject to change, correction
2012 NHTSA OUTBACK OVERALL RATING:  4 STARS Starting with 2011 models, NHTSA has introduced tougher tests and rigorous new 5-Star Safety Ratings that provide more information about vehicle safety and crash avoidance technologies. Because of the more stringent tests, ratings for 2011 and newer vehicles should not be compared to ratings for 1990-2010 models.  Overall vehicle score and frontal crash ratings should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight. the official NHTSA site subject to change and correction -
overall frontal crash rating		overall side crash rating					rollover 17.4%
frontal barrier crash rating		side barrier rating			combined side barrier and pole ratings		-
driver male	passenger female	driver seat, male	rear passenger seat, female	side pole rating,  driver seat female	front seat	rear seat	-

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MODELS

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start major Option Packages

PZEV (partial zero emission vehicle) logo on 4 cylinders in CA, CT, MA, MD, ME, NJ, NM, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA
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start model and feature summary

- SUBARU OUTBACK SNAPSHOT 2012 Outback Model and Feature Overview Notee 216 model combinations. Looking for a specific Outback? There are 216 Outback model and Option Package combinations, not including individual options. Engines- 2.5L 4 cylinder and 3.6L 6 cylinder Transmissions-  2.5L: 6 speed manual, or CVT with paddle shifters. 3.6L:  automatic 5 speed with paddle shifters subject to change, correction, updates-
- 2012 2.5i Overview  Standard Equipment Feature Summary subject to change, correction, updates - check the exterior photo page, interior photo page,
- 2012 Outback 2.5i standard features model codes: CDA manual 6speed; CDB automatic CVT with paddle shifters Look at these 2.5i details  because it is the standard model and all other models will at least have these features plus their model upgrades. new for 2012 steering wheel- black audio & cruise control switches with white text new for 2012 roofrack cross bars- the bottom of the cross bars is now smooth  new for 2012 the gate rear trim piece above the license plate now molded in the gate new for 2012 upgrade Package #11 Alloy Wheel Package 2.5L 4 cylinder engine, 170 hp at 5600 rpm, 170 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm Speedometer to 150mph, Tachometer to 6400rpm All Wheel Drive (awd), with VDC Stability Control, Traction Control, and Hill Holder Manual 6 speed transmission is standard optional CVT automatic transmission 18.5 gallon tank Heavy duty raised suspension Anti-lock disc brakes, with EBD, 4 wheel disc brakes (larger size discs for 10) Airbags: Front driver and passenger, advanced dual stage, occupant detecting Airbags: Front side driver and passenger Airbags: Front and Rear Side Curtain with Rollover sensors Overhead passenger airbag on/off and seatbelt warning lights 5 seatbelts & headrests Power Windows, driver auto down function,  Illuminated driver door power window switches Power Locks Power Mirrors, hinged fold-in mirrors  Power Steering Air conditioning with cabin air filtration 4 speed AC and Heater fan Tinted windows (standard light green tint) Electronic parking brake with auto release. Makes a mild sound as it activates or releases so you know its working. Hill Holder with all models (even automatics), uses the electric parking brake Dusk-dawn headlight auto-on settings Continental ContiPro all season tire Reclining rear seats, 60/40 split Air filtration system for cabin, filter is behind the glovebaox Key and Remote entry, integrated in one piece. Keys are Laser cut, 3 supplied when new, 2 with integrated remote with Finder Mode (press lock slowly more than 3 times) Engine Immobilizer anti-theft system Alarm, ignition disabling alarm system (impact sensor is an upgrade) Steerigt wheel- Telecope and Tilt steering wheel Steering wheel, 3 spoke, with cruise and audio controls Cupholders, 8: 4 cupholders 2 front console, 2 rear armrest, plus 4 door bottle holders, 1 in each door TPMS Tire Pressure Monitoring System Driver seat manual height and recline adjustment	-  continued: 2012 Outback 2.5i standard features Cruise control with steering wheel controls Unpainted lower body-side protective cladding 16" steel wheels with full wheel covers Pre-wired for Remote Start 4 beam halogen headlights, auto on-off with ignition Headlights with 3 'on' settings: 1. daytime running lights; 2. always on and auto off with ignition key removal;  3. 'auto' dusk-dawn setting, off with ingnition key removal Day Time Running lights, on if headlights are off Front wipers: Variable speed intermittent, 4 setting (was 8) Rear wiper, 2 speed, auto-on in reverse with auto trans Rear defroster with rear wiper de-icer Fold flat and Reclining rear seats, 60/40 split Rear armrest with cupholders Roof Rails with swiveling cross bars Dual vanity mirrors Dual map lights Rear cargo light Cargo tray Cargo tie hooks (4) Cargo area storage under the floor, above spare tire Courtesy Lights- front doors, glovebox, cargo area 3 12v Power Outlets- front and center console, rear cargo area. No cigarette lighter Center console with cupholders, under armrest storage, open front storage Overhead console with 2 map lights and sunglass holder Trip computer in dashboard with outside temperature, instant and average fuel economy for resettable Trip Odometers A and B, distance to empty, clock Vanity mirrors with lights Map pocket on back of front passenger seat Brushed Silver dashboard trim Steel hood with gas struts to hold the hood open. Roof rails, pivoting fold-away cross bars, 30" spread, 150 lb capacity. The optional heavy-duty cargo basket can be attached to the crossbars, and then the round crossbars (or Yakima, Thule etc) can be attached to the basket for a 36" spread Stereo: AM/FM, single CD. Plays MP3/WMA, R/RW, auxilliary input and 12v power outlet in center console. 4 speakers, pty/cat (program type/category radio station search function), audio controls and cruise controls in the steering wheel. Antenna is the rear glass. Bluetooth - optional BlueConnect Option Packages factory installed only new Pkg#11 Alloy Wheel Package, AWP, 17" alloy wheels, fog lights, body colored outside mirrors, tinted upper windshield band. $995 Request a free Subaru 'Badge of Ownership'  Here's my webpage with photos of the badges and links.
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top  2012 Outback 2.5i Premium and 2.5i Limited Overview Standard Equipment Feature Summary subject to change, correction, updates .
-  2.5i PREMIUM adds over the 2.5i model codes: CDC- manual 6speed; CDD- CVT automatic everything the Outback 2.5i has, plus... New Stereo: AM/FM, single CD, MP3/WMA, 6 speakers including tweeters, new Bluetooth handsfree cell phone, steering wheel bluetooth, audio, and cruise control buttons, Bluetooth wireless audio streaming, USB, 3.5mm aux input, MP3/WMA,  XM/Sirius ready. Antenna is the rear glass. New Power lumbar support button on the power driver seat no longer has an image. Fog Lights 17" alloy wheels Dark tinted Privacy glass Rear  luggage cargo cover Body colored outside mirrors Dark tinted upper windshield band Ambient light in the overhead console Hinged door on center console front storage Auto UP driver power window switch (as well as auto down) Power Driver's seat, 10 way incl power lumbar support 225/60R17 Continenetal ContiPro-Contact all season tires Illuminated power window switches on all doors (not just driver door) Leather wrapped steering wheel with audio, cruise, and new Bluetooth buttons Option Packages factory installed only see Option Packages above > Pkg #02 All Weather Package $500 > Pkg #05 All Weather package plus h/k audio $1795 > Pkg #06 All Weather package, Moonroof with back-up camera $1945 > Pkg #09 All Weather Pkg, h/k audio, moonroof with back-up camera $3240	-  2.5i LIMITED adds over the 2.5i Premium model code: BCF- CVT automatic (no manual trans available on this model) everything the 2.5i Premium has, plus.. Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission, manual mode paddle shifters Fog Lights Front underguard Leather trimmed interior Passenger power seat (4way), front/back, power recline Wood grain interior trim (2.5i and Premium have brushed silver trim) Dual Front Zone Climate Control, 6 speed fan, settings Lo - 61... 89 - Hi All Weather Pkg: dual mode heated front seats, defrosting outside mirrors, front windshield wiper deicer with hidden element Harman/Kardon 440 watt audio system which now includes a new 4.3" LCD display, new USB, new HD radio, XM radio free for 4 months. Its an AM/FM, new single CD, 9 H/K speakers incl subwoofer and midrange. MP3, WMA, 3.5mm aux input jack. Bluetooth with steering wheel cell phone controls, Bluetooth wireless audio streaming. Plays MP3/WMA, R/RW discs, MP3. Bass, mid-range, and treble adjustments. XM satellite radio with roof antenna, new 4 months free (promo code subarus06, XM activate ph 800-852-9696).. Bluetooth - standard with h/k audio. Check your phone www.subaru.com/bluetooth  Option Packages factory installed only see Option Packages above > Pkg #04 Moonroof, Back up camera $1445  > Pkg #08 Navigation/GPS, Moonroof, back-up camera $2995
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top 2012 3.6L models Overview and Standard Equipment Feature Summary subject to change and correction - check the exterior photo page, interior photo page,
- 3.6R adds or replaces over 2.5i model code-  CDI everything the 2.5i  has, plus  the 3.6R has some, not all,  of the 2.5i Premium features (the R is the code for a 6cyl DOHC engine) Engine: 3.6L  6 cylinder with 256hp @ 6000 rpm, 247lb-ft torque@ 4400 rpm. Regular fuel. Speedometer to 160mph, tachometer redline 6500rpm Transmission: Automatic 5speed  transmission, with paddle Shifters VTD All Wheel Drive: (variable torque distribution)  varies the power front back, the standard is rear wheel performance balanced at 45/55 front-rear. Fog Lights Engine cover Paddle Shifters 17" alloy wheels Dual Exhaust tips Dark tinted Privacy glass Rear  luggage cargo cover Body colored outside mirrors Dark tinted upper windshield band Ambient light in the overhead console Hinged door on center console front storage Brakes- larger disc brakes, including rear vented discs Auto UP driver power window switch (as well as auto down) Illuminated power window switches on all doors (not just driver door) Stereo: AM/FM, single CD. Plays MP3/WMA, R/RW, auxilliary input and 12v power outlet in center console. 4 speakers, pty/cat (program type/category radio station search function), audio controls and cruise controls in the steering wheel. Antenna is the rear glass. Bluetooth - optional with BlueConnect Option Packages - none	-  3.6R PREMIUM adds over 3.6R model code CDJ everything the 3.6R has, plus... New Stereo: AM/FM, single CD, MP3/WMA, 6 speakers including tweeters, Bluetooth handsfree cell phone with steering wheel controls, Bluetooth wireless audio streaming, USB and 3.5mm aux input, MP3/WMA, XM/Sirius ready. Antenna in the rear glass. Power driver's seat, 10 way incl power Lumbar support Leather wrapped steering wheel with audio, cruise, bluetooth controls All Weather Pkg: dual mode heated front seats, defrosting outside mirrors, front windshield wiper deicer with hidden element Option Packages factory installed only see Option Packages above > Pkg #04  Moonroof, Back up camera $1445 > Pkg #07 Harman Kardon, Moonroof, back-up camera $2740
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-  2012 3.6L LIMITED adds over the 3.6L Premium model code CDK -
everything the 3.6L Premium has, plus.. Wood grain interior trim Leather interior, perforated Front door aluminum sill plates Passenger power seat (4way) front/back, power recline Leather wrapped steering wheel with Bluetooth, audio, and cruise controls Climate Control, Single/Dual Front Zone, 6 speed fan, settings Lo - 61, 62 .. 89 - Hi Dual zone front Climate Control Harman Kardon audio- 440 watt audio system which now includes a new 4.3" LCD color display, new USB, new HD radio, single CD, XM radio free for 4 months. Its an AM/FM, single CD, MP3/WMA,,  9 H/K speakers incl subwoofer and midrange. MP3, WMA, USB and 3.5mm aux input jack. Bluetooth with steering wheel cell phone controls, Bluetooth wireless audio streaming. Plays R/RW discs, MP3. Bass, mid-range, and treble adjustments. XM satellite radio with roof antenna, new 4 months free (promo code subarus06, XM activate ph 800-852-9696).. Option Packages factory installed only see Option Packages above > Pkg #04 Moonroof, back up camera $1445 > Pkg #08 Navigation/GPS, Moonroof, back-up camera $2995

 
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HD Radio
Digital radio broadcast signal for improved clarity

HD radio was offered in the 2011 Forester Limited and Touring models.
The ‘HD’ in ‘HD Radio’ is part of iBiquity Digital’s brand name for its digital AM and FM radio technology.
It does not mean either hybrid digital or high definition, it is simply the branding language for this new technology.
HD Radio broadcasting is free, there are no subscription fees.
You can get digital AM and FM stations, including HD2 and HD3 multicast channels.
HD Radio broadcasting is your favorite local AM and FM stations broadcasting digitally, producing radically improved sound.
Very clear. AM radio sounds like FM, and FM radio sounds like a CD.
Unwanted pops, hisses and dropouts are a thing of the past with an HD Radio receiver."
HD2 multicasting means more FM channels and new programming available from local FM stations, which you can only hear on your new HD Radio receiver.
Across the country, local FM stations are offering a wide variety of new formats on their HD2 channels: reggae, blues, classic jazz, future country, new alternative, deep tracks, bluegrass and local artists.
The service includes iTunes Tagging. iTunes Tagging lets you capture information about a song on the radio and store it on your iPod by pushing the "Tag" button on the HD Radio receiver. When your iPod is connected to iTunes, a list of tagged songs will appear which can be previewed, purchased, and downloaded.

HD radio FAQ I Check station availability here

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end model and feature summary
start mechanical details
 

- 2012 OUTBACK MECHANICALS subject to change, correction, updating this is an unofficial, unauthorized website not approved or supported by SoA or any dealer. Contact your local dealer. -
engine	2.5L 4 cylinder engine			3.6L 6 cylinder engine
2012 Feature subject to change, correction	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited
model codes	manual- CDA,  CVT- CDB	manual- CDC, CVT- CDD	CVT- CDF	CDI	CDJ	CDK
Engine	4 cylinder 2.5L SOHC Boxer design (EJ253) (Note- this engine is not used in the 2013 Outback or Legacy) 16 valve, i-active Valve Lift system (variable valve lift) Aluminum block and head Tming belt (105,000 mile replacement) Resin composite intake manifold new Steel cylinder liners 5 main bearings Sequential multi-port injection Distributorless ignition Iridium spark plugs new Spark plugs: NGK: SIFR6A11 firing order 1-3-2-4 Compression 10.0:1 Idle speed: manual 650rpm, CVT 675rpm Ignition timing 15* BTDC Speedometer to 150mph Redline 6400 rpm Regular gas, 87 octane, 18.5 gallon tank 5/22/2011 - 5w-30 synthetic oil required			6 cylinder, 3.6L DOHC Boxer design (EZ36D) 24 valve DAVCS dual active variable valve control system, variable valve timing Camshaft timing chain (no replacement schedule) Composite resin intake manifold Sequential fuel injection Direct electronic distributorless ignition Spark Plugs: NGK SILFR6C11 Plug Firing Order 1-6-3-2-5-4 Speedometer to 160mph Redline 6400 rpm Compression 10.5:1 Oil, oil filter capacity 8.5US qt Idle speed, parked, 700rpm Ignition timing 15* BTDC Regular gas, 87 octane, 18.5 gallon tank 5/22/2011 - 5w-30 synthetic oil required
Horsepower and torque	170hp@5600rpm, torque170@4000rpm			256hp@6,000rpm, torque 247@4400rpm
Transmission -  6 speed manual and CVT (new on 2010 model)	Standard 6 speed manual Optional  CVT automatic with paddle shifters and 6 'gears'.		Standard- CVT automatic with paddle shifters and 6 'gears'	Standard- Automatic 5speed electronic
CVT automatic transmission-  on 4 cylinder models only	The Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission is the only automatic transmission available in 4 cylinder models. What is a Lineartronic CVT transmission? CVT is Continuously Variable Transmission. Lineartronic is just Subaru's name for their CVT.  CVT is a gearless chain drive transmission that efficiently matches RPMs and power  for better fuel economy because the engine runs at its most efficient RPM over a range of speeds.  The Subaru CVT uses a chain and  has  'manual mode' with paddle shifters and 6 selected 'gears' for drivers who want more control or better performance and just like to play. > Maintenance: only use Subaru CVT C-30 oil. The oil does not need to be changed unless driven under very hard or frequent towing in which case replace at 25000 miles. There's no dipstick. > CVT Background-  new on the 2010 Outback and Legacy.  Subaru's 1989 Justy EVCT was the first production car in the U.S with a CVT, and Fuji has sold their technology to other companies, and they still use it in small cars in Japan. Other companies using a version of a CVT recently are the Toyota hybrids under the name Hybrid Synergy Drive (ie Prius, Highlander, Camry, Lexus etc), Honda Civic hybrid, Nissan Murano, BMW's Mini Cooper, Mitsubishi Lancer, Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Patriot, Ford Freestyle, Five Hundred and Mercury Montego etc etc. (from wiki) more Subaru glossary and terms
All Wheel Drive Systems. All Subarus are all wheel drive. Systems vary by model but VDC stability skid control with traction control and all wheel drive is standard on all models	2.5i,  Premium, with Manual 6 speed transmission Continuous All Wheel Drive system with VDC and Hill Holder symmetrical viscous coupling 50/50 front/back power split.  2.5i, Premium, Limited with  Automatic CVT transmission Active All Wheel Drive system with VDC and Hill Holder. Electronically controlled,  constantly varying front/back power split 80/20 front/back power split. 3.6R, automatic 5 speed transmission VTD (Variable Torque Distribution) All Wheel Drive system with VDC and Hill Holder  VTD traction control system has 45/55 performance oriented, front/rear power split. VDC is standard on all models VDC vehicle dynamics control, is an electronic stability control system that measures and monitors steering wheel input, braking, vehicle angle etc and then applies individual brakes and/or reduces engine power to counteract skids or slides to help keep maintain driver control. TCS Traction Control System is part of VDC. TCS senses spinning wheels and applies the brakes to maintain traction.
Manual transmission All Wheel Drive system with VDC and hill holder	symmetrical all wheel drive, viscous coupling 50/50 power split			no manual available
Gear Ratios, Manual scroll down for automatic	Manual 6 speed. 1st 3.454; 2nd 1.947; 3rd 1.296; 4th 0.972; 5th 0.825; 6th 0.695 Final drive 4.44:1			no manual available
Automatic transmission All Wheel Drive system with VDC	Optional Lineartronic CVT with paddle shifters		Standard Lineartronic CVT with paddle shifters	Standard automatic 5 speed with VDC, and VTD
Gear Ratios, Automatic	CVT there are no gears with a continuously variable transmission. In automatic mode the CVT is 3.525- 0.558  Final drive 3.900:1			Automatic 5spd  with paddle shifters 1 3.540; 2 2.264; 3 1.471; 4 1.000; 5 0.834 final 3.083:1
PZEV Emissions:  4 cylinder models are available in either Fed or PZEV (partial zero emission vehicle)  spec. PZEV is required on all 4 cylinder Outbacks and Legacys with the CVT   in CA, CT, NJ, NY, MA, ME, RI, VT, PA, OR, WA	What is PZEV, a brief, simple summary The EPA says a PZEV is clean running gas engine car based on emissions testing for carbon-containing compounds, oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter, and other tailpipe nastiness. It is required on 4 cylinder models sold in CA, CT, NJ, NY, MA, ME, RI, VT, PA, OR, WA 1. A charcoal cannister catches unburned gas left in the engine when it's turned off so it doesn't just evaporate.  2. Fuel injectors that close tighter when they're not in use. 3. A finer mesh in the catalytic converter, as well as optimized placement of its precious metal. 4.  The engine's electronic brain is tuned to run the hot at start up to help the catalytic converter heat up so it can start doing its job faster. PZEV emission cars are indentified on the Monroney window sticker
model reminder subject to change, correction, updating	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited
Fuel Economy- city/highway, combined EPA Fuel tank size:18.5 US gallons (15.4 Imperial gallons) Regular unleaded gas, 87 octane, all models Low fuel light on at app 3 gallons	Manual 6spd 19/27; combined EPA 22mpg Automatic CVT 22/29, combined EPA 24mpg The CVT automatic transmission city mpg range is 18-26 which is avg 22mpg; the highway mpg range is 24-34, avg 29.			Automatic 5spd  18/25;  combined 20mpg
Steering	Power rack & pinion with engine speed sensing variable assist Turning circle: Curb to Curb  36.8; Wall to Wall 38.7';  Steering Wheel Turns lock-to-lock  3.2,
Brakes	4 wheel disc, 4 channel anti-lock, low wear indicator Brake assist for maximum brake pressure Caliper- single piston front: 11.6 ventilated front disc rear: 11.3 solid rear disc			4 wheel disc, 4 channel anti-lock, low wear indicator Brake assist for maximum brake pressure Caliper- single piston front: 12.4 ventilated front disc rear: 11.4 ventilated rear disc
Parking Brake	all models use an Electric Parking Brake with Auto Release and Hill Holder.  Auto release function- wear seatbelt, step on brake pedal, put car in gear, lightly press gas pedal.  Makes a mild sound as it activates or releases so you know its working. To use in as emergency brake tap or hold the brake button down but only in an serious emergency when you cannot normally brake! This will cause your rear wheels to lock so be very careful. The mechanical release for the electric brake if the battery is dead is under the car in front of the right rear wheel and it's an awkward process, so keep the battery charged. Dead battery brake release info
Hill Holder button and dashboard green 'on' light	Standard on all models. Especially useful with manual transmission models. Uses the electric parking brake. After the car is started, the system can be turned on by pressing the Hill Holder button by the driver's left knee (left of  the parking brake button). A green light in the upper right dash comes on. When stopping on a hill 5% or steeper, either going forward up or backwards down a hill,  the Hill Holder activates the electric parking brake and will briefly hold the car from rolling while the driver steps on the gas. Makes a mild sound as it activates or releases so you know its working Works going up or backwards down an incline.  Note: if you are already stopped on an incline and did not press the Hill Holder button,  press the Parking Brake - it works exactly the same.
Curb weight, manual/automatic trans, pounds  GVWR- gross vehicle weight rating- 4585 pounds	3389/3498	3402/3510	3538	3597	3609	3631
Wheels 2.5i: 16" steel wheel All others: 17" aluminum alloy	2.5i: 16" x6.5 steel wheel with plastic wheel cover 0: 17" with alloy wheel package	17x7jj 6 spoke alloy		17x7" 6 spoke alloy
Tires:  all models come with Continental ContiProContact all-season tires. Spare- Temporary duty Chains tire chains cannot be used due to clearance. If you do lots of winter driving consider a set of snow or ice tires. All with TPMS, that needs to be re-synced whenever tires or wheels are replaced.	215/70R16 99S all season	225/60 R17 98T all season		225/60 R17 98T
Suspension	Front- Independent, raised struts, coil springs, stabilizer bar,  anti-dive geometry Rear- independent, double wishbone, coil springs, stabilizer bar, anti-Lift geometry
Towing	2.5L 4 cylinder (CVT and manual trans) -  2700 pounds with trailer brakes. 1000 pounds without trailer brakes.  Hard towing - over 104* F when towing up a long hill max weight should be 1350 pounds Replace CVT oil at app 24855 miles if towing. 3.6L 6 cylinder- max 3000 pounds with trailer brakes, 1000 pounds without trailer brakes. Over 104* F or when towing up a long hill max weight should be 1500 pounds. Hitch- the optional Subaru trailer hitch is 1.25". There is no 'tow package'  Emergency Towing: a flatbed is alway preferred. Never tow with on 2 wheels on the ground. See your owners manual, ch 9, pg 16 Towing the car- a flatbed is always recommended when towing your Outback. A manual transmission can be towed with all wheels on the ground behind a tow truck or motorhome for example, but never with just 2 wheels on the ground.  An automatic or CVT can be towed with all 4 wheels on the ground in an emergency for a very very short distance and at very slow speed (under 20mph) but a flatbed is strongly preferred.
Headlights- standard on all models:  daytime running lights;  auto-off  headlights with ignition key removal. 'Auto'  light sensing dusk-dawn setting	4 beam halogen - projector low beam, multi-reflector high beam
model subject to change, correction, updating	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited

 
top
end mechanicals
start  standard features table

- 2012 OUTBACK STANDARD FEATURES Remember, this is an unofficial, unauthorized website not approved or supported by SoA or any dealer. Contact your local dealer. Infomation subject to change, correction, updating
engine	2.5L 4 cylinder engine			3.6L 6 cylinder engine
2012 Feature subject to change, correction	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited
Interior and dash trim color	cloth, silver trim	cloth	leather, wood trim	cloth	cloth	leather, wood trim
Wheels	16" steel wheel with wheel cover 0- 17" with alloy wheel pkg #11	17" alloy		17" alloy
Fog Lights	0- alloy wheel pkg #11	S	S	S	S	S
Back-up camera (by Gentex Co) built into the auto dimming rear view mirror with compass/Homelink- requires moonroof pkg  (see images above)	--	0- incl with  moonroof pkg	0- incl with moonroof pkg	--	0- incl with moonroof pkg	0- incl with moonroof pkg
Auto dimming rear view mirror with compass/Homelink (note: included with moonroof package above and also optional Navigation package)	0	0	0	0	0	0
Front bumper underguard	0	0	S	0	0	S
Power windows, Auto up/down driver window Power locks Power mirrors Cruise control	S driver window auto-down only	S	S	S	S	S
Steering wheel, tilt and telescope Vinyl, with cruise control and new for 2012 audio controls	S	--	--	S	--	--
Steering wheel, tilt and telescope Leather with audio and cruise control, and new for 2012 Bluetooth phone controls	--	S	S	--	S	S
Air Conditioning, Manual with 4 spd fan	A	A	B	A	A	B
Air Conditioning, Automatic climate control, 6 spd fan, Dual front zones	--	--	S	--	--	S
All Weather Pkg- heated front seats, defrosting outside mirrors, front wiper de-icer with hidden heating element	0- alloy wheel package #11	0	S	0	S	S
Driver seat-  Manual height adj, cloth, no lumbar adjustment	S	--	--	S	--	--
Driver seat- Power 10 way cloth, with power lumbar	--	S 0- heated seats with All Weather pkg	--	--	S incl heated seats All Weather pkg	--
Driver seat- Power 10 way leather, heated, with power lumbar	--	--	S	--	--	S
Passenger seat, Power (no lumbar adjustment)	--	--	S	--	--	S
Memory driver seat- not available on any Outback	--	--	--	--	--	--
Rear seats- fold flat and recline	S	S	S	S	S	S
model reminder	2.5i	Premium	Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited
Trip Computer in upper console with outside temperature, clock, instant and average fuel economy for Trip odometers A, B	S	S	S	S	S	S
Compass and/or Homelink garage door opener with auto dimming rear view mirror. (included with Moonroof pkg with back-up camera, and Navigation system).  Homelink programming help ph number 800 355-3515	0	0	0	0	0	0
Roof rack with swivel open/closed cross bars. New for 2012 the cross bars have a smooth bottom without wind deflectors. 30" spread front/back center to center, 32" spread front /rear cross bar edges. 150 pound load capacity. The slot in the roof rail is 24" and aftermarket crossabars with a 24" spread can be attached to the factory crossbars when they're closed. Rear crossbar to open gate is 20". Or get the optional cargo basket to which cross bars can be attached with a wider spread (36") Aftermarket accessories are available- a few images Link to an article with many rack comments, reviews	S	S	S	S	S	S
Bluetooth hands free cell phone.  Note- all models except 2.5 base have bluetooth steering wheel controls	0- Blueconnect	new S	S h/k audio	0- blueconnect	new S	S h/k audio
Stereo- AM/FM, single CD, 3.5mm aux input, steering wheel audio controls, 4 speakers	S	--	--	S	--	--
Stereo NEW AM/FM, single CD, 6 speakers, Bluetooth handsfree cell phone w/ steering wheel controls, Bluetooth wireless audio streaming, USB and 3.5mm aux input, MP3/WMA, XM/Sirius ready	--	S	--	--	S	--
Stereo- Harman/Kardon audio upgraded for 2012,  4.3" LCD color display,  440w, 9 speakers, AM/FM, HD radio, single CD, AM/FM, USB, 3.5mm aux input, hands free bluetooth steering wheel controls, wireless audio streaming, XM satellite radio with 4 mos free.	--	0	S	--	0	S
Wipers front - Variable speed rear - 2 spd rear wiper, with rear defroster	S	S	S	S	S	S
Tinted windows	light tint	dark tint	dark tint	dark tint	dark tint	dark tint
Windshield with dark tinted upper sunshade band	0- with Alloy Wheel pkg #11	S	S	S	S	S
Outside mirrors, power	S-unpainted black 0- body colored and heated with Alloy Wheel pkg #11	body colored 0- heated with All Weather pkg	body colored, heated	body colored, heated	body colored, heated	body colored, heated
Immobilizer key, with alarm, 2 keyless remotes	S	S	S	S	S	S
Carpeted floor mats (all carpets are dark)	S	S	S	S	S	S
Cargo tray	S	S	S	S	S	S
Cargo cover, retractable	0	S	S	S	S	S
Rear bumper cover step pad	0	0	0	0	0	0
Courtesy Lights- under front doors, in glovebox, cargo area, 2 map lights, center dome light	S	S	S	S	S	S
Sunroof	--	0	0	--	0	0
standard features subject to change, correction, updating	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	3.6R	3.6R Premium	3.6R Limited

end included standard features

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