Autoblog Subaru http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Subaru http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety introduced its new small overlap frontal crash test last year, and while a number of cars have passed the test with an "Acceptable" rating, the 2014 Subaru Forester is the first vehicle to ace the test with a "Good" rating. A total of 13 small crossovers and SUVs were subjected to the more rigorous testing procedure, and only the Forester and the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport drove off with the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating.

Two of the worst-performing vehicles that were called out in this group were the Nissan Rogue and Jeep Wrangler, which were the only two not to receive a Top Safety Pick Rating. The Jeep Patriot did earn that distinction despite not performing well in the small overlap test. To be named a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn top ratings in front, side, rear and roof-strength tests, while a Top Safety Pick+ requires four out of five to be "Good" ratings with the fifth no worse than "Acceptable;" the Forester received "Good" ratings in all five tests. Scroll down for a video showing how the Forester and some of its competitors performed in the small overlap test, along with a press release.

Continue reading Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video]

Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 subaru forester2014 subaru forester crash test2014subaruforestercrashtestcrash testiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetysmall overlap frontal crash testsubaru forestersubaruforesterTop Safety Picktop safety pick+ Thu, 16 May 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572277/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572277/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/20572277/article-detail.xml 20572277 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback recalled over potential steering loss]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-subaru-legacy-outback-recalled-steering-loss/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-subaru-legacy-outback-recalled-steering-loss/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2013-subaru-legacy-outback-recalled-steering-loss/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Subaru Legacy sedan - front three-quarter view

Subaru today announced a recall that affects 5,379 Legacy sedan and Outback wagon models in the United States. All of the affected 2013 model-year vehicles were built between February 15 and June 15 of 2012.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "the inner and outer shafts of the steering column assembly may become disengaged from one another" in these vehicles. If that happens, the driver can lose the ability to steer the vehicle, which could obviously lead to all sorts of harmful things.

Subaru will notify owners of the problem, and affected models will have their steering columns replaced at dealerships, free of charge. Scroll down for the official NHSTA report.

Continue reading 2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback recalled over potential steering loss

2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback recalled over potential steering loss originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 subaru legacy2013 subaru outbackrecallsubarusubaru legacysubaru outbacksubaru recall Wed, 15 May 2013 10:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569881/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20569881/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/2013-subaru-legacy-outback-recalled-steering-loss/20569881/article-detail.xml 20569881 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/017-2013-subaru-legacy628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/017-2013-subaru-legacy628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Subaru Forester XT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review/#comments Filed under: , ,

Power Doesn't Come Cheap

2014 Subaru Forester XT

When Subaru first offered a turbocharged Forester XT model to US customers for the 2004 model year, the shoe-shaped second-gen model fell into a ready-made competitive set of small, V6-powered crossovers and SUVs. The XT might have been more of a raucous shopping-trip companion than, say, a Ford Escape V6, but the basics of the cars offered a clear differentiation from the naturally aspirated, four-cylinder models found just a bit downmarket. Here in 2013, the V6 breed of crossover in this size class is all but extinct, and turbocharged four-cylinders with the power to compete with the XT are not thick on the ground.

In many ways, the comparative analysis gets most interesting when you start looking around for CUVs to match up with the all-boxes-ticked Forester XT Touring that we had as a tester for a recent week. The top of the line Touring trim means that the Forester comes with features like 10-way power seats, leather, navigation, a Harmon Kardon sound system with HD radio, Bluetooth and more. In fact, our Forester also had the only option package available on the XT Touring; one that included keyless access, HID headlights and Subaru's EyeSight system (adaptive cruise, lane departure warning and pre-collision braking).

And, of course, because of the XT trim, we knew that we were getting one of the most powerful crossovers in this segment, too. Subaru's turbocharged, direct-injection 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder lay under the hood, ready to pump out some 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque at the flex of an ankle. Combined with a light-for-the class curb weight of around 3,600 pounds and Subaru's grippy all-wheel-drive system, the XT feels pretty quick in town and on the freeway.

Add all of that up, and you've got a strong-performing, content-laden crossover, all for the sum of just $36,220 as tested...

Continue reading 2014 Subaru Forester XT

2014 Subaru Forester XT originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 forester2014 subaru forester xtfeaturedreviewreviewssubarusubaru forestersubaru forester xt Tue, 14 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567037/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567037/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review/20567037/article-detail.xml 20567037 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-subaru-forester-xt-review.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru investing $400 million for Impreza production in Indiana]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/subaru-investing-400-million-for-impreza-production-in-indiana/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/subaru-investing-400-million-for-impreza-production-in-indiana/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/subaru-investing-400-million-for-impreza-production-in-indiana/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



As a part of a goal to increase its US sales tally up to 500,000 annual units by the end of the decade, Subaru is investing $400 million in its Lafayette, IN assembly plant in order to start building the Impreza in 2016. According to Automotive News, about half of that investment will be for a new paint plant while another big chunk will be used to extend the assembly line to allow for the increased capacity.

Currently, Subaru's Lafayette plant is responsible for building about 200,000 Legacy, Outback and Tribeca models each year (not including around 100,000 Toyota Camry sedans), but Subaru-specific output will be increased to 300,000 units, requiring an additional 900 new hires as well. Although a previous report suggested the Forester and Impreza would be moving Stateside, this AN article only mentions the hatchback and sedan versions of the Impreza being added to Lafayette - and no mention of the closely related XV Crosstrek.

Subaru investing $400 million for Impreza production in Indiana originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> indianalafayettesubarusubaru impreza Thu, 09 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20561999/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20561999/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/subaru-investing-400-million-for-impreza-production-in-indiana/20561999/article-detail.xml 20561999 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-subaru-impreza-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-subaru-impreza-review.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 Subaru Forester - front three-quarter view

Pedal entrapment and unintended acceleration are hot-button topics these days, so automakers are always staying alert for potential problems. For Subaru and its newly introduced 2014 Forester, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall due to improperly manufactured floor mats that could become an obstruction for the gas, brake or clutch pedals. The good news, of course, is that even if drivers experience this problem, the 2014 Forester comes standard with brake override.

At issue with the floor mats on 10,137 Forester models built between January and March of this year is that the resin material used on the underside of the mats can curl when exposed to heat. If the leading edge of the driver's mat curls enough, it can come in contact with the pedals making acceleration, braking and shifting more difficult - possibly resulting in a crash. To fix the problem, Subaru is replacing the entire set of floor mats in all of the affected units. The official NHTSA recall notice is posted below.

Continue reading Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears

Subaru recalls new Forester over pedal entrapment fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 subaru foresterforester recallnational highway traffic safety administrationrecallsubarusubaru forestersubaru recall Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551818/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20551818/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/subaru-recalls-new-forester-over-pedal-entrapment-fears/20551818/article-detail.xml 20551818 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/forester-xt-lead-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX STI prototype spied in motion]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/subaru-wrx-sti-prototype-spied-in-motion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/subaru-wrx-sti-prototype-spied-in-motion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/subaru-wrx-sti-prototype-spied-in-motion/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX STI prototype spy video screen grab

Earlier this week, we got all hot and bothered over a set of spy photos showing the next-generation Subaru WRX STI testing at the Nürburgring. And while pretty still shots of a camouflaged car are always nice to look at, stirring up lots of speculation, having video is even better. Good thing, then, that our trusty spies were on hand to get some rolling footage of that STI as it lapped the infamous German track.

Now, as a good majority of the comments on our previous post will point out, it looks like Subaru has dumbed down the design of that decidedly hot WRX Concept from New York for the road-going car. Of course, we need to wait until all that swirly paper is pulled off the body, but from what we can see here, it looks like this new 'Rex will be more akin to the current Impreza than we were originally led to believe.

So while we wait and hope that what's under the camouflage will be something sexy, have a look at the video below to watch the WRX STI prototype get worked out on the 'Ring.

Continue reading Subaru WRX STI prototype spied in motion

Subaru WRX STI prototype spied in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> spy shotsspy videosubarusubaru wrxsubaru wrx stivideo Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545098/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545098/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/subaru-wrx-sti-prototype-spied-in-motion/20545098/article-detail.xml 20545098 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-wrx-sti-spy-video-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-wrx-sti-spy-video-3.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru uses a mime and a toy car to explain why it loves the boxer engine]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/subaru-uses-a-mime-and-a-toy-car-to-explain-why-it-loves-the-box/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/subaru-uses-a-mime-and-a-toy-car-to-explain-why-it-loves-the-box/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/subaru-uses-a-mime-and-a-toy-car-to-explain-why-it-loves-the-box/#comments Filed under: ,

Subaru Boxer Engine Video

I will freely admit to struggling with why Subaru continues to stubbornly employ a boxer engine design while so few other automakers do the same. After all, with twice the number of cylinder heads and cams as a traditional inline four-cylinder engine, a boxer four is more complex, more expensive to manufacture and more cumbersome to service with few tangible benefits. Until recently, the company's engines struggled to meet the fuel economy numbers of its competitors while offering no real boon in horsepower or torque. Subaru seems to recognize I'm not the only one scratching my head.

In order to help us non-believers understand what's what, the company has employed a pair of mimes, a toy car and a few clay engines to demonstrate the folly of every other automaker on the planet. Subaru says the boxer offers up a lower center of gravity than either an inline four-cylinder engine or a V6, which I will gladly concede. The company also says the design offers up smoother operation.

I'll offer just two counterpoints here. First, an engine with a low center of gravity is excellent, but when vehicles like the Forester, XV Crosstrek and Outback boast more ground clearance than most mainstream SUVs, that argument flies out the window. Second, anyone who's spent any amount of time behind the wheel of a vehicle equipped with an inline four and then proceeded to move into one propelled by a boxer can tell you the latter has all of the idling manners of a small tractor. Check out the video below to see for yourself.

Continue reading Subaru uses a mime and a toy car to explain why it loves the boxer engine

Subaru uses a mime and a toy car to explain why it loves the boxer engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> boxerboxer enginesubaruvideo Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542682/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542682/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/17/subaru-uses-a-mime-and-a-toy-car-to-explain-why-it-loves-the-box/20542682/article-detail.xml 20542682 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-boxer-engine-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-boxer-engine-video.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Subaru WRX STI spotted at the Nürburgring [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-gen-subaru-wrx-sti-spotted-at-the-nurburgring/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-gen-subaru-wrx-sti-spotted-at-the-nurburgring/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-gen-subaru-wrx-sti-spotted-at-the-nurburgring/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2015 Subaru WRX STI Spy Shots

Subaru has been busy testing the next-generation WRX STI. Well, it may be the STI. The big wing out back lends some credence to that theory, but it could be that the basic WRX is getting new action in the back section. Time will tell.

In either case, spy photographers nabbed a few shots of the heavily camouflaged sedan running around the Nürburgring. Unfortunately, it looks as if Subaru has taken some of the sexy out of the WRX Concept we saw at the New York Auto Show, leaving this car looking more derivative of the current model than a revolution in design. The bold power bulge has disappeared from the vehicle's hood and the lower fascia looks far more demure than the the wild concept. Likewise, the muscular rear fenders have been toned down substantially.

The result is a car that looks more like a mildly warmed over version of the current model than a production version of the WRX Concept. Still, engineers and designers may have a long way to go before the finished product hits the market, so we'll reserve final judgement for now. After all, the early BRZ mules were nothing short of a travesty to look at, and we know how that turned out. Hope springs eternal.

UPDATE: Our spy photographers just sent over a second set of photos showing this Subaru prototype running 'round the 'Ring. Have a look in our updated gallery, here.

Next-gen Subaru WRX STI spotted at the Nürburgring [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> spy photosspy shotssubarusubaru wrxsubaru wrx stisubaru wrx sti spy shots Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542375/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542375/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/next-gen-subaru-wrx-sti-spotted-at-the-nurburgring/20542375/article-detail.xml 20542375 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2015-subaru-wrx-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2015-subaru-wrx-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #328]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/autoblog-podcast-328/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/autoblog-podcast-328/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/autoblog-podcast-328/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Autoblog long-term garage update, Fisker, Mini possibly dropping models, Detroit Electric, BMW X4

autoblog podcast logo

Episode #328 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Steven Ewing talk about the Autoblog Long-Term Garage, Fisker's troubles, Mini possibly shrinking its future product line, the reveal of the Detroit Electric SP:01, and the reveal of the BMW X4. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Our Q&A module went AWOL for the podcast, so we threw in some juicy tidbits about Dan buying a car and teased Zach's progress on Project Ugly Horse. Thanks for listening!


Autoblog Podcast #328:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Kia Optima SXL
2013 Acura ILX Hybrid
2013 Subaru WRX
2014 Mazda6


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Steven Ewing

Runtime: 01:29:30

Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #328

Autoblog Podcast #328 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> acura ilx hybridautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 328bmw x4detroit electricfeaturedfiskerhyundai velosterkia optimalong term garagemazda6nissan pathfinderpodcastpodcast 328subaru wrx Tue, 09 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #328Autoblog01:29:30 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535374/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/autoblog-podcast-328/20535374/article-detail.xml 20535374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[WRX Concept gets walkaround with Subaru design boss Osamu Namba]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/wrx-concept-gets-walkaround-with-subaru-design-boss-osamu-namba/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/wrx-concept-gets-walkaround-with-subaru-design-boss-osamu-namba/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/wrx-concept-gets-walkaround-with-subaru-design-boss-osamu-namba/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



The Subaru WRX Concept was the only concept car to be mentioned among our Editors' Choice favorites for New York Auto Show debuts this year - snagging the No. 3 spot nonetheless - due to what it could mean to the future of Subaru if it indeed becomes a reality. Now that we've caught our breath from walking countless miles through the Javits Center, Subaru has released a brief video of design boss Osamu Namba describing some of the exterior styling elements of the sporty concept sedan.

While this video is just your basic walkaround that gives no mention of the concept's inspiration or what we can expect from the next-generation WRX, it is still fun to watch Namba explain many of the car's design elements including the more aggressive face, the quadruple exhaust outlets and the signature flared wheel arches and side outlet fender vents. If you liked the WRX Concept as much as we did, scroll down to watch this short video.

Continue reading WRX Concept gets walkaround with Subaru design boss Osamu Namba

WRX Concept gets walkaround with Subaru design boss Osamu Namba originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto show2013 subaru wrx conceptnew yorknew york auto showosamu nambasubarusubaru wrxvideo Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532807/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532807/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/wrx-concept-gets-walkaround-with-subaru-design-boss-osamu-namba/20532807/article-detail.xml 20532807 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-wrx-concept-walkaround_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/subaru-wrx-concept-walkaround.jpg <![CDATA[Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/videos]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-videos/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-videos/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-videos/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Happy April, everyone. And we all know what this first day of the month means: April Fools' Day. Today is a national holiday for pranksters with the Internet acting as a serious enabler, and it's always fun to see what kind of vivid imaginations exist out there in the automotive world. The abundance of fake news gets a little old as the day rolls on, but we did manage to get in a few chuckles thanks to a handful of major automakers and automotive news outlets that got into the pranking spirit this year

Some of our favorites this year includes Subaru showing what happens when you combine a bunch of rumors, a Corvette some may have already thought was a joke or Honda providing some in-car innovation circa the late 1980s. Honestly, we're still waiting for official confirmation from Mitsubishi that the recently introduced 2014 Mirage is an elaborate April Fools' joke using a failed design intended for the 1995 Geo Metro. We dug up as much "official" OEM foolishness we could find, as well as some of our other favorites, and posted them all below.

Continue reading Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/videos]

Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> april foolsApril Fools Daybmwhondaministage 3 motorsportssubaruthink geekvolvo Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20524725/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20524725/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-videos/20524725/article-detail.xml 20524725 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hondahair_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/hondahair.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid finally adds gas-electric option to the brand [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-video-new-york/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-video-new-york/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-video-new-york/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid - front three-quarter view, live on 2013 New York Auto Show stand

For a company that does a pretty great job of tying its vehicles to the environment - or, better said, to people who like to actually get out into the environment - Subaru hasn't exactly been a leader in green vehicle production. In fact, it's 2013 and the company is finally releasing its first-ever production hybrid, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid. Tom Doll, Subaru's executive vice president, admitted as much at the unveiling today at the New York Auto Show: "We at Subaru were not the first to market with a hybrid, but we sure made sure we did it right."

That may be, but for now the automaker doesn't want to tell us all the details of how right it is. We do know that the powertrain takes Subaru's 2.0-liter boxer engine and adds in a 13.4-horsepower electric motor and continuously variable transmission. All-wheel drive will be, of course, standard, and Subaru promises the XV Crosstrek Hybrid will offer the "same utility and versatility as the gasoline model," including 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The hybrid does weigh 300 pounds more, though, which required a re-engineered chassis.

The motor can move the lifted Impreza in all-electric mode up to 25 miles an hour (distance not specified). Subaru isn't talking precise fuel economy numbers, either, just that it will be the "most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive crossover in America" and will unsurprisingly have start-stop functionality. We do hear, though, that the hybrid will get around 10-percent better fuel economy than the standard gas-only XV Crosstrek. The most efficient version of that car, the one with the CVT, gets 25 miles per gallon in the city, 33 highway and 28 combined. Whatever this hybrid XV Crosstrek gets, we expect Subaru'll sell a million in Portlandia. For more, scroll down to watch an official video and read the press release.

Continue reading 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid finally adds gas-electric option to the brand [w/video]

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid finally adds gas-electric option to the brand [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto show2014 subaru xv crosstrek2014 subaru xv crosstrek hybridnew yorknew york auto showsubarusubaru imprezasubaru xvsubaru xv crosstreksubaru xv crosstrek hybridvideo Thu, 28 Mar 2013 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520599/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-video-new-york/20520599/article-detail.xml 20520599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/001-2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-1364409107_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/001-2014-subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-1364409107.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX Concept hints at big performance, offers few facts [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX Concept

We're looking at a design statement only at this point.

Subaru has dropped the curtain on its truly attractive WRX Concept and, as previewed a few days ago, we're fast fans of the wide, low, muscular sedan. The concept car looks great, but there was a distinct lack of information being offered about the next-generation WRX that is sure to follow this concept - we're looking at a design statement only at this point.

Still, Subaru's press release does offer some more detail about both the concept and the car to come. You'll be hard pressed not to notice that the car's roof has been constructed entirely of carbon fiber, a move that designers have used to lower the center of gravity and reduce weight. Get past the gaping hood scoop and you'll also notice that that the concept car has a rather prominent power bulge sticking out of its hood, better to accommodate a "new turbocharged engine and intercooler."

In front, the massive hexagonal grill provides a strong full forward view, and the lower fascia incorporates sculpted air intakes that are said to help the engine breathe as well as providing downforce. In back, the standard-issue wing has been replaced with a subtly curved trunklid spoiler. Quad tailpipes also hint at the big power we hope will be packed into the car, when it takes production form. (No word at all on when we might expect a production-ready car.)

Clearly, the WRX Concept is styled anticipation of an all-wheel-drive vehicle, with four blistered wheel arches making that layout obvious. Huge 20-inch BBS wheels (not gold, but we like them) are wearing 245-section Dunlop tires, and look ready to grip and rip. Follow on for the full Subaru press release, once you've finished feasting your eyes on our image galleries.

UPDATE: Official video added - watch it by scrolling below.

Continue reading Subaru WRX Concept hints at big performance, offers few facts [w/video]

Subaru WRX Concept hints at big performance, offers few facts [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto shownew subaru wrxnew yorknew york auto shownewsubaruwrxsubarusubaru wrxsubaru wrx conceptsubaru wrx stiwrx conceptwrxconcept Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20522033/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20522033/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-2013/20522033/article-detail.xml 20522033 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-wrx-concept-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-wrx-concept-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Are you the Subaru WRX Concept for New York?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-leaked-images/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-leaked-images/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-leaked-images/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



When Subaru dropped a hint about bringing an "all-new performance concept car" to the New York Auto Show this year, we immediately started hoping and praying that a conceptual iteration of the next WRX was in the offing. Looks like that might have paid off. While no official word has yet been written or uttered from Subaru, a French website called Blog Automobile has released a gallery of images that would seem to spill the beans about the WRX Concept.

If the leaked images are correct - and they look awfully complete and well done if they're not - WRX styling is taking a turn for the handsome. The sleek sedan in these images has all of the cues that we've come to expect from our rally-ready Imprezas: a dominating hood scoop and very wide stance with beefy wheels, and seems to miss only the rear wing to fit the perfect WRX stereotype. (And, yes, it should have gold wheels.)

There's no press release to be found, but the source is citing specifications as if it knows what it's talking about. We're told that 275 to 300 horsepower are the likely output of the turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, and that brakes with ventilated discs and six-piston calipers are there to haul the all-wheel-drive Scooby down from speed. If our earlier reporting is correct, we might expect to find an electric turbo under that imposing hood, too.

Stay tuned as we scan the web for confirmation about this WRX Concept. We expect that Subaru will have something to say about it, one way or the other, even before its press conference in New York.

Are you the Subaru WRX Concept for New York? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto shownew yorknew york auto showsubarusubaru wrxsubaru wrx concept Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518960/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20518960/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/26/subaru-wrx-concept-new-york-leaked-images/20518960/article-detail.xml 20518960 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-concept-1-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-concept-1-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru confirms performance concept, XV Crosstrek Hybrid for New York]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/subaru-confirms-performance-concept-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-for-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/subaru-confirms-performance-concept-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-for-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/subaru-confirms-performance-concept-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-for-new/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Subaru has made quite a name for itself as automaker that caters to the outdoorsy, green-leaning set. Now it's stepping up to the plate for those customers - some might say "finally" stepping up - with its first-ever hybrid vehicle.

The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid will make its official debut next week at the New York Auto Show. And although there are no details about it just yet, we do have one, typically muddy, picture of the literally and figuratively green car to show.

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid will use a Subaru-developed hybrid system paired to the automaker's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. On the opposite end of the green scale, Subaru will also be showing off an "all-new performance concept car," which we can only hope is our first look at the next-generation WRX, or better still the WRX STI. Here's hoping.

Continue reading Subaru confirms performance concept, XV Crosstrek Hybrid for New York

Subaru confirms performance concept, XV Crosstrek Hybrid for New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto shownew york 2013new york auto shownyiassubarusubaru concept vehiclesubaru hybridsubaru xv crosstrek hybrid Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20510985/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20510985/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/20/subaru-confirms-performance-concept-xv-crosstrek-hybrid-for-new/20510985/article-detail.xml 20510985 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-xv-crosstrek-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[World Car Of The Year down to its final four]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class - front three-quarter view, dynamic

Judges for the World Car of the Year Award have narrowed down the finalists to just four vehicles. Out of a total of 42 entries, only the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Porsche Boxster/Cayman, Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT-86 and Volkswagen Golf remain standing. For Volkswagen, this marks the second consecutive year the company has had an entry among the finalists, and the fourth time since 2009. In order to qualify, a vehicle must be on sale on two continents during the span of time between January 1, 2013 and May 30, 2013. A panel of 66 journalists from 23 countries then vote on the finalists.

Three vehicles have made the cut for the last round of voting on the 2013 World Performance Car as well, with the Cayman/Boxster and FR-S/BRZ/GT-86 running against the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. Meanwhile, the Renault Zoe, Tesla Model S and Volvo V60 Plug-In Hybrid are duking it out for the World Green Car Award. Finally, the World Car Design of the Year Award is up for grabs between the Aston Martin Vanquish, Jaguar F-Type, and the Mazda6. Check out the full press release below. Overall winners will be presented at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

Continue reading World Car Of The Year down to its final four

World Car Of The Year down to its final four originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 porsche boxster2013 subaru brz2013 volkswagen golf2014 porsche cayman2014 volkswagen golfa-classa-klassebrzfr-sgolfgt-86gt86mercedes-benzscionsubaruvolkswagenworld car of the yearworld car of the year award Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20500301/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20500301/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/13/world-car-of-the-year-down-to-its-final-four/20500301/article-detail.xml 20500301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mercedes-benz-a-class-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/mercedes-benz-a-class-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru issues recall over cars that may start themselves]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/subaru-issues-recall-over-cars-that-may-start-themselves/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/subaru-issues-recall-over-cars-that-may-start-themselves/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/08/subaru-issues-recall-over-cars-that-may-start-themselves/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek - front three-quarter view, black

Subaru has issued one of the strangest recalls we've come across in some time. As it turns out, certain Subaru models may randomly start their own engines. The issue is confined to select models equipped with an automatic or CVT and the company's optional Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. If the RES key fob is dropped, it could "randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button."

Vehicles affected include the 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback with an automatic or CVT, 2012-2013 Impreza with the CVT, and 2013 XV Crosstrek with CVT (shown), all equipped with the Audiovox RES accessory. Likewise, certain 2013 Legacy and Outbacks may have received replacement RES fobs that could be affected. All told, 47,419 vehicles are included in the recall.

Should one of these cars start on their own, Subaru says they will run up to 15 minutes, but the vehicle may also continue to start and stop until either the battery in the fob dies or the car runs out of fuel. Of course, if one of these cars is parked in an enclosed area, that means harmful gasses could build up, which could be dangerous if inhaled.

The fix is an obvious one: Subaru will replace the RES fobs for free. Owners of the affected vehicles can expect to be notified by the end of April, though their car might let them know sooner.

Continue reading Subaru issues recall over cars that may start themselves

Subaru issues recall over cars that may start themselves originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiovoximprezalegacyoutbackrecallrecallsremote enginer starterremote startsubarusubaru recallxv crosstrek Fri, 08 Mar 2013 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20494742/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/08/subaru-issues-recall-over-cars-that-may-start-themselves/20494742/article-detail.xml 20494742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/01-2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/01-2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru Viziv is a diesel hybrid crossover we could learn to love]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/05/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Subaru Viziv Concept

With the 2013 XV Crosstrek, Subaru reaffirmed its interest in niche crossovers, and early signs are that it's selling well, so will parent Fuji Heavy Industries green-light another one? That's the question begged by the new Viziv concept just unveiled here at the Geneva Motor Show.

Of course, this is a pure showcar, and the four-seat crossover coupe's drivetrain is suitably next-generation as well. The plug-in hybrid drivetrain system features a 2.0-liter diesel boxer engine mated to a CVT, and a pair of electric motors drive the rear wheels for a through-the-road all-wheel-drive system. By going with motor-driven rear axles, Subaru says it has been able to provide larger rear-seat footwell and lower load floor. More excitingly, Subaru says its control systems allow for side-to-side torque vectoring for improved handling, and the system actually apportions more power to the rear wheels when the Viziv takes a corner.

In typical concept car fashion, the Viziv features flashy butterfly doors that provide access to both the front and rear seats, along with oversized 20-inch wheels and cutting-edge lighting. We like the Viziv's overall design direction - it looks more organic and all-of-a-piece than we're used to seeing from the Japanese automaker.

Continue reading Subaru Viziv is a diesel hybrid crossover we could learn to love

Subaru Viziv is a diesel hybrid crossover we could learn to love originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> diesel hybridgenevageneva 2013geneva motor showsubaruvizivviziv concept Tue, 05 Mar 2013 04:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488391/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488391/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/05/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva-2013/20488391/article-detail.xml 20488391 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/subaru-viziv-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/#comments Filed under: , ,



Leave it to a Subaru WRX to find a new way to improve the art of passing. This dash cam vid shows a white WRX pirouetting past our recording car and somehow straightening out before either sliding off the road or slamming into the car ahead. If this were a standard move in rally racing, the WRC would be bigger than NASCAR.

Like most dash cam vids, we don't know where it was shot (Russia's always a good bet) or what the circumstances were (did the driver spin on purpose or was the 360-degree slide accidental?), but the remarkable feat was caught on camera and uploaded to YouTube, preserving it for an Internet eternity. Scroll below to watch the twist yourself, and don't try this at home!

Continue reading Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique

Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 360-degreedash campassingsubaruwrx Mon, 04 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20487267/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20487267/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/20487267/article-detail.xml 20487267 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/360-degree-slide-dash-cam-wrx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/360-degree-slide-dash-cam-wrx.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #322]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla profit, 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Ford Atlas chief designer Gordon Platto autoblog podcast logo

Episode #322 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla's cautious announcement of a first-quarter profit, the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur and Zach and Dan share an interview with Gordon Platto, chief designer for the Ford Atlas Concept truck from this year's Detroit Auto Show. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #322:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
2013 Toyota Prius V
2013 Lincoln MKS


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:26:23

Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #322

Autoblog Podcast #322 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lincoln mks2013 subaru xv crosstrek2013 tesla model s2013 toyota prius v2014 bentley flying spur2014 jeep cherokeeautoblog podcast 322bentleycherokeefeaturedflying spurford atlas conceptgordon plattojeeplincolnmksmodel sprius vsubaruteslatesla profittoyotaxv crostrek Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #322Autoblog01:26:23 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20477948/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20477948/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/20477948/article-detail.xml 20477948 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg -1 2