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2007 Detroit Auto Show; Subaru Debuts Re-Designed 2008 Legacy and Outback - VIDEO ENHANCED


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New Legacy 3.0R Sedan is First US 6-Cylinder Legacy Model and Features SI-DRIVE

All 6-Cylinder Models Gain SI-DRIVE System

VDC Stability System Availability Expanded

DETROIT - January 7, 2007: Subaru of America, Inc., today presented the North American debut of its re-designed 2008 Subaru Legacy and Outback models, at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. Subaru also debuted its new flagship sedan model, the Subaru Legacy 3.0 R Limited, a first-ever 6-cylinder Legacy model for the North American market. An All-Wheel Drive pioneer and leader, Subaru is the only brand to equip all its models with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard.

The 2008 Legacy and Outback model lines are distinguished by revised styling for 2008, featuring a new grille with chrome crossbars and a central Subaru logo that represents the company's aeronautical heritage. The new 2008 Subaru Legacy features all-new front sheet metal with a larger grille opening, new front and rear bumper fascias, and new headlights and taillights. The new front and rear design features reduced overhangs for a sportier appearance.



The Legacy 3.0 R is positioned to compete against midsize All-Wheel Drive performance sedans and introduces a performance-oriented paddle-shift transmission with a new "downshift blipping control" that gives the rev- matching behavior of an expertly shifted manual transmission. The Legacy 3.0 R is also equipped with Bilstein Sport Suspension and 18-inch wheels and tires.

For 2008, the Subaru Outback also debuts new front sheet metal, but features a larger and more upright grille for a bolder appearance. Combined with the new grille and front fascia, the re-designed fenders and hood deliver a more rugged look. The Outback also features unique fog lights and new wheels for the XT and six-cylinder models.

Inside, Legacy and Outback models gain a redesigned instrument panel and revised interior fabrics. A telescopic steering column and a new integrated ignition key/remote entry unit are now standard. Distinctive electroluminescent gauges, formerly featured only on the turbo Legacy and Outback models, will now be on the 6-cylinder models for 2008.

On the premium models, a redesigned steering wheel offers additional controls, including the audio system, cruise control, the multi-information display and separate Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) controls. SI-DRIVE allows the driver to maximize engine performance, control and efficiency by choosing from among three selectable modes -- "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp." The driver selects the performance mode by using a rotary dial on the center console or, newly added for 2008, a button on the steering wheel.

Legacy and Outback Safety Leadership

For 2008, the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction system will be offered in more Legacy and Outback models, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is now standard on all Legacy and Outback models.

The Subaru Legacy has garnered the highest award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) -- "Top Safety Pick" -- in the midsize car segment. Both the Outback and Legacy achieved the highest rating ("Good") in IIHS frontal offset, side and rear impact tests. In addition, both the Legacy and Outback received 5-star ratings for the driver and front passenger and rear passengers in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests.