Hybrid Tourer concept to spawn ultra-modern SVX replacement

Source: AutoExpress

Fans of fast Subarus rejoice – a new luxury performance sports car is ‘winging’ in.

Japanese firm has plans for a new coupé, based on the gullwing-doored Hybrid Tourer concept (left) which debuts at the Tokyo Motor Show next week.

Sitting at the top of the company’s range, it’s a spiritual successor to the much-loved SVX (right) which arrived 1991 and rivalled cars such as the BMW M3.

Likely to use the same platform as the Hybrid Tourer, power will come from a 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer engine although an electric hybrid drivetrain, like the concept’s, is possible. A Subaru insider said the car would target brawny performance motors such as the Vauxhall VXR8, which hints at a price tag approaching £40,000.

The SVX replacement is in addition to the upcoming £20,000 coupé, a sister car to the FT-86 which Subaru has jointly developed with Toyota. Set o be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2010, it will use the same body as the FT-86 – not a new design, as has been speculated – with some Subaru styling cues to differentiate it.

It will also feature the same Legacy-derived rear-wheel-drive chassis with power from a 200bhp 2.0-litre boxer engine, hooked up to a new six-speed manual gearbox.

Source: AutoExpress

Technorati Tags: subaru, hybrid, tourer, subaru concept, subaru hybrid tourer, subaru svx, new svx

Source: 7Tune.Com
Words: Justin Karow

While the regular Subaru 086A is expected to be exactly the same as the Toyota version albeit with subtle exterior/interior styling differences, it’s the high performance STi version that’s getting the most attention now that the FT-86 Concept has broken cover ahead of this month’s Tokyo Motor Show. The standard 086A of course utilizes Subaru’s EJ20 flat-four boxer engine with D4-S direct injection, an Aisin 6-speed gearbox and a rear differential as used on the Lexus IS250/350. The rumored output of 200PS has been quoted once again as to be “almost certain” but a conflicting rumor from another source sets the output as being as low as 160PS. Nevertheless, the STi Version should answer people’s prayers for more power.

Holiday Auto (HA) reports that the STi Version will use the EJ25 2.5L engine that’s expected to produce between 240 – 250PS which is enough, HA say, to turn the 086A into a true performance car. An EJ25 turbo also hasn’t been ruled out, it seems that the Toyota/Subaru partnership have gone to great lengths to listen to what customers want and if the voices are loud enough, may come through with a boosted 086A STi. In keeping with the Impreza WRX STi, the 086A STi Version will apparently get wider front and rear guards to accommodate a wider track with wider wheels and tires. The know-how gathered from tuning the suspension for the WRX STi will be used to improve the 086A’s handling characteristics, although HA stop short of saying the parts will be directly carried over. We should also expect some additional STi only aero parts such as a unique front bumper and rear trunk spoiler to give the STi Version a more motorsports inspired look.

Although it’s not confirmed yet, there’s a strong possibility the Subaru 086A STi Version will be shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show or not long after at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon and will hit showrooms shortly thereafter.

Source: 7Tune.Com
Words: Justin Karow

Technorati Tags: coupe, sti, subaru, subaru 086A, subaru coupe, subaru coupe sti, subaru ft-86, subaru sti coupe, Subaru086a, SubaruCoupe, SubaruCoupeSti, SubaruFt-86, SubaruStiCoupe

Source: Wheels24

While Toyota’s FT-86 concept car has been shown ahead of its official unveiling, a mule of the new sports car was trapped testing at the Nurburgring.

This development car looks a little odd with assorted bits tacked to its body, such as that ridiculous-looking rear diffuser, but our spies are assured this is the FT-86 mule careering around the fabled Nurburgring circuit.

The result of a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru, the production FT-86 will be powered by a 2.0-litre boxer engine from Subaru and will be rear-wheel drive.  

However, more details (and hopefully more promising images) will be revealed when the car makes its public debut at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show.

Production is expected to start in Japan in the latter part of 2011.

Source: Wheels24

Technorati Tags: subaru, toyota, toyobaru, subayota

Source: SpeedTV

Motor Trend magazine has named the revamped Subaru Outback as its 2010 Sport Utility of the Year, the second year in a row that Subaru has won the prize.

For 2009, the redesigned Subaru Forester won the coveted SUV award.

“The 2010 Subaru Outback offers a unique combination of comfort, efficiency, versatility and value,” said Angus MacKenzie, Motor Trend editor in chief. “It boasts car-like refinement, drivability and gas mileage on the road, yet is as capable in the rough stuff as all but the most off-road focused sport utilities.”

The Outback was chosen from a field of new or substantially upgraded vehicles, including many of today’s popular crossovers, that have gone on sale in the 12 months from November 1 of the previous year.

During the difficult economic climate of 2009, Subaru is one of the very few automakers who have made consistent gains in sales, year to year.

“To win the 2009 award for the Forester was wonderful enough, but to have won for the 2010 Outback this year is truly an outstanding achievement,” said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America Inc. “The Subaru Outback is an icon of performance and capability and was the original SUV alternative. Now with its improved power, economy and increased dimensions it is the complete package.”

Motor Trend editors test the SUV contestants on a three-phase system of road, traffic and off-road conditions, and judge them in terms of design advancement, engineering excellence, intended function, safety and value, the magazine said.

Source: SpeedTV

Technorati Tags: subaru, outback, subaru outback 2010, award

Source: PistonHeads

These design sketches reveal some of Subaru’s plans for its half of the new ‘Toyobaru’ coupe.

Toyota has already revealed its version and, although the Toyota FT-86 is still officially a concept, Toyota says that it is extremely close to the finished production version.

But while Toyota is heading to the forthcoming Tokyo motor show with a near-finished product, Subaru’s version hasn’t even been given the official green light yet, let alone reached the design sign-off stage.

As these pictures, leaked to Autocar show, the Subaru coupe is at a far less finished stage, with final design details still to be settled.

With an on-sale date for the Toyota of late 2011, it is unlikely that a Subaru version will be production-ready in time to hit the showrooms simultaneously - especially since Subaru has far fewer R&D resources to call upon.

The Toyobaru is also a controversial idea within Subaru, being well out of Subaru’s comfort zone - it doesn’t have four-wheel drive and Subaru has never done a small rear-wheel drive coupe before. The thought of sharing its boxer technology and chassis development knowledge with Toyota (the Toyobaru project has been largely engineered by Subaru and will be built by Subaru) is also said to make some Subaru high-ups uncomfortable.

On the other hand, a small, rear-drive coupe would provide Subaru with some much-needed new metal and open the company up to new customers. A technical partnership with Toyota could also reap plenty of benefits in the form of potential engineering contracts to help develop new sporty Toyotas.

Source: PistonHeads

Related posts:
New Subayota Coupe will go to production under Toyota Celica name?
Fresh Subayota-Toyobaru Rumors

Technorati Tags: subaru, toyota, toyobaru, subayota, toyota subaru, celica, toyota celica, subaru celica, toyubaru, subieyota, toyota ft-86, AWD, Fuji Heavy, Fuji heavy industries, FujiHeavy, FujiHeavyIndustries, RWD, subaru, subaru sports coupe, subaru tf-86, SubaruSportsCoupe, SubaruTf-86, toyobaru, toyota, toyota subaru, toyota tf-86, ToyotaSubaru, ToyotaTf-86, subayota

Source: AutoBlog

Led Zepplin said it best, "The song remains the same." Especially if you’re an American fan of good old station wagons. You’re looking at the just-released-to-our-shepherd’s-pie-eating-brethren 2010 Subaru Legacy Wagon and we (yet again) can’t have it. Wah.

Based entirely on the fifth-generation Legacy (built right in Indiana) the Tourer comes standard with a 2.0-liter diesel boxer mill mated to a six-speed manual transmission. That particular car, the Legacy Tourer 2.0D, can hustle itself to 60 mph in 9.5 seconds, go 120 mph and get around 38 mpg. Not bad. You can also go for the Tourer 2.5i which has a 2.5-liter gasoline boxer engine and a new "Lineartronic" CVT, notable because it’s longitudinally mounted behind the boxer engine, which sounds highly efficient. The petrol-powered car is about a second slower to 60 mph and surely costs more while getting worse mileage.

We would like to remind Subaru that they are selling us Americans the Outback (which is a jacked up Legacy Wagon with plastic cladding and a name derived from Paul Hogan), the Forester (another high-riding Legacy derivative with a tall roof that looks exactly like a station wagon) and the Tribeca (the less said here, the better). Oh, and the Impreza/WRX also come as five doors. Hey, the STI is wagon-only. In fact, the only car Subaru sells in the U.S. without a rear hatch is… the Legacy. Hey Subie, you know how you made all-wheel drive standard on every car and that helped to differentiate you from the competition? Why not go all wagon, all the time and see how that sets you apart? Just a suggestion.

PRESS RELEASE:

SUBARU CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF LEGACY TOURER WITH LAUNCH OF ALL-NEW MODEL

• Fresh, modern styling for longer, wider, taller Legacy Tourer
• Peerless all-weather traction from updated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Choice of diesel or petrol ‘Boxer’ engines and manual or auto transmission
• More room inside high-quality cabin, and up to 1,726-litres of luggage space
• Recently awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating
• Five-model range on sale now priced from £23,295 (OTR)

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Subaru’s flagship Legacy Tourer, and to celebrate, the marque has launched an all-new, fifth-generation version of its charismatic estate car. On sale from 1 October, the Legacy Tourer features a bold new look, increased space and comfort for all occupants, improved dynamics and refinement, and enhanced safety.

Every Legacy Tourer offers the combination of Horizontally-Opposed ‘Boxer’ engine – in diesel or petrol guise – and Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive). This well-proven set-up, further refined by Subaru’s engineers for the fifth-generation car, has made successive generations of Legacy Tourer the preferred choice for motorists seeking a practical family car that delivers rewarding yet secure handling in all weather conditions.

The 2010 Legacy Tourer exudes on-road presence thanks to a bold front-end design and an increase in overall dimensions: the car is wider (by 50mm), taller (by 65mm) and longer (by 55mm).

The new grille (complete with ‘wing motif’) flanked by elongated headlights is both modern and instantly recognisable as a Subaru. Prominent wheel-arches hint at the impressive power running through the Symmetrical AWD system, while the strong belt line and a chrome-rimmed glass-house give the Legacy Tourer a premium feel.

The luxurious and spacious interior has been completely redesigned to give occupants more room and to improve comfort levels. For example, front headroom has risen by 21mm over the previous model, and legroom for rear-seat passengers increases by 99mm, aided by an 80mm increase in wheelbase.

Key to the Legacy’s sustained appeal over the years has been the practicality it offers buyers, and the latest incarnation is no different. Boasting a generous 526 litres of stowage capacity with the 60/40 split rear seats in place, the new model offers an additional 67 litres over its predecessor. Fold the rear pews flat, and a cavernous 1,677-litre cargo hold is created.

In a revised engine line-up, buyers will now be offered a choice of Subaru Boxer engines: either 2.0-litre diesel or 2.5-litre petrol. A six-speed manual unit comes as standard with the diesel, while the petrol benefits from the new in-house developed ‘Lineartronic’ automatic transmission.

This all-new ‘next generation’ transmission system is mounted longitudinally behind the boxer engine, ‘Lineartronic’ is a fully automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT)-type unit that enables the engine to operate continuously at the most efficient part of its rev-range – resulting in strong, linear, seamless acceleration and maximised fuel economy.

On the road, the New Legacy Tourer offers competitive performance and economy. Top speed for the diesel-powered model – expected to be the most popular choice for private and business motorists – is 120mph, with a 0-62mph time of 9.6 seconds. Fuel economy is an outstanding 46.3mpg (combined cycle) and its CO2 emissions figure is 161g/km.

The 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol unit generates a maximum output of 167ps and torque of 229Nm at 4,000rpm. By adopting the i-Active Valve Lift System (i-AVLS), combined with the new Lineartronic automatic transmission, top speed for the automatic model is 120mph with a 0-62mph time of 10.3 seconds.

Subaru has adopted a revised MacPherson strut front suspension design, with the lower arm mounted on the sub-frame for greater stability and refinement. The thickness of the stabiliser (anti-roll) bar has also been increased, improving roll resistance and offering even greater agility.

Underneath the ‘new-look’ styling, the New Legacy Tourer has a completely re-engineered all-steel unitary structure that delivers the highest crash safety performance. The vehicle was recently awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.

"The fifth-generation Legacy Tourer is a flagship model and a new technical benchmark for Subaru," explains Paul Tunnicliffe, Subaru’s UK Managing Director. "Our vehicles are designed to be different from other cars, and the new Legacy has been conceived to take on premium-brand rivals with a unique blend of attributes. Its arrival marks the latest stage in the resurgence of the Subaru brand in the UK, and it is a very fitting way of celebrating the 20th anniversary of the first Legacy."

Legacy’s loyal customer base of over 3.6 million buyers worldwide has come to expect high levels of standard specification, and the latest version will not disappoint. Standard on all derivatives are alloy wheels, tilt-and-slide sunroof, heated front seats, six CD tuner with RDS and six speakers, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic activation for wipers and headlights.

Prices start at £23,295 for the 2.0D S, and range up to £27,295 for the 2.5i SE NavPlus Lineartronic. The five-strong range

Source: AutoBlog

Technorati Tags: 2010 Legacy Tourer, 2010 Legacy Wagon, 2010 Subaru Legacy Tourer, 2010 Subaru Legacy Wagon, 2010LegacyTourer, 2010LegacyWagon, 2010SubaruLegacyTourer, 2010SubaruLegacyWagon, Legacy, Legacy 2.0D, Legacy Tourer, Legacy Tourer 2.0D, Legacy Tourer 2.5i, Legacy Wagon, Legacy2.0d, LegacyTourer, LegacyTourer2.0d, LegacyTourer2.5i, LegacyWagon, Lineartronic, Subaru, Subaru Legacy Tourer, Subaru Legacy Wagon, SubaruLegacyTourer, SubaruLegacyWagon

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Source: Carscoop

Finaly, some real stuff. Toyota has just released very first official photos of the long-awaited Toyota FT-86 aka Subayota Toyobaru. It’s a near-production concept car and it’s developed in cooperation with Subaru. Toyota FT-86 is a rear-wheel drive coupe(remember it’s predecessor, highly popular in mid-1980s RWD Toyota Corolla Ae86 aka hachi-roku?) that will make its debut at the motorshow in Tokyo later this october.

Well, as we can see on these photos, this concept has nothing to do with previously posted images:

New Subayota Coupe will go to production under Toyota Celica name?
Fresh Subayota-Toyobaru Rumors

“The FT-86 Concept is neither an electric vehicle nor a hybrid vehicle, but is a sports model with a gasoline engine developed to convey the essential appeal of automobiles in a new era. It is a must-see concept car that expresses TMC’s desire to once again create a Toyota sports car,” the Japanese automaker said in a release published on its official site.

The compact-sized coupe is powered by a front-mounted, 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine sourced from Subaru that drives the rear wheels. Official details are still scarce, but our sources tell us that Toyota opted to equip the concept model with a naturally-aspirated version of Subaru’s 2.0-liter flat flour that produces 150HP in the Impreza.

However, it is most likely that the Japanese automaker has tweaked the engine to crank out a few more ponies boosting output closer to 200 horsepower.

It’s worth noting that in Japan, Subaru also offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer with 250HP that powers the Impreza S-GT that we all know as the WRX in most markets.

It’s still too early to know which powertrains will be available on the production version of the FT-86, but Subaru’s 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engines (depending on the market) in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms would have to be the most serious candidates.

The coupe is quite compact in dimensions measuring 4,160mm (163.7-in.) in length, 1,760mm (69.3-in.) in width, and 1,260mm (49.6-in.) in height with a wheelbase of 2,570mm (101.2-in.).

The FT-86 Concept was penned at Toyota’s European Design Development ED2 studio that’s located in Nice, France. The exterior design, which obviously won’t change much when it reaches production in 2011, is clearly inspired by Toyota’s FT-HS hybrid concept that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2007. And yes, we must admit that our first take is very positive.

Needless to say that the FT-86’s interior styling is far too conceptual for production, but it does provide a hint or two (no more though…) at the design direction Toyota is taking with the production model.

As we’ve already said before, the FT-86 will also spawn a Subaru version that will share the same underpinnings and mechanical hardware but according to the two Japanese automakers, will feature its own distinct styling. Hopefully, Subaru’s "design team" won’t disappoint us this time…

Source: Carscoop

Technorati Tags: subaru, toyota, toyobaru, subayota, toyota subaru, celica, toyota celica, subaru celica, toyubaru, subieyota, toyota ft-86

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

For some reason, some members of Block’s team decided it would be a good idea to try to jump on the hood of the STI while it was doing donuts on the salt flats, and one of them ended up getting side-swiped and bounced off Block’s rear wheel like a rag doll. That’s gotta hurt.

Source: Autoblog

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Technorati Tags: Video, Drift, Fun, 2009 subaru impreza wrx sti, ken block, travis pastrana

Source: Reviews @ Cnet

For the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, Subaru built this Hybrid Tourer Concept, which manages to combine many of the latest trends in automotive development. Most major manufacturers are working on some kind of sporty touring car these days. Witness the BMW 5 series Gran Turismo, the Acura ZDX, and the Audi A5 Sportback. The Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept appears to aim at similar ground, although its profile is less sporty. The gullwing doors are a unique feature for a production car, but not so much for a concept.

As its name suggests, the car is also designed as a hybrid, using a system under development at Subaru that would combine two electric motors with a turbo-charged 2-liter four-cylinder boxer-style engine. That boxer engine is a signature Subaru piece, along with the all-wheel-drive that would be standard on the car. But Subaru is using the concept to introduce a new gas engine, with direct injection, that should find its way into production vehicles.

As a full hybrid, the Tourer Concept would be able to drive under electric power at low speeds before having the engine kick in. Along with the new engine, Subaru is also introducing a new continuously variable transmission, called Lineartronic, designed specifically for all-wheel-drive vehicles.

The Hybrid Tourer Concept also serves as a platform for a new driver assistance technology being developed by Subaru called EyeSight. This system is designed to monitor the terrain ahead using a stereo-optic camera, while at the same time communicating with infrastructure and other cars. The system would keep the driver aware of upcoming traffic conditions and hazardous situations, and enable adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

Source: Reviews @ Cnet

Technorati Tags: subaru, concept, subaru concept, subaru hybrid tourer, subaru hybrid, subaru tourer, subaru hybrid tourer concept

Source: AutoBlog

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

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

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

Source: AutoBlog

Technorati Tags: subaru, impreza, wrx, sti, carbon, subaru impreza, impreza sti carbon, carbon subaru, subaru impreza wrx sti, subaru impreza wrx sti carbon

Source: Chicago Tribune

Workers at a Subaru plant in central Indiana cheered as its 3 millionth vehicle reached the end of the production line.

The Lafayette factory celebrated the milestone Tuesday, just a couple weeks after it marked the 20th anniversary of its opening.

Senior vice president Tom Easterday told workers that he’d bet on the plant completing its next million vehicles sooner than planned because of the popularity of the Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback and Toyota Camry models now being built there.

About 3,300 people currently work at the plant, where production peaked at 216,198 vehicles in 1998 and is projected at 158,000 this year.

Source: Chicago Tribune

Technorati Tags: subaru, plant, indiana, lafayette factory

Source: Autocar

Subaru has added its 2.0-litre Boxer diesel engine to its five-door Impreza range.The horizontally opposed common-rail engine has not featured in the Impreza range before due to the exchange rate between the pound and the Japanese yen.

All UK Subaru models are imported from Japan and it has never been economically viable to put the boxer engine in the Impreza until now.

The boxer diesel produces 148bhp and 258lb ft of torque. It helps power the Impreza from 0-62mph in 9.0secs and reach a top speed of 127mph. Combined fuel economy is 47.9mpg and it has a claimed range of 670 miles on a single tank of diesel. CO2 emissions are 155g/km.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloys, HID headlamps with pop-up washers, electrically-folding door mirrors and front projector foglamps.

Inside, it features a six CD player with MP3 capability, cruise control, windscreen wiper de-icer, climate control, front, side and curtain airbags and heated sports seats.

Source: Autocar

Technorati Tags: subaru, diesel, impreza, subaru diesel, boxer diesel, diesel impreza

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

While we have to admit that the finished product isn’t filled with as many jaw-slackeningly awesome moments as the pair of videos that proceeded it, it’s an amusing coquet while we wait for Gymkhana 3.0, a film that will presumably involve a borrowed space shuttle, a runway full of banana peels, and at least one octogenarian goat herder. The 3:49 production is worth watching just for Dyrdek’s custom “Mini Me” go-kart, which we want parked in our lawnmower shed yesterday.

Make sure that you’ve watched first two parts of Gymkhana: Gymkhana 1 Drift Practice, Gymkhana 2 Subaru Drift Madness.

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Technorati Tags: Video, Drift, Ken Block, Subaru, Impreza, STI, Subaru Impreza STI, Impreza STI, Gymkhana, segway, donut, donuts, drifting, dc shoes

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THINKING MAN’S HIGH-PERFORMANCE CAR

Source: Motoring.Co.Za
By Denis Droppa

The new generation Subaru Impreza WRX hatchback launched here in 2007 reminded me of a star athlete showing the first signs of flabbiness.

The suspension was softer, the acceleration figures were good but not fantastic. It was still fast and handled well but felt like it had spent some time sitting on the couch munching high-cholesterol snacks.

And, although looks have never been Subaru’s strongest point, the rather unfortunate styling of the WRX hatchback really stretched brand loyalty.

Recently Subaru SA addressed this by replacing the WRX and 2.0R hatches with sedan models, leaving the high-performance STi as the only hatch in the range. The sedan is built on the same wheelbase as the hatch but is 165mm longer with a wing on the boot.

Along with its extended bum the WRX also got a testosterone boost. The turbocharged 2.5-litre DOHC boxer engine has a bigger turbo and an upgraded exhaust to hike outputs to 195kW and 343Nm (26kW and 23Nm stronger than the outgoing WRX hatchback), making it the most powerful WRX yet and edging closer to the STI’s 221kW and 407Nm.

There’s nothing changed in the Impreza’s all-wheel drive system, which still apportions a standard 50/50 front-to-rear power split, varied to a certain extent by a viscous coupling depending on driving conditions.

However, the suspension has been tweaked for better handling with slightly stiffer springs, beefed-up roll bars, and wider (225/45 R17) rubber.

I wondered whether this would bring the car back to its finely-honed athletic best.

A few minutes behind the wheel confirmed that the WRX sedan, like the hatch it replaces, is still a very driveable, everyday-user-friendly car. It wafts over rough roads without dislodging teeth or spinal discs but has some serious bite when prodded.

It accelerates quicker than ever and takes corners just as fast - on bumpy roads probably even faster than its firmly sprung predecessors - and, although this Scooby has a more civilised side, it still does the business when you’re driving in all-guns-blazing mode.

Subaru hasn’t forgotten what sprinkles Tabasco on an enthusiast driver’s oyster - that came through loud and clear during a few laps around Gerotek’s ride and handling circuit.

There’s a tad more body roll but less understeer than in WRX’s past, ensuring a super-crisp turn-in as the noise snuggles into the apex. The car dances through turns with the typically sharp, fleet-footed feel that has made the WRX badge revered in high-adrenalin lore.

The more compliant suspension allows the car to be driven quicker through bumpy mountain passes, rather than skittering about like a drop of water on a hot stove, while a new steering damper reduces kickback on bumpy roads.

EXTRA FIREPOWER

The engine also makes a suitably charismatic sound, a burble distinctive to its pugilistically-arranged cylinders, so it rates favourably on the aural scale.

The extra firepower was clearly evident in the car’s more spirited feel and subsequently confirmed by our testing equipment when we recorded 0-100 in 6.2sec and a 14.3sec quarter mile at altitude, compared to the 7.4 and 15.1 attained by the less muscular hatch.

The WRX is officially restricted to a top speed of 210km/h but your Subaru dealer can ungovern it to 233km/h. All you have to do is ask - and that apparently applies to most governed Subaru models.

Earlier, two-litre turbo WRXs were notorious for turbo lag, which made them go from meek to manic in a sudden rush. The 2.5’s power delivery is more linear and thus more civilised, although the kettle still only starts boiling at 4000rpm.

The main changes to the cabin include black trim mouldings, WRX-embossed sport seats, instrument lighting in red, aluminium pedals and metal trim around the centre console and door handles.

VERDICT

The hardcore street-racer brigade might lament a slight softening of the WRX’s character but it’s definitely not a case of there being a wheeze where once was a snarl.

I call this the thinking man’s high-performance car; it balances finesse and user-friendliness with great sporting ability. Yin and Yang in harmony.

The rough edges have been filed off and the WRX has become a more complete car without losing any of its dynamic ability.

Source: Motoring.Co.Za
By Denis Droppa

Technorati Tags: subaru, impreza, wrx, wrx 2009, subaru impreza wrx, subaru impreza wrx 2009

Source: AutoBlog

The 2010 Legacy will be the most fuel efficient Subaru in the Japanese automaker’s US lineup, but only when it’s powered by the 2.5i boxer engine mated to a CVT transmission. According to the EPA, that powertrain returns 31 mpg on the highway, a full four mpg better than the six-speed manual. With fuel economy standards set to climb over the next decade, Subaru is going to need more mpg success stories, and more CVTs could be a big part of the equation.

Japan’s Nikkei Sangyo business daily reports that Subaru will flood its product lineup with CVTs over the next two years, starting with the popular Forester and Impreza models. The CVT, which is made at Subaru’s engine plant in Oizumi, will eventually be offered on all models.

While the CVT is new for larger Subarus, the company has been using the transmissions in JDM city cars since 1987. Last week, Subaru began using a CVT in its Japan market Exiga MPV, which will soon be extended to the Australian market.

Source: AutoBlog

Technorati Tags: subaru, legacy, subaru legacy, subaru cvt, legacy cvt, cvt, subaru legacy cvt, jdm, transmission, cvt transmission

Source: StraightLine
By Mike Lysaght

Subaru has one-upped its standard STI with the Spec C, a performance-tuned edition only for the Japanese market.

The JDM-spec 2.0-liter turbo boxer four remains under the hood, but the automaker fitted redesigned ball-bearing-type turbocharger to reduce friction and remapped the ECU to improve throttle response. The top-mounted intercooler also gets a water sprayer to keep intake air temps constant even under high-load conditions. Output remains at 304 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, although this is still more torque than the 290 pound-feet provided by the 2.5-liter boxer in the U.S.-spec STI.

The Spec C treatment also adds an aluminum hood, smaller battery and revised laminar window glass to keep weight to a minimum. The STI’s doughnut spare is gone, too, replaced by an inflator kit.

Cornering is improved thanks to a reinforced front crossmember, stiffer springs and the switch from a Torsen-type limited-slip rear differential to a mechanical limited-slip diff. Lighter 18-inch aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight, and they’re wrapped in 245/40R18 Bridgestone Potenza RE070 rubber. Subaru also says it has improved the steering feel by increasing oil flow volume in the power steering unit.

The Subaru WRX STI Spec C hit Japanese dealers yesterday, and only 900 units will be rolling off the line at Fuji Heavy Industries. Exclusive exterior colors for the Spec C are Sunrise Yellow and Pure White, but based on press photos, you can get it in WR Blue Pearl, too (as if that was ever in doubt).

If one pic’s not enough to satisfy your Spec C craving, make the jump for more. Videos, too, with ample driving footage, though the commentary’s in Japanese. 

Source: StraightLine
By Mike Lysaght

PRESS RELEASE

FHI to introduce the Subaru Impreza WRX STI spec C

Tokyo, July 23, 2009 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today launches the "Subaru Impreza WRX STI spec C", a new addition to the current WRX STI line-up. The model goes on sale today through Subaru dealerships in Japan.

Based on the Impreza WRX STI, the iconic sport model of Subaru, the WRX STI spec C model features enhanced engine and chassis performance as well as a lighter body on the premise of driving in motor sports. The model further strengthens its presence in the high performance car arena by offering sheer excitement and unique driving sensations as a distinctive road sport model, in line with the performance level originally delivered by the Impreza WRX STI.

The turbocharger newly adopted ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, and the ECU (Engine Control Unit) program was also exclusively tuned. Thus the engine of the spec C model provides quicker response and improved accelerating performance. Thanks to its specially designed front & rear suspensions and improved body rigidity, the chassis offers stable and linear driving control even in marginal driving conditions. The adoption of an aluminum engine hood, laminar window glasses and a downsized battery resulted in a lighter body, which further polishes the model’s driving performance.

Subaru enhanced the WRX STI line-up by introducing this STI spec C model, in addition to the STI A-Line model, the AT version introduced in February this year.

Outline of Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C

Enhancement of Engine performance:

•• Ball bearings of the turbine axle were newly adopted to reduce friction in the turbocharger. With the optimized ECU programming, the engine offers smoother and quicker response to the accelerator pedal and excellent accelerating performance.
•• An inter-cooler water spray prevents rise in intake-air temperature at continued high-load driving, providing stable engine performance and improved efficiency.

•••• ••••:

Enhancement of Chassis performance:

•• Reinforcement of the cross member in front-suspensions offers a linear steering response.
•• Specification changes in damping force of suspensions, coil spring rate, rear stabilizer and rear sub-frame bushes optimize rigidity for body roll and retain excellent road-holding capability.
•• Rear LSD (Limited Slip Differential) system was changed to a mechanical type from a Torsen type to obtain the steady and powerful traction during cornering.
•• Bridgestone "POTENZA RE070" (245/40R18) were adopted to enhance cornering ability and higher grip performance, especially in dry conditions.
•• Nimble handling with a firm steering feel is assured by increasing oil flow volume in the power steering system.

Lightened body:

•• An aluminum engine hood and a downsized battery, which make the front section of the vehicle lighter, produce better maneuverability.
•• Laminar glasses were adopted in the front and side windows. They lightened the upper section of the body weight, resulting in improved stability during cornering.
•• Newly-designed lightweight 18-inches alloy wheels are standard to offer excellent road-hugging property by reducing unsprung weight. (17-inches alloy wheels are optional)
•• A flat tire repair kit is standard, which also helps weight reduction.

Others:

•• A structural change of fuel pomp provides stable fuel delivery even on high-load driving.
•• Gold colored "brembo" brake calipers are standard.
•• The front bucket seats (fabric with red stitch) are standard on models with 18-inches alloy wheels.
•• The "RECARO" seats (Alcantara and leather combination with red stitch) are optional on models with 18-inches alloy wheels.
•• Two exclusive exterior colors are available; Sunrise Yellow and Pure White.
•• The production is limited to 900 units.

Major specifications:

-Engine type: Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbocharged engine

-Displacement: 1,994 cc

-Maximum output: 227kW (308 PS)/6,400 rpm

-Maximum torque: 422 Nm (43.0 kgf·m)/4,400 rpm

-Turbo type: Ball-bearing type twin scroll turbocharger

About Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI’s Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation.

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