Subaru announced pricing for Subaru Starlink connected services for safety, roadside assistance, advice, vehicle diagnostics and remote features. Starlink offers hands-free connectivity, entertainment and safety services for 2016 Subaru models. Subaru Starlink connected services are powered by Sirius XM.
Two Subaru Starlink packages will be available:
- The Starlink Safety Plus package includes Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts. On year of service is free with a new vehicle. After that a two-year subscription is $99.
- The Starlink Safety Plus & Security Plus Package, which Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator. It costs $49 for the first year. After that a two-year subscription is $149 .
Later in the model year, remotes services via a website and mobile app, will be available free for iPhones and Android smartphones. The app will provide remote services, diagnostic alerts and other features of the Starlink Safety Plus and the optional Starlink Safety Plus & Security Plus packages.
The driver through the app can turn on the horn and lights to help find the car in a parking lot or dark location. The app can also remotely lock and unlock the Subaru.
Starlink uses built-in AT&T 4G LTE wireless capability and Sirius XM Connected Vehicle Services to provide a comprehensive suite of services.
There are interior roof-mounted buttons similar to OnStar buttons where a STARLINK advisor can give help in an emergency or call for roadside assistance.
When an airbag is deployed, the system will connect the driver to a Starlink advisor. The advisor will ask if the driver is okay. If the driver does not respond the advisor will send emergency responders. Drivers can call for assistance in a non-crash emergency such as a medical condition by pressing the SOS button.
The driver can press a roadside assistance button then the Starlink’s GPS system locates the vehicle and sends a tow truck.
Both Starlink packages include Automatic Collision Notification, which contacts a Starlink advisor in the event of an airbag deployment. If there is no response from vehicle occupants, the Starlink advisor can contact emergency responders and direct them to the location.
Starlink allows the user to connect to unlimited entertainment apps such as Pandora, iHeartRadio, Stitcher Radio and Aha.
Starlink can be activated with voice commands for music and navigation. The navigation system can deliver live traffic alerts. The touchscreen displays text messages and can turn them into audio.
Starlink 6.2” Multimedia, with 6.2-inch touch screen, is the standard head unit in many 2016 Subaru models. Starlink 7.0” Multimedia, featuring multi-gesture touch controls, is also available, and Starlinkk Multimedia Navigation is an option for some models.
To compare pricing with OnStar is difficult because GM offers free remote app service for five years with any new car and trial service for the more advanced services. The OnStar pricing and plan page is down right now. The basic service is around $20.00 a month therefore when you compare safety services, Starlink is less expensive and a better deal.