Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/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/<![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/#commentsFiled 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 editionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEditionThu, 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/#commentsFiled 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 EditionWrxStiWrxStiSpecCWrxStiSpecialEditionTue, 24 Nov 2009 12:29:00 EST<![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/#commentsFiled 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 snowWrxStiWrxStiSnowMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:59:00 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/#commentsFiled 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 CarbonWrxStiWrxStiCarbonWed, 21 Oct 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/video-gymkhana-2-1-electric-boogaloo-block-vs-dyrdek/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Gymkhana 2.1 - Block vs. Dyrdek - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Driftmeister Extraordinaire Ken Block is at it again, only this time, with a bit more of a sense of humor on display. The tire-immolating Subaru WRX STI rally driver has teamed up with pro skateboarder Rob Dyrdek for a "Me and My Shadow" video extravaganza dubbed Gymkhana 2.1.

While we have to admit that the finished product isn't filled with as many jaw-slackeningly awesome moments as the pair of videos that proceeded it, it's an amusing coquet while we wait for Gymkhana 3.0, a film that will presumably involve a borrowed space shuttle, a runway full of banana peels, and at least one octogenarian goat herder. The 3:49 production is worth watching just for Dyrdek's custom "Mini Me" go-kart, which we want parked in our lawnmower shed yesterday. Enjoy watching the video after the jump, and be sure to check out the slightly less-than high-res images in the gallery below. Hat tips to Adam and Christian!


Gallery: Gymkhana 2.1 - Block vs. Dyrdek


[Source: DC Shoes]

Continue reading VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek

VIDEO: Gymkhana 2.1 - Electric Boogaloo: Block vs. Dyrdek originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D.C. ShoesD.c.ShoesDC ShoesDcShoesdriftingKen BlockKenBlockrallyRob DyrdekRobDyrdekSTISubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiWRX STIWrxStiFri, 04 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X Games 15: Ford Fiesta, Kenny Brack get the gold]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/x-games-15-ford-fiesta-kenny-brack-get-the-gold/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/x-games-15-ford-fiesta-kenny-brack-get-the-gold/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/02/x-games-15-ford-fiesta-kenny-brack-get-the-gold/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

X Games 15 Crowns New Rally King - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not going to say we told you so - because we didn't - but we are going to go ahead and say we're totally not shocked that former Indy 500 champ Kenny Brack just won some X Games gold. After all, we're still a touch weak in the knees from our little ride along with him and his atomic weasel Ford Fiesta rally car last Thursday. First thing's first: what a coup for Ford. Beating Subaru at X Games is like beating Muhammad Ali in the 1960s. It just doesn't happen very often. Turns out that the big jump that had everyone at Ford a little more worried than they were publicly letting on just wasn't an issue. The hopped up Fiestas did great. In fact all three Ford drivers (Brack, Foust and Deegan) made it to the semifinals, along with Subaru's Travis Pastrana.

What a great intro to the sport of rallying for Kenny Brack. It looked as if Foust was going to beat Brack heads up, but then Tanner spun out and Brack was pitted against Pastrana and his Subaru in the final. Pastrana is ahead after one lap and everyone had pretty much concluded that he was about to win his umpteenth X Game event. But at the start of the second lap, Pastrana goes wide, spins, hits the back left side of his car against a barrier and can't continue. Ten years after winning the the Indy 500, Kenny Brack wins X Games Rally gold. Good job, Kenny.

Follow the jump to watch video of the finals contest at this year's 2009 X Games.


Gallery: X Games 15 Crowns New Rally King

8957005189570046895700888957002289569825

[Source: ESPN]

Continue reading X Games 15: Ford Fiesta, Kenny Brack get the gold

X Games 15: Ford Fiesta, Kenny Brack get the gold originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 X Games2009XGamesbreakingDeeganFiestaFiesta Rally CarFiestaRallyCarfodrFordFord FiestaFord Fiesta RallyFord Fiesta Rally CarFordFiestaFordFiestaRallyFordFiestaRallyCarKen BlockKenBlockKenny BrackKennyBrackOpen Class STIOpen Class SubaruOpen Class Subaru WRX STIOpenClassStiOpenClassSubaruOpenClassSubaruWrxStiSubarusubaru wrxSubaru WRX STISubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiTanner FoustTannerFoustTravis PastranaTravisPastranaWRX STIWrxStiX GamesX Games 15XGamesXGames15Sun, 02 Aug 2009 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 X Games Rally Car ride along]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/2009-x-games-rally-car-ride-along/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 X Games Rally Car ride along - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've never been given a "hot lap" by a professional driver, let me try and convey what the experience is like. You're usually dehydrated and have been standing on a heat-soaked paddock for far too long. There's a track rat (or two) whose job it is to get a helmet and HANS device fastened on you and their default thinking is that you've never even seen a track before, much less driven on one. You're wearing your street clothes, and items like your wallet and cell phone make it even harder for them to get you shoehorned and belted into the seat. The passenger seats are typically much narrower than the driver's seat and you're typically much fatter than the driver. It can be pretty embarrassing. Once you're secured, the driver sticks his hand out, you shake it and then you're off.

Follow the jump to find out what happens next.


Gallery: 2009 X Games Rally Car ride along

subarufordxgames000subarufordxgames001subarufordxgames002subarufordxgames003subarufordxgames004

Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2009 X Games Rally Car ride along

2009 X Games Rally Car ride along originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Ford Fiesta2009 Ford Fiesta Rally car2009 Ford Fiesta Rallycross2009 Subaru WRX STI2009 X Games2009FordFiesta2009FordFiestaRallyCar2009FordFiestaRallycross2009SubaruWrxSti2009XGamesDave MirraDaveMirrafeaturedFiestaFiesta Rally Carfiesta rallycrossFiestaRallyCarFiestaRallycrossFordford fiestaFord Fiesta Rally CarFord Fiesta WRCFordFiestaFordFiestaRallyCarFordFiestaWrcimprezaKen BlockKenBlockKenny BrackKennyBrackOpen ClassOpen Class SubaruOpen Class Subaru WRX STIOpenClassOpenClassSubaruOpenClassSubaruWrxStiRallySTISubarusubaru imprezaSubaru WRX STISubaruImprezaSubaruWrxStiTanner FoustTannerFoustTravis PastranaTravisPastranaWRXWRX STIWrxStiX Gamesx games rallyXGamesXGamesRallyFri, 31 Jul 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on <i>Top Gear</i> with Captain Slow in tow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

If there had been awards handed out to the preeminent forces in online automotive video over the past few years, surely Top Gear and rallyist Ken Block would have been shortlisted for the honor. Naturally, you'd expect that pairing the two Internet institutions would result in an amazing bit of film... and you'd be entirely correct.

What follows in the video posted after the jump is 6 minutes and 45 seconds of gobsmacking automotive artistry and top-flight production, with Block's 380-horsepower Subaru WRX STI drilling in and around an airport in California with a bug-eyed James May cinched into the passenger seat. Did we mention the appearance of Ricky Carmichael, perhaps the winningest motocross racer of all time? Click through the jump to witness the gorgeously controlled display of mechanical mayhem. Hat tip to absolutely everybody!

[Source: Top Gear via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on Top Gear with Captain Slow in tow

VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on Top Gear with Captain Slow in tow originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain slowCaptainSlowD.C. ShoesD.c.ShoesDC ShoesDcShoesjames mayJamesMayKen BlockKenBlockRicky CarmichaelRickyCarmichaelSTISubaruSubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStitop gearTopGearWRX STIWrxStiMon, 06 Jul 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield 2Battlefield2Fuji HeavyFujiHeavyImprezaImprezzaRallisport challengeRallisportChallengerenderingSTISubaruSubieWRCWRXWRX STIWrxStiWed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/24/video-petter-solberg-gets-a-subaru-boo-boo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump


We all have our embarrassing moments. Most, however, aren't quite as public as Petter Solberg's mishap last week at the Bettega Memorial Rallysprint in Bologna, Italy. The 2003 WRC champion was taking some parade laps and waving to the crowd when he decided it was a good idea to get on the roof of his car. He managed the task with relative ease, but quickly found that getting back into the car posed much more of a problem. With Subaru pulling out of WRC in 2009, let's hope this isn't our last memory of Solberg piloting a rally car. Watch the embedded video after jump.

[Source: YouTube via TheCarFanatic]

Continue reading VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo

VIDEO: Petter Solberg gets a Subaru boo boo originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accident videoAccidentVideoBettega MemorialBettegaMemorialBolognaPetter SolbergPetterSolbergRallyeRallyingRallyistSubaruvideoWorld RallyWorldRallyWRCWRXWRX STIWrxStiYoutubeWed, 24 Dec 2008 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru WRX STI getting ECU reflash for combustion issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/subaru-wrx-sti-getting-ecu-reflash-for-combustion-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/subaru-wrx-sti-getting-ecu-reflash-for-combustion-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/16/subaru-wrx-sti-getting-ecu-reflash-for-combustion-issues/#comments


Click on the image above for our high-res 2008 WRX STI gallery

Subaru of America announced a service campaign this week focused on the 305-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four powering the 2008 WRX STI. According to the verbiage on a letter sent to an owner, Subaru states that "abnormal combustion" could occur when the engine is repeatedly or continuously operated above redline (6,700 rpm). At these high engine speeds, the Engine Control Module cuts fuel to the powerplant to protect the engine from even higher revolutions (this is common industry-wide, not just with Subaru). Unfortunately, under certain situations the Subaru 4-cylinder Boxer is still under high boost and the fuel cut-off causes the engine to run "over lean" resulting in combustion that breaks piston ring lands... eventually destroying the engine.

Subaru's "Service Program Campaign WVE15" reprograms the Engine Control Module software to improve combustion at engine speeds above redline, preventing engine damage. Subaru is quick to point out that the revised programming "will not adversely affect the peak performance" of the vehicle, so owners need not worry about the free campaign messing up their 0-60 sprints. Letters from Subaru will go out to owners in the next week or two. In the meantime, try keeping the white needles out of the red zone!

Gallery: Review: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

[Source: IWSTI]

Continue reading Subaru WRX STI getting ECU reflash for combustion issues

Subaru WRX STI getting ECU reflash for combustion issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Combustiondetonationengine damageEngineDamageleanRecallredlineService Program CampaignServiceProgramCampaignSubaruWRX STIWrxStiWVE15Sat, 16 Aug 2008 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/in-the-autoblog-garage-2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI - Click above for high-res image gallery

I remember the last red Subaru I drove. I was in high school, and the car was my dad's - a new '88 GL wagon with an automatic and push-button 4WD on the shifter. I dug that Scooby. It wasn't powerful but it was fun -- especially when it snowed. Somehow I managed to avoid bouncing it off a lamppost while sliding it around corners. This had much more to do with luck than skill, as I was in high school and clearly an idiot. But I digress -- after all, this isn't about my dad's old GL. It is, however, about a red Subaru - the new Impreza WRX STI, to be specific. If this thing was around back during my neighborhood rally-pretender salad days, I'd probably just be getting my license back right about now.


Gallery: Review: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI


All photos Copyright (C)2008 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

Review: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 sti2008 subaru Impreza WRX STI2008Sti2008SubaruImprezaWrxStifeaturedimprezaimpreza stiimpreza wrximpreza wrx stiImprezaStiImprezaWrxImprezaWrxStiin the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGaragenew stiNewStireviewSTIsubarusubaru imprezasubaru impreza wrx stiSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxStiwrx stiWrxStiTue, 25 Mar 2008 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Motor Show: Subaru WRX STI debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/tokyo-motor-show-subaru-wrx-sti-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/tokyo-motor-show-subaru-wrx-sti-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/tokyo-motor-show-subaru-wrx-sti-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above image for more live pics of the Subaru WRX STI

We've gone from being disappointed by the new Impreza, to pleasantly surprised by the WRX, to smitten by the STI. It looked OK in silver as the dust sheet came off, but stunning in metallic black on the Subaru stand's floor. The new STI's exterior details that set it apart from lesser siblings do not appear to be afterthoughts tacked on to a standard family car, but rather the way the family car was supposed to look in the first place.

The interior, too, is better put together and uses better materials than previous offerings from Subaru Tecnica International, but the dash will look pleasingly familiar to fans of the brand. Click below for a gallery taken at the live launch and view Subaru's official press release with all the specs after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI (JDM)



All live photos (C)2007 Justin Gardiner / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo Motor Show: Subaru WRX STI debut

Tokyo Motor Show: Subaru WRX STI debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2007 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>stiSubarusubaru wrx stiSubaru WRXSTISubaruWrxstiTokyowrx stiWrxStiWed, 24 Oct 2007 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked: JDM Subaru Impreza WRX STI brochure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/07/leaked-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-brochure/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/07/leaked-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-brochure/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/07/leaked-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-brochure/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image for more brochure photos

NASIOC has long been a bonanza of leaked photos and info relatingng to all things Subaru, and today, user "fyinpig" keeps that tradition going with brochure shots of the JDM Subaru Impreza WRX STI ahead of the car's official debut later this month. As you can see, the muscled-up hatch will be available in 7 colors in Japan ("obshidian" black pearl,, anyone?), with three different wheel styles. Inside, there's no shortage of STI logos, so your passengers won't confuse your machine with the standard WRX. Key numbers you'll undoubtedly be interested in include:

  • 304 hp @ 6400 rpm
  • 311lb-ft @ 4400rpm (41:59 torque split)
  • Weight: 3263 lb (subtract an additional 22 lbs. if fitted with optional BBS wheels)
Head over to the NASIOC thread for all the info and an ongoing discussion.

[Source: NASIOC]

Leaked: JDM Subaru Impreza WRX STI brochure originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Oct 2007 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 sti2008 subaru impreza wrx sti2008Sti2008SubaruImprezaWrxStibreakingimpreza stiImprezaStijdm stiJdmStistisubaru wrx stiSubaruWrxStitokyo motor showTokyoMotorShowwrx stiWrxStiSun, 07 Oct 2007 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru Impreza WRX STi: First official shot shows up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/20/first-official-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-shows-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/20/first-official-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-shows-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/20/first-official-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-shows-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image to enlarge

We've seen more spy shots of the upcoming Subaru Impreza WRX STi than we care to recount, but it looks like the first official image of Subie's road rocket has finally been leaked on the web. While there's been no confirmation from Subaru that this pic is the real deal, it has that official flavor that only press pics seem to have. Unfortunately, this particular pic is dark by nature and obscures many of the elements in which we're interested like the grille and lower front bumper. What we can see is gigantoid hood scoop, mega wide front fenders, and what appears to be a large rear wing out back. The official arrival of the Subaru Impreza WRX STi is imminent, as the debut will take place at the Tokyo Motor Show next month. Suburu will likely release its full batch of official images and specifications before then. Until then, chew on this.

[Source: Carscoop]

Subaru Impreza WRX STi: First official shot shows up originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingimpreza stiImprezaStistisubaru impreza wrx stisubaru stiSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruStitokyowrx stiWrxStiThu, 20 Sep 2007 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Is this the real deal? Subaru Impreza WRX STi shot posted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/is-this-the-real-deal-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-posted/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/is-this-the-real-deal-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-posted/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/26/is-this-the-real-deal-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-shot-posted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We've been a little disappointed by the looks of Subaru's latest Impreza and WRX, but wanted to reserve judgment until the STi showed up. Could that homely hatch design really support the extra muscle that transforms the STi into a rally star? We really wanted to know. There have been tons of renderings and spy shots, but here we have what is possibly the first clear photo of the real deal.

Captured by CARTOP, it was just posted by Nihon Car. It still looks touched up to us, if not completely cgi, but we'll give them the benefit of the doubt for now. Not a lot of changes from WRX to STi are apparent, but the banana-colored Scubie snack looks even more like a Mazdaspeed3 to our eyes. OK, enough harping on the looks. It's not like it's terribly offensive, just a little bland. We're sure driving this 320-hp rocket will change our opinions pretty drastically.

Thanks for the tip, MB!

[Source: Nihon Car]

Is this the real deal? Subaru Impreza WRX STi shot posted originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Subaru ImprezaSubaru WRXSubaruImprezaSubaruWrxWRX STiWrxStiThu, 26 Jul 2007 13:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shot vs. Spy Shot: EVO X and WRX STi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/spy-shot-vs-spy-shot-evo-x-and-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/spy-shot-vs-spy-shot-evo-x-and-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/spy-shot-vs-spy-shot-evo-x-and-wrx-sti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


click either image above to view more pics of each car

Arm your intercoolers, the showdown between the new Mitsubishi EVO X and Subaru WRX STi is almost at hand. KGP Photography recently nabbed both cars doing testing at the famous Nurburgring in Germany, and they are each shaping up to be beasts compared to their pedestrian counterparts. Though Subaru decided to be different and go with a five-door hatchback form, the hump in the back doesn't detract from what the large fenders, deep chin spoiler and gaping maw of an air intake are trying to accomplish. And seriously, can matte black be an available color choice?

The EVO X, meanwhile, has a face that perfectly frames its intercooler in the front bumper for all to see. Add to that a giant rear wing on the trunk and larger multi-spoke wheels, and again it's clear that this car is ready to take up the torch.

Both cars will be all-wheel drive, both will have 300 or more horsepower and both are waiting impatiently to tear the other apart in a decent comparison test. Until then, we give you these galleries to do battle with.

[Source: KGP Photography]

Gallery: Mitsubishi EVO X - spy shots


Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STi - spy shots

Spy Shot vs. Spy Shot: EVO X and WRX STi originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingEVO XEvoXMitsubishispy shotsSpyShotsSTiSubaruWRX STiWrxStiTue, 03 Jul 2007 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[POLL Results: RR of the Week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/23/poll-results-rr-of-the-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/23/poll-results-rr-of-the-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/23/poll-results-rr-of-the-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Despite a lopsided fight of four Subarus against one lonely Mitsubishi EVO in our latest RR of the Week poll, the lone EVO proved to be the better car, at least by our voters' standards. It could also be the case that Mitsubishi fans united in support the single EVO, whereas WRX faithful were split between their choices. We'll never know! Regardless, the race was extremely tight with the track tuned EVO attracting 576 votes (30%). The second place finisher in this race, the WRX Wagon, nearly caught the EVO but came up 32 votes short with a total of 544 votes (29%). My favorite, the blacked out Darth Subie, showed up to play with a respectable 360 votes (19%), while the old-school Impreza 2.5 RS was trailing the all-wheel drive Sith transport vehicle by 49 votes with 311 (16%). Last, and certainly not least (unless you go by votes), was the STi-ified bug-eyed WRX with 102 votes (5%).



This week we're going to choose a Camaro each day for the RR of the Day feature, and we need everyone who owns a Camaro to submit his or her ride. We want to make sure all five days are filled with interesting F-bodies, and to do that we need a great group of them from which to choose. Just follow the jump to find instructions on how to submit your ride.

Continue reading POLL Results: RR of the Week

POLL Results: RR of the Week originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Oct 2006 18:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EVOpollRR of the DayRR of the WeekRrOfTheDayRrOfTheWeekWRXWRX STiWrxStiMon, 23 Oct 2006 18:37:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: Mitsubishi EVO X North American introduction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/13/new-york-auto-show-mitsubishi-evo-x-north-american-introduction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/13/new-york-auto-show-mitsubishi-evo-x-north-american-introduction/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/13/new-york-auto-show-mitsubishi-evo-x-north-american-introduction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

You asked for it, and we're doing our best to listen. Chief on our readership's list was more shots of the Mitsubishi Evo X, which marked its North American debut with its New York appearance.

This red-hot number impresses in person not with its beauty, but with its intimidating nose and massively wide stance. We're happy to report that the showcar's interior is every bit as merciless-looking as the exterior, with metal fittings, racing seats and harnesses, and a dashboard clearly geared toward high-speed driving. The interior's high metal parts count and expensive materials bear out that this is definitely a show piece, but marque devotees can hope for accomodations heavily influenced by this showstopper.

Although no more information was forthcoming, we took a bevy of snapshots in and out for rally fans to drool over, including a couple of high-resolution images. Check them out after the jump!

Continue reading New York Auto Show: Mitsubishi EVO X North American introduction

New York Auto Show: Mitsubishi EVO X North American introduction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Apr 2006 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Diamond StarDiamond-StarDiamondStarEVOEvo XEvoXMitsubishiRallySubaruWorld RallyWorldRallyWRCWRXWRX STiWrxStiThu, 13 Apr 2006 14:35:00 EST