Autoblog

Cosworth puts the spurs to Subaru's Impreza WRX STI

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 25 May 2010 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Hatchback, Subaru, UK

Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 - Click above for image gallery

This is the Cosworth Impreza STI CS400, the car Cosworth said would "humble" supercars. With a 0-to-62 sprint happening in just 3.7 seconds it'll be quicker than a whole bunch of exotics, and at £49,995 ($71,368 U.S.), it'll be a whole lot cheaper as well. If that sounds like a boatload of cash for a warmed-over WRX, well, it is. But bear in mind that thanks to factors like the 17.5 percent Value Added Tax, UK pricing is rather different than what pricing in the States would likely look like were Cosworth to sell the CS400 here.

The 395-horsepower, 398-pound-foot Cossie Scooby benefits from a thorough rework of its boxer-engined details, boasting new pistons, con-rods, turbocharger, exhaust and ECU mapping among its many modifications. Aiding the Impreza's all-wheel drive get power to the ground is a lowered suspension with components from Bilstein and Eibach.

Looks-wise, a different front bumper fitted with mesh inserts, a rear spoiler, a track widened by 12 millimeters, and 18-inch alloys over bigger AP brakes will make sure Subaru cognescenti don't confuse you with anything else. Identification will also be made easier by the fact that there will only be 75 made for the UK market only, and available it'll be available in red, silver, and dark gray. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

Gallery: Cosworth Impreza STI CS400

[Source: Cosworth via Autocar]

Cosworth puts the spurs to Subaru's Impreza WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 May 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT: Less wood, more sport

Chris Paukert — Fri, 21 May 2010 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Subaru, Long-Term Garage

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT - click above for high-res gallery

Over the last few months, we've had some time to come to grips with how comfy and capacious the interior is in our long-term 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT, but despite this, we think it could still do with a sportier feeling cabin. A big part of the staidness of the interior can be blamed on our test car's spears of orangey woodgrain trim - we would have gladly substituted the silver trim in lower-rung models, but it wasn't an option.

Thankfully, Subaru has recognized the incongruity - and the opportunity - and they're substituting faux carbon fiber for the 2011 model year, which ought to be a great improvement and help sell the 'performance' aura. Better still, they're adding aluminum pedal covers and silver seat stitching which should definitely liven up the place a bit.

Pricing for the 2011 model - now in 'Limited' trim only - goes up by $405 to $31,395. but includes Harman/Kardon audio with XM - two items that cost extra in our 2010. They're also adding folding side mirrors, which should make at least one AB commenter we've heard from very happy. Either way the modest price increase is money very well spent in our book. Now, if Subaru would only make its excellent xenon headlamps available as an option (they've already got the switch blank for the beam adjuster in place next to the power mirror controls), we'd be even happier campers...

Updates on our year-long experience with this Subaru can be found by checking out its long-term page. Bookmark it, subscribe to our RSS feed and follow our tweets (#ablongterm) as we travel along the road ahead with our Legacy 2.5GT.

Gallery: Long Term: 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT: Less wood, more sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 May 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Purported renderings of Subaru's FT-86 Sports Coupe emerge

Noah Joseph — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Subaru, Toyota

It's only been a couple of days since Toyota released initial details and photos of its TF-86 coupe concept scheduled for debut at the upcoming Tokyo show, but we've already been waiting for the other shoe to drop. The project nicknamed "Toyobaru" by the media and fansites is to be a test case for future cooperation between Toyota and Subaru, and the TF-86 is based largely on Scooby mechanicals. A Subaru-branded version of the coupe is expected to follow, and now sketches outlining the design have emerged courtesy of the blokes at Autocar.

Sources indicate, however, that Subaru's executives are far from sold on the project. The Toyota-designed platform may not be able to accommodate all-wheel-drive, a signature Subaru feature. And parent company Fuji Heavy is reportedly hesitant to share its technologies with rival Toyota. However, the counterpoint is that the coupe's inclusion in the company's lineup could attract a new demographic, and that sharing components with Toyota would help mitigate costs and reduce overhead.

[Source: Autocar]

Purported renderings of Subaru's FT-86 Sports Coupe emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subaru opens STI Gallery in Tokyo

Noah Joseph — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:20:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Japan, Subaru

You remember turning 20? the end of teenage years, the beginning of adulthood...that's what Subaru Tecnica International - the performance division better known by its initials STI - celebrates this year, and to mark the occasion, Fuji Heavy is inaugurating the STI Gallery, a new museum in Tokyo that highlights the products and activities of its Subaru racing unit.

Located at 3-9-6 Osawa, Mitaka, Tokyo, the STI Gallery will be open every day (barring certain holidays) from 9:30 am to 7 pm, when visitors can stop by and scope out STI in all its glory. The car exhibition zone displays STI vehicles both past and present, race and road. (Colin McRae's WRC New Zealand-winning 1993 Legacy RS is currently on display to celebrate the launch of the new Legacy). There's also an exhibit of various components and memorabilia and a history section outlining the division's past activities. Seems like a worthwhile way to spend an afternoon if you find yourself in Tokyo with some time to burn.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Subaru opens STI Gallery in Tokyo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]

Chris Paukert — Wed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Performance, Etc., Europe, Videos, Hatchback, Subaru, Rendered Speculation

Lars Martensson's Subaru Impreza WRX STI concept - click above for a high-res gallery

It's fair to say that Subaru has enjoyed a run of strong product in recent years, as well as an exponential credibility increase in enthusiast's eyes, essentially ever since the automaker began shipping over the Impreza WRX back in 2001. Those considerable achievements aside, it's likewise fair to say that Subaru has yet to well-and-truly crack the aesthetics portion of the modern carbuilding equation, having produced some daring (if ungainly) entries like the origina B9 Tribeca and a series of aggressive yet unpretty Impreza variants. And while we applaud originality, we think the folks at Fuji Heavy Industries could use a consistent design force, a man (or woman) with a mission that's out in the public eye as something of a known quantity. Think: General Motors' Ed Welburn, former Mazda-turned-Tesla wunderkind Franz von Holzhausen, former BMW lightning rod Chris Bangle, etc.

All of this is not to say that the man behind the WRX STI rally car renderings shown here has the answers, but we know one thing: When passing these images around Autoblog's (virtual) offices, we all couldn't help but say something to the effect of: "Oooooh, damn that's hot!" - a phrase we can't remember associating with Subaru, much as we love driving the vehicles themselves. In any case, these images come courtesy of one Lars Martensson (apparently better known on the interwebs by his handle 'GRID)', a man who spends his days crafting 3D renderings for videogames (Rallisport Challenge 2 for xBox, Battlefield 2 for PC). To us, this Swede has a handle on what the STI needs to be: Squat, mean, and purposeful. Okay, so perhaps the cut-down greenhouse wouldn't leave much room for taller folks (much less a helmet), but if one of these were parked in our driveway, well... we'd happily squat a little.

Check out the high-res image gallery below, and click on the jump for the video.

Gallery: Martensson Subaru WRX STI Concept

[Source: 3dluvr.com via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]

Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690*

Chris Paukert — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Subaru

2010 Subaru Legacy - Click above for high-res image gallery

Subaru has just stuck a Monroney on its 2010 Legacy, and the new all-wheel drive sedan will start at $20,690 (*$19,995 + $695 destination). According to the Japanese automaker, that's a handy $800 less than last year's model. For that hard-earned dosh, you will receive a 2.5i model with its standard six-speed manual - the company's "Lineartronic" CVT model starts at a grand more. The base Legacy looks to be quite well equipped, but for those with the wherewithal, a 2.5i Premium model adds a bunch of content (including 16-inch alloys, leather-wrapped wheel, 10-way power driver's seat, etc.) for another $1,000 on top of the standard 2.5i model.

Gearheads will likely be most interested in the 2.5GT model, which includes a turbocharged 265-horsepower mill backed by a six-speed manual. For your $28,690 (including dest.), you'll get 18-inch alloys, a hood scoop, and all the features of the 2.5i Premium model. There's a Limited model, too, which adds a leather interior, power passenger seat, and a Harman/Kardon audio system, but selecting that model will relieve you of a tidy $30,690 at your local dealer.

Alternatively, if you prefer more relaxed six-cylinder motoring, there's the normally aspirated 256-horsepower 3.6R model, but you'll have to settle for a five-speed automatic with paddle-shift control. That model starts at $25,690 (which Subie notes is $1,600 less than the 3.0R exit vehicle), and this time out, it only requires 87 octane at the pump.

Key options include a $995 moonroof and a navigation package with Bluetooth, an upgraded 440-watt stereo w/USB port and a backup camera for $2,000.

Load luggers take note: There appear to be no wagons bound for the U.S. market (as in recent years), so you'll have to wait for word on 2010 Outback pricing if your life or your preferences dictate a two-box setup. For the moment, however, click through to the jump for the complete press release with more information, or check out our coverage of the Legacy's New York Auto Show debut by clicking here.

Gallery: New York: 2010 Subaru Legacy

Gallery: 2010 Subaru Legacy

Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Alex Nunez / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading 2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690*

2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota buys another chunk of FHI, Subaru

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Subaru, Toyota, Earnings/Financials

Back in April, Toyota announced that it would be gobbling up a larger percentage of Fuji Heavy Industries, makers of the Subaru brand of vehicles. Today, that deal has been made official as Fuji announced the sale that increases Toyota's voting rights in the automaker to 16.16 percent from 9.50 percent. This deal had been made possible by a newly revised Japanese law that went into effect last year. Toyota had initially purchased about nine-percent share of the company from General Motors, which no longer owns any part of Fuji Heavy.

According to reports, Toyota paid about a ten-percent premium for the increased share, as well. Its total outlay of cash for the new shares is 31.11 billion yen ($291.1 million), for which it receives 61 million additional treasury stocks. Here's hoping that this new deal ushers in the upcoming new AE86 all the more quickly.

[Source: Thomson Financial News via Straightline]

Toyota buys another chunk of FHI, Subaru originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota could enter aircraft industry, HondaJet prepares for dogfight

Alex Nunez — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Japan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Toyota

Now that its ground offensive has taken control of the battlefield, word comes that Toyota's field commanders might have an eye toward the skies. That's right: Toyota is reportedly considering an offer from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to get into the aircraft business. MHI would like to see Toyota invest in a new passenger jet project, which, if it goes forward, would set up an aerial dogfight with the HondaJet, which is already in the segment. Mitsubishi already produces its own plane, the Regional Jet. Is this the beginning of a new battle for air supremacy? Hmmm. Somebody cue the Kenny Loggins.

UPDATE: Post erroneously referred to Fuji Heavy instead of Mitsubishi Heavy. The error has been corrected.

[Source: AFP/Breitbart]

Toyota could enter aircraft industry, HondaJet prepares for dogfight originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Toyota, Fuji Heavy looking to team on "AE86" revival, target 2010 release

Alex Nunez — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 12:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Japan, Toyota

A report in Japan's Asahi Shimbun newspaper states that Toyota and Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru's parent) are mulling over the possibility of jointly developing what many have been referring to as the successor to the classic AE86. The entry-level sports car would be branded as a Toyota but would feature a FHI-sourced boxer engine of 2.0 liters or less underhood. As far as pricing, the goal would be to keep the car at ¥2,000,000 or lower. Asahi says that the car would target a 2010 release (not 2008, as previously reported by Japan's Best Car magazine) and that talks between the two entities won't commence in earnest until this Fall.

The Asahi report comes in the wake of the aforementioned Best Car magazine story, which also said Fuji Heavy would factor into the equation, but that a price of ¥1,500,000 was the target. While the two outlets differ on some of the specifics, the basic stories match up, and you know the saying: "Where there's smoke..."

In other news, Asahi reports that Toyota subsidiary Daihatsu will begin supplying its Coo compact wagon (a.k.a. Toyota bB) to Fuji Heavy, and that a Subaru-branded version should go on sale in Japan next summer.

[Source: Asahi Shimbun via Motor Authority]

Gallery: Toyota's return of the AE86 - Courtesy of Best Car

REPORT: Toyota, Fuji Heavy looking to team on "AE86" revival, target 2010 release originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Japanese automakers shut down plants, lines after Monday's quake

Alex Nunez — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 11:33:00 EST

Filed under: Japan, Plants/Manufacturing, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota

The earthquake that struck Japan on Monday is affecting several automakers, most notably Toyota, as damage to a key supplier's manufacturing facility has interrupted the flow of parts required to build cars. Riken Corp's plant at Kashiwazaki is the one that got hit by the 6.8 magnitude quake, and the facility is offline while the company works feverishly to complete the necessary repairs.

Until it does, however, the impact is being felt across the Japanese auto industry. Toyota announced that it's halted production at 12 plants as a result. In addition, Mitsubishi is shutting down three factories, Nissan has stopped a pair of lines, and Fuji Heavy has stopped production of five minicar models as it waits for Riken to become operational again. Honda could also join the list very soon..

[Source: AP via Yahoo! News]

Japanese automakers shut down plants, lines after Monday's quake originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York Auto Show - Subaru shows 2007 Legacy GT spec.B

Chris Paukert — Sat, 15 Apr 2006 17:01:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, Sedan, Technology, Subaru

Subaru is well-known for knocking out special edition models of their performance-minded lineup at the rate of about one every 15 minutes. Problem is, historically we haven't had access to them here in the U.S.-- they've largely been Japan-only, UK-only, or mainland Europe exclusives. For Stateside automobile aficionados, it's been tortuous stuff.

Fortunately, Subaru has been showing signs that it is ready to ingratiate itself more thoroughly with American enthusiasts. Last year, it brought a limited run of 500 units of its Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B to U.S. dealers, and this year, it returns as a regular production model. For 2007, the already excellent Scooby sedan gets a reworked version of the six-speed manual gearbox found in the WRX STi, along with Vehicle Dynamics Control (a stability control system previously only seen on the B9 Tribeca and high-end Outbacks) and a tire pressure monitoring system. Underneath, it also arrives with the Bilstein Sport Suspension of last year's spec.B, incorporating inverted struts up front and aluminum lower control arms. The rear architecture has been subtly reworked as well, incorporating aluminum rear arms and upper links (lesser Legacy models make do with cast iron bits).

(More impressions and press conference shots, plus dozens of stock images and press release after the jump!)

Continue reading New York Auto Show - Subaru shows 2007 Legacy GT spec.B

New York Auto Show - Subaru shows 2007 Legacy GT spec.B originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Apr 2006 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Prodrive launches Power Performance Packs for Subaru

Eric Bryant — Sat, 08 Apr 2006 18:04:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Subaru

Prodrive, the engineering firm known mostly in the US for its rally exploits, has launched a series of Power Performance Packs (PPP) for the Subaru Impreza WRX, WRX STI, and Forrester XT. And guess what? They're not available in the US at this time, which goes a long way towards explaining Prodrive's relative obscurity.

Regardless of the model, the PPP costs £1,700 (about $3,000), and includes a new catalytic converter, cat-back exhaust system, and a reprogrammed ECU (the STI also gets a new fuel pump). Power improvements range from 29 HP for the Forrester to 39 HP for the WRX, with the STI picking up a healthy 38 HP. That's enough to lop 0.2 seconds off the 0-62 MPH performance of the STI, and 0.6 seconds for the same standing-start sprint in the WRX and Forrester. Even more impressive are the top-gear 30-50 and 50-70 MPH roll-on acceleration results, with the modifications yields improvements of over two seconds in some cases. Clearly, the modifications lead to improved flexibility and more power across the rev range, which is something that everyone should appreciate.

The price may seem a bit steep, but the full factory warranty is retained, and emissions compliance is unaffected. No word yet as to whether the French police will be getting PPP-equipped patrol cars.

[Source: Channel 4; acceleration stats from Carscoop]

Prodrive launches Power Performance Packs for Subaru originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 08 Apr 2006 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subaru planning diesel models for 2007

Stuart Waterman — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 14:33:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, Hybrid, Europe, Subaru

Reuters reported Monday that Fuji Heavy Industries (parent company of Subaru) is developing a diesel powerplant that could debut in Subaru's European lineup as early as 2007.

After agreeing with major shareholder Toyota Motor last week to adopt Toyota's hybrid powertrain technology for Subaru's planned hybrid models, Fuji is shifting its product development focus to diesel engines. Subaru will launch diesel AWD powertrains before its upcoming hybrid models.

Diesels are key to expanding Subaru's market reach in Europe, where half of all new cars sold are diesel-powered. Subaru will likely launch its new diesel first as an option for the European market Legacy (pictured).

The company forecasts that half of Subaru sales in Europe will be diesels by 2010, and between 10 and 20 percent of its sales in Japan and the U.S. will eventually shift to diesel power.

[Source: Reuters] Thanks for the tip, Jeffrey!

Subaru planning diesel models for 2007 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Mar 2006 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subaru to join the diesel crowd?

Erin Mays — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Wagon

Edmund's Inside Line has got the scoop on some interesting developments over at Subaru. The Fuji Heavy Industries concern is reportedly working on a diesel version of its "boxer" four-cylinder engine for the European market. The first 2007 models to receive the oil burner, possibly a 2.2L turbocharged engine, will presumably be the Legacy and the Forester, with other models possibly to follow. The move is necessary for Subaru to be even a small player in the European market. Having said that, we can think of more than a few Americans who'd consider unhinging their checkbooks in celebration as well.

[Source: Edmunds Inside Line]

Subaru to join the diesel crowd? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Toyota, Fuji Heavy Industries to co-develop new hybrid system for Subaru

Joel Arellano — Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Trends, Hybrid

Last November, we posted news that Toyota (who had acquired General Motors's interest in Subaru), was considering supplying Fuji Heavy Industries (Scooby's parent company) with hybrid engines for its vehicles. Well, it appears as if those plans have changed.

Reuters is reporting that the two automakers have decided to jointly develop a new hybrid system instead. Apparently, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive has proven too complex to simply plug Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system in.

[Source: Nihon Keizai Shimbun via Reuters]

Toyota, Fuji Heavy Industries to co-develop new hybrid system for Subaru originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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