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[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/#commentsFiled 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 STISubaruForresterSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruWrxStiThu, 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/#commentsFiled 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 wrcSubaruIrcSubaruRallySubaruTecnicaInternationalSubaruWrcMon, 07 Dec 2009 10:00:00 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/#commentsFiled 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 SPTWrxStiBySptFri, 30 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Subaru's 250-hp FT-86 coupe in STI trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/rendered-speculation-subarus-250-hp-ft-86-coupe-in-sti-trim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/rendered-speculation-subarus-250-hp-ft-86-coupe-in-sti-trim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/rendered-speculation-subarus-250-hp-ft-86-coupe-in-sti-trim/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Despite dropping all the information about its Tokyo-bound concepts, Subaru hasn't hinted at when we'll be seeing its version of the Toyota FT-86 coupe. Thankfully, Japan's Holiday Auto has stepped up to the plate to throw more fuel onto the fire with a subtly modified sketch of the FT-86 and some possible powertrain information of Subaru's first rear-wheel drive coupe.

According to the report (and a heaping helping of common sense), the Japanese rumormongers expect the STI version of the coupe to debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show (after the standard model is revealed next year), complete with Subaru's 250-hp EJ25 2.5-liter boxer. Similar to the dual-injected, 200-hp EJ20 fitted to its Toyota brethren, the engine will remain naturally aspirated, but a turbocharged version hasn't been ruled out.

In addition to a wider track and upgraded tires, wheels and brakes, expect the STI version to don a gaping front fascia and a sizeable rear wing, similar to the camo-covered mule we saw in the latest round of spy shots. If Subaru wants to compete with the rest of the high-horsepower sports cars in the U.S. and Japan, it better get cracking, because competition is fierce, and the only way it can compete is to keep the price down and the weight in check.


Gallery: Toyota FT-86 Concept



[Source: Holiday Auto via 7Tune]

Rendered Speculation: Subaru's 250-hp FT-86 coupe in STI trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupestisubarusubaru 086Asubaru coupesubaru coupe stisubaru ft-86subaru sti coupeSubaru086aSubaruCoupeSubaruCoupeStiSubaruFt-86SubaruStiCoupeTue, 13 Oct 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tokyo-preview-subaru-wrx-sti-carbon-doesnt-make-sense/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

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

Subaru has announced a new version of the WRX STI that will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show. We've looked at this one six ways 'til Sunday (maybe seven) and we still can't make sense of it. But, hear us out. One of the main knocks against the STI has long been that it's a little too porky. But, when you base a performance car on a plebeian chassis, that's the price you pay. Another knock is that the STI - while potent - is just not as hardcore as the Mitsubishi EVO, even though the EVO X is a little, well, less hardcore than the EVO IX. So obviously Subaru's going to address these concerns with a special, lightweight edition STI, right? Well...

Meet the WRX STI Carbon. It has a carbon fiber roof. And a five-speed automatic transmission borrowed from the Legacy - no manual. And... suede seats. Yup, that's it. Now, we like the roof, don't get us wrong. Removing weight and lowering the center of gravity is exactly what the STI needs. But, a slushbox? For reals? Subaru says the five-speed auto is there to offer, "distinctive driving pleasure to a wider range of customers." Ah, the old dumbing it down so you can sell more trick. Hey, it worked for Porsche (see: Cayenne).

Let's see here, the last time Subaru tried this maneuver was in 2008 with the GE/GH third generation WRX. That went so well that Subaru was forced to relaunch the car twelve months later and rename to the 2008 WRX as the auto-only 2.5 GT. In other words, we just don't get the STI Carbon. Maybe in a year's time, Subaru will be forced to rename it the Carbon GT. That would at least make some sense. Right?


Gallery: Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon

Continue reading Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense

Tokyo Preview: Subaru WRX STI Carbon doesn't make sense originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Tokyo2009 Tokyo Auto Show2009Tokyo2009TokyoAutoShowSTISTI CarbonStiCarbonSubaruSubaru 2.5 GTSubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaru WRX STI CarbonSubaru2.5GtSubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxStiCarbonTokyoWRXWRX STI CarbonWrxStiCarbonWed, 30 Sep 2009 01:29:00 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[VIDEO: Ken Block and Travis Pastrana's Stupid Human Tricks Roadshow heads to Bonneville]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/video-ken-block-and-travis-pastranas-stupid-human-tricks-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/video-ken-block-and-travis-pastranas-stupid-human-tricks-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/video-ken-block-and-travis-pastranas-stupid-human-tricks-roads/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

We've seen Ken Block and his gang of misfits perform plenty of crazy cool stunts in their Crawford-built 2009 Subaru WRX STI. Block's stupefyingly accurate power slides never seem to get old, no matter how many times we see his 566 horsepower (at the wheels!) STI come within millimeters of disaster. It is cool, however, to see Block and his friends add a little something extra this time around.

After the jump is video of Block and Travis Pastrana (on a motorcycle) having a good old time setting some land speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The STI is still present and accounted for in all its adhesion-defying glory, but the speed records are being sought on some garbage cans, a big wheel, and "a $3 Wal-Mart plastic sled." Looks safe to us.

For some reason, some members of Block's team decided it would be a good idea to try to jump on the hood of the STI while it was doing donuts on the salt flats, and one of them ended up getting side-swiped and bounced off Block's rear wheel like a rag doll. That's gotta hurt. Hit the jump for 2:38 of (salt) rock-solid entertainment, but if you're a member of the Save The Salt coalition, be forewarned, there's some gratuitous car-on-salt violence. Hat tip to Bart K.


[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block and Travis Pastrana's Stupid Human Tricks Roadshow heads to Bonneville

VIDEO: Ken Block and Travis Pastrana's Stupid Human Tricks Roadshow heads to Bonneville originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bonneville salt flatsBonnevilleSaltFlatsken blockKenBlockstisubaru wrx stiSubaruWrxStitravis pastranaTravisPastranaThu, 06 Aug 2009 13:01:00 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[Subaru hatches hardcore JDM Impreza WRX Spec C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/subaru-hatches-hardcore-jdm-impreza-wrx-spec-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/subaru-hatches-hardcore-jdm-impreza-wrx-spec-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/subaru-hatches-hardcore-jdm-impreza-wrx-spec-c/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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

If you're one of the many enthusiasts on this side of the ocean who pine for a choice crop of hot hatches that never make it to the States, we've got some bad news for you: the Subaru Impreza STI Spec C -- a limited run of 900 units packing an assortment of enhancements to give it the edge over the stock versions -- is finally going on sale in Japan.

For starters, the whiz kids over at Subaru Tecnica International have reprogrammed the ECU and fitted smoother ball bearings for the turbocharger to boost output to 304 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. They've also retuned the suspension, reinforced the chassis, recalibrated the power steering's lubrication, fitted new rims on Bridgestone Potena RE070 rubber and reduced the curb weight with lighter body panels, windows, battery and tire kit. You can check out the images in the gallery below and all the details in the press release after the jump, but sadly that's about as close as you're likely to get without boarding a flight to Tokyo.


Gallery: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading Subaru hatches hardcore JDM Impreza WRX Spec C

Subaru hatches hardcore JDM Impreza WRX Spec C originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>impreza wrx sti spec cImprezaWrxStiSpecCspecspec cSpecCstisti spec cStiSpecCsubarusubaru imprezasubaru impreza spec csubaru impreza wrx stisubaru impreza wrx sti spec csubaru stisubaru tecnica internationalsubaru wrx sti spec cSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaSpecCSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruImprezaWrxStiSpecCSubaruStiSubaruTecnicaInternationalSubaruWrxStiSpecCwrx sti spec cwrx sti spec cwrx sti spec cWrxStiSpecCThu, 23 Jul 2009 15:31:00 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[Rumormill: More Toyobaru scuttlebutt comes to the surface]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/rumormill-more-toyobaru-scuttlebutt-comes-to-the-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/rumormill-more-toyobaru-scuttlebutt-comes-to-the-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/rumormill-more-toyobaru-scuttlebutt-comes-to-the-surface/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



A "Toyota insider" has supposedly spilled a few more beans to 7Tune about the upcoming front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe the automaker is collaborating on with Subaru, and according to the source, the 2+2 will carry a few of the Lexus LF-A's design cues when it hits the market next year.

Although Lexus' "L-Finesse" styling has remained exclusive to Toyota's luxury brand, certain elements of the language have begun to filter down to the automaker's mainstream models, specifically the recently released Venza CUV. The rendering above hints at some of the lines that could make the cut on the production version of the "086A," but contrary to past reports, 7Tune's tipster says that the Toyota and Subaru versions won't be remarkably different - only the front grille, headlamps and taillights will be unique. The report goes on to say that Toyota is desperately trying to keep the price below the two million yen mark (a little over $20,000) and, coinciding with earlier rumors, Subaru is actively considering offering an STI version of the coupe.

In a related story, ToMoCo's new president, Akio Toyoda - the exec who recently piloted the LF-A around the Green Hell during the 24 Hours of Nürburgring - told Auto Motor und Sport, "This sports culture, which we have neglected for so long, will again be maintained." Toyoda clearly wants to see the automaker back on the radar of enthusiasts and the first example of this newfound focus could find its way onto the stage at this year's Tokyo Motor Show.

[Sources: 7Tune, Auto Motor und Sport via Japanese Nostalgia Car]

Rumormill: More Toyobaru scuttlebutt comes to the surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>STISubaruSubaru STISubaruStitoyobarutoyotatoyota 086atoyota ae86toyota fr coupeToyota086aToyotaAe86ToyotaFrCoupeWed, 17 Jun 2009 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Racing Legacy: Subaru STI preparing Super GT300-spec B4?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/racing-legacy-subaru-sti-preparing-super-gt300-spec-b4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/racing-legacy-subaru-sti-preparing-super-gt300-spec-b4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/racing-legacy-subaru-sti-preparing-super-gt300-spec-b4/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 JDM Subaru Legacy B4 Wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

The boys over at Subaru Tecnica International must have some extra time on their hands lately. Sure, they opened a museum recently, and may have even lent a hand with Ken Block's new Gymkhana ride. But after canceling their iconic World Rally Championship program, we can mentally picture the tumbleweed rolling through their garage. Thankfully, if the latest rumors from Nihon Car are any indication, the STI crew may have a new project on their hands: a racing version of the new Legacy for the Japanese local Super GT series.

Although details are few and far between at this point, the Legacy STI would reportedly compete in the series' second-tier GT300 class, not in the top-level GT500. The GT300 category closely mirrors production car specs, so don't expect any wild conversions, but STI would surely push the envelope here, especially considering that their super-sedan would have to dice it with the likes of Porsche GT3s and race-prepped Ferraris and Lamborghinis.

Privateer team Cusco won a race last year at Sepang with a GT300-spec Impreza, where the all-wheel-drive proved an advantage, but there's no telling what could happen if Subaru throws the weight of its factory support behind a works racing effort.

[Source: Nihon Car]

Racing Legacy: Subaru STI preparing Super GT300-spec B4? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt300stisubarusubaru legacysubaru stisubaru tecnica internationalSubaruLegacySubaruStiSubaruTecnicaInternationalsuper gtsuper gt300SuperGtSuperGt300Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru opens STI Gallery in Tokyo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/subaru-opens-sti-gallery-in-tokyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/subaru-opens-sti-gallery-in-tokyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/subaru-opens-sti-gallery-in-tokyo/#commentsFiled under: , ,



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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuji heavyFujiHeavygallerymcRaemuseumstisti galleryStiGallerysubarusubaru museumsubaru stisubaru sti museumsubaru tecnica internationalSubaruMuseumSubaruStiSubaruStiMuseumSubaruTecnicaInternationaltokyoTue, 09 Jun 2009 16:20:00 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: DC Shoes teases Ken Block's new gymkhana Subaru WRX STI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/video-dc-shoes-teases-ken-blocks-new-gymkhana-subaru-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/video-dc-shoes-teases-ken-blocks-new-gymkhana-subaru-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/video-dc-shoes-teases-ken-blocks-new-gymkhana-subaru-wrx-sti/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ken Block's new Gymkhana STI - Click above to jump to the teaser video

Autocross enthusiasts claim their form of motorsport is the most challenging in all of auto-dom. But chasing pylons around a parking lot is nothing compared to Gymkhana. Sometimes referred to as the "car rodeo", Gymkhana is practiced (in the same way that a marshall art is "practiced") in Japan, the UK, South Africa and right here in the good ol' U.S. of A. The idea is essentially the same as autocross, but with some drifting, turn-on-a-dime pivots and J-turns thrown in for good measure. It's what Subaru Rally Team USA driver and DC Shoes co-founder Ken Block, the new name behind the Dirt video game franchise, uses to keep sharp in between rally stages.

The car Block currently uses is a fire-breathing monster. Starting life as a previous-generation Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Block's Gymkhana car was originally prepared for the 2005 Gumball 3000 with 426 horsepower and adjustable suspension, then retuned for One Lap of America 2006 before being thoroughly revamped, complete with 529 hp Crawford rally engine, for rodeo duty in 2007. But for this year's circuit, Ken's got his crew working on an all-new beast. We'll have to wait until June 1 for all the details, but to keep out appetites whet, DC has released a teaser video, which we've posted for you after the jump. Thanks to Khanh for the tip!

Continue reading VIDEO: DC Shoes teases Ken Block's new gymkhana Subaru WRX STI

VIDEO: DC Shoes teases Ken Block's new gymkhana Subaru WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 May 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockcrawfordcrawford performanceCrawfordPerformancedc shoesDcShoesgymkhanaken blockKenBlockSTIsubarusubaru imprezasubaru impreza wrxsubaru impreza wrx stisubaru stiSubaru TechnicaSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruImprezaWrxStiSubaruStiSubaruTechnicaThu, 14 May 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/driven-subaru-wrx-and-sti-with-spt-mods/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and STI with SPT mods - Click above for high-res image gallery

Subaru invited us out to the track to sample some of its Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) components, fitted to the company's Forester XTI show car, as well as the Impreza WRX and STI models. While we applaud any manufacturer that engineers a line of factory-approved aftermarket parts, we hand out additional kudos to the few who welcome us to a local racing circuit to put them to the fire. What add-ons did Subaru bring to Willow Springs, and how did they perform on the track? Come with us to find out...


Gallery: Subaru WRX with SPT


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc., Subaru North America

Continue reading Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods

Driven: Subaru Forester XTI concept, WRX and WRX STI with SPT mods originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfirst driveFirstDriveSPTSTISubaruSubaru ImprezaSubaru Impreza STISubaru Impreza WRXSubaru Performance TuningSubaruImprezaSubaruImprezaStiSubaruImprezaWrxSubaruPerformanceTuningWRXFri, 24 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/subaru-campaigning-impreza-sti-at-nurburgring-24-hour-race/#commentsFiled under: ,


Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Nurburgring) - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Subaru has announced its participation in the 37th ADAC Zurich 24-Hour Race (AKA the 24-Hours of Nurburgring) with a Subaru Technica International-modified Impreza STI. The WRX will be campaigning in the SP3T class (comprised of turbo'd cars with a displacement of 2.0 liters), with Kazuo Shimizu, Toshihiro Yoshida, Naoki Hattori and Koji Matsuda manning the helm during the enduro.

According to Subaru, the team's objective is to "collect data and verify technical know-how" and use the knowledge it gleans from the race to improve the STI's development. The modifications are standard race-car fare, with a stripped interior and safety equipment, along with a number of body stiffening components and a "Flexible Tower Bar."

Subaru's set up a micro-site to track the team's progress and will supposedly have live timing and results when the event gets underway in May. Press release below the fold.


Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Nurburgring)


[Source: Subaru via WCF]

Continue reading Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race

Subaru campaigning Impreza STI at Nurburgring 24-hour race originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hour24 hours24-hour24-hours24Hour24Hoursadac zurichAdacZurichimprezanurburgringstisubarusubaru impreza wrx stiSubaruImprezaWrxStiwrxFri, 17 Apr 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/automatic-equipped-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-a-line-available-in-ja/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line

Fed up with your Triptronic Boxster? Need more space to haul the kids and their baseball gear? Live in Japan? If you answered "yes" to any of the above, Subaru has a STI they'd like to show you. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line is aimed at the discerning enthusiast looking for a more relaxed ride from their performance hatch, someone who isn't interested in messing with the manual gearbox that comes standard on the top-spec Impreza.

The 300-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer four remains the same, equipped with Dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS) to boost low- and mid-range torque and a Tumble Generation Valve (TGV) that supposedly controls the stream of air into the intake for optimal combustion. Subaru is offering the A-Spec exclusively with a five-speed automatic gearbox featuring "Downshifting Blipping Control" and steering wheel-mounted paddles. A new body color - "Satin White Pearl" - is included, along with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and optional leather trim and front seat heaters. While we're pretty sure Subaru Japan's PR team made a mistake on the brake specs - listing the front discs at a whopping 17-inches and the rear rotors at 16-inches - if not, the A-Spec has enough stopping power to halt the rotation of the earth.

Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line

Continue reading Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan

Automatic-equipped Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line available in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click any image for a high-res gallery

Even though our lust for Japan's forbidden fruit has been sated by three generations of the Subaru STI and Mitsubishi EVO - and now, the Nissan GT-R - one guilty pleasure is still out of reach. The Subaru Forester STI has always held a special place in our hearts, combining a healthy dose of practicality with a dash of rally-bred performance, and that's carried over to the Forester XTI concept. Packing the WRX STI's turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder putting out 315 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, a cat-back exhaust, reworked suspension, STI wheels and a deep red/black paint job, the Forester XTI is begging to go into production. Here's hoping Subaru wises up and gives it the green light.



Joining the Forester on the show stand is a five-door 2009 WRX tweaked by Subaru Performance Tuning (left) with a cat-back exhaust, short-throw shifter, OZ Botticelli III 19-inch wheels, a lower chassis brace and strut tower brace. The 2.5-liter four has gotten a 10-hp boost in output (from 265 to 275 hp) and an additional seven lb-ft of torque, and sitting beside that guy is the STI that's making its big screen debut in the next installment of the Fast and Furious franchise.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Subaru Forester XTI, SPT WRX, 4F4F STI

SEMA 2008: Subaru trots out Forester XTI concept and tweaked WRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fast and furious 4fast and furious fourFastAndFurious4FastAndFuriousFourforestersemasema 2008Sema2008stisubarusubaru forester xti conceptSubaruForesterXtiConceptwrxWed, 05 Nov 2008 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Subaru releases JDM-only 20th Anniversary Edition Impreza WRX STI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/subaru-releases-jdm-only-20th-anniversary-edition-impreza-wrx-st/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click either image for a high-res gallery of the Impreza WRX STI 20th Ann.

Celebration and disappointment -- that's what the Subaru Impreza WRX STI 20th Anniversary edition brings to the party. Celebration because it marks two decades of low-mounted, boxer-powered, all-wheel-drive fun and disappointment because the Takumi concept we saw earlier this month - assumed to be a glimpse of the future Spec-C WRX - was just an early unveiling of this limited edition Impreza.

To make matters worse, the 20th Anniversary WRX doesn't get much in the way of modifications. The only substantive changes to the STI's dynamics come from a new set of coilovers with retuned springs and shocks to offer a more planted ride, along with thicker front and rear anti-roll bars and a set of 18-inch aluminum wheels to compliment the only available hue (white). Body mods are also kept to a minimum, with only a black lip spoiler and rear wing subtly proclaiming the STI's special status.

No special edition would be complete without the prerequisite badging, so in addition to leather Recaros with red stitching and a matching shift knob, a commemorative plaque on the center console and a new set of door sills are the only thing letting people know that the Impreza is one of the 300 limited edition examples. Oh, and there's a special red pouch for the key fob too.

Sales are beginning in Japan as you read this, carrying a price tag of 4,126,500 yen.

Gallery: 20th Anniversary Subaru Impreza WRX STI

Subaru releases JDM-only 20th Anniversary Edition Impreza WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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