Subaru's all-new 2010 Outback has been named Sport/Utility of the Year

Every year, Motor Trend, a popular 60-year old automotive publication in the United States with circulation numbers exceeding one million, awards car manufacturers with various titles such as Car of the Year and Truck of the Year. As a respected source for automotive information and comments, Motor Trend’s annual awards are the most coveted in the industry.

Contenders for the Sport/Utility of the Year award were judged based on six new categories: Design Advancement, Engineering Excellence, Intended Function, Efficiency, Safety and Value. The editorial staff from Motor Trend conducted a comprehensive series of track, street and off-road tests, in an effort to measure fundamentals such as acceleration, braking, handling, stability and engine smoothness.

Phase one of the extensive three-phase testing process involved a full tech check and weigh-in, before the car was fully tested on a track. Phase two included three days of road loops on a range of road surfaces and traffic conditions to assess ride and handling, engine and transmission smoothness and responsiveness, wind and road noise, and ergonomics. Finally, judges debated over the contenders in the third phase.

Living up to the brand’s renowned safety record, the Subaru Outback ranks high in the safety category. Besides front, seat-mounted side, and side-curtain airbags, a ring reinforcement safety system and 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) also come standard in the Subaru Outback.

From its award-winning safety technology to its progressive Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, the Subaru Outback offers drivers a distinctive combination of safety, efficiency and versatility on the road.

Towering at over 66-inches tall, the new Subaru Outback may look like an SUV, but still remains true to its crossover roots. With features like a lower and more car-like step-in, the Subaru Outback still manages to retain its friendly and carlike character, despite its upsized exterior.

A perfect blend of SUV utility and car-like efficiency, the Subaru Outback (available in 2.5 litre and 3.6 litre) delivers a versatile option that gives drivers more bang for their buck. And in a time where the global economy is still fighting to stay afloat, the Subaru Outback offers a renewed appreciation for value and efficiency.

The new Subaru Outback is available for test-drives at all Motor Image showrooms island wide.