Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/north-american-car-and-truck-of-the-year-awards-get-shortlisted/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

The finalists for the coveted 2010 North American Car and Truck of the Year awards have just been released ahead of next month's ceremony in Detroit.

Slated to be unveiled on the floor of the Detroit Auto Show on January 11, the nominees have been whittled down from 25 contenders to the following vehicles: In the car category, the Buick LaCrosse, Ford Fusion Hybrid and Volkswagen Golf will be waiting nervously in the wings, and in the truck category, the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Transit Connect, and Subaru Outback will vie for the title.

The awards are the result of the deliberations of 49 North American automotive journalists and the winners will succeed last year's winners, the Hyundai Genesis sedan and Ford F-150 pickup. Check out a high-res gallery of this year's finalists below, peruse the official press release after the jump, and then let us know which vehicles you think deserve to take home the hardware in Comments.


Gallery: 2010 North American Car & Truck of the Year finalists


[Source: North American Car & Truck of the Year]

Continue reading North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?

North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: PIA/Cobb Tuning give the full STI swap treatment to Subaru Forester]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-pia-cobb-tuning-give-the-full-sti-swap-treatment-to-subar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-pia-cobb-tuning-give-the-full-sti-swap-treatment-to-subar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/video-pia-cobb-tuning-give-the-full-sti-swap-treatment-to-subar/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru STi-into-Forester swap - Click above to watch video

Pacific Import Auto (PIA) came across a Subaru Impreza WRX STi that had been removed from service by a telephone pole. With a new Subaru Forester at their disposal the Pacific Northwest tuning shop decided to marry the two, throw in a generous number of Cobb parts, and the result is a mean white wagon with 295 horsepower and 325 ft-lb. of torque - at the wheels. For comparison, a 2010 Forrester's engine is rated at 224 horses.

The man behind the project said he wanted "a nice looking car, something that nobody else had," so little has changed outside. Underneath, in addition to the beating-again heart of the STi, Cobb contributed a downpipe, front and rear sway bars, and AccessPort ECU remapper. In back, an SPT exhaust is responsible for that deep down sound. Follow the jump to watch the video story.

[Source: StreetFire]

Continue reading VIDEO: PIA/Cobb Tuning give the full STI swap treatment to Subaru Forester

VIDEO: PIA/Cobb Tuning give the full STI swap treatment to Subaru Forester originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Subaru Forester2009 subaru WRX STI2009SubaruForester2009SubaruWrxSti2010 Subaru forester2010SubaruForestercobb accessportCobb tuningCobbAccessportCobbTuningengine swapEngineSwappacific import autopacific northwestPacificImportAutoPacificNorthwestSTISubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza WRX STiSubaru WRX STISubaruForresterSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruWrxSti Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Subaru returns to rallying for 2010 Intercontinental Rally Challenge]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/subaru-returns-to-rallying-for-2010-intercontinental-rally-chall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/subaru-returns-to-rallying-for-2010-intercontinental-rally-chall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/subaru-returns-to-rallying-for-2010-intercontinental-rally-chall/#comments Filed under: ,


Subary Impreza WRC 2008 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After only a one-year hiatus, Subaru is preparing to get back into the rally game next season. And when it does, it won't be back into the World Rally Championship, but rather the rival Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

The Japanese automaker has competed in the IRC since its inception - and even won the very first IRC stage in 2007 - but was not previously registered as an official manufacturer in the series. Rather than field its own works team, however, Subaru will supply cars to privateers, but will be eligible to score points in the manufacturers' standings for 2010.

With the addition of Subaru, that makes eight automakers signed up to compete in the series next year, along with Fiat/Abarth, Honda, Mitsubishi, Peugeot, Proton, Skoda and Volkswagen. Follow the jump for the full press release.


Gallery: Subaru WRC2008 Race Debut


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading Subaru returns to rallying for 2010 Intercontinental Rally Challenge

Subaru returns to rallying for 2010 Intercontinental Rally Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 intercontinental rally championship2010IntercontinentalRallyChampionshipintercontinental rally championshipIntercontinentalRallyChampionshipircirc 2010Irc2010stisubarusubaru ircsubaru rallysubaru tecnica internationalsubaru wrcSubaruIrcSubaruRallySubaruTecnicaInternationalSubaruWrc Mon, 07 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST <![CDATA[LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-special-edition-los-angeles-pricing/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

So often, the tag of "Special Edition" comes with a not-so-special price increase. Fortunately for Subaru fans, the newly-introduced Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is actually less costly. At $32,995 it's actually $2,000 cheaper than the base price of the standard STI.

Of course, buyers of the Special Edition will have to go without certain features, namely HID headlights, premium audio, and automatic climate control. It's not just a de-contented package, though, as the car also comes with the suspension from the spec C model in Japan that includes a thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer bushings and stiffer springs.

Initially, each car will be painted in Aspen white with the charcoal-colored 14-spoke wheels also cribbed from the spec C. Just 125 examples will be built in the first quarter of 2010, although Subaru says that more will be available later in the year in additional colors. High-res gallery below, pricing press release available after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive

LA 2009: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition is sportier, less expensive originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 subaru2010 subaru impreza wrx sti2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition2010 subaru STI2010 subaru wrx2010 subaru WRX STI2010Subaru2010SubaruImprezaWrxSti2010SubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEdition2010SubaruSti2010SubaruWrx2010SubaruWrxSti2011 subaru wrxla 2009la auto showla showLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSpec CSpecCsti special editionStiSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza WRXSubaru Impreza WRX Limited EditionSubaru Impreza WRX STISubaru Impreza WRX STI Special EditionSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruImprezaWrxLimitedEditionSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecialEditionwrxwrx stiWRX STI Spec cwrx sti special editionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEdition Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/la-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-special-edition-headed-for-u-s-showr/#comments Filed under: , , ,


2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

For U.S. Subaru enthusiasts, it has long seemed like the folks at Fuji Heavy forgot that we might be interested in special-edition WRX models too. New hotted-up variants of the all-wheel-drive hero car have been released in the UK and elsewhere on what seems like a monthly basis, but here in the States, we've largely done without. Thankfully, at last there is just such a U.S. model in the pipeline, and it's headed for the LA Auto Show.

The the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition starts by utilizing the suspension package form the JDM WRX STI Spec C (1mm thicker rear antisway bar, stiffer springs and more robust rear subframe bushings), and the model also inherits the charcoal 18 x 8.5-inch 14-spoke alloys from that car as well.

Interestingly, the Special Edition is decontented somewhat. Unlike the standard U.S. STI, the SE makes do with a downgraded stereo (single-disc CD/four speakers versus six-disc/10 speakers), manual HVAC controls, conventional halogen headlamps, and indicator-free side mirrors. It isn't immediately clear if this change in specification helps shave any weight, but the smaller stereo alone probably helps the car drop a few pounds.

Subaru says it plans to initially offer the Special Edition in a limited run of 125 units this Spring, all painted Aspen White. Later in 2010, the Special Edition will become a normal production model available in other colors. Pricing has not yet been released, but if you're at all interested in one of the first 125 examples, we'd suggest getting on a list with your local dealer now. Check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Subaru WRX STI Special Edition


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms

LA Preview: Subaru WRX STI Special Edition headed for U.S. showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2008LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoShow2008ScoobySpecial EditionSpecialEditionSubaruSubaru WRXSubaruWrxSubieWRXWRX STiWRX STI Spec CWRX STI Special EditionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEdition Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Rumormill: Subaru version of Toyota FT-86 to be bigger, get substantially more power, AWD]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/rumormill-subaru-version-of-toyota-ft-86-to-be-bigger-get-subs/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

While most sports car fans everywhere are waiting with bated breath for the new Toyota FT-86 to arrive from the Land of the Rising Sun, some of us are a little bit more excited about the car's Subaru cousin. Why is that, especially considering that the FT-86 appears to be kinda just what the doctor ordered (rear-wheel drive, 200 horsepower, light, cheap)? Well, for one thing, Subarus are all-wheel drive. And while rear-wheel driven sports cars definitely have their charms (earlier rumors even suggested that Fuji Heavy (i.e. Subaru) was even caving and going rear-drive with its version of the Toyobaru), there's really little in life as fun as blasting down a gravel road at a seemingly unsafe clip while kicking up mountainous clouds of dust. Plus, you know, rain and all that.

Then there's the engine. Our pals at Inside Line are reporting that the Subaru iteration of the FT-86 will have more power - 250 hp according to them. Using Jeremy Clarkson-style logic, 250 hp is better than 200 hp. Because it's more. IL claims that the Toyobaru will use a version of the just-developed-for-the-FT-86 flat-four 2.0-liter engine - supposedly naturally aspirated like in the FT-86.

But here's the thing - the smallest engine Subaru offers American consumers these days is a 2.5-liter boxer. And that motor, turbo-tuned for WRX duty, makes 265 hp (though we've driven it and we'd wager it kicks out a bit more than that). Why would Subaru put a smaller, weaker engine into a $30,000 coupe ($30,000 according to the IL article) than the motor they stick in the $25,000 WRX? Exactly -we don't think they would.

Inside Line also says the Subaru version will be larger than the Toyota car because of a "stretched platform." We're not sure if that means longer or wider - or both - but we'd err on the side of longer, as in more backseat room. What we're looking at then, is a big-ish, AWD coupe with a lot of power. Can you say 2011 SVX? We knew you could.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Toyota FT-86 Concept


[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: Subaru version of Toyota FT-86 to be bigger, get substantially more power, AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> FT-86SubaruSubaru CoupeSubaru SVXSubaru WRXSubaruCoupeSubaruSvxSubaruWrxsubiyotaSVXToyobaruToyotaToyota FT-86ToyotaFt-86WRX Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: New Subaru Forester rally car getting warmed up for Dakar]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-new-subaru-forester-rally-car-getting-warmed-up-for-dakar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-new-subaru-forester-rally-car-getting-warmed-up-for-dakar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/video-new-subaru-forester-rally-car-getting-warmed-up-for-dakar/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

Put the words "Subaru" and "rally" together, and you'll inevitably be flooded with visions of the Impreza WRX STI campaigning in the WRC. This isn't one of those times.

Details are a bit on the scarce side, but what we do know is that Barattero Motorsport and YPF Elaion have teamed up (with a little help from Subaru, we're sure) to compete in the January running of the 2010 Dakar Rally. Their chosen chariot for the epic journey? None other than the recently redesigned Subaru Forester. But it's a Forester in name alone.

Packing a tuned 2.0-liter (JDM-spec) STI boxer four putting out 300 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, the Elaion is a tube-framed, carbon fiber and kevlar-bodied beast that's been outfitted with dual shocks featuring nine inches of suspension travel, vented, cross-drilled brakes sized 295mm and all the assorted kit to run in the world's most arduous off-road race. Yoshiu Ikemachi and Gabriel Pozzo will kick off their journey in the Dakar Forester on January 1st, but before the festivities get underway they've released a teaser video which you can scoop out after the jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: New Subaru Forester rally car getting warmed up for Dakar

VIDEO: New Subaru Forester rally car getting warmed up for Dakar originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> barattero motorsportBaratteroMotorsportdakar 2010dakar foresterDakar2010DakarForesterelaion foresterElaionForestersubaru forester dakarSubaruForesterDakarypf elaionYpfElaion Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Toyota FT-86 sure doesn't sound like a boxer]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-toyota-ft-86-sure-doesnt-sound-like-a-boxer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-toyota-ft-86-sure-doesnt-sound-like-a-boxer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/video-toyota-ft-86-sure-doesnt-sound-like-a-boxer/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Toyota FT-86 Concept exhaust note - Click to watch the video after the jump

Toyota garnered a lot of attention at this year's Tokyo Motor Show with the debut of the FT-86 concept. And they weren't about to let it slip past them, either. As part of the spectacle, they played the sounds of the prototype supposedly rounding the Nürburgring.

The FT-86 is being jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, the former providing the platform and the latter the engine, among other components. The thing is, as our JDM-loving compatriots over at 7Tune point out, the engine noise piped in doesn't sound much like a boxer four.

Of course, that kind of deducing poses more questions than it answers: Is Toyota planning a different engine for its version of the so-called Toyobaru sports-coupe? Is Subaru's hesitation prompting Toyota to make its own plans? Did they not like how the engine sounded and opt to pipe in another soundtrack altogether? We can only speculate, but if you listen to the audio in the video clip after the jump and have your own idea, we're all ears.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Toyota FT-86 Concept


[Source: 7Tune.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: Toyota FT-86 sure doesn't sound like a boxer

VIDEO: Toyota FT-86 sure doesn't sound like a boxer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> boxerboxer engineBoxerEngineflat fourFlatFourft-86ft-86 boxerft-86 conceptft-86 engineFt-86BoxerFt-86ConceptFt-86Enginesubarusubaru boxerSubaruBoxertoyobarutoyotatoyota ft-86ToyotaFt-86 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:20:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Subaru Legacy GTk is your friendly family hauler, autocrosser]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-subaru-legacy-gtk-is-your-friendly-family-hauler-aut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-subaru-legacy-gtk-is-your-friendly-family-hauler-aut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-subaru-legacy-gtk-is-your-friendly-family-hauler-aut/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru Legacy GTk Concept and more - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Block's STI TRAX is an entertaining diversion for a clothing mogul/extreme sports personality/rampant gearhead, the Subaru Legacy GTk is far-and-away our favorite concept at the Subie booth.

Based on the 2010 Legacy 2.5GT Wagon, the GTk has been designed to strike a balance between family shlepper and SCCA Solo autocross competitor, beginning with a tuned and tweaked turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer putting out 300 hp and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. A six-speed manual transmission with a short shifter sends power to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, while track-tuned Bilstein struts and STI "pink" springs suspend six-piston (front) and four piston (rear) Brembo calipers squeezing cross-drilled discs at all four corners. If all that and a set of custom HRE 19-inch wheels isn't enough, Subaru's partner in the project -- Specialized Vehicles, Inc. -- sourced a Formula Junior A class-spec kart that can fit into the cargo area -- no trailer required. We think we've found our next project, but the 1969 360 SPT Delivery Van needs to find a home in our garage. Full details about Subaru's three other concepts here and make the jump for the release on the GTk.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Subaru at SEMA

Continue reading SEMA 2009: Subaru Legacy GTk is your friendly family hauler, autocrosser

SEMA 2009: Subaru Legacy GTk is your friendly family hauler, autocrosser originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> semasema 2009Sema2009subarusubaru legacy gtksubaru semaSubaruLegacyGtkSubaruSema Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:58:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Living vicariously through Ken Block and his Subaru TRAX STI]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-living-vicariously-through-ken-block-and-his-subaru-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-living-vicariously-through-ken-block-and-his-subaru-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-living-vicariously-through-ken-block-and-his-subaru-t/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Ken Block Subaru TRAX STI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Way back in April, we got tipped off to a video of a lifted and tracked Subaru WRX STI conquering the snowy climes of... somewhere. Before we caught a glimpse of the graphics and competition number, we knew who was behind it: Ken Block. Now, over six months later, the driving deity and snowboard virtuoso has unleashed his latest creation onto the masses in Las Vegas.

Created by the rally experts at Vermont SportsCar, the TRAX STI has been fitted with a set of EXE-TC Group N competition dampers, the aforementioned tank tracks and a modified 2.5-liter boxer four putting out around 400 hp through a KAPS five-speed dog 'box. Despite it's towering presence, it's a relatively mild tune, but it's thoroughly awesome in person, particularly with the four-person sleigh in tow. The only question now is: When will we see a video of Block being pulled behind the TRAX through the backcountry? We'll gladly volunteer to man the helm.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Ken Block TRAX Subaru WRX STI

SEMA 2009: Living vicariously through Ken Block and his Subaru TRAX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> blockKen Block Subaru WRX STIken block subaru wrx traxKenBlockSubaruWrxStiKenBlockSubaruWrxTraxKenGriffeyJr.semasema 2009sema ken block wrx stisema showSema2009SemaKenBlockWrxStiSemaShowsubaru Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of <i> Car and Driver </i>]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/autoblog-podcast-151-with-eddie-alterman-of-car-and-driver/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Abuelsamid, Lieberman, Roth and Shunk. Sounds like a law firm, but it's this week's podcast crew. Car and Driver editor-in-chief Eddie Alterman bravely wades into the pool and joins us for Episode #151 of the Autoblog Podcast, as well.

We spend a goodly amount of time going over what's in all five garages this week, before picking up actual topics. Once into news, we move through the Honda Accord Crosstour's pricing and impending launch, Ford's profitable quarter and union dealings, Edmunds' dust-up with the White House, and wrap with what might be cool at the crazy automotive cavalcade that is SEMA. It's an hour and twenty minutes of rollicking good times, so let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver

Autoblog Podcast #151: With Eddie Alterman of Car and Driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcar and drivercar driverCarAndDriverCarDrivercash for clunkersCashForClunkerseddie altermanEddieAltermanedmundsedmunds white houseEdmundsWhiteHouseFord salesford sales gainFord sales resultsford uawFordSalesFordSalesGainFordSalesResultsFordUawpodcastSEMAsema 2009Sema2009 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:50:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #151Autoblog1:20:42autoblog podcast, eddie alterman, car & driver, alterman, sema, uaw, ford, ford uaw, edmunds, cash for clunkers <![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/video-ken-blocks-subaru-based-trax-sti-is-an-alpine-badass/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Ken Block's Subaru WRX STI-based snow tank - Click above watch the video


Yes, that's probably the first ever Subaru tank. We can't say for certain, but I think in this case we can go ahead and assume. Driven by none other then Ken "Gymkhana" Block. Why does it exist? To be the "ultimate backcountry shred car," of course. We think what that actually means is that you'll be able to not only access rather remote sections of your favorite mountain in the TRAX STI, but get there quickly and confidently, while performing any matter of black diamond stunts along the way.

Being skiers and not snowboarders (ahem), the part that really interests up is what lies beneath. And we're happy to say in the case of the TRAX STI, quite a lot. The snow beast begins life as just another Ken Block-prepped open class WRX STI rally car. It's then sent to Vermont SportsCar where the power is upped to 400 hp, EXE-TC Group N dampers are fitted to all four corners and (obviously, duh) the wheels are ripped off and replaced with cat tracks. There's also a four person sleigh (not shown in the video) that can haul four boarders plus their gear up a mountain. Says Block:
It combines a two of my favorite things in life: driving a rally car in the snow and snowboarding in the powder in the backcountry. It's incredibly fun having the ability to push the high-power Subaru on the slopes and to backcountry spots that normal cars could never go!
We're just hoping that at some point old Kenny boy will give us a slushy hot lap or two. And be sure to check out 0-60's interview with Ken where the famed rally driver delves into more of his snow mania. Full press release explaining the madness behind the TRAX STI after the jump.


Gallery: Ken Block Subaru TRAX STI

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass

VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru-based TRAX STI is an alpine badass originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> gymkhanaKen BlockKenBlocksnow carSnowCarSubaru TRAX STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruTraxStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiTRAX STITraxStiVermont SportsCarVermontSportscarWRXWRX STIwrx sti snowWrxStiWrxStiSnow Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/sema-preview-subaru-bringing-tuned-sti-legacy-and-1969-360-van/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

1969 Subaru 360 SPT Delivery Van -- Click above image for high-res gallery

SEMA is just around the corner and aside from the inevitable Camaro riot that will be taking place in the convention center's parking lot, many auto folks are showing up with tuned rides. Like, for instance, Subaru. SPT is Subaru's in house tuning division and they're cooking up three nifty cars to put on display, each one better than the next.

First up is the WRX STI by SPT designed to demonstrate, "what a WRX STI owner can build at home using just the SPT catalog as a source for bolt-on parts." It's got ten more ponies (315, up from the stock STI's 305 hp), big old gold wheels, and special springs, sway bars and a lower chassis brace. Surely nice, but nothing new.

In Tokyo, it's all about "bippu," which is JDM for VIP. As such, Subaru has gone ahead and built a Legacy 2.5GT VIP for big ballers everywhere. What sets it apart? Well, for one thing, bippu means going low. To facilitate this, the top mounted Subaru intercooler is removed and replaced with a Mishimoto front-mounted intercooler to make room for the custom engine bay cover. But you got to go lower than that -- so the Legacy VIP gets air suspension to really kiss the ground. There's a whole bunch more, too, including Shinjuku Black Plum paint and the pleated leather interior.

But, the car we're really excited about is the van. Yeah man, a 1969 Subaru 360 delivery van to be precise. An honest to goodness microcar! Ten feet long. Four feet wide. Two-cylinder, two-stroke 25-hp engine. Suicide front doors -- and it's being fully restored as an SPT parts delivery van. But here's the cool part for those of you not making it out to SEMA -- the SPT parts van will tour the country going from dealership to dealership. Have you ever seen anything so close to perfection in your life? Didn't think so. Big old press release, after the jump.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Subaru Preview


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van

SEMA Preview: Subaru bringing tuned STI, Legacy and 1969 360 van originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Legacy VIPLegacyVipMicrocarMicrocarsSPTSTISubaruSubaru 360Subaru 360 VanSubaru LegacySubaru Legacy 2.5GTSubaru Legacy 2.5GT VIPSubaru Legacy VIPSubaru360Subaru360VanSubaruLegacySubaruLegacy2.5gtSubaruLegacy2.5gtVipSubaruLegacyVipWRXWRX STI by SPTWrxStiBySpt Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Convertible Toyobaru FT-86 in the works]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-convertible-toyobaru-ft-86-in-the-works/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-convertible-toyobaru-ft-86-in-the-works/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-convertible-toyobaru-ft-86-in-the-works/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 - click above image for hi-res gallery

In news that will only shock those that haven't been paying attention, Toyota has reportedly confirmed that if the market demands it, there will be a convertible version of the new FT-86. Though Toyota still hasn't settled on a name for the upcoming budget rear-drive sports car, the announcement of a drop-top option lends a bit more credence to the rumor that the Celica nameplate might be brought back from the dead.

Now, the notion of a convertible Celica really shouldn't shock anyone. However, what should shock you (at least a little) is the possibility of convertible Subaru. Because, besides a few one-offs and at least one was-never-going-to-see-the-light-of-day concept, Subaru has never built a convertible. And of course, this means that the very real possibility of an all-wheel drive, 300+ horsepower, 300+ lb-ft. of torque, six-speed manual Subaru roadster exists. Where do we sign up? Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Toyota FT-86 Concept


[Source: Auto Telegraaf via Motor Authority]

REPORT: Convertible Toyobaru FT-86 in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AE-86cabrioletdrop-topdropheaddroptoprear-driverear-wheel driveRear-wheelDriveroadsterRWDSubarusubaru convertibleSubaru FT-86Subaru FT-86 ConvertibleSubaruConvertibleSubaruFt-86SubaruFt-86ConvertibleToyotatoyota convertibleToyota FT-86Toyota FT-86 ConvertibleToyotaConvertibleToyotaFt-86ToyotaFt-86Convertible Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:28:00 EST <![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas starts next week, and lots of automakers will be in attendance with versions of their production vehicles that take tuning to a whole new level. Suzuki has a new vehicle to show off, the Kizashi mid-size sedan, and will be loading its lineup with four examples that show what you can do with your new Suze after driving it home from the dealer.

The four Kizashis were produced by Road Race Motorsports, Delta Tech Engineering, Westside Auto Group and Import Tuner magazine. Here's a brief rundown of what each tuner will bring to the table in terms of Kizashi tuning. The Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi (above) is definitely tuned for performance with upgrades to the suspension, braking, intake and exhaust. A number of custom body pieces were also bolted on to make this Kizashi better look the part. The Delta Tech Engineering Kizashi (below, left) is also performance oriented, but with a larger focus on weight reduction and handling. Westside Auto Group, meanwhile, created the Kizashi Soleil (below, middle), which is more than show than go with a custom body kit, custom two-tone paint and large 7-spoke wheels. Suzuki didn't provide images of the Import Tuner Kizashi and only hinted at what modifications it may contain, so we'll have to wait for SEMA to check out that one.



Finally, in addition to these four Kizashis, Suzuki will also have a custom Equator pickup by ICON Vehicle Dynamics (above right) that features some engine mods for the truck's 4.0-liter V6, a beefier suspension that provides more lift and bigger wheel/tire package.

You can check them all out in the gallery below and follow the jump for Suzuki's press release that contains all the specifics they're willing to talk about right now.


Gallery: Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show

Road Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiRoad Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiRoad Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiDelta Tech Engineering Kizashi

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup

SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> kizashisemasema 2009Sema2009show showShowShowsuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki semaSuzukiKizashiSuzukiSema Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru Concord Pond Run footage is a forest feast]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-ken-blocks-subaru-concord-pond-run-footage-is-a-forest-f/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-ken-blocks-subaru-concord-pond-run-footage-is-a-forest-f/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/video-ken-blocks-subaru-concord-pond-run-footage-is-a-forest-f/#comments Filed under: , ,

Ken Block and Alex Gelsomino during the New England Forest Rally -- Click above to watch video

What you need to know: New England Forest Rally, Ken Block and co-driver Alex Gelsomino, Special Stage 5 -- Concord Pond Run, breaking their own stage record they set last year. What you need to ask: what happens when Block meets Loeb next year?

Everything else worth considering is in the video in glorious high-definition. Follow the jump to check it out. Thanks for the tip, Nate!

[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru Concord Pond Run footage is a forest feast

VIDEO: Ken Block's Subaru Concord Pond Run footage is a forest feast originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Alex GelsominoAlexGelsominoConcord Pond RunConcordPondRunken blockKenBlockmotorsportsNew England Forest RallyNewEnglandForestRallyrallyrally racerally racingrallyingRallyRaceRallyRacingsubaruvideo Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: JDM rumormill reports Subaru's FT-86 will get turbo power, AWD]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/japanese-rumormill-reports-subarus-ft-86-will-get-turbo-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/japanese-rumormill-reports-subarus-ft-86-will-get-turbo-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/japanese-rumormill-reports-subarus-ft-86-will-get-turbo-power/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The crew from Japan's BestCar magazine have apparently taken the initial pics of the Toyota FT-86 concept and grafted a unique nose, rear fascia and wheels onto ToMoCo's new sports coupe, and while the result is less-than-fetching, the accompanying report offers a pseudo-confirmation of what's been suspected all along.

According to BestCar's (notoriously unnamed) sources, the Subaru coupe (internally dubbed 216A) will come equipped with all-wheel drive, and a choice of two engines in Japan - the 250-horsepower 2.0-liter EJ20 or the worked over, 300-hp boxer four from the WRX STI.

Naturally, the additional kit will result in a substantial price increase over the Toyota version, not to mention a 220-power weight penalty courtesy of its AWD drivetrain.

There's also talk of a slight increase in height, width and wheelbase, but no word on whether the Subaru coupe will make it to U.S. shores. If it does, expect it to arrive sometime after its introduction in Japan in 2011, with a price tag somewhere around the $30,000 mark.


Gallery: Toyota FT-86 Concept


[Source: BestCar via 7Tune]

Rendered Speculation: JDM rumormill reports Subaru's FT-86 will get turbo power, AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ft-86ft86subaru 216aSubaru216atoyobarutoyotatoyota ft-86toyota ft86ToyotaFt-86ToyotaFt86 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:26:00 EST <![CDATA[Rendered for Your Pleasure: Subaru WRX-powered Kickboxer motorcycle concept]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rendered-for-your-pleasure-subaru-wrx-powered-kickboxer-motorcy/#comments Filed under: , , ,

KickBoxer motorcycle concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a longstanding tradition of using horizontally-opposed boxer engines in motorcycles - and not just from BMW - the flat configuration has found a home in a slew of two-wheelers ranging from Russia's Ural to the current Honda Goldwing. So, it's not too much of a stretch to wonder how Subaru's well-known flat-four engine would work in a bike.

At least one man has decided to find out. According to The Kneeslider, Ian McElroy taught himself Solidworks just so he could create the KickBoxer motorcycle concept, which marries the aforementioned liquid-cooled boxer engine from Subaru to a futuristic motorcycle chassis that features single-sided swingarms front and rear along with hub-center steering.

We're not entirely sold on some of the details, but it sure looks like fun. Even a bone-stock turbocharged WRX powerplant should equal a rather favorable power-to-weight ratio, wouldn't you say? At this point, the KickBoxer exists only on paper and computer files, but McElroy says he'd love to see the machine put into small-scale production. As would we.

Check out our high-res gallery below, and for more images, click here.


Gallery: KickBoxer Motorcycle Concept


[Source: The Kneeslider, Flickr]

Rendered for Your Pleasure: Subaru WRX-powered Kickboxer motorcycle concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> boxer engineboxer motorBoxerEngineBoxerMotorflat-fourian mcelroyIanMcelroykickboxerkickboxer motorcyclekickboxer motorcycle conceptKickboxerMotorcycleKickboxerMotorcycleConceptsubarusubaru motorcycleSubaruMotorcyclewrxwrx motorcycleWrxMotorcycle Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:56:00 EST <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Subaru Legacy B4 GT300 is pure JDM awesomeness]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-subaru-legacy-b4-gt300-is-pure-jdm-awesomeness/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-subaru-legacy-b4-gt300-is-pure-jdm-awesomeness/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-subaru-legacy-b4-gt300-is-pure-jdm-awesomeness/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Subaru Legacy B4 GT300 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Our jaws literally dropped when we spotted this car in the Subaru booth here at the Tokyo Motor Show. The concoction of carbon fiber spoilers, wings and widened fenders seen here is the Legacy B4 GT300 racecar that is set to compete in Japan's Super GT series next year. The car actually made its racing debut at Fuji Speedway last month, and even though previous driveline problems prevented this racer from making an even earlier debut, the B4 GT300 managed 300 trouble-free kilometers to finish a respectable 18th place.

As for specs, the Legacy B4 GT300 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer-four that pumps out more than 300 horsepower. With all-wheel drive, a six-speed sequential transmission, and a curb weight of just over 2800 pounds, we imagine it's an absolute blast to pilot around the track. You can see the car in detail in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Subaru Legacy B4 GT300


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: Subaru Legacy B4 GT300 is pure JDM awesomeness originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Tokyo Motor Show2009TokyoMotorShowLegacySubaruSubaru LegacySubaru Legacy B4Subaru Legacy B4 GT300Subaru Legacy GT300SubaruLegacySubaruLegacyB4SubaruLegacyB4Gt300SubaruLegacyGt300super gtsuper gt seriesSuperGtSuperGtSeriesTokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowtouring carTouringCar Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: WRX STi Carbon gets a weave]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX STi Carbon -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Most people we talked with don't seem to understand the point of the Subaru WRX STi Carbon unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show - but it's a JDM-only car, and frankly, there are a lot of things that outsiders don't understand about the Japanese market.

The carbon-roofed A-Line will come with two choices of engine, but since the model isn't earmarked for America, we probably don't need to worry about it. That said, the powerplants are as intriguing as the car: a 2.5-liter turbo with 296 horsepower, and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo with 305 hp. Both will operate through the only tranny on offer: a five-speed automatic. If you got past that last sentence, there's also suede inside. So you'll be more comfortable shifting... your automatic. Have a look at it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Subaru WRX STi Carbon


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: WRX STi Carbon gets a weave originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> awdhatchbackperformancerally carRallyCarScoobySubarusubaru wrx stiSubaru WRX STI CarbonSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxStiCarbonSubietokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowWRCWRX STiWRX STI CarbonWrxStiWrxStiCarbon Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:01:00 EST