Auto coming for Subaru Outback diesel

In addition to an exterior restyle, the 2013 model All-Wheel Drive Outback 2.0D will feature Subaru's newest Lineartronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), joining the existing six-speed manual variants.

"(The) diesel manual Outback now represents around 20 per cent of the model's sales, so we're anticipating significant demand for the auto," said Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia.

"Our best advice is for customers to see their dealer as soon as possible, because if our experience with the manual is anything to go by, we'll end up with a very strong order bank for this car."

The new model will be available in entry-level 2.0D and 2.0D 'Premium' trim levels. The basic Outback features factory-fitted satellite navigation as standard, while Premium spec adds a variety of features, including electric sunroof, leather trim, eight-way power driver's seat with memory function and electroluminescent gauges with colour information display.

The auto diesels will share a wide range of appearances changes in the Outback MY13 line-up, including revised grille, front bumper, foglight surrounds and wheel patterns.

Details and pricing of the MY13 Outback 2.0D CVT are set to be announced in March.