Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Leave it to a Subaru WRX to find a new way to improve the art of passing. This dash cam vid shows a white WRX pirouetting past our recording car and somehow straightening out before either sliding off the road or slamming into the car ahead. If this were a standard move in rally racing, the WRC would be bigger than NASCAR.

Like most dash cam vids, we don't know where it was shot (Russia's always a good bet) or what the circumstances were (did the driver spin on purpose or was the 360-degree slide accidental?), but the remarkable feat was caught on camera and uploaded to YouTube, preserving it for an Internet eternity. Scroll below to watch the twist yourself, and don't try this at home!

Continue reading Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique

Subaru Impreza shows off 360-degree passing technique originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360-degreedash campassingsubaruwrxMon, 04 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20487267/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/04/subaru-impreza-shows-off-360-degree-passing-technique/20487267/article-detail.xml 20487267 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/360-degree-slide-dash-cam-wrx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/360-degree-slide-dash-cam-wrx.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru axes WRX and STI in UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/subaru-axes-wrx-and-sti-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/subaru-axes-wrx-and-sti-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/subaru-axes-wrx-and-sti-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI Special Edition models - front three-quarter overhead view

Auto Express reports Subaru will stop selling the Impreza, WRX and WRX STI in the UK starting next year. A spokesperson with the company said Subaru has been evaluating the Impreza and its performance in the UK for the past year and has finally decided to pull the plug. That means all of the model's performance iterations will also drop off of dealer lots, including the WRX and the STI. The unnamed spokesperson said Subaru UK currently has no plans to to bring more stock of either model once the current supply sells out. That means buyers in the UK have until around early summer 2013 to get their hands on an STI.

The move comes in response to slow demand, which has trickled off in the face of competition that best the machine in terms of refinement, performance and emissions. Moving forward, the automaker says it will focus its sales efforts on models like the XV Crosstrek, Forester and Outback, as well as the company's new BRZ sports coupe.

Subaru axes WRX and STI in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru impreza wrx2013 subaru impreza wrx stiimprezastisubaruukwrxFri, 14 Dec 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20403505/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/subaru-axes-wrx-and-sti-in-uk/20403505/article-detail.xml 20403505 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-subaru-special-editions-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-subaru-special-editions-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-subaru-wrx-special-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-subaru-wrx-special-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/2013-subaru-wrx-special-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Two months ago, I was carving pumpkins in a canyon - last week, I was carving canyons in a pumpkin. I genuinely prefer the latter.

It's hard to miss the 2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition. The twins (the automaker is offering the package on both the WRX and its higher-performing STI sibling - just 300 copies in total) arrive in Tangerine Orange paint with Jet Black wheels, black exterior mirrors and black front fender badges. The purely cosmetic upgrades are carried inside the cabin with black cloth upholstery contrasted with orange stitching on the seats, doors, shift boot and piping on the floor mats.

After a day, I completely forgot about the controversial orange paint (you either love or hate its burnt pumpkin color) and focused on the simple joy of driving the rally-inspired Subaru WRX.

Driving Notes
  • The turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four is a gem of an engine. It pulls soundly from the low end of the tachometer yet willingly runs to fuel cutoff at redline. Unfortunately, the note coming from the quad exhaust pipes resonates and booms from within the cabin. I liked it, but many of my passengers complained.
  • While the industry has moved to six-speed manual transmissions (as has the STI), few realize just how wonderful a competent five-speed gearbox really is. Despite giving up a bit in acceleration and fuel economy (the 6MT has a lower first gear, and a taller six gear), the 5MT will easily run to 60 miles per hour without a shift to third gear. This also translates to less clutch work around town.
  • During a spirited run up Decker Canyon and Mulholland Highway, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive kicked serious tail in the corners. It absolutely refused to let go of the pavement, regardless of how much power was going to the wheels.
  • The suspension of the WRX is a bit softer than I expected. While it translated to a much more comfortable highway ride, it came across a too squishy for really hardcore flogging. For upgraded suspension, brakes and a more capable all-wheel drive system, consumers need to look at the STI.
  • The cloth bucket seats are comfortable, supportive during aggressive driving maneuvers and heated. What more can one ask for?
  • The WRX won't let anyone forget its Impreza roots. The cabin appointments are budget-oriented, with no-frills hard plastic on the dashboard and doors, minimal digital instrumentation (no trip computer or fuel distance-to-empty display) and a lackluster audio system (one of the worst I have experienced in years).
  • Keep in mind that Subaru has already replaced its Impreza with an all-new fourth-generation model - the WRX (and STI) are still on the third-generation platform - expect their high-performance replacements to emerge within a year.

2013 Subaru WRX Special Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru wrx special editionquick spinspecial editionsubarutangerine orangewrxwrx special editionFri, 14 Dec 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20400148/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/14/2013-subaru-wrx-special-edition/20400148/article-detail.xml 20400148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/wrxlead-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/wrxlead-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX and WRX STI Special Editions hit SEMA just in time for Halloween]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/subaru-wrx-and-wrx-sti-special-editions-hit-sema-just-in-time-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/subaru-wrx-and-wrx-sti-special-editions-hit-sema-just-in-time-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/subaru-wrx-and-wrx-sti-special-editions-hit-sema-just-in-time-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI Special Editions - front three-quarter view

Subaru has pulled back the curtain on a pair of 2013 WRX and WRX STI Special Edition models ahead of their debut at the 2012 SEMA Show, which kicks off today in Las Vegas. Each car bows with a unique orange and black color scheme that carries over into the cabin. With black wheels, badges and side mirrors, it should easy to pick these machines out of a crowd. Indoors, designers have graced both sedans with a black headliner and the seats feature orange contrast stitching.

Mechanically, the Special Edition models remain unchanged from their more ordinary counterparts, which means buyers will enjoy 265 horsepower from the WRX and 305 ponies from the more muscular WRX STI. Even so, the flashy paint and trim might be enough to drag buyers to the showroom - if you count yourself among that crowd, best get to getting. Subaru is only planning to produce 200 examples of the WRX and another 200 of the WRX STI. Check out the official press blast below for more information, and stay tuned for our live shots from the SEMA show floor.

Continue reading Subaru WRX and WRX STI Special Editions hit SEMA just in time for Halloween

Subaru WRX and WRX STI Special Editions hit SEMA just in time for Halloween originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru wrx special edition2013 subaru wrx sti special editionsemasema 2012special editionsubarusubaru wrxsubaru wrx stiwrxwrx stiTue, 30 Oct 2012 14:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20365307/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/subaru-wrx-and-wrx-sti-special-editions-hit-sema-just-in-time-fo/20365307/article-detail.xml 20365307 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-subaru-special-editions-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-subaru-special-editions-628.jpg <![CDATA[Up close and personal with David Higgins' 2012 Subaru WRX STI Rally Car [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/up-close-and-personal-with-david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-ra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/up-close-and-personal-with-david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-ra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/01/up-close-and-personal-with-david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-ra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Riding Shotgun With The Four-Time Rally America Champ



There's nothing quite like the sound of a high-strung boxer engine in full rage. Each dip of the throttle sends the opposed four-pot barking and popping like some sort of caffeinated prehistoric beast as David Higgins shoots his very unique 2012 Subaru WRX STI through a tight section of chicanes on the back side of the DirtFish Rally School's 315-acre playground. He's traveling at the approximate speed of a Japanese bullet train, if bullet trains spent the majority of their time sideways and on ball bearings.

An hour ago, this car was cleaner than a sundress on Sunday.

The cacophony can likely be heard all the way from Snoqualmie Valley to the hipster bars in downtown Seattle, but situated as I am in the passenger side of the car, all I hear is the rush of gravel pelting the machine's underbelly and my own laughter. Higgins has just sent his hyperactive triceratops pirouetting around a teardrop-shaped hairpin, pivoting the nose on a group of photographers at the apex. He took time to give the group a friendly thumbs-up before grabbing another gear and leaving them all in a cloud of Washington State silt.

An hour ago, this car was cleaner than a sundress on Sunday, meticulously prepared by the guys at Vermont SportsCar. We caught up with the team who built the machine that Higgins drove to his fifth Rally America Championship win last month for a look at what makes this car so damn fast.

Continue reading Up close and personal with David Higgins' 2012 Subaru WRX STI Rally Car [w/video]

Up close and personal with David Higgins' 2012 Subaru WRX STI Rally Car [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Oct 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 subaru wrx sti rally cardavid higginsdirtfishdirtfish rally schoolrallyrally americarally america championshipsubarusubaru wrx stivermont sportscarvideowrxwrx stiMon, 01 Oct 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20329080/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/01/up-close-and-personal-with-david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-ra/20329080/article-detail.xml 20329080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-8-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/david-higgins-2012-subaru-wrx-sti-8-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Subaru WRX caught hot-weather testing in the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2014-subaru-wrx-caught-hot-weather-testing-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2014-subaru-wrx-caught-hot-weather-testing-in-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/2014-subaru-wrx-caught-hot-weather-testing-in-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Subaru WRX spy shot

Few mainstream hot hatches have tugged as many heartstrings in the last decade or so than the Subaru WRX. From its turbocharged four-cylinder heart to the traction of its all-wheel-drive footprint, Rex has been the benchmark by which others are judged since its debut in the States as a 2002 model. Suffice it to say that the next WRX, due in 2014, has mighty big shoes to fill.

Judging by the spy photos you see above, those shoes will be planted under bodywork that's not particularly different from that of the standard Impreza. We'd be lying if we said we weren't hoping for a bit more pizazz from this fourth-gen WRX, but most of its tepid styling - assuming these images are indeed indicative of the 2014 WRX - would be forgiven if the machine boasts more turbocharged performance than ever before.

As you can see, Subaru's engineering team brought along a current third-gen WRX hatchback for testing alongside the new model, and a brief comparison shows how much more restrained the styling of the latest Impreza is when compared to its forebear. We also note what appears to be an intercooler sticking further up into the hood scoop than the third-gen model, which could mean a turbocharged version of Subie's new FA engine is underhood. We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, peruse the images above and carry on speculating.

2014 Subaru WRX caught hot-weather testing in the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20142014 subaru wrx2014 subaru wrx spy shotsspy photosspy shotssubaruwrxFri, 24 Aug 2012 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20308922/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/24/2014-subaru-wrx-caught-hot-weather-testing-in-the-states/20308922/article-detail.xml 20308922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2014-subaru-wrx-mule-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2014-subaru-wrx-mule-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru WRX Club Spec 11 unveiled for Australians]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-unveiled-for-australians/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-unveiled-for-australians/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-unveiled-for-australians/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX Club Spec 11

Our friends in Australia will soon be able to get their hands on the latest incarnation of the Subaru WRX Club Spec. Like its predecessors, there will only be 300 WRX Spec 11 models produced, each available in either black or tangerine orange with black 17-inch alloy wheels and an STI rear spoiler. For a little extra cash, buyers can pony up for an STI package that includes a front lip spoiler, short shifter and strut brace. While the STI kit typically costs $2,136 at current conversion rates, Subaru has cut the price to just $1,019 for Club Spec 11 buyers.

Indoors, each of the special-edition creations feature a numbered plaque, and tangerine-color cars wear orange stitching on their leather seats. Black models will rock standard red stitching. If you call the southern continent home and want to make one of these super-rare dress-up kits your very own, get cracking. The cars go on sale in August, and each one carries an MSRP of $41,490 MLP, or $42,216 in American cash.

Subaru WRX Club Spec 11 unveiled for Australians originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaclub spec 11subarusubaru wrx club spec 11wrxwrx club specwrx club spec 11Tue, 10 Jul 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20274455/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/10/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-unveiled-for-australians/20274455/article-detail.xml 20274455 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/subaru-wrx-club-spec-11-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Subaru WRX previewed by Advanced Tourer concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru Advanced Tourer Concept - live from 2011 Toyko Motor Show

There was nary a peep of discontent about the looks of the Subaru Advanced Tourer concept revealed at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. But when everyone was clamoring for Scooby to transfer the Advanced Tourer's looks to a production vehicle, never once did people ask for that transfer to be foisted on the WRX. A report in Motor Trend, though, says that's what's happening: the concept "was actually an early look at the next-generation Subaru WRX."

MT's sources said the front end Advanced Tourer's front end will go onto the WRX, with other aspects of the concept made more aggressive to suit the personality of Subaru's rally-ready racer. And if the concept also presages the next WRX's dimensions, then you can expect the next-generation sedan and hatchback to be larger (though in truth we don't anticipate a big gain in footprint).

Notice the name "Impreza" hasn't appeared anywhere in our discussion yet. Subaru is reportedly dropping the name in an attempt to get more 'Likes' for the WRX by making it more approachable, so the next model will relinquish its association with the Impreza line and be more performanced focused even as it is receives a better interior and is morphed into a "more-mature sporty grand tourer." Engine choices are still being debated for the car due in 2015; the rumored options include 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders and a hybrid version of the 1.6-liter.

Next Subaru WRX previewed by Advanced Tourer concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 subaru wrxadvanced tourer conceptimprezaimpreza wrxsubarusubaru advanced toursubaru wrxtokyo 2011tokyo motor showwrxwrx stiFri, 18 May 2012 16:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240705/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/18/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-advanced-tourer-concept/20240705/article-detail.xml 20240705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/subaruadvwrx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/subaruadvwrx.jpg <![CDATA[Next Subaru WRX previewed by Japanese Legacy's 2.0L turbo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-japanese-legacys-2-0l-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-japanese-legacys-2-0l-turbo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-japanese-legacys-2-0l-turbo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Subaru WRX STI

The next-generation Subaru WRX and WRX STI are still shrouded in a cloak of secrecy. Or is it indecision? Either way, Car and Driver is reporting that when Subaru eventually pulls the wraps off whatever is going to wear the WRX badge, there's going to be a turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter FA-series engine underhood, a derivative of the naturally aspirated engine that's found in the Subaru BRZ.

How does the venerable buff book know this? Because the turbo'ed flat-four has already appeared in the Japanese domestic market Legacy, making 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission. C/D says that engine differs from the one in the BRZ in that it uses Subaru's own direct injection system rather than one coming from Toyota.

In the standard WRX, horsepower numbers are expected to be a bit lower than in the JDM Legacy, though the STI version will probably see power boosted. C/D says the new 2.0-liter engine is supplanting the 2.5-liter Subaru has been using due to fuel economy considerations, though there's also something to the notion of consolidating powertrains to reap greater efficiencies in manufacturing.

Next Subaru WRX previewed by Japanese Legacy's 2.0L turbo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brzlegacysubaruwrxwrx stiWed, 09 May 2012 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234497/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/next-subaru-wrx-previewed-by-japanese-legacys-2-0l-turbo/20234497/article-detail.xml 20234497 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-review-opt-1336570539_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-review-opt-1336570539.jpg <![CDATA[Puma becomes RallyCross team sponsor, releases obligatory Gymkhana vid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/05/puma-becomes-rallycross-team-sponsor-releases-obligatory-gymkha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/05/puma-becomes-rallycross-team-sponsor-releases-obligatory-gymkha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/05/puma-becomes-rallycross-team-sponsor-releases-obligatory-gymkha/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Subaru PUMA RallyCross

With a couple of high-level U.S. defectors from the RallyCross series into other motorsport disciplines there was a domestic vacuum at the top, and we know what nature thinks about that. Enter German shoe/sportswear Puma, which is throwing its sponsor dollars behind the factory-backed Subaru PUMA Rallycross Team.

Dave Mirra heads up the trio of drivers, joined by Bucky Lasek and Sverre Isachsen, and they'll run all six RallyCross rounds this year in 2012 WRX STi's. Of course, you can't properly launch a team without some smoke and sliding action, so you'll find that in the video after the jump. And make sure to peep the "Zombie Cat" Puma skeletons on the cars while you're at it...

Continue reading Puma becomes RallyCross team sponsor, releases obligatory Gymkhana vid

Puma becomes RallyCross team sponsor, releases obligatory Gymkhana vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 May 2012 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bucky lasekdave mirramotorsportspumarallycrosssubarusverre isachsenvideowrxwrx stiSat, 05 May 2012 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20231886/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/05/puma-becomes-rallycross-team-sponsor-releases-obligatory-gymkha/20231886/article-detail.xml 20231886 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/pumarallyxteam_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/pumarallyxteam.jpg <![CDATA[Next Subaru WRX to use electric turbocharger?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/next-subaru-wrx-to-use-electric-turbocharger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/next-subaru-wrx-to-use-electric-turbocharger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/next-subaru-wrx-to-use-electric-turbocharger/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Subaru WRX

Subaru has been trying to figure out the direction for its three-headed monster, as the Impreza and its WRX and WRX STI variants have grown increasingly at odds over the past two generations. Now this gets thrown into the mix: When the new WRX gets released in late 2013, it may ditch the traditional exhaust-gas powered turbocharger for a new, electric design.

That's right, according to The Sydney Morning Herald, Subaru is working on an electric turbo, shades of those computer-fan-sourced "power adders" you used to see advertised in the back pages of Sport Compact Car a decade ago. Except we would assume Subie-parent Fuji Heavy Industries is developing a design that actually works. According to the report, heat from the exhaust would be captured, but instead of using the exhaust pressure to turn the turbocharger's turbine, the heat energy would be converted to electricity, which would then spin the impellers. This could be more efficient, as well as eliminating the piping and turbo lag.

While that sounds neat and all, we're not so sure we want to see an unproven technology like this applied to one of our favorite affordable performance cars. Unless, of course, it allows for BMW M3-like performance in a $30,000 car.

Next Subaru WRX to use electric turbocharger? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric turboelectric turbochargerfuji heavy industriesimprezasubaruturboturbochargerwrxwrx stiThu, 03 May 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20229968/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/next-subaru-wrx-to-use-electric-turbocharger/20229968/article-detail.xml 20229968 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2011-subaru-wrx-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2011-subaru-wrx-review.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: 2002 Subaru WRX makes tracks into our heart [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-subaru-wrx-makes-tracks-into-our-hear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-subaru-wrx-makes-tracks-into-our-hear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-subaru-wrx-makes-tracks-into-our-hear/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

eBay 2002 Subaru WRX with Dominator Track System

Among the many exploits of Ken Block we've posted on over the years, we've always loved this video of his Subaru WRX STI fitted with tracks at all four corners. So when we got a tip on an eBay Motors auction for a similarly equipped WRX, we were tempted to head up I-75 to check out the car in person.

The Subaru is for sale in Chassell, MI, some 550 miles north of Detroit in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, way up in the Keweenaw Peninsula, which extends into the middle of Lake Superior. With apologies to our friends in Canada, it's about as far north as you want to go when the snow flies. And the snow flies a lot in the Keweenaw, thanks to a wicked lake effect that dumps more than 200 inches of the white stuff every winter. Yes, that's over 17 feet of snow, but it's nothing compared to the winter of 1978-1979, when the area got almost 30. So if you're wondering why anyone not named Ken Block would fit a track system to their Impreza, well, now you know.

Alas, this year Michigan has not seen much in the way of winter, even up in the frosty north country. With just 120 inches of snow through the end of February and temperatures that pushed into the upper 70s on St. Patrick's Day, getting around the Keweenaw right now does not require tank-like traction - or even four-wheel-drive.

Whether that's motivated the seller or not, we don't know, but we do know what would motivate us to buy: The promise of next winter.

Click past the jump to see video of this eBay Motors find kicking up rooster tails, or check out all the pictures in our gallery.

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: 2002 Subaru WRX makes tracks into our heart [w/video]

eBay Find of the Day: 2002 Subaru WRX makes tracks into our heart [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002 subaru impreza2002 subaru wrxdominator track systemimprezaimpreza wrxsubarutanktank treadstrack systemtracked vehicletracked wrxvideowrxTue, 03 Apr 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20206390/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/03/ebay-find-of-the-day-2002-subaru-wrx-makes-tracks-into-our-hear/20206390/article-detail.xml 20206390 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2002-subaru-wrx-with-dominator-track-system-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2002-subaru-wrx-with-dominator-track-system-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Big decisions loom for next Subaru WRX this week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/big-decisions-loom-for-next-subaru-wrx-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/big-decisions-loom-for-next-subaru-wrx-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/big-decisions-loom-for-next-subaru-wrx-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Subaru WRX STI S206

Subaru is currently plotting the future of the next-generation WRX STI. Company delegates from various world markets are currently headed to Japan to decide whether the rally bruiser will continue to be a hardcore racer straight from the factory or if it will head in a new, somewhat posher direction. According to GoAuto.com (and previous reports), the new STI will be significantly different from the base Impreza and WRX, and that difference may translate into a more upscale performance model. Think something along the lines of a BMW M or a Mercedes-Benz AMG machine.

Regardless of which direction the model takes, odds are we can expect to see a turbocharged version of the new 2.0-liter dual-overhead cam boxer four-cylinder currently found in the Forester. Nick Senior, Subaru Australia Managing Director, has been quoted as saying the engine is compatible with forced inductions, countering earlier reports.

While Senior says he hopes the STI will continue to be a rally thoroughbred, his vote only counts for so much. Australia is the fourth-largest Subaru market behind the U.S., Japan and China.

Big decisions loom for next Subaru WRX this week originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imprezastisubarusubaru wrx stiwrxwrx stiTue, 28 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20180926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/28/big-decisions-loom-for-next-subaru-wrx-this-week/20180926/article-detail.xml 20180926 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[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 -1 2