2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback Introduced ahead of 2012 New York Auto Show

2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback - Sent information about the 2013 Subaru Legacy and 2013 Subaru Outback models on Thursday prior to the 2012 New York Auto Show. In addition to the visual system we talked about earlier this month, the cars get a slight restyling, light retuning and a handful of rooms and efficiencies.

We begin with the 2013 Subaru Legacy, which gets a new grille, headlights and bumper. Base models get a more efficient version of Subaru's 2.5-liter boxer engine with a broader torque. The ability of the 2.5i is transferred to all four wheels through either a six-speed manual or Subaru's second generation Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. Power is equal to the output of last year, with the four-cylinder making 173 horsepower.

The flat-six in 2013 Subaru Legacy 3.6R models have an output of 256 hp and is mated to a five-speed automatic. New for 2013, the 3.6R model paddle shifters are a touring blipping function during downshifts to match.

Subaru offers three different all-wheel-drive systems. The manual-equipped 2.5 models use continuous AWD with viscous coupling locking differential. The 2.5i models with the CVT used by the company's Active Torque Split all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled transfer clutch to power distribution control. Legacy 3.6R models use a third type, a variable distribution of torque that sends more power to the rear wheels.

Subaru says the Legacy models are equipped with the four-cylinder engine and CVT capable of 32 mpg on the highway, with a range of nearly 600 miles.

Subaru improved the stiffness of the 2013 Legacy by upgrading the mountain front struts and rear subframe rails, which also helps reduce vibration transmission in the car. The diameter of the rear sway bar and the spring and the dampers to grow. Body roll is reduced by 40 percent.

Trim levels remain the same, with a base, Premium and Limited models are available: the 3.6R is only base and Limited versions.

The 2013 Subaru Outback gets almost the same treatment as the Legacy. The front has been redesigned, with new headlights, grille and bumper. The Outback also gets the same selection of engines and transmissions and the same selection of the AWD systems.

Fuel consumption of the Outback is slightly less than the Legacy, 30 mpg on the highway, but the car is still more efficient than the model year. The Outback has a large passenger compartment measurement of 105.4 cubic meters, with a capacity of 71.3 cubic meters.

The 2013 Subaru Outback is not a complete off-road vehicle, but it does get a heavy-duty, increased four-wheel independent suspension and ground clearance of 8.7 inches. Suspension components were upgraded. Like the Legacy, the body roll on the Outback is reduced by 40 percent.

A new electroluminescent instrument cluster integrates the 3.5-inch color screen that also shows the visual functions equipped. Rear air-conditioning outlets are standard on Limited models. The audio system is upgraded to Bluetooth phone and audio capability and iPod control to take.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy and 2013 Subaru Outback also gets a full line of safety equipment.

We get our first look at the cars on the 2012 New York Auto Show and then they see in dealerships later this year. Prices not yet announced.