Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Subaru display at 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon

Unlike most cities, Japan's capital city plays host to two major automotive exhibitions: the Tokyo Motor Show and the Tokyo Auto Salon. While these terms may be interchangeable when it comes to European expos, in Tokyo, they connote two different shows altogether. The first is the Motor Show, where new concepts and production models are unveiled by the world's automakers. The Auto Salon is more of a tuner expo along the lines of the SEMA show in Las Vegas. So after Subaru made its long-anticipated splash at the Tokyo Motor Show with its new BRZ, now it's heading to the Salon with some modified versions.

First up is a version of the BRZ Concept STI, packing some prototype carbon-fiber components, suspension upgrades, Brembo brakes and more. Subaru has also teamed up again with aftermarket tuner Prova (which shares its name with the traditional license plates carried by prototypes in italy) for a BRZ Black Edition. And you can bet there will be a handful or two of other tuners eager to show what they can do with the new rear-drive sports coupe, as well.

Subaru itself will also be showcasing an upgraded Impreza called the G4 STI with all manner of performance enhancements, and will, at long last, announce its return to a number of different motorsport disciplines. The Super GT300-spec BRZ, which we already know about, will be displayed alongside the Legacy-based racer it replaces. But there will also be a WRX STI that's slated to be fielded at the Nürburgring 24, and Subaru will also be announcing its return to professional rally competition, though not the World Rally Championship series it left years ago, it will contest the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon

Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tokyo auto salonbrzimprezaintercontinental rally challengerallystisubarusubaru brzsubaru brz sti concepttokyotokyo auto salonwrxwrx stiTue, 27 Dec 2011 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20135843/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/20135843/article-detail.xml 20135843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaru-brz-salonweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaru-brz-salonweb.jpg <![CDATA[Driver launches car, crashes through roof of business]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/driver-launches-car-crashes-through-roof-of-business/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/driver-launches-car-crashes-through-roof-of-business/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/19/driver-launches-car-crashes-through-roof-of-business/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Car crashes through roof

Police in Santa Fe, Texas are currently searching for a man who catapulted his Subaru WRX through the roof of a local business. Police say 20-year-old Roy Morales was traveling around 90 miles per hour at two in the morning when he blew through a dead-end street and crossed a set of raised train tracks.

The tracks sent the vehicle airborne over a distance of 100 feet before the car came crashing through the roof of a local septic business. Realizing he had both literally and figuratively found himself in a world of crap, Morales fled the scene and later called the police to report his vehicle stolen.

At that point, police were able to coax a confession from Morales, who now faces potential charges ranging from reckless driving to false reporting of a crime. Morales has yet to actually turn himself in.

Michael Robinson, the owner of Gulf Coast Aerobic Services, says Morales' stunt inflicted around $25,000 worth of damage, but that he's grateful no one was hurt in the incident. That includes the would-be stunt driver. Hit the jump to watch a local news report.

Continue reading Driver launches car, crashes through roof of business

Driver launches car, crashes through roof of business originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airborne crashcrash through roofroofsubarusubaru wrxvideowrxwrx crashMon, 19 Dec 2011 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20130821/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/19/driver-launches-car-crashes-through-roof-of-business/20130821/article-detail.xml 20130821 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/car-crash-through-roof-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/car-crash-through-roof-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Subaru WRX targeting downsized 2.0-liter four that's upsized to 270 hp]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/next-gen-subaru-wrx-targeting-downsized-2-0-liter-four-thats-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/next-gen-subaru-wrx-targeting-downsized-2-0-liter-four-thats-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/next-gen-subaru-wrx-targeting-downsized-2-0-liter-four-thats-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



WRX. Those three letters tell automotive enthusiasts the world over that they are not dealing with an ordinary Impreza, and it all began in rally racing with a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine. Though some models - including the current WRX and STI in the United States - had engines displacing as much as 2.5 liters, the WRX earned its reputation with 2.0 liters, and that's the displacement specified for competition use.

According to Motor Trend, the 2013 WRX, which will likely debut sometime in 2012, will go back to its original engine size. The new powerplant will reportedly be based on the engine found in the 2013 Subaru BRZ, a clean-sheet design for Subaru, with the addition of the expected turbocharger. That ought to bring power up from 200 horsepower to about 270.

Now we come to the question of what platform in which the engine will reside. While common sense would dictate that the latest version of the Impreza, which was recently released as a 2012 model, would get the WRX treatment, we've heard rumblings that Subaru would keep its current WRX shell around for a few more years while it continues development of the next chassis. Only time will tell.

Next-gen Subaru WRX targeting downsized 2.0-liter four that's upsized to 270 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru wrxboxer enginebrz enginesubaruwrxwrx engineThu, 08 Dec 2011 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20123604/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/08/next-gen-subaru-wrx-targeting-downsized-2-0-liter-four-thats-up/20123604/article-detail.xml 20123604 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/widebodywrx---03_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/widebodywrx---03.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/subaru-bringing-more-powerful-wrx-sti-s206-to-tokyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/subaru-bringing-more-powerful-wrx-sti-s206-to-tokyo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/subaru-bringing-more-powerful-wrx-sti-s206-to-tokyo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Subaru WRX STI S206

Subaru has unveiled the latest addition to the company's line of S series performance vehicles. The WRX STI S206 comes equipped with an even higher level of go fast equipment than the base STI. Bilstein shocks, a flexible strut tower bar up front as well as a flexible draw stiffener all help the vehicle hustle around your favorite road course, as do the standard Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on all four corners. Subaru has also taken the time to rework the vehicle's turbocharged 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine with a balanced crank, pistons and connecting rods. Combined with a ball bearing turbo and a new ECU, the lump is now good for 316 horsepower. That's a significant nudge over the 305 horsepower available in the standard STI.

The vehicle also offers a range of aesthetic tweaks inside and out. Those looking for even more exclusivity can dive into the NBR Challenge Package, which includes a carbon fiber roof and rear wing among other goodies. The WRX STI S206 with the NBR Challenge Package is designed to pay tribute to the Subaru class win at this year's 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Unfortunately, that beast has already sold out.

Both vehicles are only available in Japan, so unless you know a guy who knows a guy who can rob a guy, you're out of luck on this side of the globe.

Continue reading Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo

Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nbr challenge packagenurburgringstisti nbr challenge packagesti s206subarusubaru wrx sti S206subaru wrx sti s206 nbr challenge packagewrxwrx stiwrx sti s206Mon, 28 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20115478/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/subaru-bringing-more-powerful-wrx-sti-s206-to-tokyo/20115478/article-detail.xml 20115478 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-wrx-sti-s206-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-wrx-sti-s206-628.jpg <![CDATA[Current Subaru WRX and STI to stick around for a couple of years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/current-subaru-wrx-and-sti-to-stick-around-for-a-couple-of-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/current-subaru-wrx-and-sti-to-stick-around-for-a-couple-of-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/current-subaru-wrx-and-sti-to-stick-around-for-a-couple-of-years/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 subaru impreza wrx sti

The 2012 Subaru Impreza is on its way to a dealership near you, and you can pick one up starting in November. Should you prefer to go with something wearing a WRX or STI badge, you don't have to wait, but you'll just have to be happy with the current version, as Subaru is reportedly holding off on bringing revised examples of the hi-po Impreza sedans and wagons to market.

According to Car and Driver, Subaru plans to continue building the same well-liked Impreza WRX and STI until the new cars are ready, likely in a couple of years. The idea is to allow the revised Impreza to gain some traction before launching the furiously fast versions. Hopefully, the lag time between models will give Subaru boffins time to produce models worthy of wearing those special badges.

Current Subaru WRX and STI to stick around for a couple of years originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 subaru imprezaimprezaimpreza wrx stistisubari impreza wrx stisubarusubaru imprezawrxwrx stiThu, 22 Sep 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20049732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/22/current-subaru-wrx-and-sti-to-stick-around-for-a-couple-of-years/20049732/article-detail.xml 20049732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/11-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/11-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-review.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Subaru loves boxers. No, not the kind that beat each other into bloody pulps, we're talking about the engine design, which places the cylinders directly across a horizontal plane, almost like they are swinging alternating punches away from the crankshaft - hence, the boxer name.

There are lots of good reasons to love the boxer engine - it allows for a decidedly low center of gravity and is inherently smooth due to its built-in balance - and Subie has certainly done much to advance the configuration since the days of the original Volkswagen Beetle (also boxer-powered). But what if you want your cylinders arranged in a V?

Well then, there's always the ever-popular engine swap. While some would be content to drop in the tried-and-true Chevy V8, not everyone wants Bowtie power in their engine bays. At least one Subaru Impreza owner decided on nothing less than a BMW V10 ripped from under the hood of an M5.

Thankfully, we have video evidence that such a beating-heart transplant can pay big dividends. See for yourself in the video after the break, which was apparently shot just after the conversion was completed and before the engine had been fully tuned. Enjoy!

Continue reading Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome

Subaru Impreza plus BMW V10 engine equals awesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwimprezam5subaruv10v10 imprezav10 subaruvideowrxwrx stiWed, 07 Sep 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20036946/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/subaru-impreza-plus-bmw-v10-engine-equals-awesome/20036946/article-detail.xml 20036946 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/v10-impreza_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/v10-impreza.jpg <![CDATA[X Games 17 brings RallyCross to the streets of L.A. [spoilers w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/x-games-17-brings-rallycross-to-the-streets-of-l-a-spoilers-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/x-games-17-brings-rallycross-to-the-streets-of-l-a-spoilers-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/x-games-17-brings-rallycross-to-the-streets-of-l-a-spoilers-w/#commentsFiled under:

X Games 17 RallyCross

Over the weekend, rally cars took over the streets of downtown Los Angeles to compete in X Games 17. The field of drivers was perhaps the most prestigious yet, with plenty of X Games veterans like Tanner Foust, Travis Pastrana and Brian Deegan facing tough new challengers in the form of Marcus Grönholm, two-time World Champion of the World Rally Championship series and European RallyCross veteran Liam Doran.

The new venue, the third in three years, provided an interesting setting to watch rally cars fly by - traffic whizzed by on the 110 Freeway just a block away - and for the drivers, it was a welcome change to last year's tight and confusing course at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. The venue wasn't ideal for spectators, however, with much of the course hidden from view on the main grandstands. For members of the media such as ourselves, photographing the event was nearly impossible as well, with high fencing blocking nearly every good view.

Even so, the drives put on quite a show for those watching at home on television. With so many talented drivers in so many fast cars, entertaining matchups were inevitable. Click through the jump to read more and watch the wacky action in some X Games-provided videos.

Continue reading X Games 17 brings RallyCross to the streets of L.A. [spoilers w/video]

X Games 17 brings RallyCross to the streets of L.A. [spoilers w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brian deeganespnfeaturedfiestafordliam doranrally car racingrallycrosssubarutanner fousttravis+pastranatravis+pastrana+x+games+2011travispastranatravispastranaxgames2011wrxx gamesx games 17x games rally car racingx games rallycrossx+games+17+rallyx+games+2011+rallycrossxgames17rallyxgames2011rallycrossMon, 01 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20005601/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/01/x-games-17-brings-rallycross-to-the-streets-of-l-a-spoilers-w/20005601/article-detail.xml 20005601 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/x-games-17-rallycross_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/x-games-17-rallycross.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX... official escape vehicle of the zombie apocalypse?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/27/subaru-wrx-official-escape-vehicle-of-the-zombie-apocalypse/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/27/subaru-wrx-official-escape-vehicle-of-the-zombie-apocalypse/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/27/subaru-wrx-official-escape-vehicle-of-the-zombie-apocalypse/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Subaru WRX zombie commercial

What's more fun than running through a five-kilometer obstacle course in the woods? Running through a five-kilometer obstacle course in the woods... while being chased by zombies!

The event is called Run For Your Lives, and while it doesn't actually involve, you know, "real" zombies (which fortunately only exist in movies - we think), it does the next best thing. Participants pick a path through the woods, littered with man-made obstacles, with a flag belt tied 'round their waists. They've got to run the distance, overcome the obstacles and avoid loosing their "health flags" to the legions of make-believe zombies chasing after them.

The first such event is scheduled for October 22 in Baltimore, with more locations to follow. So what does this have to do with cars, you ask? Well, it's got zombies, so what more excuse do we need? It also happens to be sponsored by Subaru, which is building an advertising campaign around it, billing its go-anywhere-and-fast Impreza WRX as "The official escape vehicle of the Zombie Apocalypse".

Cute, but when push comes to shove, there probably aren't many vehicles we'd take over a WRX if we were, you know, actually being chased by the brain-hungry undead. What would you pick? Share your opinion in the Comments section below and follow the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading Subaru WRX... official escape vehicle of the zombie apocalypse?

Subaru WRX... official escape vehicle of the zombie apocalypse? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imprezaimpreza wrxrun for your livessubarusubaru impreza wrxsubaru wrxwrxzombiezombie apocalypsezombiesWed, 27 Jul 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20001961/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/27/subaru-wrx-official-escape-vehicle-of-the-zombie-apocalypse/20001961/article-detail.xml 20001961 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/subaru-zombie2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/subaru-zombie2.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru to split WRX from rest of Impreza line, make it smaller]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/subaru-to-split-wrx-from-rest-of-impreza-line-make-it-smaller/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/subaru-to-split-wrx-from-rest-of-impreza-line-make-it-smaller/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/15/subaru-to-split-wrx-from-rest-of-impreza-line-make-it-smaller/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX renderingSubaru unveiled its 2012 Impreza at the New York Auto Show in April, and upon seeing the new car's new shape, we instantly started to picture it with all of the hardcore WRX and STI bits (including gold wheels, of course). However, it might not be as simple as slapping on some bits and pieces to the Impreza body anymore. According to Motor Trend, a source within Subaru says that the next-generation WRX will be very different from its Impreza kin.

First and foremost, the name "Impreza WRX" as we know it may soon be defunct. Since Subaru is planning for the new 'Rex to be a greater departure from the Impreza-based cars that came before it, the car's nomenclature may simply change to solely "WRX" and "WRX STI." Fine, since that's what 90 percent of people call it, anyway.

In speaking to Motor Trend, a Subaru spokesperson said that, "Apart from a few nuts and bolts, every part on the WRX will be unique. Even the engine and body." From there, the source stated that while the WRX will use a version of the Impreza's platform, it will be "radically modified and significantly shortened." How short? A little bigger than a Toyota Yaris, Motor Trend reports. Yikes!

What's more, it looks like the WRX's turbocharged Boxer engine may lose some displacement, with the new car using a 1.6-liter unit capable of producing somewhere around 270 horsepower. A twin-charged (turbocharged and supercharged) version is also said to be under development.

Look for the next-generation WRX to land in 2014.

Subaru to split WRX from rest of Impreza line, make it smaller originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 subaru wrximprezastisubarusubaru wrxwrxwrx stiFri, 15 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19992188/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/15/subaru-to-split-wrx-from-rest-of-impreza-line-make-it-smaller/19992188/article-detail.xml 19992188 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/new-subaru-wrx-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/new-subaru-wrx-250.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/subaru-releases-official-video-of-isle-of-man-tt-record-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/subaru-releases-official-video-of-isle-of-man-tt-record-run/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/subaru-releases-official-video-of-isle-of-man-tt-record-run/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Subaru at the Isle of Mann TT
Subaru at the Isle of Mann TT - Click above to watch video after the jump


Subaru has released an official video of the company's recent record-breaking efforts at the Isle of Mann TT. As you may recall, the official sponsor of the race dusted off an impressive elapsed time of 19 minutes and 37 seconds while averaging 115.356 mph. If that's not impressive enough, driver Mark Higgins cracked the 160 mph barrier while blasting through the island course. All told, the U.S.-spec WRX STI clipped through 200 corners, including one spot where the driver and co-driver nearly went tumbling at 130 mph.

Subaru says that the car was left mechanically stock save a few safety additions. A fire-suppression system and roll cage were added in the event of a hairy situation, as well as a set of competition seats and belts. Stouter Mintex brake pads were also fitted for the run, though the stock calipers and rotors stayed along for the ride. The WRX STI also boasted an even freer-flowing exhaust, and engineers nixed the speed limiter, which allowed Higgins to crank the turbocharged flat-four up to 162 mph. Finally, a set of Tein dampers helped the winged machine tackle the uneven pavement and massive jumps of the course. Hit the jump to see the recap video for yourself.

Continue reading Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run

Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imprezaimpreza wrx stiisle of mannisle of mann ttmark higginsstisubarusubaru wrx stivideowrxwrx stiFri, 24 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19975950/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/24/subaru-releases-official-video-of-isle-of-man-tt-record-run/19975950/article-detail.xml 19975950 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/subaru-isle-of-mann-tt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/subaru-isle-of-mann-tt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru driver Mark Higgins has "the moment of his life" at Isle of Man]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/subaru-driver-mark-higgins-has-the-moment-of-his-life-at-isle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/subaru-driver-mark-higgins-has-the-moment-of-his-life-at-isle/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/subaru-driver-mark-higgins-has-the-moment-of-his-life-at-isle/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mark Higgins Subaru WRX STI sedan at Isle of Man
Subaru WRX STI at the Isle of Man - Click above to watch the videos after the break

Subaru, a major sponsor of the Isle of Man TT for 2011, had no trouble whatsoever in setting a new four-wheeled lap record around the famed 37-mile mountain course on the remote British Isle. Driver Mark Higgins managed to circle the track in a WRX STI sedan in just 19:56.7 with an average speed of 113 miles per hour. Nicely done.

Turns out that record was set during a so-called practice lap, and it wasn't the only time Higgins had a go at the course in his Subaru. Not all of his runs were as uneventful as that practice lap. As you'll see in the two videos pasted after the break, Higgins' heroic driving skills were truly put to the test less than a minute into one of his runs.

Higgins barely manages to keep the lightly modified STI (for safety purposes, the car had a roll cage, race harnesses and a fire extinguisher that were thankfully not put to use) under control, calling his near-miss the "moment of his life." His passenger, Chris Cantle, stays remarkably stoic in the face of a 150-mile-per-hour fiery near-death crash. See for yourself in the video after the break.

Continue reading Subaru driver Mark Higgins has "the moment of his life" at Isle of Man

Subaru driver Mark Higgins has "the moment of his life" at Isle of Man originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>isle of manisle of man crashisle of man ttisle of man videomark higginssubaruwrxwrx stiMon, 13 Jun 2011 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19965542/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/13/subaru-driver-mark-higgins-has-the-moment-of-his-life-at-isle/19965542/article-detail.xml 19965542 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/subaru-iomtt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/subaru-iomtt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru obliterates Isle of Man lap record with stock WRX STI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/subaru-obliterates-isle-of-man-lap-record-with-stock-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/subaru-obliterates-isle-of-man-lap-record-with-stock-wrx-sti/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/subaru-obliterates-isle-of-man-lap-record-with-stock-wrx-sti/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

subaru wrx sti sedan breaking the car lap record at the isle of man tt
Subaru WRX STI breaks the road-car Isle of Man TT lap record - Click above for high-res image

We talk about the Nürburgring a lot, but perhaps it's time we start devoting more ink to the Isle of Man. Located between Great Britain and Ireland, the tiny bit of green plays host to one of the most impressive displays of speed on the planet.

The annual Isle of Man TT plays out on a 37.8-mile course made up of public roads, which are closed down during race days. It's run by motorcyclists, and crazy sonsofbitches skilled pilots can complete the loop in under 18 minutes. Curious how long it would take an automobile to run the same course? Back in 1990, driver Tony Pond was curious as well, and he pushed a Rover 827 Vitesse around the island in 21 minutes, becoming the first driver to average 100 miles per hour in a car on the course.

Subaru decided to have a go at that record, and sent a WRX STI sedan and driver Mark Higgins to the Isle of Man. The car is a stock STI, with the exception of a roll-cage, race harness, fire extinguisher and adjusted springs and dampers to handle the various bumps found on the public roadway. How'd Higgins do? He smashed Pond's record by two minutes, with a time of 19:56.7 and an average speed of 113 miles per hour. Higgins stated, "Setting the record was both the most exhilarating and the most frightening thing I have ever done." We believe you, and we salute you Mr. Higgins, on a rather impressive bit of driving.

Click past the jump for the full press release and more information on the record-setting run.

Continue reading Subaru obliterates Isle of Man lap record with stock WRX STI

Subaru obliterates Isle of Man lap record with stock WRX STI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>isle of manisle of man recordisle of man ttisle of man tt lap recordmark higginssubarusubaru impreza wrx stiwrxwrx stiThu, 09 Jun 2011 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19963010/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/subaru-obliterates-isle-of-man-lap-record-with-stock-wrx-sti/19963010/article-detail.xml 19963010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/sti-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/sti-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Evil hay bales reach out and flip Subaru in front of cameraman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/07/evil-hay-bales-reach-out-and-flip-subaru-in-front-of-cameraman/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/07/evil-hay-bales-reach-out-and-flip-subaru-in-front-of-cameraman/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/07/evil-hay-bales-reach-out-and-flip-subaru-in-front-of-cameraman/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX flips on track
Subaru WRX flips on track - Click above to watch the video after the break

Our brothers from the Great White North happened across a video featuring a few extremely evil hay bales. How evil? Really evil. Like so evil that you would say it was E-VEEL, like they are the FRU-ETS of the DEV-EEL.

So evil, in fact, that these compressed bunches of overgrown grass decided to reach out and grab a passing Subaru at Toronto Motorsports Park during a Canadian Sport Compact Series time trial event. See what we mean? E-VEEL.

Apparently, this particular JDM Subaru WRX had been "borrowed" from its owner, who was on vacation. And since you can actually hardly fault the hay bales themselves, we're guessing this driver, who was not seriously injured in the accident, is gonna have some serious 'splaining to do when the Subie's owner gets back home.

Check out the video in all its gruesome glory after the break, but beware of some potentially NSFW language.

Continue reading Evil hay bales reach out and flip Subaru in front of cameraman

Evil hay bales reach out and flip Subaru in front of cameraman originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadian sport compact seriescar flipjdmracing accidentsubarusubaru wrxtoronto motorsports parktrack accidentvideowrxTue, 07 Jun 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19960672/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/07/evil-hay-bales-reach-out-and-flip-subaru-in-front-of-cameraman/19960672/article-detail.xml 19960672 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/wrx-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/wrx-crash.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru offering more powerful WRX STI for UK buyers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/subaru-offering-more-powerful-wrx-sti-for-uk-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/subaru-offering-more-powerful-wrx-sti-for-uk-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/subaru-offering-more-powerful-wrx-sti-for-uk-buyers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Subaru WRX STI
2011 Subaru WRX STI - Click above for high-res image gallery

For a limited time, Subaru UK is offering customers a slightly more powerful version of its Evo-battling WRX STI. Between April 1st and June 30th, buyers can fit their four- or five-door STIs with a power package, good for an additional 20 horsepower and 32 pound-feet of torque.

This means the turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four now puts out 320 hp and 332 lb-ft of twist. What's more, the torque punch is now delivered at 3400 rpm - 600 rpm sooner than in the standard car. According to AutoExpress, these upgrades are enough to shave three-tenths of a second off of the STI's 0-62 mile-per-hour time.

In addition to more power, Subaru will be fitting its STI with a standard Pioneer navigation system at no extra, complete with Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration. Pricing for the upgraded STI starts at £32,995 (a whopping $53,572 based on current exchange rates).


Gallery: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI: First Drive


Photos copyright (C)2011 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: AutoExpress]

Subaru offering more powerful WRX STI for UK buyers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 subaru wrx stiimprezasubaruukwrxwrx stiTue, 05 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19903255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/05/subaru-offering-more-powerful-wrx-sti-for-uk-buyers/19903255/article-detail.xml 19903255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03wrxstifd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03wrxstifd2011.jpg <![CDATA[Factory Five/<i>Grassroots Motorsports</i> WRX roadster design contest underway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/factory-five-grassroots-motorsports-wrx-roadster-design-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/factory-five-grassroots-motorsports-wrx-roadster-design-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/04/factory-five-grassroots-motorsports-wrx-roadster-design-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Factory Five logoOfficial rules and deadlines for the Grassroots Motorsports/Factory Five design contest are in. The contest asks entrants to design the body of Factory Five's upcoming Subaru WRX-powered roadster.

The chassis for the car is almost through the development stage, so Factory Five is asking would-be designers to focus solely on the look and shape of the car, keeping within the specified 95-inch wheelbase dimensions.

Entries have to be submitted as either a JPG or PDF file to the company by June 1, 2011. The company will accept hand-drawn design ideas, but they have to be scanned and converted to one of the specified document formats. No old-fashioned pencil and paper designs will be accepted through snail mail.

To submit your designs, send them as attachments in an email to contest@grassrootsmotorsports.com. The overall winner of the competition will receive a $5,000 cash prize and the satisfaction of having their design rendered in fiberglass as the new Factory Five roadster.

The planned car itself is a mid-engined, WRX-powered roadster that Factory Five says can be ordered and completed for less than $15,000. Thank you to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Grassroots Motorsports]

Factory Five/Grassroots Motorsports WRX roadster design contest underway originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facory fivefactoryfivesubarusubaru wrxwrxFri, 04 Mar 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19867496/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/04/factory-five-grassroots-motorsports-wrx-roadster-design-c/19867496/article-detail.xml 19867496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/factory-five-logo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/factory-five-logo.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI convertible: Worst idea ever?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/27/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-convertible-worst-idea-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/27/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-convertible-worst-idea-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/27/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-convertible-worst-idea-ever/#commentsFiled under: , ,

blue 2011 subaru sti convertible custom made by dealership parked in a showroom
2011 Subaru WRX STI convertible - click for high-res gallery

Car dealers do the strangest things to their vehicles. Just think about how many cars are out there with awful vinyl and fabric roof add-ons, a generation after manufacturers nearly swore them off entirely. Manchester Subaru in Manchester, New Hampshire isn't content to create some sticker-and-tape fake trim level on a top-dog 2011 Subaru WRX STI. Instead, the dealer has gone all Chainsaw Massacre on the rally-bred performance sedan. The result is a picnic basket of automotive woe.

At least the "handle" left after all the chop-shopping maintains a fleeting semblance of rigidity. The rest? Awful. There's an ill-fitting tonneau, chopped door pillars and the STI's trademark enormous wing still hangs off the trunklid. The worst part? This poor Subaru's price is purportedly $75,000. Not kidding. Sure, there's an "exclusivity" factor, but 75 large buys an awful lot of real high performance convertible; the kind that won't corner like an overcooked noodle. The dealership reportedly commissioned five of these abominations, which is likely five more than anyone wants. Thanks for the tip, Jason!


Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Convertible


[Source: Manchester Subaru]

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI convertible: Worst idea ever? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011convertiblecustom subarumanchester subarustisti convertiblesubarusubaru convertiblesubaru sti convertiblewrxwrx stiSun, 27 Feb 2011 11:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19860552/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/27/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-convertible-worst-idea-ever/19860552/article-detail.xml 19860552 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/sticonvertible630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/sticonvertible630.jpg <![CDATA[You can design Factory Five's new mid-engine, WRX-powered kit car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/you-can-design-factory-fives-new-mid-engine-wrx-powered-kit-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/you-can-design-factory-fives-new-mid-engine-wrx-powered-kit-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/18/you-can-design-factory-fives-new-mid-engine-wrx-powered-kit-ca/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

factory five logo 250Massachusetts-based Factory Five, the builder of some exceptional Shelby Cobra replicas and the GTM race car, has announced a new project vehicle. Starting with a Subaru WRX donor car, the Factory Five team says it will be able to produce a mid-engined two-seater for under $15,000... and you can help design it.

Factory Five is teaming up with Grassroots Motorsports Magazine to run a public design contest. The goal for the this as-yet unamed sports car will be to feature the WRX running car and weigh in at just 1,800 pounds. It will have a removable top, 95-inch wheelbase and the Subie engine will power the rear wheels.

Stay tuned for more details on this crowdsourced design contest as they emerge. Submissions will be accepted beginning March 1, so the official contest rules should be along shortly. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Factory Five]

You can design Factory Five's new mid-engine, WRX-powered kit car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Factory fiveFactory five design contestFactory five racingFactory five wrxGrassroots motorsportsGrassroots motorsports magazineSubaruSubaru wrxWrxWrx donor carwrx stiFri, 18 Feb 2011 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19848726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/18/you-can-design-factory-fives-new-mid-engine-wrx-powered-kit-ca/19848726/article-detail.xml 19848726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/factory-five-racing-logo-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/factory-five-racing-logo-250.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX STI Spec C launched in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/22/subaru-wrx-sti-spec-c-launched-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/22/subaru-wrx-sti-spec-c-launched-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/22/subaru-wrx-sti-spec-c-launched-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

Lighter, more responsive engine performance and increased stiffness - three descriptors that provide the basis of information regarding the all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C. We supposed we could also throw in the longer name, but you can already see that. The Spec C, which is quite sadly a Japan-only model for the moment, receives a host of upgrades compared to the non-spec STI and that list includes; an aluminum hood, reduced-friction ball bearings for the twin-scroll turbo, optimized ECU programming, a mechanical LSD and a host of other features.

The STI Spec C is positioned as a more focused Impreza WRX for those seeking an even more engaging driving experience. Weight has been reduced all over the car, while the front crossmember has been reinforced and large 245-series Bridgestone Potenzas have been wrapped around all four wheels.

Take a look at the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec in the gallery below but be warned that too much staring can lead to a sudden desire to move to Japan. Be sure to click past the jump and read the full press release as well. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C

Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec CSubaru Impreza WRX STI Spec CSubaru Impreza WRX STI Spec CSubaru Impreza WRX STI Spec CSubaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading Subaru WRX STI Spec C launched in Japan

Subaru WRX STI Spec C launched in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imprezaimpreza wrx sti spec cjdmsti spec csubarusubaru impreza wrx sti spec cwrxwrx stiwrx sti spec cWed, 22 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19772598/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/22/subaru-wrx-sti-spec-c-launched-in-japan/19772598/article-detail.xml 19772598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/000-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-spec-c-lede_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/000-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-spec-c-lede.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru teases JDM-only Impreza WRX STI tS with carbon fiber roof]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/09/subaru-teases-jdm-only-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-with-carbon-fiber-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/09/subaru-teases-jdm-only-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-with-carbon-fiber-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/09/subaru-teases-jdm-only-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-with-carbon-fiber-roof/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru Impreza WRX STI tS

Our Japanese may be a bit rusty, but our eyes work just fine. So it was hard to miss this teaser image for an upcoming version of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI tS sporting a carbon fiber roof. When we click to the English-language portion of the site the image and information disappears, so we don't know what else to make of this STI tS and its lighter chapeau.

For the non-Subaru aficionados reading along, tS stands for "Tuned by STI" and we last saw the crew at Subaru Tecnica International apply wrenches to the Legacy. The resulting Legacy B4 2.5GT tS had us drooling and we expect the WRX STI tS to have a similar affect on our salivary glands.

[Source: Subaru]

Subaru teases JDM-only Impreza WRX STI tS with carbon fiber roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imprezaimpreza wrx stiimpreza wrx sti tsjdmlegacy b4 2.5gt tssubarusubaru imprezasubaru impreza wrx stitstuned by stiwrxwrx stiwrx sti tsThu, 09 Dec 2010 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19752830/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/09/subaru-teases-jdm-only-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-with-carbon-fiber-roof/19752830/article-detail.xml 19752830 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-teaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-ts-teaser.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/01/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Measuring The Difference In Inches

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX
2011 Subaru Impreza WRX - Click above for high-res image gallery

One point three inches. How much difference can it make? That depends on what you're measuring. If you're comparing the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX to the 2011, that small measurement makes all the difference in the world.

If you're a Subie fan, you've already read our First Drive. The headline news for the 2010-to-2011 changeover is that the WRX gained the STI model's widebody fenders and 1.3-inch wider track. Wanting to know whether the growth in girth made any difference to the affable and relatively affordable WRX, we decided to spend some quality time in the example you see here.

We learned plenty. Many things work well for the practical enthusiast. Others, not so much.

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX: Review

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX2011 Subaru Impreza WRX2011 Subaru Impreza WRX2011 Subaru Impreza WRX2011 Subaru Impreza WRX

Photos copyright (C)2010 Rex Roy / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX

Review: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 subaru impreza wrxfeaturedimprezaimpreza wrximpreza wrx reviewreviewreviewsroad testsubaruwrxWed, 01 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19735731/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/01/2011-subaru-impreza-wrx-review-road-test/19735731/article-detail.xml 19735731 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lead1-2011-subaru-wrx-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lead1-2011-subaru-wrx-review.jpg -1 2