Subaru Information site, all years and models
Buying a Subaru? Research price, cost, specifications, colors, rebates, options, photographs, magazine articles, reviews and more.

other sites
crash tests: summary by model, 
nhtsa.gov, hwysafety.org, iihs.org; 
Carfax, NADA, KellyBlue Book, Edmunds
subject to change, correction, updating.

Factory Parts www.AllSubaru.com
Aftermarket performance parts, pgrades
WorldOnePerformance.com
Independent Subaru Repair Smart Service, in Shoreline and Mukilteo, Wa

This unofficial Subaru Research site is designed to help you learn about Subaru and is not authorized, approved, sponsored or supported by Subaru or any dealership. Suggestions, tips welcomed. Send to Joe Spitz (internet Subaru sales in Seattle) who is solely responsible for content. All info subject to change, correction. Comments and links have been edited. All info subject to change, correction, updating. contact

Rebates, Rates 9/3-30: 08 Tribeca 0%x63mos or $3750; 08 Outback XT, 3.0R $1500 +3.9%; 09 Outback $1000 +4.9%; 09 Legacy $500 +4.9%;  09 Forester 4.9%;  08 Impreza sign & drive lease; check rebate, rate page for all programs.
Certified Pre-Owned (cpo): what is means, years available, warranty, finance interest rates .
Forum for Subarus and Bricklins, plus right hand drive postal cars ...
Buy a Subaru- discount prices on all new cars, also have a selection of lightly used.
Canada- I sell pre-owned lightly used Subarus to Canadians, not new ones. More info, how it works here

9/3 August sales. A good month for the Forester, a bad one for the Tribeca.
US sales 18,932 cars, which is +14% over August 2007. 2008 YTD total is 129,298 which is +6% over August 07 YTD 122,165. Impreza 5,071 (+15%), Outback 3,834 (-15%), Forester 6,763 (+73%), Legacy 2,402 (+24%), Tribeca 862 (-53%)
Canada sales. For some reason SCI doesn't release full numbers. Total 1,861, +26.3% over August 2007, and the best August ever. The previous August record was 1,542 set in 2002. Impreza 913 (+14.3% over August 08), Forester 549 +125.9% !

9/2  Subaru of America is good employer. Back in May, 2009, SoA was ranked #2 on the Best Adoption Friendly Workplaces in America list released tby the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. 
Today, September 2, SoA announced that it has also earned the top rating of 100% for their treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender employees and consumers in the 2009 Corporate Equality Index (CEI) annual survey administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Subaru joins the ranks of 259 other major U.S. businesses which get top marks for their treatment of LGBT employees and consumers. 
"We are very proud to accept this recognition. Due to the diverse insights, talents and perspectives our employees contribute, we have built a culture that is cohesive in operation, strong at heart and a company where our employees work with pride," said Tomohiko Ikeda, chairman, president and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc. "Together we hope to create a reputation of distinction, service and respect." 
The CEI rated 583 businesses evaluating non-discrimination policies, health and domestic partner benefits. Subaru's efforts in ensuring LGBT equality in each of the survey's main criterion earned it the prestigious 100% ranking. 

9/1 Labor Day

8/30 Review and compare the 08 WRX, STI, Evo, BMW 135i, VW R32, Sentra SE-R, Chevy Cobalt SS, and Dodge Caliber SRT4 in the October 2008 issue of Consumer Reports.  In stores or online online subscription req

8/28 Subaru cleans up their painting process.  SIA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive) has converted from a solvent borne to a water borne paint process for Subaru production in its Lafayette facility. The company completed the switch in less than a month, during the plant's annual summer shutdown in July. The company says the new paint process reduces hazardous materials handling, improves future capacity and creates long-term cost savings. SIA chose to switch to a water-borne paint process include the positive environmental impact and reduced hazardous materials handling.

8/26 09 Impreza prices announced The 09 WRX is $645 more than the 08, 2.5GT is $455 lower. No changes announced yet for the 09 STI.  Check here WRX, STI, GT I 2.5i, Premium, Outback Sport. (contact me if you want to order an 09, takes app 6-8weeks)

8/25 09 WRX comments
from Jalopink '.. Go home!" Something about the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX makes you want to speed. And here in Canada, where they take the law literally, blatantly flouting limits really stands out. Of course, something about the WRX will always sit uncomfortably with the surrounding world, no matter the pace. While it's been modified for 2009, just one year after its launch with 41 more horsepower, stiffened suspension and STI-esque bodykit, it remains one of the ugliest cars on sale...' more
from Autoweeek: 'Automakers aren't big on admitting mistakes. Although Subaru folks won't go so far as to say they screwed up the all-new 2008 Impreza WRX introduced last year, they've already developed an improved 2009 model. You don't need Judge Judy to tell you that's an admission that they missed the target on the first attempt.  WRX devotees and the enthusiast press blasted Subaru for making the new car too soft. The people spoke, and Subaru listened. "The '08 car was a big leap forward, and it brought in a lot of new customers," said Martyn Harding, Impreza product-planning manager. "But it was just not exciting..." more
from Motortrend 'You might forgive the styling if the 2008 WRX handled anything like its less-ungainly predecessor. Subaru understands that, and has resharpened the WRX's chassis just one year into the new model cycle, while adding 41 horses and 18 lb-ft, making it a better match for the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's 237 hp and 253 lb-ft... ' more

8/21 Impreza review  'I recently had the good fortune to spend several days in San Diego on vacation with my family. My trusty ride was a Lightning Red 2008 Subaru Impreza, and it was the perfect car for the job. It’s easy to overlook the Impreza next to its more famous competitors — cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. But Imprezas, like all Subarus, come with standard all-wheel drive. Subarus are famous for their ruggedness. Early on, they became favorites of skiers and campers for their ability to get to where the action is in comfort and with economical and reliable service. 
Our test vehicle, despite its compact proportions, swallowed up our luggage with ease.. The new car has borrowed from the BMW stylebook, a common industry practice... If you are seeking reliable, even amusing, transportation with the safety of four-wheel drive, why settle for an ordinary car?'  the article

8/20 Forester, incomplete window stickers Some 09 Foresters with a lot of options may have more options than fit on the window sticker. As a result, the MSRP price on the sticker may not make sense because it includes options -not- shown on the sticker. Click here for photos of the sticker

8/17 Forester review 'When Subaru redesigned its Forester wagon for 2009, it transformed the fearless, spunky hauler from purely practical to assertively stylish. That's a big change for a model that once looked as if appearance was the last value its creators considered. As if, after so carefully crafting the vehicle's go-anywhere, all-wheel-drive power system, and its plucky, through-the-muck platform, engineers covered the workings with any old body that fit. The redesigned, 2009 model is still an upright, high-clearance wagon with a wide cargo bay and a long-running roof that's indispensable for hauling mountain bikes and kayaks and such. But like other recently styled crossovers, Forester's sleeker, more streamlined body now motors more comfortably to venues outside of outdoor recreation sites. As a result, (east coast Subaru dealer) Aaron Singer sees newcomers trading in a variety of different models to get the new Subaru. They're giving up SUVs and pickups, of course, but just about everyone is getting out of those. Singer also has new customers exchanging popular Toyota Camry sedans for Foresters. Last week he took a Nissan Altima as a trade-in...' the article

8/15 How many cars did the average new car dealer sell July, 08? The average Subaru dealer sold 27 cars in July 2008. What's important is really the number of dealers a manufacturer has. For example, there are only 82 Mini dealers in the US so those dealers dowe well.  For comparison, there are almost 600 Subaru dealers and Toyota has almost 1,450 dealers. Here's the top half of the 'sales per dealership' list for July: Toyota 143, Honda 123, Lexus 100, Nissan 81, BMW 71, Mini 62, Mercedes 60, Infiniti 51, Acura 48, Kia 43, Saturn 41, Ford 37, Chevy 34, VW 34, Mazda 33, Subaru 27, Audi 25, Dodge 19... all the way to Rolls Royce at 1 car per dealer in July.

8/14 STI ECM Reprogramming note Subaru will mail owner notification letters on or around August 15, 2008. 'SoA has initiated a Service Program (WVE-15) to reprogram the Engine Control Module (ECM) on certain 2008 Impreza WRX STI vehicles. Under certain harsh driving patterns, specifically when repeatedly or continuously operating the engine above the “red-line” (RPM above 6,700), abnormal combustion could occur resulting in serious internal engine damage in the form of broken piston ring lands. This abnormal combustion condition is the result of an “over lean” fuel mixture caused by a combination of fuel cut activation and high turbo boost. To prevent this condition from occurring, Subaru has developed a modification to the Engine Control Module software logic that will improve combustion management above “red-line” engine speed. This revised logic will not adversely affect peak vehicle performance. On or around August 14, 2008, dealers will be sent affected VIN lists by their Area Service Office. Prior to performing repairs, confirm coverage by using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry in the Dealer Communication System (DCS). Vehicles that have been updated by Subaru will appear "completed" in DCS.'

8/13 My 09 Impreza pages are almost done, including options, most specs, 2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, STI  Waiting on prices, colors, final specs. 

8/12 Dog friendly vehicles 'Five and 25 - five (actually six with a tie) models with a base price of less than $25,000 and a fuel-economy rating of close to or exceeding 25 mpg on the highway. These models all have rear-hatch entries, fold-flat seats and relatively roomy cargo areas... The Forester has long been a favorite among dog lovers who want a surefooted ride but don't want a large SUV..' the article

8/11 Forester review ' Forester strives for eco-friendly status.. Drive a SUV through certain segments of society and you're likely to be derided as a fiend personally responsible for blackening the sky, raising gas prices and aiming for people in crosswalks. Why, then, don't Forester drivers, who technically are hauling around town in SUVs, face the same psychic daggers from the Green populace?
It's because Subaru has, rightly, established a reputation for well-made, smart vehicles.. Now, for 2009, it's been both blanded down and given steroids; it's bigger everywhere. What remains is a brickhouse-solid, well-laid out machine that can take it over rough city roads, busy highways and inclement weather..'  the article

8/7 09 WRX in Canada  The 2009 Impreza WRX gets the same horsepower boost as the US model. Canadians will have 
the WRX and the WRX265 with the 265 horsepower. The 2009 arrives in September.

8/5 August Rebates, Finance Rates, 09 Outback, Legacy, Forester 4.9%, $3,750 on 08 Tribeca.. check it all here

8/3 X Games rally today, Sunday, watch ABC, 3-6 ET.
3:05 Travis Pastrana with co-driver Carolyn Bosley win the Gold at XGames 14 in an 08 STI, Tanner Foust gets Bronze. Results.
Vote for the Subaru Outstanding Athlete to win the 09 WRX at EXPN.com, winner announced 9pm ET. 

8/2 2009 Impreza 2.5i, Premium, and Outback Sport preliminary details. Only a few changes. 2.5i gets VDC, rear disc brakes, brake assist, incline start on manual transmissions, body colored door handles and outside mirrors. Premium gets a power sunroof. Outback Sport gets chrome door handles.

8/1 July sales
US sales, total 16,271. Outback 3,746,  Legacy 1,748, Impreza 4,430, Forester 5,559 and the Tribeca only 788.
Canada sells a record 2,002 cars beating the previous record set April, 08 by 32. Canada doesn't announce all the numbers but have Impreza at 1,012, Forester 659, leaving only 331 for all Outback, Legacy and Tribecas for July.

7/31 New 2009 WRX details announced. It's official, the first 09 will be shown at the Los Angeles X Games July 31. 
The 09 will have a larger turbo, more boost, and an easier flowing catalytic converter, making 265horsepower@6000rpm and 244 ft torque @4000rpm, up from 224hp@5200rpm, 226torque@2800rpm. 
I'm going to call this the WRX.5... because it's half way to an STI :)
The 09 WRX also gets revised suspension with larger stabilizer bars and stiffer springs, lower profile 225/45R 17" summer tires with new gray alloys, new grill (think Tribeca?), upgraded tilt and telescoping leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, side moldings, and carbon black checkered cloth with red stitching.
The 09 Premium package picks up a new sunroof, plus fog lights, All Weather package, aero package, upgraded stereo.. 
All new 2.5i GT Premium 4 and 5 door models have the automatic 4speed Sportshift trans and the 224hp and 226ft torque like the current 08s have. Stay tuned for more details.

7/30 2009 WRX unveiled. A new 09 WRX to be given away at X Games 14, starts 7/31- 8/3, Los Angeles. Subaru is giving a WRX for the “Subaru Most Outstanding Athlete of the Games” grand prize. Subaru Rally drivers Travis Pastrana will be in car #199, Ken Block in #43. X Games 14, follow Subaru rally teams here.

7/29 Leases scare off banks. Many vehicles, especially those with marginal fuel economy like SUVs and trucks that were also popular lease vehicles, are no longer worth their anticipated residual value at lease end, and lenders are cutting back. When a car isn't worth the residual, the lender loses money. Last Friday, Chrysler said they'd stop all leasing later this year, now Ford and GMAC are cutting back. This also happened after the Ford Explorer roll-overs in 2000. No word from Subaru..

7/28 Immobilizer keys are now standard in all models. A code is needed to cut and program them. Dealer site for lost codes https://subarudealers.locksmithsdrm.com

7/27 Impreza review  '..The Impreza – and Subaru, for that matter – focus on impressing the consumer with vehicle performance. The company has achieved just that as the Impreza is 2008 Consumer Report's recommendation and Subaru is ranked just behind Toyota in all-over manufacturer satisfaction... The Impreza looks and acts quite racy (it is actually raced in the World Rally Championships). Subaru's style caters to more of an adventurous or practical woman – but it's the reliability and safety on a vehicle like the Impreza that should speak to all women.. 
The Impreza is a 2008 Consumer Reports recommended vehicle. It has been noted by the magazine for its standard, all-wheel drive traction; short braking; low beam headlights; handling on corners. The best part about all these important accolades is the Impreza has an expected above average reliability.. Subaru vehicles are moderately priced.. The Impreza is not the most feminine nor flashest cars a female can drive, but it is one of the most reliable and with a racy attitude. It's more for the outdoor type seeking modest piazza not found in the Subaru wagons.' the article on Heels of Wheels

7/25 Impreza 2.5i review  '.. A lot of car for the cash. What a treat. A simple, sensible, pleasant car with all-wheel drive (AWD), decent fuel economy, comfortable seats and relatively good people space.
Meet the redesigned Subaru Impreza. Generally in the backwaters of consideration when shoppers head out to acquire a smallish car, Impreza now makes more sense than many rivals; it certainly makes more sense than it ever has... 
You'll find a car that you can just get into and go. No fuss. No complications.
The downside: There's not a great amount of excitement, nor a bushel of premium ambience. In fact, the insides will remind some shoppers of their last rental car — a bit barren and off-putting. 
The test car's all-wheel-drive system performed very well. It provided plenty of traction. Impreza is a pleasing machine despite the plain interior and the undistinguished exterior (which still is better than some of the "styling" you get when Japanese designers are let off the leash)...'  read the article

7/24 Brochure errors, 2009 Outback and Legacy.
The 2009 Outback brochure incorrectly indicates the 2.5i SE has a CD changer, the correct stereo is a single disc CD. 
The 2009 Legacy brochure incorrectly indicates the Legacy 2.5i SE and 3.0R models have a CD changer (they don't). The correct stereo on these models is a single disc CD. The Legacy brochure also omits that the 09 2.5i Limited has a power passenger seat in addition to the power driver seat.