Showing posts with label Subaru. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Subaru. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Gallery

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Front Angle View2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Front Angle View

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i 2.5-liter flat-4 Boxer engine2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i 2.5-liter flat-4 Boxer engine

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Interior2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Interior

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Side View2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Side View

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Rear View2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Rear View

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Proper winter tires are more important than all-wheel drive

winter tires
With the adoption of front-wheel drive as the mainstream power delivery system of choice, the semi-annual ritual of swapping snow tires has largely disappeared for most Americans. In many northern areas, all-wheel drive has become an increasingly popular choice when offered as an option. But as much help as putting power through all four wheels can be, it simply can't substitute for a good set of snow tires.

Ultimately, grip comes down to four patches of rubber and if they're unable to make solid contact, the number of drive wheels becomes irrelevant. This became abundantly clear this past weekend while driving a new 2010 Subaru Legacy. The Legacy is a plush, roomy mid-size sedan with excellent outward visibility and Subaru makes an excellent symmetrical all wheel drive. Unfortunately, its all-season tires lacked traction. Read on after the jump for more.


On dry pavement all-wheel drive can be a major boon by splitting the tractive workload and leaving the front wheels to take handle steering. In the snowy conditions we endured this past weekend, it can also help claw its way through the snow. However, most cars can put out more drive torque than the tires can transmit. That means it's not at hard to spin up all four wheels when accelerating, at least until the traction control kicks in.



Now as much as we enjoy to exploit slip angles, it's best to keep the car within the limits of adhesion. Lack of grip is a fundamental problem with all season rubber and all-wheel drive won't help you get around an icy corner or halt forward progress at a stop sign. Without traction, the Subaru still had trouble turning and it was pretty easy to get sideways before the stability management kicked in.

The only solution to is fit tires that maximize grip in these conditions. All the major tire manufacturers produce winter tires and we highly recommend them to anyone living in areas subject to snowy winters no matter how many wheels are driven. The easiest thing to do is just by an extra set of rims and have the tires mounted. When winter arrives, put on the snows and stack the summer tires in the corner of the garage or basement, then reverse the process in the spring. It's money well spent, and certainly cheaper than body repairs and hiked up insurance premiums.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Tokyo 2009: Subaru Legacy B4 GT300

Subaru Legacy B4 GT300

Our jaws literally dropped when we spotted this car in the Subaru booth here at the Tokyo Motor Show. The concoction of carbon fiber spoilers, wings and widened fenders seen here is the Legacy B4 GT300 racecar that is set to compete in Japan's Super GT series next year. The car actually made its racing debut at Fuji Speedway last month, and even though previous driveline problems prevented this racer from making an even earlier debut, the B4 GT300 managed 300 trouble-free kilometers to finish a respectable 18th place.

As for specs, the Legacy B4 GT300 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer-four that pumps out more than 300 horsepower. With all-wheel drive, a six-speed sequential transmission, and a curb weight of just over 2800 pounds, we imagine it's an absolute blast to pilot around the track.

Tokyo 2009: WRX STi Carbon

WRX STi Carbon

Most people we talked with don't seem to understand the point of the Subaru WRX STi Carbon unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show – but it's a JDM-only car, and frankly, there are a lot of things that outsiders don't understand about the Japanese market.

The carbon-roofed A-Line will come with two choices of engine, but since the model isn't earmarked for America, we probably don't need to worry about it. That said, the powerplants are as intriguing as the car: a 2.5-liter turbo with 296 horsepower, and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo with 305 hp. Both will operate through the only tranny on offer: a five-speed automatic. If you got past that last sentence, there's also suede inside. So you'll be more comfortable shifting... your automatic.

Tokyo 2009: Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept

Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept

The Subaru Hybrid Tourer is sharp-nosed and an all-out sharp piece of car. The car's flat floor hides two electric motors, one aft that powers the car in low-speed acceleration and assists with acceleration, and one up front connected to a direct-injection turbocharged gas engine. The Tourer is also fitted with Subaru's trademark symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a Lineatronic CVT transmission.

As for its design, Subie officials tell us that the nose points the way for Subaru's new corporate face and the rest of the car indicates the general design language we'll see from the brand represented by the Pleiades. "It will be anti-Bangle, editing, not adding – cars have too many character lines now." But forget about the gullwing doors -- those were fitted to provide the best view of the interior.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

The 2009 Subaru Forester


Built on a new chassis, the 2009 Subaru Forester gets a fresh appearance, edging away from the prior design. To improve its center of gravity, the engine sits 0.4 inch lower. Track-width dimensions have increased, which may improve stability a bit. Front doors open wider, and pillars have been modified. Back doors now open almost 90 degrees. Rear frame height now matches that of an ordinary sedan. Subaru claims more usable cargo space than its main rivals, though actual volume has not grown.

Dimensions have increased considerably for the new generation. Wheelbase has grown by 3.6 inches (to 103), and the 2009 Subaru Forester is 1.8 inches wider and 2.9 inches longer overall. That's still shorter than Subaru's Impreza. Rear legroom is 4.3 inches longer this time, making it surprisingly roomy. "Where it's bigger is where it matters," said corporate communications director Michael McHale. Rear occupants also get 2 more inches of shoulder room, while front riders gain 2.6 inches.

A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted on a subframe, bumps up the cargo space as well as potentially improving ride quality. The hood on turbo-engine models has a more integrated, less extreme air-intake hump.

Because wind noise bothered some customers, roof crossbars, which used to be standard, have moved to the options list. Cruise-control buttons are located on the steering wheel. A telescoping steering wheel is now available, and cupholders hold one-liter beverages.

Subaru's 2.5-liter horizontally opposed "boxer" four-cylinder engine comes in regular or turbocharged form. In 2.5X models, the non-turbo engine produces 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm, driving either a five-speed manual or four-speed Sportshift automatic transmission. Only automatic is available with the 2.5XT, whose dual-overhead-cam turbocharged engine generates 224 horsepower at 5200 rpm. Basic engine output has dropped slightly, but low- to mid-range torque has improved a bit and the turbo edition promises a flat torque curve. Fuel economy is just about the same as before, except that the manual-shift model is 1 mpg less frugal.

Every Subaru has all-wheel drive, but the one that mates with the turbo engine is more sophisticated in the way it apportions torque to the wheels. Foresters can tow up to 2,400 pounds. Ground clearance is 8.9 inches with the turbo engine (8.7 in regular form). Most models now ride on 17-inch wheels.

An altogether enjoyable vehicle, the Forester proved its off-the-pavement capabilities during an arduous drive through the wilds of California's Catalina Island. Even in the most challenging spots, the Forester demonstrated its prowess with ease. Though it coped well with severe bumps and holes, some unpleasant sounds occasionally emanated from down below.

Acceleration is modest in 170-hp form, and the turbo model isn't exactly stirring, either. It also suffers some turbo lag when pushed hard. Even so, performance is more than adequate for a compact crossover/SUV. Automatic-transmission operation is hardly discernible, but Subaru's manual gearbox is not the greatest.

Expect excellent ride quality, as the compliant suspension absorbs nearly all commotion. Even on rough dirt roads, the Forester only occasionally penalizes occupants significantly. Foresters are highly maneuverable, too, and mostly quiet though the rather high-revving non-turbo engine is heard frequently.

Front seats are roomy, comfortable, and inviting. Rear leg and foot room qualify as shockingly spacious, even with front seats pushed fairly far back. A large speedometer is easy enough to read, but a little "busy" looking. Subaru Foresters are "known for superior visibility," McHale said, and the 2009 model demonstrates that trait well. Views all around are undisturbed.

2009 Subaru Forester's starting price, for the base 2.5X model with a manual transmission, is $19,995 (plus $665 destination charge). That's $1,200 lower than the price of the least-costly 2008 Forester. For 2009, too, Subaru has made Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and curtain-type airbags with rollover sensing standard in every model. VDC is Subaru's version of stability control. Front active head restraints also are standard.

So, is it a crossover or an SUV? "Crossover SUV" is the latest term, said communications director McHale. "Consumers like to think they're buying SUVs."

autoMedia.com providing quality automotive information designed to enlighten and entertain the most discriminating car enthusiast, is a team of accomplished automotive journalists serving consumers automotive advice they can trust. Read more of their popular car reviews and road tests like this 2009 Subaru Forester, as well as reviews on all Subaru models.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Flammang

Thursday, September 10, 2009

The Subaru Impreza WRX


The 5th running of the Targa West Tarmac rally was held between August 20th and 23rd, in and around Perth Western Australia. Consisting of 30 special stages, this years Targa West saw ten WRX cars of varying age and specifications compete against some of the fastest cars on the planet.

Last year's winner Steven Jones was in one of 3 new Nissan GTR 35's which would provide tough competition, although with former British rally champion Alister McRae in a brand new Ralliart prepared Mitsubishi EVO 10 in the same category, he wasn't going to get it all his own way. Local driver Dean Herridge took the wheel of a 2008 WRX STI, relegating former Australian rally champion father Rob, to a 2005 model, one of five WRX cars entered under the Maximum Motorsport banner.

While the GTR35's proved unbeatable on the long open stages, the 2008 sti driven by Dean, was the first of the WRX cars across the finish line in third place outright, some 1 minute 36 seconds quicker than the Lancer Evo 10RS driven by former British champion Alister McRae.

WRX STI's also took out 7th, 9th and 10th places in the modern competition category. Ivan Thompson took 7th place in his MY06 model STI and impressively, Brendon Winterbourne drove his MY99 model 1999 impreza WRX to 9th place ahead of a myriad of Mitsubishi Lancer EVO's, V8's and Porsche GT3's.

So it is a great testament to the engineers of Subaru and prodrive that have produced WRX cars over the past 15 years that have consistently excelled in the race & rally environment, but are still within reach of the average rally competitor. This Year's Targa West has proven that 10 year old wrx cars can outperform newer vehicles costing many times the price, so the Subaru Impreza WRX is definitely an excellent choice if you are looking for an ultra competitive rally car. It was also great to see the mighty MK1 Escort in the classic category - another rally legend still going 40 years on.

Alan Blackmore is a business owner, motorsport enthusiast and writes for a number of online motoring resources including:

Wrx Cars and WRX Tuning
Mk1 Escort Rally Preparation

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Blackmore

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

subaru legacy

subaru legacy
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subaru legacy pictures
subaru legacy pictures
subaru legacy wallpapers
subaru legacy wallpapers
subaru legacy
subaru legacy

Thursday, July 30, 2009

2010 Subaru Impreza pricing announced, Premium model $1,000 cheaper

2010 Subaru Impreza

Good news for you folks in Colorado. Subaru has released pricing for the 2010 Impreza, and while most of the new models are the same price as the '09s, one model gets a price cut. Not only that, but all Imprezas now feature Symmetrical AWD badges (woohoo!). The base car's price remains unchanged at $17,495, however the big news is the Impreza 2.5i Premium gets its price slashed by $1,000 to $18,495. Not too shabby. Also of interest is that pricing for the 265-hp WRX remains unchanged at $24,995 for the sedan and $25,495 for the five-door. And in case you're wondering, an Impreza is a WRX sans turbo and a few other rally-it-up bits. The name means "Buy Me or Else" in Denver.

[Source: Subaru]


PRESS RELEASE

Subaru Announces Pricing On New 2010 Impreza
  • Record-breaking model prices largely unchanged for 2010
  • Premium model price now $1,000 lower

CHERRY HILL, N.J., July 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. has announced pricing of the 2010 model year Impreza line-up, including a new Special Edition Package available on the Impreza 2.5i Premium.

Pricing for the Impreza model, which set a sales record in 2008, begins at an unchanged $17,495 for the 170-hp 2.5i with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard. (All 2010 Subaru models feature new Symmetrical AWD badging.)

Impreza blends fun-to-drive performance, safety, and functionality with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making it an unmatched value in the compact segment. As well as receiving the highest possible ratings in IIHS crash tests, and being listed as 2009 IIHS "Top Safety Pick", the Impreza also scored NHTSA five-star crash test ratings for frontal impact for both the driver and front passenger, a five-star rating for the driver side impact, and a four-star rating for the rear passenger side impact.

The Impreza 2.5i Premium is reconfigured for 2010, with pricing starting at $18,495 - $1,000 less than the 2009 model.

Impreza 2.5i, 2.5GT and Outback Sport models add a stylish new grille and an attractive new exterior color Camellia Red Pearl is available on 2.5i & 2.5GT models. GT models are powered by a 224-hp intercooled turbo Boxer engine and teamed to standard 4-speed automatic transmission and Active AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

The value continues with the introduction of the new Special Edition Package that includes power moonroof and fog lights as well as the All-Weather Package. The Impreza 2.5i Premium with the Special Edition Package starts at $18,995.

Bluetooth hands-free cell phone capability is now standard on 2.5i Premium and WRX Premium models with the navigation system.

For 2010, the Impreza Outback Sport model adds Paprika Red Pearl/Steel Silver Metallic and a new two-tone exterior color, and retains its starting price of $19,995.

The performance-oriented 2010 Impreza WRX has a starting price of $24,995, again unchanged from last year and is available exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission. The All-Wheel Drive Impreza WRX features a 2.5-Liter DOHC inter-cooled turbocharged engine delivering 265 horsepower, a new exterior side sill, 225/45 R17 lower profile summer performance tires, 17-inch alloy wheels, an Aero Package, WRX upholstery w/red stitching and WRX logo on front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and red stitching, and STI type grille w/WRX badge. The Impreza WRX 5-door model has the same features as the 4-door, plus a rear spoiler and has a starting price of $25,495.

Pricing for the high-performance model WRX STI, which for 2010 features black alcantara trim and a black center console with red stitching also remains unchanged at $34,995.

Destination and delivery for all 2010 Impreza models is $695 (excluding Alaska).

More information is available at www.subaru.com.

2010 Impreza Model Pricing

Impreza 4-Door Models

2.5i 5MT $17,495 $18,190
2.5i Auto $18,495 $19,190
2.5i Premium 5MT $18,495 $19,190
2.5i Premium Auto $19,495 $20,190
2.5GT Auto $26,995 $27,690
WRX 5MT $24,995 $25,690
WRX Premium 5MT $27,495 $28,190

Impreza 5-Door Models

2.5i 5MT $17,995 $18,690
2.5i Auto $18,995 $19,690
2.5i Premium 5MT $18,995 $19,690
2.5i Premium Auto $19,995 $20,690
Outback Sport 5MT $19,995 $20,690
Outback Sport Auto $20,995 $21,690
2.5GT Auto $27,495 $28,190
WRX 5MT $25,495 $26,190
WRX Premium 5MT $27,995 $28,690

STI 6MT $34,995 $35,690

Options

Code Description MSRP
01 Base Model N/A
11 Special Edition Package $500
12 Navigation and Power Moonroof Package $3,000
14 Navigation System $2,000
15, 25 Silver/ Gold BBS Package $2,000
16, 26 Silver/ Gold BBS Package + Navigation System $3,800

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

First Drive: 2010 Subaru Outback

2010 Subaru Outback

Before there was such a thing as a CUV, there was a jacked-up four-wheel drive wagon called the Subaru Legacy. A few special editions later, the Legacy Outback edition birthed the stand-alone Subaru Outback in 1995. The precedent was set, establishing the wagon as polymath, master of numerous disciplines: durability, capability, wide range, ease of use and maintenance on-road and off. The styling, however – well, you weren't really buying a Subaru for its styling. Autoblog went to Montana to drive the fourth-generation 2010 Subaru Outback, and all we needed was one look to realize there's finally a Subaru for the rest of us. Then we drove it, and it just got better.

Subaru might be less known for the character of its cars than for the kinds of characters who buy them. The Japanese automaker does its job so well that when someone says "I own a Subaru," it rarely comes as a surprise – your internal dialogue replies, "Ah, of course you do... that explains a lot..." While that might be something to chortle at, Subaru has done so well with its cars and its characters that the company has posted the lowest sales decline of any automaker this year at just 0.8%. It also sold more cars in the U.S. in June of this year than it did in June of 2008, one of only two makers to do so.


What does one do after it succeeds? Keep working. And with the 2010 Outback, Subaru went to work on everything, but it's the styling that makes the biggest impact. See, Subaru wagons are not unlike camels: When you need a ride that can go out and stay out, enduring with little-to-no assistance over testing terrain, and keep you comfortable along the way, you can't go wrong with a Subaru. Or a camel. It's just neither are stylistically compelling.

To our eyes, that's changed with the 2010 Outback. It will certainly attract the brand's usual characters; but much more importantly, it has character. It's not a lozenge with cladding – it's a properly designed vehicle with significantly contrasting planes, lines and details. So much so, in fact, that our first reaction to it was, "That's a good looking car." Outside of the mid-90s WRC Imprezas, that's a line we've yet to uttered when discussing a Subaru.


It's easy to go astray when trying to make a car's surface more three-dimensional. The Outback doesn't do that. The flares on the hood, the pronounced arch cutouts, the sharpened kink from the greenhouse to the body, along with the Outback's overall increased squareness – not to mention the polygon headlights – works well in photos and even better in person.

You can now get all of that sweet, nutty Subaru-ness in a traditionally handsome package.
None of this is revolutionary; you can see the evolution from the current Outback, and many of the new Outback's features entered the design vocabulary elsewhere. What we're saying is that it's handsome, which means you can get all of that sweet, nutty Subaru-ness in a traditionally handsome package. The come-hitherness of a wild horse that hides the indestructibility of the aforementioned camel makes us say, "Yes." What's more, the good news is shared with everyone: There are three trim lines, but the only stylistic difference between the top line (Premium) and the other two is a different color for the front lower lip.

The other noteworthy exterior design detail is the roof rack. The crossbars can be retracted so they sit flush with the roof rails, then extended when you need to carry something. It's a layout that cuts down greatly on wind noise and it's been designed to fit Subaru models up to ten years old.


The sharpening and edging tool that reshaped the exterior was also used to recraft the interior. The pile-up of roundness found on the outgoing steering wheel has been ditched in favor of contrasting, scalloped arms and larger buttons. The instrument panel follows the same general shape, but instead of curves alone there are hard joints, including where the center stack meets the tunnel, and the detail lines that increase the texture and accentuate the dimensionality. And of all makers, Subaru has come up with an ersatz textured metal trim that actually feels and sounds just like metal.

We only had two tiny quibbles with the cabin – one was the inset area atop the dash that contains the clock and outside temperature. We like the way it looks, but we wished that information was on the eight-inch navigation screen. The other thing was the perforated leather; when paired with the perforated leather inserts in the doors, it just began to look like everything had holes in it. But again, these are tiny quibbles, and they only stood out because everything else was love-it-and-forget-it.


And that's easy to do when the cabin is capacious. The Outback has grown 4.1 inches taller and two inches wider, but is 0.8 inches shorter due to decreased front and rear overhangs. The extra height and width were almost directly translated into nearly 13 more cubic feet of cabin room, with larger front seats providing more head, shoulder and hip room, and an increase by four inches of rear legroom and two additional inches of toe room under the front seats. Unless you belong in the WWE or you're an NBA draft prospect from China, sit in the back of the Outback and your legs will not touch the front seats.

Your freight gets more breathing room as well. The tailgate is wider, the floor is lower, and the packaging of the new double-wishbone suspension combine to add a shade less than one cubic foot of extra cargo room over the current car with the rear seats up, and a tad less than six cubic feet with the rear seats down. Those rear seats, by the way, are one-touch fold-down with a 60/40 split, and also recline. The hauling space behind them can be covered with a retractable tonneau, and when you don't want to mess with the cove you can hide it in the subfloor, accessed by lifting the up the rubber mat and carpet.

Subaru has also added features for occupants. Directly as a result of customer research – and the realization that "We carry a lot of junk in our cars" – the center armrest cubby is larger, the cabin has been filled with bins, and the front visor has a ticket holder (Subaru is based in New Jersey, home of a ticket-fest turnpike). Electronically speaking, every 2010 Outback gets an "Auto" setting for the lights, a telescoping wheel, an electronic parking brake, and a revised Hill Hold Assist that keeps the car motionless until you press on the throttle instead of releasing after a couple of seconds.


The Outback has two flavors of engine and three flavors of transmission, trim level, and AWD. The base engine is the 2.5i, an SOHC four-cylinder powerplant with 170 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. It's been given new intake and exhaust manifolds so the torque peaks at 400 RPM lower in the rev-range. It's also been fettled to improve gas mileage, returning 19 city and 27 fitted with the new six-speed manual, and 22/29 when it works with the CVT. It can also be certified as a PZEV in all 50 of these United States.

What you get is the ride of a car - not a CUV, and not even a wagon. A car.
The 3.6-liter DOHC is a boxer special that comes from the Tribeca and benefits from being expanded by six-tenths of a liter over the current Outback engine. The numbers jump to 256 hp and 247 lb-ft – with 225 lb-ft available from 2,000 rpm – and it will return 18 mpg on the highway and 25 in the city, fitted to the five-speed automatic transmission – one mpg better than the current car.

The 2.5i can be mated to the six-speed manual and the Lineartronic CVT, while the 3.6 makes do with the five-speed auto. The CVT gets a wide ratio spread and is a chain-driven unit; the chain variator route was taken because it makes the system more compact, reduces friction and improves fuel economy. With the larger, 18.5-gallon tank in the 2.5i, the Subie's range is reported to be 444 miles. The CVT also comes with paddle shifters that create a virtual six-speed transmission, with shifts taking a tenth of a second.


The number one reason people say they buy a Subaru is for the all-wheel drive. Understandably, Subaru touts the fact that all its models are equipped with symmetrical AWD and under normal circumstances the power is split 50/50 at all times, not just to the front wheels and then spread about as needed. The base 2.5i with the six-speed manual gets a continuous AWD setup with a viscous center differential and 50/50 split. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more power to the opposite set. Opt for the CVT and you upgrade to Active Torque Split AWD, an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch system that responds to driving conditions. For the five-speed automatic, the AWD setup is a variable torque distributing planetary gear setup with electric control. This option technically isn't symmetrical: the power split is 45:55 to heighten handling, but it does continuously adjust to driving and road conditions.

As previously mentioned, trim levels come in base, Premium, and Limited. Subaru threw so many things at the base level, though, that even low men on that totem pole can feel good about themselves – the base gets the steering wheel controls, the fold-down and reclining rear seat, electronic parking brake, Hill Holder, automatic lights, Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamics Control and a 3.5 mm audio jack. Nearly everything else is thrown at the levels above – there are really only two options available for the Premium and Limited trims. By the time you get to the top, the only choices left are adding a power moonroof and the navigation system that comes with a very crisp rear-view camera and the ability to use casual voice commands like "I'm hungry" to find restaurants. Nevertheless, if you're not the kind to be pampered, stick with the Premium and add the All-Weather package if the climate necessitates, and you'll be set for plush.


So. How does it all work together? Very nicely.

The 2.5i is perfectly reasonable. Subaru was able to keep the 2010's weight gain to just 95 pounds over the 2009 model with liberal use of high-strength steel, but the fact remains you're using 170 hp to pull a 3,386-pound car. We won't even bother with 0-to-60 times because Subaru didn't give them to us and (nearly all) Scooby buyers aren't concerned about them anyway, and won't be concerned about the pace as it screams "adequate." Although the car might not giddy up and holler, the CVT transmission is eager to give you what you want. You can put the car in "M" and use the paddle shifters, but you don't need to -- the car doesn't hesitate to find the power band necessary to do what your right foot is instructing, even uphill, and even at nearly a mile-high altitude.

The 3.6 is, not suprisingly, where the action is. The salubrious bump in numbers equates to a felicitious bump in zippiness. Hit the gas and go. Next?

No matter which engine we drove, though, we found the ride and refinement well sorted. The Outback is built on an all-new and more rigid platform, and the engine sits in its new cradle on hydraulic mounts. The Outback's wheelbase is 2.8 inches longer, while out back a double wishbone suspension takes over from the multi-link unit and more stout stabilizer bars are located front and rear. What you get is the ride of a car – not a CUV, and not even a wagon. A car.


Then you make a right turn at the sign for the Continental Divide, where the dirt and ruts and washboard and rocks begin, and it's pure Subaru. The Outback – every model, no matter if it wears 16- or 17-inch wheels – has 8.7 inches of ground clearance. That's half an inch more than the Toyota Venza, the car Subaru sees as prime Outback competition, and the same as a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and just 0.2 inches less than a Range Rover. The Outback is unfazed by mud, by repeatedly hitting its bump-stops, by 35-degree inclines. Pick your line, pay attention, and drive. The same Subaru experience that has made the company's name in almost every dusty, snowy, icy, yak-tracked corner of the world.

Now for the price: the 2.5i manual will subtract $22,995 from your checking account, $23,995 if you go for the CVT, plus $694 destination. That's thousands less than most of the competition Subaru has identified, such as the Venza and Volvo XC70. To get close to that you'd be looking at a Jetta SE Sportwagon, and then you lose out on the space, ground clearance and AWD. Step up to the base 3.6 and you're in for $27,995. The tippy top 3.6 Limited starts at $30,995, a $1,000 drop from the current, smaller-engined Outback 3.0 Limited, and once you get to $33,995 you're out of factory options. The MSRP on a 3.5-liter V6 AWD Venza is $30,595. You can get features on the Venza that you can't get on the Subaru, such as a tow prep package, smart key and electronic rear gate, but if you want to add a voice-controlled navigation you need the Premium 2 package which lumps $8,205 onto the bill. As for the Volvo, the fully loaded Outback is $4,000 less than the MSRP of the XC70.


And if they've done their typical Subaru job, the 2010 Outback will outlive Methuselah and the only time you'll find a secondhand manual transmission car is at an estate sale.

If you need a very good car and you don't need flash, get the 2.5i with some frills. If you need a very good car and you want a little bit of zip, get the 3.6. Either way, you're buying a terrific piece of equipment that offers the fortitude of a bison wrapped in the appeal of a pony. And finally, you don't have to shop at Whole Foods to do it.

[Source: Autoblog]

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

The Subaru Impreza


It costs a small fortune to get a garage to look at your subaru let alone tune it for you. What if there was a way to do it yourself, even if your a novice mechanic. Well now there is.

You will learn

The essential checks you can perform to reduce the garage costs on your car. Effective maintenance is essential for making sure that your lovely subaru continues to give long lasting and reliable service.

You will als learn about the subaru intake and exhaust systems - Look at how to improve the stock Subaru intake and exhaust and how an aftermarket exhaust and intake can help put back some of the aural character that is lacking on the standard WRX. Learn the four critical things you can do to improve the intake system on your Subaru.

Now i was no expert on car mechanics, sure i could change my oil and fit new spark plugs the whole thing about engines just seemed to complex for me. Don't get me wrong i'm not saying i'm a qualified mechanic after this course, but i can now get more power and speed from my subaru with a few simple steps.

When it comes to modifying your subaru impreza, I have not found a place online that comes even a close runner up to what you will find here. This information will take you right to the heart of tuning and modifications. Best of all you do it yourself without the hefty garage bill.

About the Author

If you want to get more out of your subaru check THIS out.


Monday, June 22, 2009

2010 Subaru Legacy gets its EPA numbers, hits 31 mpg highway

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The 2010 Subaru Legacy is bigger, wider, and more powerful than ever, yet the engineers made a point to increase fuel economy as well. The new Legacy will hit 31 mpg on the highway and 23 around town, but you'll have to opt for the 2.5i model with the CVT transmission.

With the more enjoyable 6MT transmission, fuel economy isn't such a great story. The row-your-own 2.5i model will only get you 19/27. Step up to the Legacy manual trans 2.5 GT or the 3.6R with the five-speed auto and you'll have to settle for 18/25, which is actually decent considering the fact that you're getting plenty of power and AWD.

Beyond the more competitive powertrains and improved fuel economy, the new Legacy also starts at a competitive $19,995. We can't think of another vehicle that has room for five, AWD and a price tag under $20,000, making the Legacy a very competitive option in the mid-size market.

PRESS RELEASE:

Subaru of America, Inc. Announces EPA figures for 2010 Legacy

PRNewswire
CHERRY HILL, N.J.

- Subaru Legacy Sedan achieves 31mpg Hwy -

- Best MPG figures for mid-size AWD in U.S. Market -

- Better economy than many front-wheel drive competitors -

CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America today announced the EPA fuel economy results for 2010MY Legacy. The 2010 All-Wheel Drive Legacy achieves up to 26 mpg combined and 31 mpg highway, despite having grown in size in almost every dimension.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080325/SUBARULOGO )

Specifically, the Legacy 2.5i CVT now exhibits better fuel economy (EPA combined) than such Front-Wheel competitors such as Honda Accord, Mazda6i, VW Passat and Hyundai Sonata. Furthermore, the new Legacy is now the highest rated midsize AWD sedan (EPA combined) in the U.S. market for 2010MY.

Tim Mahoney, senior vice president and CMO of Subaru of America said, "We are thrilled that the all-new 2010 Legacy not only offers more space and a more rewarding drive than the competition, but it also delivers better fuel economy at a very competitive price."

The Subaru Legacy comes with Subaru's legendary Boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, quick-ratio steering and a new double-wishbone suspension system. The 2010 Legacy has an entry-level price of $19,995 (excl. delivery) and will provide an alternative for customers looking for more from the mid-sized sedan segment.

2010MY EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
Legacy 2.5i 6MT 19 mpg city / 22 mpg combined / 27 mpg hwy
Legacy 2.5i CVT 23 mpg city / 26 mpg combined / 31 mpg hwy
Legacy 2.5GT 6MT 18 mpg city / 21 mpg combined / 25 mpg hwy
Legacy 3.6R 5AT 18 mpg city / 21 mpg combined / 25 mpg hwy

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel-efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

What's best Subaru Impreza o Mitsubishi Evo?


The first Mitsubishi Evo arrived in 1992 and the Subaru Impreza quickly followed it one year later. From that moment on, these two cars became arch rivals who would frequently lock horns both on the tough stages of the World Rally Championship, and in the pub bragging stakes as the debate raged over which was better, the Impreza or the Evo.

On paper both these cars seemed identical; both had 2 litre turbo charged engines, both had permanent four wheel drive and through the many variations that followed both grew increasingly more conspicuous wings, spoilers and flared wheel arches.

No matter which one of these Japanese road rockets you eventually favoured, the general consensus of opinion was that for a single lap of the race track the edgy Mitsubishi Evo was considerably more fun. However for the drive to and from the track you would stick with the more comfortable, but just as capable Subaru Impreza.

Sadly whilst both the Impreza and Evo were born to compete on the demanding gravel, tarmac and mud strewn roads of the word rally stage, both manufacturers have now withdrawn from the competition, and the kudos and respect that it once drew has been lost. After all, where else could you see your favourite car win a round of the world rally championship at the weekend, and then use the very same version for your Monday morning commute.

As their rallying glory days start to slip in to the past, Mitsubishi and Subaru have now released new versions of their fabled road cars in the shape of the Evo X, and the Subaru Sti. However, is the era of the four door supercar eater starting to pass? Especially now as the front wheel drive hot hatch seems to be making such a resurgence.

Whilst Mitsubishi has continued with the four door saloon theme, Subaru has bravely branched out and made the new Impreza a hatchback. Time will tell whether this has been a wise move, however from their powerful xenon headlight bulbs at the front to their high winged spoiler at the back, both cars still look ready to take on a rally stage, and more importantly both cars have the performance and handling to humble more exotic machinery.

Sadly the motoring press has not been too kind to either of these new versions, with many believing that previous generations of both the Evo and Impreza offered more involvement and driver enjoyment. This problem has been compounded by the new range of hot hatches from Ford, Vauxhall and Renault, which offer similar levels of performance for a lot less fuss.

The latest Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Evo are still incredible cars, however they no longer have the field to themselves and as car manufactures seek to economise further on their production, we may start to see these niche models disappearing.

Jo Alexander writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote but should be considered professional content.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jo_Alexander

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

The 2008 Subaru Impreza


The 2008 Subaru Impreza could have been more better if the manufacturer would have care to put some more viable changes to the engine and other features. The affordable small car is ranked quite low for its outdated power train and uninspiring style. However the Impreza could only impress the drive when it comes to fuel efficiency and some amount of safety features. Subaru counts this car among the sporty vehicles of time but to be sporty small car it requires some quality.

The all new Subaru Impreza is a all wheel drive car which is ranked low because of its failure to provide good engine choices. The newly redesigned car could not match the new designs of today's needs. Subaru also provided Impreza wagon and Impreza WRX which are performance oriented cars. The performance of WRX is somewhat reliable but the Impreza midsize car could not impress the critics and auto lovers much.

Under the Hood:
The Subaru Impreza has been criticized for it's under performance and less powerful engine features. Let us see what it utilizes under the hood. The Impreza is installed with a standard 2.5-liter aluminum alloy 16-valve boxer engine which makes 170 horsepower and also 170 pound feet of torque. This power is not enough to give the acceleration the present American generation wants. The car can achieve the benchmark of 60 miles per hour in just 9.1 seconds. The smooth line of four-cylinder engine can perform but when it's a Subaru Boxer engine it must have added some more power. The car can achieve 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway. This is not so impressive because there are other affordable mid size cars like Toyota Camry and others which have more powerful engine and can do the same.

The Subaru Impreza WRX which is performance oriented car has been able to offer impressive performance with its 305 horsepower, 290 lb-ft 2.5 liter four cylinder engine. This car can achieve the milestone of 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds.

The other model of Subaru called Legacy too used the same engine which the Impreza uses but it has more power options that the 2008 Impreza model. Legacy has a choice of another engine of the car is a 2.5 liter four-cylinder turbo charged engine with 243 horsepower and 241 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. Moreover there is the is the 3.0 liter six cylinder Subaru boxer engine which makes 245-horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm. This engine with a five-speed automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT rev-matching control can give only 17/24 mpg at its bes

Got Engines Inc. specializes in
used engines, and
transmissions

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Hanson