Subaru is firmly committed to environmental protection. In May of 2004, the Japanese automaker inaugurated the first assembly plant in the U.S. that creates zero landfill material during the production process. However, Subaru had yet to offer environmentally-friendly powertrains in North America.
Things are about to change with the alternative PZEV system (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle). It's not a hybrid but an advanced combustion technology. In addition to the complete fuel-burning process, the PZEV has no evaporative emissions. Subaru even claims that the exhaust produced can actually be cleaner than the air outside.
The technology is being fitted to the 2.5-liter, SOHC, 4-cylinder boxer engine of the Subaru Outback and Legacy. I personally had the opportunity to test-drive the 2009 Outback PZEV.
A regular Outback
From the outside, the PZEV is nearly identical to all the other Outback models. Styling is just as clean and well-executed, though with a few signs of age. Three exterior colors are available: silver, black and white.
The interior is very understated, with contrasting strips running along the dashboard and flowing into the center console. Subaru offers two trim choices: woodgrain or aluminum finish. Either way, the result looks nice. Overall, material quality, fit and finish are flawless.
The equipment level will meet most people's needs -- there are no unnecessary gadgets. Ergonomics are well beyond reproach; the controls and instruments are conveniently located and easy to use. The climate and audio systems do a decent job when compared to rivals.
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| From the outside, the PZEV is nearly identical to all the other Outback models. |
Things are about to change with the alternative PZEV system (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle). It's not a hybrid but an advanced combustion technology. In addition to the complete fuel-burning process, the PZEV has no evaporative emissions. Subaru even claims that the exhaust produced can actually be cleaner than the air outside.
The technology is being fitted to the 2.5-liter, SOHC, 4-cylinder boxer engine of the Subaru Outback and Legacy. I personally had the opportunity to test-drive the 2009 Outback PZEV.
A regular Outback
From the outside, the PZEV is nearly identical to all the other Outback models. Styling is just as clean and well-executed, though with a few signs of age. Three exterior colors are available: silver, black and white.
The interior is very understated, with contrasting strips running along the dashboard and flowing into the center console. Subaru offers two trim choices: woodgrain or aluminum finish. Either way, the result looks nice. Overall, material quality, fit and finish are flawless.
The equipment level will meet most people's needs -- there are no unnecessary gadgets. Ergonomics are well beyond reproach; the controls and instruments are conveniently located and easy to use. The climate and audio systems do a decent job when compared to rivals.
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| The interior is very understated, with contrasting strips running along the dashboard and flowing into the center console. |