autoMedia Auto News Blog : Subaru

IIHS Names 2010 Top Safety Picks – Fewer Than Before

admin — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced 19 car and eight SUVs as Top Safety Picks for 2010—far less than the 94 vehicles that earned the accolade for 2009. The IIHS has made the requirements to be named a Top Safety Pick more stringent by adding a roof strength test to measure protection in a rollover accident. In addition, the Picks also factor performance in front, side, and rear crashes the Institute performs, as well as the availability of electronic stability control. Subaru again shines in IIHS tests, being the only manufacturer that has winning products in all four categories for a total of five awards. Ford and subsidiary Volvo have six winners, and Volkswagen/Audi has four. Chrysler earns four awards, continuing recent trend of improving the crashworthiness of its vehicles. This marks the second time the Institute has raised the bar for Top Safety Pick status since the awards were introduced in 2005. As with its other tests, it is expected that the rollover rating will push automakers to improve their vehicles ahead of federal mandates. And there is good motivation; The Institute estimates rollovers kill more than 9,000 people in passenger vehicles each...(read more)

Sneak Peek: Toyota FT-86 Sports Coupe

admin — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:28:00 GMT

Toyota will use the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show to unveil its latest concept car, the FT-86 sports car. The name doesn’t roll off the tongue, but the car itself is quite tasty. The FT-86 is the long-rumored coupe co-developed with Subaru, and it suggests fun may be returning to the rather conservative product line. The FT-86 is rear drive, with a 2.0-liter boxer engine under hood. Toyota has not yet released the horsepower, though it may be rather entertaining, for Subaru offers a turbocharged 2.0L in Japan. The car measures 163-inches long and 69-inches wide, making it about the size of the Nissan 370Z . For contrast and historical perspective, it is more than a foot shorter than the Subaru XT sports car from the 1980s and about seven inches shy of the last-generation Toyota Celica . Toyota refers to the FT-86 as a five seater, though from the photos it is hard to imagine it holding that many full-sized humans. Subaru is expected to introduce its own version of the FT-86 on the show circuit this year. Naturally, the car will feature all-wheel drive. It could be quite interesting with a 2.5-liter engine family, like the Impreza, ranging up to the 265-hp WRX and 305-hp STI. This is definitely...(read more)

Cars for Clunkers Works, Time for a Sequel?

admin — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 02:27:00 GMT

The CAR Allowance Rebate System (CARS), popularly known as “cash for clunkers” was executed in a bumbling fashion that only government could manage, yet it was a resounding success. Manufacturers have released their July sales figures, and the news is largely good (or at least, not as bad), with most full-line automakers seeing a lift in the past week from the CARS program. (Learn how cash for clunkers works.)

Subaru boasted the most impressive gain, comparing July 2009 to July 2008, with a stunning 34-percent increase. Although not known for high fuel economy, much of its model line is eligible for consideration, and the AWD-automaker is drawing showroom traffic with its redesigned Legacy and Outback. Volvo saw a 26-percent gain, with the XC60 crossover gaining new buyers to what is otherwise an aging product line. Hyundai issued CARS credits weeks before the program was finalized, and as a result, the crafty company saw a 12-percent gain. (See “Hyundai Honors Cash for Clunkers CARS Rebate – Now.”)

But the real winner is arguably Ford Motor Company. Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln retail sales increased nine percent versus a year ago; total sales (including fleet) were 158,838, up two percent versus a year ago. Ford itself boasted its first sales increase in 19 months. The big winners in the Ford line were Focus (21, 830 sales) Escape, (20,241 sales), Fusion (17,610 sales), and Ranger (7,695 – up 65 percent). Combined, its hybrid models sold 5,353 units.

General Motors figures were down 19.4 percent over July 2008 – a dramatic improvement over past months. Chrysler fared even better, just 9.4 percent off. The Jeep Patriot was up 134 percent, the Dodge Caliber up 63 percent, and the Chrysler PT Cruiser up 24 percent – making the move to continue production seem rather sage. Both companies pulled this off despite significant dealer reductions in the past 12 months. Combined, the Detroit 3 accounts for an estimated 47 percent of the cash for clunkers sales, according to the Detroit News. In addition, the program proved to prime the retail pump and brought many more additional sales.

This overall success was just the boost the auto industry needed, infusing capital and helping to clear away year-end 2009 models. It didn’t come easy. One billion tax dollars went to the cause, and the rush to implement CARS meant many speed bumps along the way.

Last Friday, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) estimated that the funds were at risk of expiring, just days after the program began. Yet the federal government encouraged sales to continue over the weekend, ensuring the funds would be made available and chaos would ensue, as some dealers hesitated to risk reimbursement to make sales. Program overseer the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is struggling to catch up with the filed paperwork that would identify the number of credit claims filed and therefore determine the money spent.

For now, the official word from Cars.gov is that the program is in effect. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives passed a bill to contribute another $2 billion to extend cash for clunkers. It rests with Senate now. This week, the Senate will accept the House bill, revise it, or reject it altogether. There seems to be significant momentum behind supporting CARS. After all, the first deployment exceeded expectations.

Research new vehicles in the 2009 new car buyer’s guide. Learn even more from “Cashing in on Clunkers.”

3-Row Crossovers Under $25,000

Editor — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:05:00 GMT

Even a spacious midsize sedan can be a tight squeeze for five adults—but you still want to go places with everyone every once in a while—and you have to drive.

So if driving a minivan doesn’t suit you, nor does spending more than $25,000 on a new vehicle, here are five three-row crossover SUVs that will fit you, your passengers, and your budget.

Click on each to learn more about features, options, and pricing in a 2009 New Car Buyer’s Guide.

2009 Dodge Journey

2009 Hyundai Santa Fe

2009 Mitsubishi Outlander

2009 Subaru Forester

2009 Toyota RAV4

-Deborah Neal, Editorial Director

Pricing: 2010 Subaru Outback

admin — Wed, 13 May 2009 02:45:00 GMT

At the 2009 New York auto show, Subaru introduced the all-new Legacy and Outback. Both related models are bigger and promise to be better than the current, outgoing models. The Subaru Legacy sedan starts at $19,995, and the Outback wagon starts at $22,995—just $700 more than the current model. Add $695 for destination charges.

The new Outback has a longer wheelbase, enabling four more welcomed inches of rear legroom while reducing the overall exterior length by an inch. Increased width and height gives the Outback a commanding presence, and it results in a cargo capacity increase of 6 cubic feet. Despite the larger size, fuel economy is estimated to increase by 1 MPG in both City and Highway modes with CVT.

The base 2.5i is powered by a revised 2.5-liter, 170-hp four-cylinder engine with AWD, natch. The base boxser engine is available with either a new standard six-speed manual transmission for $22,995 or a continuously variable transmission for $23,995. Standard equipment includes four-wheel disc brakes, power steering, tilt and telescope steering column, 60/40 split-folding and reclining rear seats, floor mats, cargo tray, electronic parking brake with Hill Holder system, auto on/off exterior lights (autolights), AM/FM/CD stereo with an auxiliary input jack, dual lit visor mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, stability control system, and remote keyless entry system.

Key options include a power moonroof ($995), all-weather package with heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated exterior mirrors ($500), harman/kardon audio system ($995), and navigation system with the harman/kardon stereo ($2,000).

Moving up through the model range, the 2.5i Premium ($24,295) adds halogen fog lights, cargo cover, privacy glass, 10-way power driver's seat, driver's side window with automatic up/down, leather-wrapped steering wheel, instrument storage bin w/door, overhead console with sunglass holder and ambient light, body-colored mirrors and 16-inch wheels.

The 2.5i Limited ($27,995) builds upon the 2.5i Premium with dual-zone climate controls, paddle shifters and a six-speed manual shift mode, 17-inch wheels, perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, four-way power front passenger seat, all-weather package, and harman/kardon audio system.

The new Outback 3.6R replaces the 3.0R model. As the name suggests, it is powered by a 3.6-liter, 256-hp six-cylinder engine matched to a five-speed electronic automatic transmission. Unlike the previous engine, the 3.6L uses regular-grade fuel. The engine is available starting with the Outback 3.6R ($27,995) – priced $4,000 less than the 2009 six-cylinder Outback.

Step up to the 3.6R Premium ($28,995) for a 10-way power driver's seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and all-weather package. The range is topped by the 3.6R Limited ($30,995), which adds perforated ivory / off black leather-trimmed upholstery, four-way power front passenger seat, and harman/kardon audio system.

Since the new Legacy and Outback are on their way to production, dealers will likely be dealing on the well-regarded, outgoing models.

Read our 2009 Subaru Outback review, and research Subarus in the 2009 new car buyer’s guide.

Pricing: 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan

admin — Sun, 03 May 2009 01:17:00 GMT

The all-new, larger Subaru Legacy sedan starts at $19,995, about $800 lower than the previous generation Legacy despite a notable size increase. Right from the introduction of the Legacy concept car, it was clear that Subaru was about to make among the most significant generational jumps with the 2010 model. As previewed at the New York auto show, the 2010 Legacy graduates a half class. Where it was previously a "tweener," positioned between compact and midsized cars, it is now officially midsized gaining notable passenger space. Most significantly, it gained much-needed rear legroom through a four-inch increase in wheelbase.

Don’t let the price throw you, this base model as respectably equipped with all the basics, such as four-wheel disc brakes, power windows/locks/mirrors, auto headlights, tilt-and-telescope steering column, AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input, and remote keyless entry system. And, of course, it has all-wheel drive.

The base engine is the familiar 2.5-liter with 170 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. The CVT adds a $1,000, for a $20,995 starting price.

Next up the powertrain hierarchy, there is a WRX-derived 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 265 horsepower. With a six-speed transmission, this force-fed powerplant can push the Legacy from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds.

The 2.5i is equipped with a either the six-speed manual transmission with a starting price of $19,995 or the all-new Lineartronic CVT as an option with a starting price of $20,995.

The engine is available in two upper-level configurations, the 2.5i Premium ($20,995) and 2.5i Limited ($24,995). The Premium adds 10-way power driver's seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, instrument storage bin, overhead console with sunglass holder, bright exhaust tip, body-colored mirrors, and 16-inch aluminum wheels. Key options include all-weather package, harman/kardon audio system, and power moonroof. The Limited steps it up with perforated two-tone leather-trimmed upholstery, four-way power front passenger seat, all-weather package, harman/kardon audio system, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Options include: power moonroof and navigation system.

The line takes an enthusiast bent with the 2.5GT Premium and Limited, each powered by a 265-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine features a unique turbocharger configuration being mounted below the engine, which Subaru claims contributes to 30-percent quicker turbocharger response. The 2.5GT Premium ($27,995) builds upon the 2.5i Premium, adding a hood scoop, 18-inch aluminum wheels shod with summer tires, dual chrome exhaust tips, and the all-weather package. The 2.5GT Limited ($29,995) adds to the 2.5GT Premium with two-tone leather-trimmed upholstery, four-way power front passenger seat, and harman/kardon audio system.

For more refined power, Legacy 3.6R is powered by a 256-hp 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Best of all, it uses regular-grade fuel, rather than premium as the 2009 flat-six required. Starting at $24,995, the 3.6R is priced $1,600 less than the outgoing 3.0R.

The 3.6R Premium ($25,995) adds a 10-way power driver's seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and all-weather package. Options include: harman/kardon audio system and power moonroof.

The 3.6R Limited ($27,995) is finished with two-tone leather-trimmed upholstery, four-way power front passenger seat, and harman/kardon audio system. A power moonroof and navigation system are optional.

The complete Legacy line looks to be more competitive than ever in terms of size, features, and pricing. We’ll report on how it all adds up when we get behind the wheel for a full review.

See our New York auto show Legacy preview, and research the outgoing 2009 Legacy in the new car buyer’s guide – there may be some great deals on that well-regarded model as dealers make room for the new car.

NY: 2010 Subaru Legacy - Bigger, Better

admin — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 01:33:00 GMT

Subaru will introduce the next-generation Legacy sedan at the 2009 New York International Auto Show this week, unveiling a larger, more powerful model.

Based on a new platform, the 2010 Legacy is 3.2-in. higher and 3.6-in. wider than the previous model, yielding gains in head, shoulder and hip room. Yet, the overall vehicle length is up by just 1.4-inches to 186.4 inches total. The result from the increase in overall scale is a roomier interior that Subaru has upgraded with convenience and entertainment features.

The base 2.5i model, for example, features standard steering wheel audio and cruise control buttons, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, new electronic parking brake, automatic lights-on function, ambient overhead console lighting and an available iPod jack. Legacy Premium models add more amenities, including an eight-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support adjustment and driver's auto up/down window. The Premium models also offer additional comfort and convenience options, including a harman-kardon audio system, a power moonroof, and the All-Weather Package that adds heated front seats and mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

At the top of the range, the Legacy Limited models feature leather upholstery, dual zone automatic climate control, and a four-way power front passenger seat. The Limited models exclusively offer an available voice-activated GPS navigation system with rear-view backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and streaming Bluetooth audio.

Underhood, the base 2.5-liter produces 170 horsepower, and it is paired with a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual. But, next up the line, there is a WRX-derived 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 265 horsepower. With a six-speed transmission, this force-fed powerplant can push the Legacy from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds.

The top engine is a 3.6-liter flat six with 256 horsepower, matched to a five-speed automatic transmission.

The detailed refinements throughout, from core mechanicals to interior elements sound promising, and we looking forward to reviewing when it becomes available.

The laudable 2009 Legacy should be attractively priced, as dealers prepare for the all-new model. Research the 2009 Subaru Legacy in the new car buyer’s guide.

See our complete 2009 New York auto show coverage.

Carpocalypse Now: Cars Sales Plummet, Again

admin — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 03:16:00 GMT

The tragic trend continues, car sales continue to slide from bad to worse as the nation reels amidst the troubled economy. As automakers, suppliers, and dealers struggle to survive and restructure to face the changing challenges, the plummeting sales figures do mean that tremendous deals can be found for those in the market for a new or even a used car.

Few companies were spared deep double-digit declines in Februrary when comparing the month year to year. In the 40-50 percent range, Acura, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Pontiac, and even Toyota saw such steep declines. The 50-60 percent range includes Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Mitsubishi, Saturn, and Volvo. The scariest thing, there are brands in the 60-70 percent range, such as Chrysler, Hummer, Saab, and Suzuki.

At the corporate level, the numbers still look dreadful. BMW is down 32.7 percent, proving that even the well-heeled are sheepish about new car buying. Chrysler is down 44 percent—notably less than Ford Motor Company at 48.4 percent and General Motors at 52.9 percent. Even Honda saw a 38 percent decrease, made higher by the 41.5 percent drop in Acura sales. Nissan is off by 37 percent, and Toyota Motor Company is down 39.8 percent.

The big winner? Subaru, with a 1.4 percent uptick, no doubt fueled by winter months adding appeal to its AWD line up. Victory can be also claimed for Kia with a humble, though celebration worthy, 0.4 percent increase.

As the automakers grapple with these latest figures, expect enticing deals to continue and more creative marketing to appear. Hyundai has done this with the expansion of its successful Assurance program. Chrysler has just announced a free Hemi V8 upgrade for Ram buyers. And the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids are eligible for a $3,400 tax credit till the end of March.

If you’re in the market, do your research and you’ll find great deals on just about every vehicle.

Research in the new car buyer’s guide. Or, scan our more than 3 million used car listings to find the best car for you.

AUTO SHOW: Subaru Legacy Concept Reveal

Editor — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 21:06:00 GMT

It’s hard to believe the stellar Subaru Legacy sedan is celebrating its 20th anniversary and, while Subaru is calling the just-revealed Legacy Concept a 2009, we have to believe this means a closely-related production version will follow soon. Like the redesigned-for-’09 Impreza WRX STI, the Legacy Concept sports a more aggressive, racy look. The new design more closely matches what the Legacy sedan is all about—affordable, all-wheel-drive sport performance in a fun-to-drive, five-passenger sedan.

PRESS RELEASE:

Detroit—January 11, 2009—Subaru of America, Inc. revealed the 2009 Subaru LEGACY CONCEPT today at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. The new LEGACY CONCEPT is a hint at the future of Legacy design. The design showcases the sport sedan heritage of the Subaru Legacy, but in more modern and purposeful package.

Marking the 20th anniversary of the Subaru Legacy, the LEGACY CONCEPT has been developed to showcase the Legacy’s sporting capabilities and features Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system mated to a Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The design concept is based on a larger 108.3 in. wheelbase designed to maximize interior space and provide comfortable accommodations for four adults.

The theme of concept design is "Presence", represented by the aggressive front facia and solid yet expressive body. Four powerful and defined wheel arches emphasize the dynamism of Symmetrical AWD. Sharp design lines carve out a substantial mass as they flow from the hood, across the roof to the trunk, while the sharp bodylines project a sense of strength. Wedge-shaped Side Rear Vision Cameras are featured and provide a sense of flow from the momentum of the A-pillar lines. A character line runs from just before the A-pillar and sweeps up to the tail just above the taillamps.

This grille design incorporates a central wing motif that defines the Legacy’s Subaru brand identity. The Subaru logo separates a deep central grille shape that is accented by sharp headlamps with a dual vertical-row layout of multiple LED lamps. In addition, the slim, vertical fog lamps set in a large front valance with angular air intakes add a jewel-like touch to the front design. The LEGACY CONCEPT is finished in a special High-luster “Ultimate Silver” paint to accentuate the design's angular shapes.

The interior design features a striking four-seat layout that showcases the "High Definition" design theme. Comfort and style are achieved with a mix of touch-screens, cameras and modern surface coverings. The high-tech look blends with comfort through four separate seating areas, a high roofline and generous legroom for all passengers. The center console features a large touch-panel display that concentrates various functions for simplified use, while the flowing shape extends vertically to emphasize the feeling of strength and solidity in union with the exterior. A steering wheel and shift lever have been adapted to accentuate the sporty nature elemental in the Legacy’s DNA.

In-car entertainment is featured through monitors with multiple functions that are located in the center console, as well as in the rear of the front seat headrests to provide comfortable functionality as well a calm design that creates a relaxed ambiance for passengers. The monitor for the Side Rear Vision Camera has been situated toward the front of the roof to maximize rear visibility. The design is capped off with seats covered in pearl white leather that give off a blue sheen, while black metallic leather has been used for the door trim to create contrast with the instrument panel.

The Legacy was introduced globally in 1989, produced in Japan and Lafayette, Indiana. Since that date until November 2008, the total global production has exceeded 3.6 million vehicles making it Subaru's core model. During that period, Subaru’s core technologies of a Horizontally-Opposed engine and Symmetrical AWD have served to further the basic elements of automotive performance while continuously evolving for unparalleled handling, stability, and safety. This LEGACY CONCEPT incorporates the Legacy heritage while also serving as a concept model that provides an image of the new driving comfort and reliability that will continue to serve as a touchstone for Subaru.

SEMA – 315-hp Subaru Forester XTI

admin — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:49:00 GMT

Seems like just a few years ago, customized full-sized pickup trucks and SUVs were abundant throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center, home to the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. These days, the SUVs that are selling are crossovers, particularly smaller ones. Hence, it was no surprise to see a special Subaru Forester given the full STI treatment.

The transformation is fitting, as the production Forester XT is essentially an Impreza WRX wearing a taller body. To build this show vehicle, Subaru of America technicians installed the engine and entire drivetrain from the Impreza WRX STI.

In the Forester XTI, a custom stainless steel cat-back exhaust system from the Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) catalog helps to raise output of the 2.5-liter intercooled turbo engine to 315 hp (from 305 stock) and 300 lb.-ft. of torque (from 290 lb.-ft. stock). As in the WRX STI, power flows through a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) all-wheel-drive system.

The Forester XTI also features an adjustable coil-over suspension by STI. The powerful Brembo brakes come right from the stock WRX STI, with four-piston front calipers, two-piston rear calipers, Super Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The 18x8-inch STI alloy wheels are wrapped in Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires.

Further signaling its special abilities, the XTS wears a front lower spoiler and Sport Mesh Grille are from the Subaru Genuine Accessory catalog. The finish touch is a JDM body kit with side skirts, a rear skirt, and a rear spoiler.

Subaru estimates that this project XTI could sprint 0-60 mph in under five seconds. Sounds like a safe bet.

Research the Subaru Forester in our 2009 new car buyer’s guide, and read our 2009 Subaru Forester review.

Pricing: 2009 Subaru Impreza and Tribeca

admin — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 01:24:00 GMT

Subaru has released pricing information on its 2009 Impreza and Tribeca, along with details on minor running changes. The base Impreza 2.5i will start at $17,495, up from $16,995 for the 2008 Impreza, with some equipment upgrades accounting for the increase. The Tribeca holds the line at $29,995. Subaru previously released the 2009 Forester pricing and changes.

For 2009, all Imprezas include rear disc brakes, brake assist, and stability control. The 2.5i looks sharper with body-color door

Handles and exterior mirrors, while manual transmission models benefit from a helpful Incline Start Assist.

The former 224-horsepower WRX becomes the Impreza 2.5GT, better befitting is refined manners and compliant ride. The all-new 2.5GT model features Premium Package equipment, including an all-weather package and a new power glass moonroof. In sedan and hatchback form, the 2.5GT comes with an automatic transmission. Pricing starts at $26,995.

Looking like a relative bargain, the upgraded WRX features a new grille, front spoiler, body-side moldings, and gunmetal gray alloy wheels. Plus, it makes a massive 41-horsepower gain courtesy of a larger turbocharger, increased boost, and a new low-density catalyst for reduced exhaust backpressure. The result is 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Base price is $24,995 with a five-speed manual transmission.

Pricing for the popular Outback Sport models and WRX STI remains unchanged, starting at $19,995 and $34,995, respectively.

News on the Tribeca line center around the new Tribeca Special Editions – five- and seven-passenger models stuffed with extra equipment at a value price. The Special Editions models feature leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, two-position driver’s seat memory, and an upgraded 160-watt audio system with a 6-disc CD Changer, 8 speakers, and rear subwoofer. The five-passenger model also features rear air conditioning, and it retails for $31,295 – a $1,400 discount. The seven-passenger model is similarly equipped at $31,595, though the version that would seem to most need the rear air conditioning sees this key comfort feature omitted.

Destination and delivery for the Impreza and Tribeca models is $665 ($815 for dealers in Alaska).

Read our Subaru Forester, Tribeca, and WRX STI reviews and research the 2009 Subaru models in our 2009 new car buyer’s guide. Plus, our preview of the new 2009 Impreza WRX.

Subaru Impreza sedan
$17,495 2.5i 5MT
$18,495 2.5i 4AT-S
$19,495 2.5i Premium 5MT
$20,495 2.5i Premium 4AT-S
$22,495 2.5i Premium 4AT-S
$26,995 2.5GT 4AT-S
$24,995 WRX 5MT
$27,495 WRX Premium5MT
$29,495 WRX Premium 5MT

Subaru Impreza hatchback
$17,995 2.5i 5MT
$18,995 2.5i 4AT-S
$19,995 2.5i Premium 5MT
$20,995 2.5i Premium 4AT-S
$22,995 2.5i Premium 4AT-S
$19,995 Outback Sport5MT
$20,995 Outback Sport4AT-S
$27,495 2.5GT 4AT-S
$25,495 WRX 5MT
$27,995 WRX Premium 5MT
$29,995 WRX Premium 5MT

Subaru Impreza WRX STI
$34,995 WRX STI 6MT
$36,995 WRX STI 6MT
$36,995 WRX STI 6MT
$38,795 WRX STI 6MT
$38,795 WRX STI 6MT

Subaru Tribeca five-passenger
$29,995 Tribeca 5AT-S
$31,295 Tribeca Special Edition 5AT-S
$32,595 Tribeca Limited 5AT-S
$34,995 Tribeca Limited + Navigation5AT-S

Subaru Tribeca five-passenger
$30,995 Tribeca 5AT-S
$31,595 Tribeca Special Edition 5AT-S
$33,595 Tribeca Limited 5AT-S
$35,995 Tribeca Limited + Navigation 5AT-S
$37,795 Tribeca Limited + Rear Seat DVD + Navigation 5AT-S

2009 Subaru Impreza WRX – 265 hp!

admin — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 01:10:00 GMT

The redesigned Subaru Impreza line made a dramatic advance with the current generation, boasting a much improved chassis and interior, with increased rear-seat room as an added bonus. However, the powertrains carried over essentially unchanged—until now. The 2009 Impreza WRX boasts a massive 41-horsepower increase, along with a retuned suspension and wider, lower-profile summer performance tires. The ’09 WRX is also marked by a new grille, front spoiler, body-side moldings, and gunmetal gray alloy wheels.

The power gain is accomplished with a larger turbocharger, increased boost, and a new low-density catalyst for reduced exhaust backpressure. The result is 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine will be fitted exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission.

Inside, the revised WRX gains exclusive black-checkered upholstery, accented by red stitching. A standard tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel is accented by red stitching, and standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers now include the driver's footrest. Bolstered front seats feature an integrated head restraint. The optional Premium Package gains a power moonroof for 2009.

A new Impreza 2.5GT model for 2009, essentially taking over the slot held by the WRX. Offered in sedan and hatchback body styles, the 2.5GT will feature a 224-horsepower turbocharged, intercooled engine mated exclusively to a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

While this is welcomed news for performance enthusiasts, the powertrain element most needed is a five-speed automatic to improve fuel economy on the Impreza, as well as the Forester and Legacy. Perhaps for 2010…

Read our reviews of the 2008 Subaru WRX STI, or previous generation 2006 Impreza WRX.
Research Subaru in the buyer’s guide, complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries.

Pricing announced – 2009 Subaru Forester

admin — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:32:00 GMT

The all-new 2009 Subaru Forester starts at $1,200 less than the out-going, second-generation Forester. For a $19,995 base price, car shoppers will be able to buy an SUV that is three inches longer and 4.5 inches taller than the model is replaces. Riding on a 3.5-inch longer wheelbase, the new Forester will have improved legroom, addressing a key weakness. The overall size increase puts the Forester in a better competitive position against the segment sales leaders, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
The Forester will again be offered with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine, with a turbocharged variant delivering WRX-grade power in a sporty 2.5XT trim level. The 170-hp models are available with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, while the 224-hp turbocharged models come with the automatic transmission.

All Forester models feature front seat side-impact air bags and side-curtain air bags, plus active front head restraints. Electronic stability control and four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock are also standard.

Model Highlights:

2.5X - $19,995
All-wheel drive; power windows, door locks, and mirrors; keyless entry; thermometer; air conditioning; AM/FM/CD stereo; height-adjustable driver’s seat

2.5X with Premium Package - $22,495
Adds: power moonroof; 17-inch alloy wheels; rear seat center tray; roof rails; steering wheel audio controls; and reclining rear seat backs.

2.5X L.L.Bean Edition - $25,995
Adds: automatic transmission; perforated leather-trimmed upholstery; automatic climate
control system; six-speaker AM/FM stereo with CD changer; 10-way power
driver’s seat; fog lights; all-weather package (heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated exterior mirrors); L.L.Bean embroidered floor mats; and L.L.Bean embossed cargo tray.

2.5XT - $26,195
Adds: turbocharged engine; unique 17-inch alloy wheels. The XT will have significant interior and exterior upgrades, giving it a WRX-worthy appearance as shown. Specific details have not yet been released.

An All Weather Package is an available option ($400) on the Premium Package, and it is standard on the L.L.Bean and XT Limited. Navigation is optional ($1,800) on L.L. Bean and XT Limited models. Destination charges are $665 for all 2009 Forester models.

The 2009 Subaru Forester goes on sale this spring. For those content with the current Forester, and its impressive safety record, Subaru is advertising significant discounts.

Read our last Subaru Forester review. Research the 2008 Subaru Forester in our buyer’s guide.