Subaru of America executives created the Outback because the SUV craze had at that point reached a fevered pitch with customers demanding SUVs and shunning Subaru's station wagons (even when equipped with all wheel drive) based on image concerns, leaving dealers clamoring for a SUV-like product to sell.
The Outback turned out to be a success, handily outselling its Legacy progenitor. Clever ads featured Australian "Crocodile Dundee" star Paul Hogan using the Outback in adventurous situations where it was portrayed besting its competitors, notably the Ford Explorer.
An Outback Sport, based on the Subaru Impreza five-door hatchback was introduced in 1998.
The Outback SUS (for "Sport Utility Sedan") was launched with a limited production test run sold in New England in 1999 and based on its success, was rolled out nationwide the following year.
An Outback Sport, based on the Subaru Impreza five-door hatchback was introduced in 1998.
The Outback SUS (for "Sport Utility Sedan") was launched with a limited production test run sold in New England in 1999 and based on its success, was rolled out nationwide the following year.
In 2000, Outback became its own model and added a sedan, as well as an available horizontal six-cylinder engine.
In the highest trim level (VDC, for Vehicle Dynamics Control), a 200 W McIntosh stereo system was standard from 2001 to 2003. These were the only vehicles ever factory-equipped with McIntosh stereo equipment.
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