Entries Tagged 'News' ↓
February 10th, 2010 — Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25, News, Random, blizzak, bridgestone, tire rack
Just a quick post here – A friend of mine just notified me that Tire Rack has the Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25 on closeout! However, only a few select sizes are left. Hurry up and grab a set while you can!
Check out the Bridgestone Blizzak LM-25 at TireRack today!
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December 29th, 2009 — 2009 Subaru, News
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
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December 28th, 2009 — News
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
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December 28th, 2009 — 2010 Subaru, News, Subaru Concepts
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
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December 28th, 2009 — 2010 Subaru, News
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
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December 27th, 2009 — 2009 Subaru, News
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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December 26th, 2009 — 2010 Subaru, News, Subaru Concepts
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
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December 26th, 2009 — News
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
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December 26th, 2009 — 2010 Subaru, News, Subaru Concepts
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
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December 26th, 2009 — 2009 Subaru, Donuts, Drifting, Fun, Motorsports, News, Videos
We’ve seen Ken Block and his gang of misfits perform plenty of crazy cool stunts in their Crawford-built 2009 Subaru WRX STI. Block’s stupefyingly accurate power slides never seem to get old, no matter how many times we see his 566 horsepower (at the wheels!) STI come within millimeters of disaster. It is cool, however, to see Block and his friends add a little something extra this time around.
After the jump is video of Block and Travis Pastrana (on a motorcycle) having a good old time setting some land speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The STI is still present and accounted for in all its adhesion-defying glory, but the speed records are being sought on some garbage cans, a big wheel, and "a $3 Wal-Mart plastic sled." Looks safe to us.
For some reason, some members of Block’s team decided it would be a good idea to try to jump on the hood of the STI while it was doing donuts on the salt flats, and one of them ended up getting side-swiped and bounced off Block’s rear wheel like a rag doll. That’s gotta hurt.
Source: Autoblog
» View other Subaru videos
Technorati Tags: Video, Drift, Fun, 2009 subaru impreza wrx sti, ken block, travis pastrana
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