SUBARU NEWS AND REVIEWS FROM CALENDAR YEAR 2011 

Subaru News, Magazine Reviews, Links from 2011 . Includes Tribeca, Outback, Legacy, Forester, Impreza, WRX, STI,  Baja, Hybrid, Diesel, Concept Cars.

Latest News is on the  Homepage and is usually moved and archived here bi-monthly
top

 

GENERAL  NEWS Subaru and Fuji news, comments and links in 2011 top

Model specific news, reports, reviews, articles etc are below.
Comments and links have been edited.

12/23 Carfax or AutoCheck for Subaru Certified Pre-Owned.  Subaru considered switching the vehicle history program they use for their Certified Pre-Owned from Carfax to AutoCheck and now theres a lawsuit. Customers do ask about background when they consider a used car.
"Carfax made disparaging and false statements about another company that offers vehicle-history reports to torpedo a $2.3 million deal with Subaru, the competitor claims in a federal complaint.
 As with Carfax, consumers and dealers interested in buying a used car can buy a vehicle history report (VHR) from Illinois-based Experian Information Solutions under the trademark AutoCheck.
Experian says Carfax has contracted with Subaru for years under the dealer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. Since that deal will be up for renewal in February 2012, Subaru began to shop around and ultimately offered the contract to Experian, according to the complaint. Subaru was firmly committed to switching to AutoCheck, such that, on Oct. 19, "Subaru requested Experian's logo to incorporate into Subaru's marketing material," Experian claims.
Two days later, however, "CARFAX sent Subaru a letter clearly intended to dissuade Subaru from executing a CPO-VHR Contract with Experian," according to the complaint. "This October 21, 2011 letter contained numerous false, misleading, and derogatory statements about Experian and its AutoCheck product," Experian claims.
The letter allegedly stated that "the VHR data used by Carfax is 'vastly superior' and that using 'AutoCheck will allow a significant number of problem vehicles into [Subaru's] program.'"
It also allegedly claimed that "Carfax knows that a significant number of consumers, when faced with an unfamiliar brand of VHR will abandon the listing and come to Carfax.com to run the Carfax report."
Three days after Carfax sent this letter, "Subaru informed Experian that it was putting the brakes on its switch to Experian," according to the complaint. "Instead, Subaru said it now wanted to survey its dealers (at the suggestion of Carfax) before switching to Experian." (Parenthese in original.) 
Subaru allegedly said its survey convinced it to renew with CARFAX rather than switch to AutoCheck, a decision that allegedly cost Experian over $2.3 million in lost revenues. But Experian says "the survey questions were crafted in a manner designed to elicit biases responses from Subaru's dealers in favor of Carfax."  Experian demands punitive damages, alleging defamation, libel and interference with prospective economic advantage. It is represented by James Barton of Michael, Best & Friedrich in Milwaukee, Wis. the original article

12/21 Winter starts, and its the shortest day of the year

12/20 Saab files for bankruptcy.  And what of  Tim Cobeck, who back in May 2011 left his job at SoA Senior VP of sales to be possibly the last President and COO of Saab USA?

12/20  She works as a shopping mall Mrs. Santa Claus.  Her car - a 2005 Subaru Forester -  is stolen from the parking lot of the Mesilla Valley Mall in Las Cruces, New Mexico where she works as a Mrs. Santa Claus. So she reports it to the police and the mall fires her for negative publicity, then hires her back. And it turns out the mall doesn't even pay her pay her with money but with mall gift certificates. 
"'Twas the nightmare before Christmas for Santa's better half. She said heartache took over. There was no room to laugh.
Center stage in the mess? The Mesilla Valley Mall. 
Mrs. Claus told KFOX-14 the manager there fired her for losing her car. But pushing and fighting, the mother of Christmas finished victorious. The mall rehired her while KFOX-14 cameras were rolling, and then she felt glorious.
The Mesilla Valley Mall reinstated its Mrs. Claus -  a.k.a Gail Larkin - on Friday after firing her on Thursday for what Larkin said managers told her was a "publicity nightmare."
Larkin returned to the parking lot from a special Santa breakfast at the mall last Saturday to find her Silver 2005 Subaru Forester missing. She reported it, the Las Cruces Sun News ran an article about it, and she was fired.
"I felt like I was being punished for something that was totally out of my control," Larkin told KFOX-14 at her Las Cruces home. "I didn't ask for my car to be stolen. I think it was totally inappropriate on the part of the general manager."
That manager is Candy Allen, who KFOX-14 visited at the mall on Friday. "We have apologized and (Larkin) will be back to work on Saturday," Allen told reporter Jacob Rascon, and she refused to answer questions about the firing.
After being fired, Larkin called Allen's boss, who she said apologized to Larkin and said things would be made right. While talking with KFOX-14, Larkin took a phone call from a mall manager officially inviting her back to work."I will be delighted to be there," Larkin said on the phone. "I'm looking forward to it." She said she feels relieved but isn't ready to take Allen off her "naughty" list and said Allen is "definitely getting a lump of coal in her stocking." Larkin said she looks forward to seeing the Mesilla Valley children again.
"(They sit) on Santa's lap, asking for a coat to keep them warm in the winter, or for shoes for mommy because she doesn't have shoes without holes," Larkin said. "They don't ask for much and (I love) the joy on their faces seeing Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa."
Larkin's husband plays Santa at Fort Bliss. This is the couple's first year in the Santa business.
Larkin is still missing her Subaru. If you have information on its whereabouts, you're asked to call the Las Cruces police department at 575-528-3043." read this article
By the way... Mrs. Claus/Larkin said she had no contract and was paid in mall gift certificates.. read this article

12/10 NEW 0% finance rate available 12/10 - 1/3. NW Seattle area. No loan fee.
2012s- 0% for 36 months and 1.9% for 48-60-72 months on new 2012 Forester, Outback, Legacy and Tribeca. 1.9% for 2012 Impreza and WRX/STI for 36 months and 2.9% for 48-60-72 mo, oac.
2011s- 0% for 36 months on all new 2011 Forester, Outback, Legacy, Imprexza, WRX/STI, Tribeca. 1.9% for 48-60-72 months. oac

12/3 Fuji flies... not just Subaru.
Fuji, Subaru's parent company, shipped its 1000th Boeing 777 center wing box on November 25th. The center wing box is a major component that attaches the wing structure to the body of the plane and includes the main landing gearwheel well.  Fuji has been a part of the 777 team since the beginning and is a working on the new 787 Dreamliner too. Fuji also produces helicoptors, jets, floor cleaning robotos, sanitation trucks including one thats electric, small motors for snowmobiles, ATVs, lawn mowers etc, and back-up generators through Robin America

11/28 He's a hero, and for 38 years has driven Subarus.
Born January 26, 1917,  he participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, along with Jesse Owens, and met Adolf Hitler.
In WWII, his B-24 bomber was shot down, and he was captured after 47 days drifting at sea, fighting off sharks and being strafed by Japanese planes. He was tortured in a Japanese POW camp, and fellow prisoner fighter pilot Ace Pappy Boyington mentioned him in his book Baa Baa Black Sheep. He struggled, found God, forgave, and embraced his captors.
He's the subject of the 2010 bestseller 'Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption,' by Laura Hillenbrand.

And this 95 year old hero has driven a Subaru since 1973. That's almost at the start (1968), through good and bad years and models, and something not many people can say. Thats great PR for Subaru and I hope they make sure he's in a nice, safe, comfortable one.
"... Zamperini also still drives. He has a Subaru, his brand since 1973. "I was looking for a new car that year and I saw the Subaru headquarters in the Valley," Zamperini said. "They had a sign that said, 'We're the importer of the official Olympic car.'
"I went in and said, 'I'm an Olympian.' So they gave me a deal." read the entire article from the LA Times
Read more and get his book at louiezamperini.com,  the wikipedia page about him

11/24 When is a Subaru a Subaru?  Is a Subaru a Subaru if its made in a joint venture Subaru/Chery plant? Yes it is. What if its badged a Chery, and sold by Chery at Chery dealers? It is still a Subaru? Was the 9.2x a Saab?
"A major breakthrough has occurred in the proposed joint venture between Subaru and Chery. Sources familiar with both parties said that the joint venture is, in essence, ready to be approved. According to a report on the Beijing Times today, if Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries is willing to allow its vehicles to be branded with the Chery logo and allow Chery to head the sales network in China, there should be no problem with the JV proposal going through.
FHI signed an agreement to establish a joint venture with Chery in the beginning of the year. Both parties agreed to open a production site in Dalian, Liaoning. Subaru's partner in China, Pangda Group, also favors the new joint venture.
However, the JV proposal failed to gain the National Development and Reform Commission's approval, due to FHI 16.5 percent shareholder Toyota already having separate joint ventures in China. The NDRC rejected the proposal in September, causing many to believe that plans for the JV were dead in the water.
According to the Beijing News report, FHI only has to agree to its vehicles carrying the Chery badge and Chery leading the JV's sales network. No other changes to the proposal need to be made for official approval..." the article
 

11/17 Subaru holds value best among mainstream cars according to ALG (Automotive Lease Guide).  If you have looked for a used Subaru recently, you know its true that Subarus hold their value. And since ownerslike and hold on to them so they can be hard to find.
'ALG, a subsidiary of TrueCar, Inc., and the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data, today announced its 13th Annual Residual Value Awards, with Subaru and Lexus earning the awards for top mainstream and luxury brands, respectively. Japanese models continued their overall dominance, winning 11 of the 21 ALG awards.
ALG's Residual Value Awards honor the vehicles in each segment that are predicted to retain the highest percentage off their MSRP after a conventional three-year period. "Residual value is a great indicator of brand strength which in turn contributes to greater sales and profitability," said Raj Sundaram for ALG. "We have seen a strong focus this year on producing high-quality products with great pricing and packaging delivering real value for vehicle buyers."
In a highly competitive marketplace, the 2012 awards recognize those brands that are committed to improving residuals by delivering superior products to customers..
This year's awards are based on 2012 model year vehicles, and winners were chosen after a careful evaluation of vehicle criteria, including segment competition, historical vehicle performance and industry trends. The complete list of winners can be found at: https://www.alg.com/ResidualValueAwards
Subaru of America won the Mainstream Brand Residual Value Award, landing at the top of the segment for the third year in a row. Two Subaru models also received individual segment awards: the Legacy (in the Midsize Car category) and the Outback (Midsize Utility Vehicle category).
"The consistently high quality of Subaru products, and the brand's ability to remain progressive and practical in their redesigns, continue to draw fiercely loyal customers," said Mr. Sundaram. "With high sales, Subaru consistently has low incentives and fleet sales, which have enhanced the brand's used value and helped it hold on to the top spot among mainstream brands again this year."
Lexus, a division of Toyota Motor North America, Inc., claims the top ranking among luxury brands for the first time since 2007...'
read the ALG webpage

Kelly BLue Book also just released its top brand, and its Toyota.  "This is the second time in three years that Toyota has taken home our Best Resale Value Award for Best Brand. Not surprising, considering Toyota is still recognizable shorthand for “famously reliable transportation.” the KBB webpage

11/15 Volvo rethinks itself, plans to add a diesel-electric hybrid to its lineup with details to be announced at the Detroit Auto Show in January.  The article about Volvos new direction

11/11  a natural gas Subaru? Maybe in Sweden but we won't see it here in the US.
'Subaru Nordic AB (Subaru)  will start up a compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle conversion centre in Trollhättan, Sweden, with the first cars scheduled to be delivered in February 2012. Here, Subaru will start production of the world’s first Boxer-CNG, the Swedish market’s first four-wheel-drive gas car. The boxer engine is horizontally-opposed to sit lower and flatter in the engine bay. Development and testing of the Subaru Boxer CNG is a Swedish project, implemented in collaboration with Italian BRC – a world leader in gas conversion of motor vehicles. The models being considered for conversion is the Subaru Legacy and Subaru Outback in combination with the continuously variable  Lineartronic automatic transmission. Subaru said earlier this year they were confident interest exists for at least 2,000 natural gas cars on the Swedish market.
" Trollhattan is a good location. Here are key skills and the logistics required to implement major projects within the Swedish automotive industry,” says Torbjörn Lillrud, Managing Director of Subaru Nordic.
“Production will take place in the newly renovated factory space leased by the municipality of Trollhättan and staff will initially be hired in from Saab Automobile,” said Dennis Staaf, managing director of BRC Sweden AB.
SUBARU Nordic AB, headquartered in Helsingborg, is the distributor of Subaru in the North. Apart from distribution of cars on the Swedish market, the company exports cars and spare parts for Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The Boxer-CNG for all six markets will be made in Sweden. the article
 

11/6 Subaru brings 4 cars to the SEMA Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas.2012 Subaru Impreza Sport
Loaded 212 Impreza Sport, Mark Higgins’ 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Sedan Isle of Man Record Holder,  David Higgins’ Subaru Rally Team USA WRX STI Rally Car, and a 1986 Subaru XT Coupe, read the article

11/2 Fuji net profit drops -27%.  due to strong yen and earthquake related inventory issues
''The maker of Subaru-brand vehicles said Tuesday that its net profit dropped 27% in the first half ended September as the yen's strength and sluggish sales bit into its bottom line, underscoring the urgency of its plan to set up a production base in China to offset the effects of the strong currency...  Sales sagged 19% to ¥655.02 billion in the half, from ¥803.99 billion a year earlier, due to the impact of production disruptions after the March 11 earthquake.
The slack results come as the company struggles to push forward its plan to set up a production base in China to take advantage of surging demand in the country...
Fuji Heavy has applied to the Chinese government to form a local joint venture with Chinese state-owned car maker Chery Automobile Co., according to people familiar with the matter. But the plan seems to have hit a roadblock, with the application likely to be rejected as authorities consider Fuji Heavy's plan to be Toyota's third joint venture in the country, exceeding a limit of two ventures per foreign company, according to recent reports....
"If we don't gain approval before next year...it will be difficult," to pursue the five-year business plan, he said. Mr. Yoshinaga said the company may look to build a plant in the country by as early as 2013....' read the entire article

10/29  does your car have a dent in the corner of the bumper like this? click the image

10/28 Check out Subaru's display at the 2011 SEMA show in Las Vegas Nov 1-4.
SEMA is the Specialty Equipment Market Association for parts and upgrades. Subaru will have on  display Mark Higgins' Isle of Man fastest production car lap WRX STI,  David Higgins' Rally America Championship WRX STI,
2012 STI 4-door with STP accessories,  2012 Kicker audio STI 5door, 2012 Impreza 4 and 5 door models with accessories,  and the 1986 XT Drive magazine restoration project car
"SEMA continues to command the attention of the aftermarket tuning world and is the perfect place to showcase our latest SPT parts," said Gary Palanjian, Vice President, Parts and Service, Subaru of America, Inc. "With the upcoming launch of the all-new 2012 Impreza, Subaru has a great opportunity for Subaru Genuine Parts and SPT accessory sales."
In addition to the vehicle displays, SRT USA drivers David Higgins and Dave Mirra will be on hand to sign autographs at the Subaru booth. David Higgins will be at the booth November 1st from 11 AM until 1 PM and Dave Mirra on November 2nd from 11 AM until 1 PM.

10/24 how do they put a Subaru together. Check out the your local schedule for "How They Do It"  SIA on Discovery TV
"Have you ever wondered how a car goes from a coil of steel to a finished vehicle all under one roof? Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA) will be featured in this week’s episode of “How Do They Do It” which airs Thursday, October 27 at 10:00 PM (EST) on SCIENCE. Viewers will get a glimpse at some of the processes and people that help SIA build approximately 250,000 Subaru vehicles every year.
Last month, a production crew sent by Discovery Communications spent two days shooting video footage of the production process at SIA. The result is a comprehensive look at how a Subaru is built beginning
with coils of steel and ending with a new Legacy, Outback or Tribeca being driven off the line. Viewers will also see some of the rigorous testing procedures that every Subaru undergoes before being sent to
dealerships across the U.S. “How Do They Do It” is a documentary-style program that goes behind the scenes to discover how to do
the things, and make the things that form the modern world. The “How Do They Do It” episode featuring SIA can be viewed this Thursday at 10:00 PM (EST) on SCIENCE".  read the article

10/16 Subaru is a gay friendly company..
"As for Subaru, the company earned the top rating in the 2011 Corporate Equality index based on a survey from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. The automaker says it is one of only 338 other major U.S. businesses that received top marks for their treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender employees and consumers."
'If you're gay, these days you must think that automakers simply love you. They take out ads in gay publications. They sponsor events. Some, like Subaru say they get top marks when it comes to corporate ratings of treatment of gay and lesbian employees. But not all companies are doing as good of a job as Subaru, says Gaywheels.com, an established website that covers automotive developments as they relate to gays and lesbians. Some are clearly more "gay friendly" than others...." read the entire article

10/10 rodents chew wiring under the hood. And they like warm engines in cold weather. Cats are a good solution...
"Christmas is just around the corner according to some business places. I have recently shopped in stores with triple displays of holiday decorations: Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. My daughter and I attempt to decorate our dining table for each major holiday. Maybe we should just set up a Santa, sitting atop a ceramic pumpkin, with a turkey peering out of his bag of toys. That should about cover it.
Next we’ll probably be hearing “Alvin and the Chipmunks” serenading us in the big box stores as we cruise the aisles in search of dog food and paper towels.
I used to enjoy Alvin and friends all those years ago when they first belted out those fractured Christmas carols. They must be at least middle-aged by now, and the novelty has worn off. I am not fond of them any more . . . especially since Alvin’s descendents dined on the wires within my little red Subaru. Alvin’s gang cost me $120 and if I could catch him I would happily pound him to a pulp!
...Rats! Those little big-eyed rodents in our back yard are no longer “cute” for me. The mechanic says he often fixes damage caused by mice and chipmunks that shred up wire insulation and recycle it to insulate their mousie mansions. Darn!
Who knew? The next issue is: how do we get rid of the little pests? I just want them gone. If I could, I would shoo them over to somebody else’s yard . . . someone who would feed them sunflower seeds and still think they are cute.
...I don’t know how we’re going to do it, but those chipmunks have got to go. I have always considered myself an animal lover, but I am beginning to sing that parody of “The Christmas Song.” It goes, “Chipmunks roasting on an open fire. Hot sauce dripping from their toes . . .” Watch your back, Alvin!" read the entire article

10/2 Pacific Forest Rally- Subaru drivers win round 5 of the 2011 Canadian Rally Championship
"Pat Richard (Squamish, BC) and Alan Ockwell (Toronto) of Subaru Rally Team Canada won the Pacific Forest Rally, putting an end to a year long drought. The two were competing together for the first time this season, though together they won the 2008 and 2009 Canadian Rally Championship titles.
“We took control of the event right from the start,” said Richard, who led most of the rally. “Then we had to manage the lead. Really, it was a clean run, with no drama. The car was flawless, Alan was great.”
Richard last won a round of the Canadian Rally Championship in the middle of the 2010 season, and has faced a number of challenges since. Between car development issues and using a different co-driver for most of the 2011 season the team had been unable to reach the top of the podium while his rivals seemed to have nearly trouble free runs at every event.
Though Richard’s bid for driver's title is over for this season, he arrived at Pacific Forest Rally relaxed and refocused on earning the manufacturer's title for Subaru. The points scored this weekend are vital in Richard's bid to earn the Manufacturer's title in the Canadian Rally Championship. Richard will still need to win the final event of the season to secure the title for Subaru....
The 2011 Canadian Rally Championship finishes at the Rally of the Tall Pines, in Bancroft, ON, November 25-26, 2011. Conditions are highly variable at the Rally of the Tall Pines, so teams must prepare to face everything from soft gravel to snow and ice. Multiple class championships will be up for grabs, and teams will be driving at maximum attack!
The Canadian Rally Championship comprises six events held nationwide in a season that extends from February to November. The series is presented by Subaru Canada, supported by Yokohama Tire Canada and features contingency programs from Subaru Canada and Mitsubishi Canada. The Canadian Association of Rallysport (CARS) is the official sanctioning body for rallying in
Canada. Rally is often described simply as “real cars, real roads, real fast.”  the entire article

10/1 why get all wheel drive? An Subaru driving NYer moves to Florida and wonders...
"Joseph Vasquez and his wife, Susan, moved to the Orlando area from New York about a year ago. Like other New Yorkers, they've had to give up things like Broadway plays and authentic New York pizza, but now they are wondering if there is something else they should give up: Their long-standing love affair with all-wheel-drive cars.
The family's two primary vehicles are a 1998 Subaru Legacy wagon and a 2003 Subaru Outback. "For the last 15 years we have been driving cars with all-wheel-drive," Joseph says. "I swore to myself when the need arose to replace these cars I was now not limited to Subaru's AWD since we have left the snow far behind us."
But then a funny thing happened: The Josephs say they felt safer in the AWD vehicles when driving in Florida's wet, rainy weather. "Are we crazy?" he says. "Have we brainwashed ourselves into thinking we now need AWD even in sunny Florida?"
Technically, no, you don't really need AWD in Florida. Ten years ago the answer might have been different. But now that almost every new vehicle sold has electronic stability control and antilock brakes, a front-wheel-drive car and most rear-wheel-drive cars will behave pretty much like an all-wheel-drive vehicle on wet roads.
When you lose traction to one or more wheels, the stability control cuts power to those wheels, using the brakes if needed, until all the tires are again pulling their weight. Even if you lose control and start to spin, the stability control, using that same technology, should check the spin and get you back under control.
But having power distributed to all four wheels does give you that little extra margin of safety and control....
..The downside? Extra weight and complexity. Also, as Joseph Vasquez says, "I realize that Subaru AWD vehicles get pretty poor gas mileage compared to most front-wheel-drive vehicles in the same class, and they cost more."...
.. So yes, you'll pay extra for all-wheel-drive, both at the dealer and probably at the gas pump. But is it worth it in Florida? On dry pavement, no. In the middle of one of our famous Florida gulleywashers, though, it may have an edge." definitely read the whole article
 

9/25  Only in Seattle
"On 9/23/11, at approximately 11:00 p.m., officers came upon information pertaining to the whereabouts of a warrant suspect, who was also a notorious auto thief and trafficker of stolen property.
Officers set up surveillance and utilized covert assistance by the Major Crimes Task Force.  The suspect parked in a upper parking lot in the 1400 block of Broadway, where he exited his car (a red Subaru).  Officers arrested the suspect and inspected the car.
The vehicle had color photocopied license plates of a similar vehicle and the VIN was not visible from outside the car.  The owner of the real license plates confirmed that he had his vehicle and the real plates.  The red Subaru was impounded pending a warrant by Auto Theft. The 43-yr-old man was arrested and booked into King County Jail for several outstanding warrants and Violation of the Uniform Control Substance Act. More charges are pending" Seattle PD

9/24 an article about how imported cars - Toyotas- are customized at port facilities. Subaru has 2 ports, in Baltimore MD and Vancouver, Wa.
"...Toyota’s 98-acre operation at Newark’s port is something of a scaled-down assembly plant, though the work — adding a range of so-called port-installed options into 21 different models — is done largely by hand using simple tools, not by industrial robots controlled by computers. About 185 employees work in Toyota’s car wash, quality control center and five production shops here.
By adding items like floormats and GPS systems at its distribution centers instead of at its factories, Toyota gives customers a chance to tinker with their orders until just two days before the vehicles dock in Newark. And it gives dealers a way to stand apart from their competitors.
“We want to tailor the vehicle to what the customer wants,” said Bill Barrett, the national logistics manager at the Newark location. “We build the car they want.” ...
The process of customizing the roughly 3,000 vehicles that arrive on each ship starts the day before it docks in Newark. That’s when John Hagel, who runs the driving team, determines how many longshoremen and drivers will be needed to get the vehicles to their parking spots, which are assigned by the accessories to be added.
One day last month, for instance, it took about 100 drivers eight hours to unload a ship that had made the four-week trip from Tahara, Japan, through the Panama Canal. Once parked, the vehicles are inspected; any damaged in transit go to the body shop. Only one vehicle that arrived on that boat in August needed work, Mr. Barrett said.
Next, the bar codes on the shipping manifests, which include a list of accessories to be added, are scanned...
Employees at the work stations to the left and right complete a variety of tasks. One worker spent about 30 minutes installing a Bluetooth hands-free system under the steering column of a red Prius. He needed just a few tools to complete his task and test the system.... At the opposite end of the shop, another set of workers unbolted the factory-installed wheels from a 4Runner and replaced them with alloy rims. In the next shop, teams installed wheel locks, bumper protectors, body moldings and a variety of exterior items, including a clear film that helps to prevent paint chips on front ends. Nearby, two workers used a metal fixture to determine where to drill holes before bolting a roof rack on an S.U.V.
The work would grind to a halt without Rui Sousa, whose job it is to order accessories daily from suppliers, based on expected needs in two days’ time. The key, he said, is limiting the volume of accessories for unpopular cars or those that are undergoing model changes, while keeping enough on hand for more popular cars....
Port facilities were not always about efficiency or convenience. In past years they provided a place to install parts not available near the factories or to add catalytic converters and other equipment needed on imported vehicles to meet local regulations. Ports have also played a role in trade tiffs, providing a workaround for retaliatory taxes by making it possible for Japanese automakers to import just the cab and chassis of small pickups and install the cargo bed at the port when they landed...." read the entire

9/23  summer ends, its fall....

9/22 coming down the road, around the corner, or...  where there's smoke there might be fire- rumors from the Frankfurt auto show include 1.6L baby turbo, big daddy 2.0L STI 300hp turbo, diesel and 3.6L CVTs and more.. (oh no... diesel rumors)
> 'In 2012, Subaru will introduce two turbocharged variants of its latest-generation direct-injection four-cylinder boxer engine, including a 300-horsepower STI version. The new FB engine architecture, first launched in the U.S. in normally aspirated guise in the 2011 Forester, will add boosted 1.6- and 2.0-liter variants next year...  In STI guise, the new 2.0-liter FB turbo is targeting the same 300-hp peak output as the existing engine, but will return 10 percent better fuel economy.' the article
> '...The new-for-2012 Impreza sedan’s new, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four is part of a new FB engine family.. as is the Forester’s current 2.5-liter flat-four. While the 2.0-liter has boosted the new Impreza’s fuel-economy numbers significantly - the Forester saw only minor gains- Subaru plans to add direct injection (which we’re told nets a two-percent reduction in fuel consumption on its own) and turbocharging to the FB mix in the near future, both to the 2.0-liter and a new 1.6-liter variant....
..Furthermore, we learned that the FB will form the basis for a new, Subaru-developed hybrid system that will be introduced in Japan by 2013...
Subaru is extensively revising its Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, too, and will produce different variants tailored to engine torque levels—and that means more CVTs as a general rule. One variant will be bolted to Subaru’s diesel-burning boxer engine, which tells us at least one version will be on high-output duty. Even if the diesel never appears here, this is a strong signal that automatics in torquier mainstream Subies—our recently departed long-term Legacy 3.6R, which had 247 lb-ft of torque, used a five-speed slushbox—are likely to get replaced by CVTs." this complete article
> one more final BRZ concept car, this time at the LA car show. This is the last concept before the grand unveiling in Tokyo.
'Subaru’s FT-86 (Scion FRS)  equivalent is reportedly set to debut at the upcoming LA Auto Show in November. The exterior sheet metal of the Subaru BRZ Concept will be mostly unrelated to the actual production version when it hits the floor of the LA convention center...  The “real” look of the BRZ will not be revealed until the Tokyo Motor Show when we should expect the Scion FRS to show its true production face. Also reported recently, the Scion FRS (Toyota in other world markets) variation will be a de-contented version when compared to the Subaru BRZ featuring more standard equipment....' this article

9/11 Tim Mahoney- Subaru's previous Chief Marketing Officer, now VW Chief Product and Marketing Officer, has some ideas
"Tim Mahoney is laying the groundwork for Volkswagen marketing that aims to connect the brand to consumers in new ways...
"That's the power of German engineering." That allows us to tell a lot of great stories that are true to the brand and to tell them consistently in a timeless manner. We can tell an environmental story, a performance story, and a Chattanooga [site of VW's assembly plant] story -- that we have made a commitment to this marketplace in the middle of a recession. We can tell an emotional story because it's not all about cold sheet metal or sales. It's about the human feeling that people have for that brand and because of that -- that's the power of German engineering....
What do you bring to VW from Subaru?  I am here in a new position that was created to put product and marketing together. That is something that comes from my six years at Subaru. I have the ability to understand how the Japanese think, having spent close to 20 years with them. I speak German. I worked for Porsche for seven years and lived and studied in Germany and Austria. If you put all that together, that is perhaps some of the stuff that made the telephone ring earlier in the year." read the entire article

9/10/11  new name on Subaru press releases?
Subaru has tapped Sheriece Matias to be manager of corporate communications, reporting to Michael McHale head of corporate communications for Subaru. Matias will be responsible for the company’s business and lifestyle media relations as well as strategizing the company’s social media efforts. Before joining Subaru, Matias was the corporate communications manager for Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. the article

9/10/11- Outback towing a small trailer, in Shoreline, Wa. August 2011.

click for bigger image

9/8 China might reject the Fuji/Chery joint manufacturing agreement because Toyota owns 16.5% of Fuji and that makes Fuji an subsidiary of Toyota? According to Chinese regulations, an overseas company is limited to two joint ventures manufacturing passenger cars. read  the article

9/7 Last days of summer. Hitting the road in a motorhome?  take your Subaru with you..

manual transmission only

9/6 Subaru plans for the coming years
 'Subaru plans to roll out three new vehicles over the next three years: the BRZ coupe developed jointly with Toyota, a hybrid and a compact crossover.
Subaru executives say vehicles are being developed for the U.S. market rather than for Japan because the company can make a bigger profit in the United States. Takeshi Tachimori, CEO of Subaru of America, said models previously targeted for Japan weren't big enough or properly equipped to compete in the United States.
So in recent years, Subaru has redesigned the Forester, Legacy and Outback for the United States. The current models are larger and roomier than their predecessors and filled with features U.S. buyers demand, such as iPod and Bluetooth connections.
The 2012 Impreza that goes on sale in November is the last of Subaru's four core U.S. models to be redesigned for this market.
BRZ: The lightweight two-door developed with Toyota will go on sale next spring. The rear-drive 2+2 coupe, about the size of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, will use Subaru's 2.0-liter, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder boxer engine. The BRZ will be positioned between the Legacy and the Impreza and will be the only Subaru sold in the United States without all-wheel drive.
Forester: The crossover will be freshened in the 2013 model year...
WRX/STI: Redesigned versions of the high-performance models are expected in the 2014 model year. According to reports, the redesigned WRX and STI get new sheet metal, sportier styling and will be positioned as high-performance coupes rather than Impreza derivatives. They also will get a new turbo or supercharged engine with nearly 300 hp for the highest trim model...
Small crossover: A small crossover the size of the Impreza will come to the United States in the 2013 or 2014 model year. A concept version, the XV, was shown at the Shanghai auto show in April. It would compete with the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Subaru has not decided on a name for the production vehicle.
Tribeca: Subaru officials say they have not decided whether to stick with the seven-seat Tribeca but because of slow sales no second-generation model is in development.' the article

9/4 Labor Day is Monday September 5th
Subaru is owned by Fuji Heavy Industries in Japan.
SoA employs at least 600 people in management and regional offices.
There are many independent repair and body shops that specialize in fixing Subarus.
Everyone related to Subarus- dealers and corporate- buys from vendors and local suppliers.
There are advertising agencies- TV, video, designers, web companies - that promote the cars.
There are transportation companies- truckers, railroads - that haul Subarus all around the country.
The Legacy, Outback and Tribeca, and Camry, are made at SIA in Lafayette, Indiana which employs 3564 people.
There are at least 600 Subaru dealerships. If the average employment per dealer is 30, thats around 18,000 people.
There are two port facilites where Subarus are delivered from Japan, and people there unload and accessorize them.
That means a huge number of people in America labor hard behind the scenes every day to get Subarus to your driveway.

8/26 final days for August's finance rates. Subaru/Chase has some good finance rates,  especially the 0.9% available on new Legacy models up to 72 months (NW-Seattle area, oac) but these rates are scheduled to end 8/31...8/26 final days for August's finance rates. Subaru/Chase has some good finance rates,  especially the 0.9% available on new Legacy models up to 72 months (NW-Seattle area, oac) but these rates are scheduled to end 8/31...

8/21- Subaru to increase production in Japan. Thats where the Forester and Impreza are made
'Japanese maker of Subaru brand vehicles, will boost output capacity at its plant in Gunma prefecture by about 4 percent, said Fusao Watanabe, a company spokesman.  Fuji Heavy plans to spend more than 1 billion yen ($13 million) to upgrade the facility and increase capacity to 420,000 vehicles per year by the end of March, Watanabe said in a phone interview today. The Tokyo-based maker of trucks and cars is also strengthening production capacity for small cars at a different plant in the same city at a cost of 10 billion yen, he said.' the article

8/16 Car loans because more transparent, you get a copy of your credit scores
Starting Thursday 7/21/2011, if a car lender or dealer turns you down for a loan based on credit score, you'll get a copy of the score and be told why you got rejected or a higher interest lrate.
It's part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which Congress passed in 2010 to help consumers. The legislation also created a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
 

8/10 Stock market turmoil, but Fuji is doing well.. Subaru buyers tend to be a financially capable group overall. A large percent qualify for low finance rates, and many pay cash but the financial market turmoil affects everyone to some degree. Stock in FUJHY is currently trading around $69. For the part 52 weeks the range is $51.48 - 93.91. Going back in time it was around $70 June 2000, $32 December 2003,  $64 May 2006,  $25 December 2008, and now its $69. Its steady and holding the course. Wish I had bought some in 2008...

8/8 weak US dollar hurts Fuji's profits. So does a 19 day supply!
> "Japanese exporters said the U.S.’s loss of its AAA credit rating will hinder efforts to weaken a near-record high yen that is crimping their overseas earnings. “I’m very worried that this super-strong yen situation may last over a prolonged period,” Yasuyuki Yoshinaga, president of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (7270), maker of Subaru cars, said in an interview yesterday. “Money is flowing to the yen because of weakness in the U.S., European economies and concerns about U.S. credit...”  the article
>  'The dollar's fall near a record low against the yen is offsetting much of the profits garnered from brisk sales of the company's Subaru cars. Fuji Heavy sold just under half of its cars in North America last year, and every 1-yen fall in the dollar wipes out 5 billion yen from its annual operating profit...
Yoshinaga warned, however, that the yen's persistent strength remained the biggest risk for Fuji Heavy, which he said was helpless against the dollar's fall in the short term beyond currency hedging.
In the longer term, Fuji Heavy is looking to reduce some exposure by building cars in China through a planned local joint venture instead of exporting them from Japan. But those plans have been on hold as Fuji Heavy awaits approval from the Chinese government to form a joint venture with a local partner, which sources have identified as Chery Automobile, the country's largest independent automaker...
Fuji Heavy had initially said it expected to have a joint venture agreement sealed by the end of 2010...
Fuji Heavy, the smallest of Japan's eight car makers and owned 16.5 percent by Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T), had been on a roll with market-beating growth in the United States, its most important market, until the earthquake in March disrupted production.
Yoshinaga said Subaru's U.S. inventory was currently at a razor-thin 19 days, and would hit bottom at the end of August as its Japanese factories take a week off for the summer holidays.
Still, Yoshinaga said he was confident of reaching a U.S. sales target of 250,000 vehicles this year, by making up for lost output in the second half and building up inventory to a healthy 60 days' worth by the end of 2011. "Subaru's sales momentum is still strong," Yoshinaga said, noting that dealers were offering under $1,000 per car in incentives, far below the industry average. "I'm not too worried that any deterioration in consumer sentiment (in the United States) would hurt Subaru." the entire article

8/6 SIA and other foreign car companies US building cars in the US
'The history of Subaru of Indiana Automotive Lafayette, Indiana  is unique to the automotive industry. Originally, SIA was a joint venture between Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. and Isuzu Motors Limited. This venture was formed in March of 1987. At the beginning of 2003, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. became the sole owner of SIA. SIA Associates now build the Subaru Legacy, Outback, and Tribeca along with the Toyota Camry...
In May 1986 FHI and Isuzu agreed to a joint venture to establish a manufacturing plant in the United States.  Of the many cities originally explored in the United States, 13 sites were eventually chosen  for further consideration in seven states, including the state of Indiana, historically an auto manufacturing state (Studebaker, Marmon, Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg, among many others).  In December of 1986 Lafayette was selected as the site for the plant and Subaru-Isuzu Automotive was incorporated in March of 1987 as the managing company for this site.  Ground was broken for the SIA plant in May, 1987.  The 2.3 million-square foot facility performs all integrated operations from stamping to final assembly.  The annual phase 1 production of 60,000 Subaru Legacys and 60,000 Isuzu pickups and Rodeos began on September 11, 1989.  The plant was officially dedicated on October 16, 1989 with a week long grand opening ceremony. In January 2003, SIA became Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. signifying the sole ownership by Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. SIA discontinued production of Isuzu vehicles on July 23, 2004, and began to build the Toyota Camry on February 28, 2007...' the article
Other foreign car companies with U.S. facilities
> Honda- motorcycles, automotive vehicles in Marysville, Ohio,  Lincoln, Alabama,  Greensburg, Indiana.
> Hyundai- Montgomery, Alabama. Sonata and Santa Fe.
> Toyota - Camry, Hybrid Camry, Avalon, Venza in Georgetown, Kentucky (and Camrys at SIA in Indiana). Prius in Tupelo, Mississippi (starting in 2011). Sequoias, Siennas and Highlanders in Princeton, Indiana. Tundra, Tacoma in San Antonio, Texas at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Inc (TMMTX). Engines in Buffalo, West Virginia.
> BMW  X3, X5, and X6 Spartanburg, South Carolina
> Mercedes-Benz-  Vance, Alabama, since 1997.   M-Class; R-Class; GL-Class.
> Nissan- Smyrna, Tennessee,  Altima, Maxima, Xterra, Pathfinder. Engines in Decherd, Tennessee. 2nd plant in Canton, Mississippi.
> Mitsubishi- Normal, Illinois- produces Endeavor, Galant and Eclipse.
> Mazda- Flat Rock, Michigan, produces the 626.

7/28 - 8/1  X Games #17,  July 28 - August 1 in LA.  XGAMES.COM, ESPN TV schedule, Rally drivers
> Saturday July 30th- X Cast – Rally Car Racing 2 – 6 PM (ET) on xgames.com
Rally Car Racing Final 1 – 3 PM (PT) to be aired on ESPN (TV) and ESPN3.com (web) 4 – 6 PM (ET)
> Sunday July 31st -  Rallycross Final 2 – 4 PM (PST) to be aired on ESPN (TV) and ESPN3.com (web) 5 – 7 PM (ET)

7/30 2,000,000 Subarus from SIA
"Associates at Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. cheered this afternoon (July 29, 2011) when the 2 millionth Subaru built at the Lafayette plant rolled off the assembly line. Sitting in a staging area alongside Job 1 - a 1990 Legacy built on Sept. 11, 1989 - the ruby red Outback was doused with sparkling mineral water by SIA officials. "Over the course of these past 22 years, a total of nearly 3,430,000 vehicles were assembled at SIA, including 2 million Subarus," said Motokiyo Nomura, SIA's president and chief executive officer.
In the past associates have built the Pick Up, Rodeo, Amigo and Axiom for Isuzu, the Honda Passport and the Subaru Baja.
Currently building the Outback, Legacy and Tribeca for Subaru, SIA also is under contract to produce the Camry for Toyota...
"It took us 13 years to build the first million Subarus. And at our current rate of production, it should be less than seven years to build our next million Subarus," said Tom Easterday, SIA executive vice president. "Subarus built at SIA are recognized around the world for their quality, safety and reliability. That recognition, coupled with the high demand for our SIA-built Subarus, is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our associates." the article

7/27 2,000,000 Subarus made at SIA
'During a ceremony Friday afternoon, Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. will celebrate production of the 2 millionth Subaru vehicle at the Lafayette plant. The first cars were manufactured at SIA in 1989. Isuzu vehicles were included in the mix until 2004, and the Toyota Camry has been built at the facility since 2007.
But Subaru models - including the Outback and Legacy models, which are big sellers at the current time - have been a constant source of production for 22 years. SIA president and chief executive officer Motokiyo Nomura and executive vice president Tom Easterday will address associates before the milestone Subaru rolls off the assembly line.' the article

7/23 RIP Amy Winehouse, born September 14, 1983
Some great music, a great chanteuse

7/23  Saudi women want to drive, and have a petition for Saudi Subaru
"This week, a group of Saudi women are once again defying the driving ban -- this time to drive to Saudi Subaru and hand-deliver their Change.org petition asking the company to stop selling cars in a country where women are forbidden to drive.
The effort will expose these brave women to tremendous personal risk: Since Saudi women launched their right-to-drive campaign on June 17, threats against women activists -- in mosques, on the street, and in the media -- have been growing at a scary pace. But it's a cause they believe in.
More than 50,000 people around the world have already signed the petition to reinforce Saudi women’s resolve and courage -- and remind Saudi Arabia and Subaru that the world is watching....
Over the last few months, Saudi women have made great strides -- in large part thanks to the overwhelming support of people taking action through Change.org.
We are now all part of the largest Saudi women's rights movement in history. And getting Subaru, a company which markets itself heavily to women in the U.S. and Europe, to pull out of the country will only make it bigger..." the article,  sign the petition

7/15  2012 model update- when they're expected.
We have arrival times but no model changes or upgrades announced yet other than the new Impreza. Yes, it seems there will be a 2012 Tribeca after all. The WRX and STI will be available sooner than expected and will be marketed as a separate model from the rest of the the Impreza line which is all new. The ETA for the Impreza has been pushed back to late Fall.
Outback- late September
Legacy- late September
Tribeca- late September.
WRX/STI- late October-November.
Forester- late October-November
Impreza- late November-December
more 2012 information

7/15 need more power? Subaru fans, you have the car, now get a Subaru brand silent power inverter generator by Fuji's Robin America for home back-up or a smaller portable size for camping. Shown is 4300 inverter model. More information

7/13  Grand 5 year plan is a comprehensive set of goals
The 'Motion V'  5 year plan is based on a '...basic philosophy of customers come first, which further incorporates the brand statement Confidence in Motion as a guiding principle...'.  The "Confidence in Motion" brand statement focuses on the core Subaru value of "enjoyment and peace of mind".
Fuji wants Subaru to become become a leader with safety technologies, improve fuel economy by 30%, increase sales, and cut costs 20%, while addressing environmental concerns and maintaining driving performance.
Overall, it sounds like a combination of the reputations of Volvo for safety, BMW for driving, and Toyota for lean manufacturing and sales volume.
Sales focus is on US and China. The goals are 380,000 North America; 180,000 China; 160,000 Japan; 60,000 Europe; 50,000 Australia; 70,000 other
The Motion V plan includes a hybrid car in 2013 and 3 other new unspecificed models. One will no doubt be the Subieyota scheduled to be shown at the Tokyo auto show 11/30-12/11, 2011 and released Spring 2012. About the Subieyota, Fuji says they 'will study enhancement of product appeal' which might mean turbo and all wheel drive?  Another one of the 3 might be the XV concept.
No specific mention if or when the hybrid or Subieyota will be here in the US, and there is no mention of diesel..  The press release

7/12 Subaru plans to increase sales, is increasing capacity in Japan
"Subaru carmaker Fuji Heavy Industries will spend about JPY10bn (US$124m) by next spring to overhaul its Gunma Prefecture minivehicle plant into a factory for small- and mid-size cars.
Business daily Nikkei reported capacity at the Gunma plant will be nearly doubled to around 150,000 units per year, according to Reuters.
Fuji will upgrade existing lines for welding, painting and assembly to keep the initial investment down, the daily said.
The company, which has a capital alliance with Toyota, will withdraw from minivehicle development and production to focus on larger vehicles, Nikkei reported. Fuji will start buying mini-cars from Toyota's Daihatsu Motor unit under an OEM agreement by next spring, the paper said.
The plant will produce sports cars, designed by Toyota and developed by Fuji Heavy, which both will sell under their own brands. However, Fuji Heavy will ensure that other models can be built there to stabilise utilisation rates, the daily said. Models, which are yet to be determined, will include mainstays like Legacy, Impreza and Forester, Nikkei said." the article

7/6- Fuji predicts 40% increase internationally, plans 4 new models.
Ok, that gets me thinking... the article says Subaru has 4 new models in the works? Lets see, there's the Subieyota, the mythical hybrid, the Outback XV.. and lets dream... how about big and small-  a new high fuel economy mini car, or a true 7 passenger Tribeca replacement.. and only all-wheel-drive for the US market.
> heres the article from Reuters 'Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru cars, said on Wednesday it aims to boost global sales by 40 percent to 900,000 vehicles in the next five years, fueled by four new models including its first hybrid car...  President Yasuyuki Yoshinaga, appointed to his post two weeks ago, said the bulk of the sales expansion would be in China and North America, which would account for a combined increase of 190,000 vehicles by 2015/16...
By the final year of the five-year plan, Fuji Heavy expects its sales in North America to grow by 70,000 vehicles to 380,000, and in China to triple to 180,000 vehicles, making it its second-biggest market ahead of Japan....' read the whole article

7/5 Google Maps Impreza breaks down in Brooklyn, July 1st
A Google Maps Street View car taking photos of roving artisanal grilled cheese-making wagons in Williamsburg made an unscheduled break in Crown Heights after their Subaru Impreza broke down on Kingston and East New York.  photo here

7/4 Independence Day 1776-2011

7/3-   3 questions
Q. What’s the most versatile car? Cars have been made to do all sorts of trendy things, like carry sheetrock while partying in the front, or hauling the rugrats to preschool on top of Mount Washington while getting excellent gas mileage and hauling a cord of wood. What's the most versatile car?
A. The answer? Subaru Brat! The famed skirter of the so-called "chicken tax" and potential health hazard for passengers was indeed the most versatile. It seats four (kind of), can go off-road and drives like a car. And with a cap you can live in it. It's the spork of cars. The article
Q. Which small SUVs can do light off-roading? I'm shopping for a four-cylinder, four- or all-wheel-drive utility vehicle or compact SUV. It will mainly serve as a second car, but I expect to do some light off-roading (no rock crawling) and beach driving...
A. Just about any compact SUV can handle "light off-roading," such as mildly rutted, unpaved trails, but the Subaru Forester and Outback and Jeep Patriot are among the more capable crossover SUVs. They offer enough ground clearance for light off-road work and are comfortable and livable on pavement. the article
Q. Which all-wheel-drive car gets good gas mileage?  I live in New England and have a steep driveway, so I need a car that's good in the snow; however, I really want a car with good (or at least decent) fuel economy. Are these two goals incompatible?
A.  Not at all. We found three vehicles that combine all-wheel drive with highway fuel economy of at least 31 mpg by using the Cars.com Vehicle Recommender. They are the Audi A4, which gets 31 mpg highway with a manual transmission and 29 with automatic; the Subaru Legacy (31 mpg with a continuously variable automatic transmission); and the Mini Cooper S Countryman, a small crossover SUV that gets 31 mpg highway with manual and 30 with automatic. the article -
Note- the 2.5L Outback CVT didn't make the article's 31mpg cutoff but does get an entirely respectable 29mpg.

6/27 Top 10 worst car names-  B9 Tribeca and Brat make the list
"At Cars.com, we spend a lot of time discussing how a car handles, what it looks like or how it performs in crash tests, among other things. Sometimes, however, our very first impression of a car comes from its name -- and the impression isn't always a good one. Below are 10 vehicles from the past 30 years with names so awful and awkward that we're sometimes surprised consumers gave them a shot. Keep in mind this list is based solely on the car's name and has absolutely nothing to do with the car's actual merits.
10. The entire Lincoln lineup .. lWhat's the difference between the MKZ, MKX and MKS? Gimme a second to look it up, because I honestly can't remember which is which.
9. Hyundai Equus ... makes us think of the Broadway play of the same name.. where a young man loves horses a little too much.
8. Toyota Yaris There was a girl in my dorm freshman year who organized her shoes alphabetically by mood. She majored in dead languages and responded to every single question with "no worries." She once set the dorm microwave on fire by overcooking a ham-and-cheese Hot Pocket. Yes, that story is ridiculous and nonsensical ... sort of like naming a car Yaris.
7. Kia Forte Koup ..we're particularly offended when companies take liberties with the English language in an effort to be cutesy ..
6. Subaru B9 Tribeca Here we've got a family crossover named after a fashionable neighborhood in lower Manhattan and ... a World War II bomber? Consumers didn't understand the B9 moniker either; that part of the name got the ax when Subaru redesigned the SUV for the 2008 model year.
5. Volkswagen Touareg ... Early Touareg commercials in the U.S. even depicted people struggling to say the name....
4. Ford Probe There are many borderline inappropriate jokes you could make about a 1990s sport compact named Probe..
3. Subaru Brat Although Brat is technically an acronym -- it stands for Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter -- it's a particularly unfortunate one. "Brat" is almost never used to describe something positively. A brat is not a calm, confident driver who knows what he wants and how to get it. A brat is busy throwing a hissy fit in the corner because his mom won't let him borrow the car to go buy the new Styx album.
2. Isuzu VehiCROSS ...the name practically beats consumers over the head with the idea (think SUV plus a cross-training sneaker)...
1. Ford Aspire ..they were basically saying: "Yeah, even our car knows you wish you were driving something cooler."
read the whole article

6/26- Impreza photo of a Google street map Subaru Impreza photo car seen in upstate NY- link here

6/23  What percent of the parts in your Subaru is made in America? Subaru Outback and Legacy 50%, Tribeca 40%, Impreza and Forester 0%. But Subaru employs 3,564 people at the factory in Indiana where they assemble the car, and yes the Camry too since Feb 2007.  Handy guide to check other cars
Cars with the highest % of American parts: Ford Explorer  85%; Dodge Dakota  84%; Dodge Avenger  83%; Dodge Grand Caravan  82%; Chrysler 200  81%; Toyota Tundra  80%; Toyota Sequoia  80%; Toyota Camry  80%; Toyota Avalon  80%; GMC Savana  80%; Dodge Nitro  80%; Chrysler Town & Country  80%; Honda Accord  80%

6/22  Subaru is now involved in the issue of the Saudi restrictions on women drivers. Subaru has proactive marketing campaigns, some focusing on women, but yet still sells cars in Saudi Arabia. Now they're being asked to stop selling there.
> Here is the petition: http://www.change.org/petitions/subaru-stop-selling-cars-where-women-cant-drive
'A group campaigning for an end to Saudi Arabia’s ban on driving by women called on Fuji Heavy Industries Subaru cars unit to pull out of the kingdom until the prohibition is lifted.
Today’s announcement follows U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s support yesterday for an appeal by the group, Saudi Women for Driving, which organized a show of defiance by women who drove in Saudi Arabia on June 17. Clinton called them “brave,” saying, “I am moved by it and I support them.” The activists had questioned Clinton’s silence over their June 3 letter asking for her backing.
“It is our hope that this will put huge pressure on the Saudi royal family and shine a bright light on the ‘gender apartheid’ in our country,” the group said of its call for Subaru to exit the kingdom. “It’s a chance for the company to live up to its brand and make a huge difference for nearly 13 million of us Saudi women.”
Subaru was the first carmaker targeted by the campaign because it is “progressive” and has marketed its products to women, the group said in a petition on U.S.-based Change.org, a website for social activism. The campaign may be extended to Detroit-based General Motors Co. Cadillac and Seoul-based Hyundai Motor Co., two brands of car used by Manal al-Sharif, a Saudi woman who was arrested last month for driving, said Change.org’s human-rights editor, Benjamin Joffe-Walt.
Fuji Heavy and its Subaru dealers in Saudi Arabia haven’t “received any information of any campaigns,” Tokyo-based Kenta Matsumoto, spokesman for the company, said by phone. “We only have dealers in Saudi Arabia, and no factories. Our annual sales in the country are limited to only 300 to 400 units,” he said.
Hani al-Faqih, a Subaru manager in Saudi Arabia, said from Riyadh that he had no immediate comment when asked about the campaign.
Hanspeter Ryser, spokesman in Zurich for Cadillac Europe, said he’s not aware of any plans to change Cadillac’s business in Saudi Arabia because of the ban against women driving. “I cannot imagine there are any steps planned to pull out of Saudi Arabia,” Ryser said. “It’s a very strong market for us. Cadillac vehicles are very popular in this part of the world. In general, we as a company are not getting engaged in political debates, political issues.” the entire article

6/21-  Summer starts and its the longest day of the year, the Equinox

6/17 seen in Seattle... a ghoulish cargo box on the 09 Impreza driven by HM Gandy with special effects company transfixedfx.com. Click for more

6/15 an interview with Subaru of America founder Malcolm Bricklin
"Few people in the car business are as colourful or have as interesting a life story as Malcolm Bricklin. The man who started at his father's Orlando, Fla. lumber yard and made his first fortune by building Handyman America into a franchised regional powerhouse is responsible for more of what is today's North American automotive marketplace than many people imagine. His first foray into the automotive world was in persuading Fuji Heavy Industries of Japan that a small automotive brand called Subaru could fly in North America. While the first Subaru sold on this continent, the 360, was a sales and safety flop, Bricklin went on to form Subaru of America and sell dealership franchises.
hen he sold out, he had enough money to pursue his dream of becoming a carmaker. The Bricklin SV-1, a gullwing, futuristic-looking vehicle built with safety top of mind (SV stands for Safety Vehicle) was born. The rise and fall of the SV-1 (the company went bankrupt within two years of launch) was the subject of a music-theatre production in Fredericton, N.B. last year, where the car was made.
Bricklin went on to form Yugo of America, bringing over the much ridiculed punchline of small cars, the Yugo...
Bricklin has since embarked on an electric-bike venture called the EV Warrior, which went bankrupt in 1997, and is now pursuing an electric-vehicle production dream through his new company, Visionary Vehicles LLC. We recently caught up with Bricklin at his home in upstate New York....
> Q We were at a car show [recently] and we were drawn to this 1975 Bricklin SV-1, in safety orange, and not enough people really know the story to it. What is your opinion of the musical that finished playing last summer in New Brunswick on the SV-1?
A I have not seen it, but I've heard the musical and here's my opinion on that: That car was a very fun project for everyone involved. And it brought a lot of happiness and a lot of notoriety to the province. Unfortunately, it ended the way bad things end; it went bankrupt, and everybody ending up losing money and jobs and hope and that's the shame of it all. But the fact is a musical came out and it was done in fun and it made people happy. It's a nice epitaph, as far as I'm concerned, for the car.
> Q A big part of what happened to the Yugo had to do with Yugoslavia imploding on itself.
A Absolutely. You know, that's considered my biggest failure, and here's really the story. The dealers were making $3,000 over list, we were given 50,000 cars a year that had no air conditioning and all were sticks, so we had to install air conditioning to sell them in North America. And all the cars coming off the line weren't of good enough quality, so we built a factory outside the factory to fix every car. We had to pay the port and put in unleaded gas in Yugoslavia. It was the biggest car that had ever been brought in from Europe; I mean it was the biggest-selling car in the fastest period of time and it still holds that record. The company was making $2-million a month and I sold out for $20-million and then, three years later, it was against the law to buy because the United Nations put in an embargo on products to or from Yugoslavia. And that's considered one of my great failures. You know, they don't know the story that Henry Kissinger was our adviser and [Lawrence] Eagleburger [who would become U.S. Ambassador to Yugoslavia in 1977] was on our board of directors because the government was very interested in seeing if [it] could stabilize Yugoslavia and not have to go to war like we did. And, as the car was becoming successful and other countries were buying from Zastava, it looked like it was going to stabilize. But there's just something about communist labour that's just not going to be good in the car business.
> Q Let's talk about Visionary Vehicles. The Malcolm Bricklin saga is continuing; it's full steam ahead.
A Well, that's another unfortunate [thing], except, financially, it's going to be a very fortunate time in my life. I went around the world for three and a half years with my son and a crew following me and filming all the meetings that were going on so we could distribute the video back to all the participants so everybody could see what was going on. And it was an innovative, very, very effective way to do business, especially in countries where you don't speak the same language. And I made a deal with my son: If he would stay to the end, win or lose, he could use all the footage to make a movie. So he made the movie. But what was interesting was, after we ended up getting screwed -we spent a million dollars setting up a network and put up $200-million from George Soros in escrow and then they start talking to Chrysler behind our backs, against the contracts. And then they brought in someone else and said they didn't need us and they did give them $265million and walked around us. You can do that in China, but you can't do that in the rest of the world. Fortunately, we had arbitration in Hong Kong, which is under British law, and the people who went around us, we get them under New York law. And those six cases will be ... to our, we believe, great favour. So, we're suing these people for a fraction of what we would have lost and we're asking for a billion two [$1.2-billion]."  read the whole interview

6/14 Subaru has 3 ports where they import/export cars- Vancouver, WA, Baltimore, MD. and as announced last February but now delayed,  Richmond, California.
"Subaru still plans to begin moving cars through the Port of Richmond (SF Bay area), but it will delay the start of operations here by a few months because of complications resulting from the Japanese earthquake.
About 30,000 to 35,000 Subaru vehicles are expected to move through the port in a five-year deal. The contract would create at least 40 full-time jobs for those handling the cars, and probably an equal amount in trucking, rail and longshore work.
Subaru was supposed to begin operations here as early as this month, but it recently informed Auto Warehousing Company -- the port's operating tenant for its auto business -- that it will delay the startup of its business until the fall.
... Subaru picked Richmond as its port of entry for Northern California and Southwest region cars this past winter. About half the vehicles will reach the sales floor by rail, the other half by truck.
Auto Warehousing Company already has started working with local hiring agencies, Seher said, and this setback should not affect its long-term hiring plans... "Once the earthquake happened, it's not just Subaru, it's also Honda that started importing a ton less vehicles," he said. "It's all the Japanese manufacturers." the entire article

6/9 one good swing deserves another... "Its a nice car but I'd rather play sports...." Cole said.
Friday, June 3- will the hole-in-one hitter get the free car and keep playing or will accepting the car mean he has to give uip his amateur status and put away his clubs and  basketball shoes..
"It's not his favorite sport, but 16-year-old Cole Finnegan plays it pretty well. He's on the golf and basketball teams for Golden (Colorado) High school, and on Friday, he was playing in the Golden Rotary Club Golf Tournament at Fossil Trace Golf Course in Golden. "We had to pick two teams, a coach's team and a student team. Cole was not my first pick but [our other player] dropped out and Cole wanted to play," John Anderson, Golden High School's golf and basketball coach, said.
First pick or not, coach Anderson is pretty happy he chose Cole, because on Friday, he got a hole-in-one.
Even better, he also won a brand new $23,000 Subaru Legend  Legacy donated by Go Subaru West (in Golden) because he sunk the hole-in-one.
"I was really excited. I couldn't believe I actually won a car," Cole said. Cole's excitement was soon taken away when he was told he may not be able to keep it.
There are certain rules when it comes to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA). "It could be that if he takes the car, he's could lose his amateur status. If he loses his amateur status, he may not be eligible to play his last two years of high school sports or get any college scholarships," Anderson said.
Cole and his coach agree it wouldn't be worth it. "He could give up golf, but I wouldn't let him give up basketball. If he works hard he has a chance at getting a college scholarship," Anderson said.
"It's a nice car, but I think I'd rather play sports if I had to choose," Cole said. Cole and his family are still trying to iron everything out. For now, the car sits at the dealership.
According to the coach, it sounds like CHSAA will allow him to play high school sports even if he takes the car, because a hole-in-one is considered more of luck rather than skill. Cole's family is still waiting to hear the final word from the NCAA on whether or not it will affect his college scholarship eligibility." the article
6/9 It all worked out.  Turns out a hole-in-one is considered more luck than skill after all and Cole picked up the red Legacy from Go Subaru West and yes, he continues to play.

The 2011 X Games #17 is July 28 - August 1 in LA. Subaru did well at last year's games.

June 6th D-Day- Normandy landings June 6th 1944

6/4 SIA- working at the factory and what its like...
"Set amid tawny popcorn and soybean fields, weathered barns, and rusty silos, the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant cuts a swath. A 3.4-million-square-foot monolith abutted by railroad tracks, SIA has a mountain of compost and the occasional coyote skittering through the surrounding 832 acres of woodland. Step inside, though, and you'll discover why this might be the most exemplary car factory in America.
In its 22-year history—a period that has spanned three recessions, a global financial crisis, massive U.S. auto bankruptcies, and the departure of Isuzu, a founding partner, from the operation - SIA has rolled out more than 3 million vehicles and has never resorted to layoffs. Instead, it's given workers a wage increase every year of its operation. Staffers also enjoy premium-free health care, abundant overtime ($15,000 each, on average, in 2010), paid volunteer time, financial counseling, and the ability to earn a Purdue University degree on-site—all in a state that has lost 46,000 auto jobs and suffered multiple plant foreclosures in the past decade. And the truly astonishing thing is how it achieved all this: through a relentless focus on eliminating waste. "This is not about recycling, or a nice marketing to-do," says Dean Schroeder, a management professor at Valparaiso University who has studied the plant. "This is a strict dollars-and-cents, moneymaking-and-savings calculation that also drives better safety and quality."
Toyota made kaizen—the Japanese principle of constant "change for the better," with a special focus on efficiency, aka "pushing lean" - famous. SIA, you could say, has instilled green kaizen, or pushing green. Starting in 2002, SIA set a five-year target for becoming the nation's first zero-landfill car factory. That meant recycling or composting 98 percent of the plant's waste—with an on-site broker taking bids for paper, plastic, glass, and metals—and incinerating the remaining 2 percent that isn't recoverable at a nearby waste-to-fuel operation to sell power back to the grid. Within two years, the results spoke for themselves.
"Everyone quickly saw the green dividend of not wasting anything," says Tom Easterday, the plant's executive vice-president, passing a stack of yellowed Styrofoam cases that have survived four round trips around the globe. "You reduce packaging, negotiate a better deal from suppliers, and everyone then shares in the savings."
Today, the plant abounds with boxes and containers scribbled over with marks that show how many times they have traveled from Japan to Indiana and back (and back again). On a tour of the plant, Easterday sped a golf cart past a welder whose metal shavings are swept off the asphalt floors and auctioned into a roaring bull market for copper. Last year, Easterday says, SIA saved approximately $5.3 million by obsessively reducing, recycling, composting, and incinerating; Valparaiso's Schroeder calculates that Subaru saves multiples of that figure by using zero-landfill discipline to reduce worker injuries and fatigue. He cites the example of SIA's switch away from taking cars apart to check the quality of welds—a process that wasted metal and risked jackhammer injuries—to ultrasonic technology that did so better, faster, and far cheaper. SIA workers get bonuses (grand prize: a new Subaru Legacy) for pointing out excess packaging and processes that can be cut from the assembly line and then rebated by suppliers. All the savings are effectively plowed back into plant operations—and overtime.
To score a cherished "associate" position at the factory—there's a 10-1 ratio of applicants to openings—would-be employees are expected to put in long hours learning and practicing SIA's low-impact manufacturing. That means scrutinizing every byproduct, from welding slag to plastic wrap, for savings. And obsessively slicing seconds off assembly procedures. And a willingness to work whole months of six-day shifts, and likely years on the graveyard shift, while resisting the siren call of unionization. (The United Auto Workers has failed three times to organize the plant's workers.)
There's always a catch, and at SIA it's this: All that ultra-efficiency—when applied to employees—can lead to unforgiving schedules. SIA workers, who start at just over $14 an hour and peak at about $25 an hour, put in 47-hour workweeks that include two Saturdays a month at time and a half—good for $50,000 to $60,000 a year in per-employee salary. (That means roughly 100 employee salaries were protected by the aforementioned $5.3 million zero-landfill rebate.) The upside? When the Japan earthquake interrupted the supply of parts in March, slowing down the plant's breakneck output, SIA was able to keep paying its workers in full to volunteer in town. The downside: "Everyone's burned out here," says Kay Tavana, a 48-year-old who installs airbags and headlights. Not that she isn't grateful for the work and the SIA perks. Working while on chemotherapy for a blood disease, Tavana avails herself of SIA's free gym to rev up for her shift from 4:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m.
The cost savings and social programs at SIA wouldn't amount to much if Subaru's cars weren't in demand. From 2008 to 2010, unit sales jumped 41 percent, while last year the company's 22 percent rise in vehicle sales was double the broader car market's increase. "You get worker commitment to productivity by offering job security," says Kristin Dziczek, who studies labor issues at the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich. "But the best job security is still a product people will buy."
With SIA operating at maximum capacity and with an expansion plan under way, Vice-President Easterday says this "experiment" in the middle of Indiana corn country could someday export its American-made Japanese cars to the rest of the world. His SIA case study left Schroeder convinced that "Dumpster diving can be great for business." the article

6/3 RIP actor James Arness. He passed away on June 3rd at 88, natural causes. He was Marshall Matt Dillon for 20 years on Gunsmoke, one of the best TV shows ever, from September 10, 1955 to March 31, 1975. He always did the right thing except he never married Miss Kitty. He was born May 26, 1923. Gunsmoke lives, he will go on. He says goodbye on JamesArness.com

6/1 are Americans too big for small cars with small seats and limited headroom.
'Many Europeans like small cars. And many of these drivers are typically small, agile and fit -- just like their cars. While the steep price of gasoline in Europe contributes to compact car popularity, many Europeans are physically comfortable driving compacts. Whereas a recent published report says the physically bigger Americans are not.
I’m not telling you anything new when I say America has an obesity problem.... According to a report on AOL Autos, one analyst says it’s futile for automakers to expect Americans to embrace small cars. Many U.S. waistlines are just too darn wide for those drivers to fit comfortably in the tight space and feel safe... And several automakers are counting on redesigned or updated compact cars to help support sales. There’s the Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Ford Fiesta and Focus, and Subaru Impreza to list a few. I bet the U.S. weight problem creates all sorts of headaches for the engineers who design small car interiors. But sales aren’t the only thing driving automakers to downsize their fleets. President Obama wants to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil. He’s promised a one-third slash in oil imports by 2025. That means smaller cars and alternative fuels are going to be necessary. Good thing his wife is waging a war on childhood obesity because when those kids grow up, they are going to have to fit into smaller cars -- likely run on alternative fuels -- whether they like it or not.'  read the article by Jamie LaReau

5/28 Memorial Day is Monday 5/30

5/27- correction Synthetic oil is now required recommended on all 2011 models. See entry dated 5/22 below

5/24 Subaru has multiple All Wheel Drive systems.
Regardless of system, both front and rear axles always have some power, its only a question of how much. Thats why Subarus are so good in bad weather and emergency handling. Find the ski slope or a snowy hospital parking lot and you'll find Subarus because when its important and you have to get there you want to do it in a Subaru.
> Active AWD- manual transmissions. It normally splits power 50/50 front/rear and varies it according to slippage. Uses a center differential viscous coupling.
> Continuous AWD- 4 speed automatics. Normally 80/20 front/rear power split, varies up to 50/50 according to slippage. Uses an electronically contolled clutch pack.
> VTD AWD (variable torque distribution)- on 5 speed automatics. Only on 6 cylinder and turbo 4 cylinder performance-oriented models. Has a rear bias with 45/55 front/rear power split. Uses the TCM transmission control module.
> VTD AWD with DCCD- on the Impreza STI only. DCCD is 'Driver Controlled Center Differential'.  Allows for either fully automatic or manual front/rear power control. Normally 41/59 front/rear for a performance-oriented rear wheel bias, DCCD has three automatic modes ('auto', 'auto +' for more of a front axle bias on low traction surfaces, and 'auto-'  for more of a rear axle bias on high traction), and six manual front/rear settings from 41/59-50/50.
> Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) combines two systems - Electronic Stability Control and Electronic Traction Control - improves handling by sensing and minimizing skids and minimizing wheel spin. VDC helps maintain control on slippery roads and in emergency handling. First use was the top of the line 2001 Outback VDC (yes it was really called the VDC model), and was on all models starting in 2009 model year.

5/22- Subaru is a smart decision- Just ask Dylan Miller. He's the lucky guy who went to school every day and got good grades.
'Local high schooler’s that made it a point to make it to school every day had the chance to win big on Saturday. Grand Junction Subaru and Subaru of America partnered up with District 51 for its third annual 'be cool, stay in school' car give away.  64 students qualified for the car giveaway by maintaining a 98 percent or better attendance record for the 2010-2011 school year. Five students names were randomly selected and then they each got a key. Which ever key started the car- that was the winner, and folks didn't have to wait long to find out who'd be driving away in a new car.
"I’m still freaking out, its just awesome, first one picked and first one to start it and I get it, my hearts still pounding, I’m just so excited" says Dylan Miller who won the car. Out of the sixty four students eligible only 47 showed up.' the article
 

5/17 see a Subaru art car in Houston...
On Sunday,  Great Bend’s (Kansas) Rex Rosenberg, with his “ChewBaru” art car, will compete alongside 250 pieces of mobile eye candy in the Houston Art Car Parade. There are 200,000 art car enthusiasts expected to attend....
Rosenberg’s “ChewBaru” is a 1995 Subaru Legacy that has 70 pounds of dentures, 70 pounds of dental impressions, dozens of toothpaste tubes, dental tools, toothbrushes, and many other items related to dentistry glued to it. He began adorning the car in May 2006. the article
Do you have a Subaru art car- send a photo?

5/13 Friday the 13th

5/13 Oregon Rally May13-14-15
The three-day event includes 17 timed competitive special stages, at Portland International Raceway, presented by Dick Hannah Subaru, on Friday May 13th and on the challenging forest and county gravel roads around Hood River, The Dalles and Dufur on Saturday and Sunday, May 14-15th. Expected entrants include BMX legend Dave Mirra, multi-talented driver Andrew "ACP" Comrie-Picard, current Canadian, Rally America, and North American champion Antoine L'Estage, and most of the fastest rally drivers and co-drivers in North America. http://www.oregontrailrally.com/

5/12 Subaru- the corporate dance, the Subaru shuffle at Subaru of America.
Subaru has a number of longtime employees and that says a lot about how good the company is to work for... but there is change.
Bill Cyphers has worn many hats in his almost 28 years with Subaru and is the new Senior VP of Sales. He replaces Tim Colbeck who joined Subaru in 1986 and just left to head up Saab USA (note- it was just announced that Saab did not get a much needed investment from China's Hawtai Motors).
Bill Cyphers started with Subaru in 1984. He was Vice President of Marketing starting in 1999 and involved in the alliance between Subaru and LL Bean.  He became VP sales in the summer of 2001 and was part of the team that introduced the first WRX to America in 2002. In April 2006 Cyphers moved to be VP of independent distributor relations. Most recently he was Regional VP of the eastern region.
Mike Hafertepe replaces Bill Cyphers as Regional VP of the eastern region. Mike was Regional VP of the central region. That position has not been filled.
Jeff Walters is new VP field and distributor operations. He has been director of  field and distributor operations and before that Regional sales manager in Atlanta. He has been at Subaru since 1992, starting as a management associate.
Side notes: VP Marketing position:  Bill Cyphers 1999-2001, Mark Darling 2001-2/2003, Rick Crosson Feb 3/2003-2007. Crosson is currently VP market development, before that he was Regional VP of the central region

5/9 Subaru loses another executive. After years of steady but low key success in the small all wheel drive niche market, Subaru has proven to have resilient products that can withstand market ups and downs. Subaru's rising fortune is also raising the stock of its top execs, making them attractive to other car companies. The headhunters must be visiting Subaru's Cherry Hill, New Jersey HQ because another longtime Subaru executive has been picked up by a competitor.
Back in September, Subaru's Kevin Meyer, director of marketing communications left to join Chevrolet as director of advertising and sales promotion. Mayer had joined Subaru in 2007.  Alan Bethke moved into Meyers position.
Then just last month (April, 2010), in a big move, long time Subaru ad guy Tim Mahoney moved to VW.
Now another Tim is leaving. Tim Cobeck, SoA Senior VP of sales is leaving to be President and COO of Saab NA..
Tim Colbeck held a number of jobs at Subaru in the 25 years since he started with them in 1986. As VP of sales since 2007 he was responsible for vehicle planning and sales operations. He recently oversaw a major reorganization of Subaru's regional sales offices in 2009.
He started with Subaru in 1986 as a financial analyst, prior to that he was an auditor for the Philadelphia Life Ins Co. From 1987 to 1994 he was in various accounting, parts and business planning depts.
In 1997 he became National Sales Operations Manager, then Director of e-business from 1999-2002, then Mid-Atlantic Regional VP 2002-2007, and finally VP sales in May 2007.
Now he is leaving to run US Saab, taking on the challenge to revitalize the once proud company that struggled and sank under corporate parent GM's 2000-2010 ownership. Saab is currenty owned by tiny Dutch car company Spyker Cars NV who bought it at a liquidation sale in January 2010. Just last week Hawtai Motors, a small, private Chinese automaker, saved Saab from collapse with a loan. (note 5/13- this loan fell apart)
Colbeck will be somewhat familiar with Saab because there are some notable similarites with Subaru.
Both Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru's parent company, and Saab-Scania, Saab's parent company from 1947-2000,  have strong aerospace and engineering backgrounds.
In the 1970s-80s-90s Saab, like Subaru, was known as a slightly quirky, cultishly popular car -Saab's ignition was famously out of place in the center console for example-  and both companies had, and still have, very loyal owners.
When GM owned Saab and also had a stake in Fuji (long since sold to Toyota), Saab even sold rebadged 2005 and 2006 Subaru Impreza wagons as the Saab 92x.
And yes Saab still makes wagons and even has an all wheel drive car, the 2011 9-5 Turbo6 XWD. Mr. Colbeck will feel right at home.

And starting April 1, Mr. Takeshi Tachimori, a former SoA and Fuji Heavy Industries USA (FUSA) colleague, became Chairman, President and CEO of SoA.. "Mr. Tachimori has enjoyed an impressive career at FHI in key management roles. Many of you may remember when Mr. Tachimori was stationed at SoA in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Our most recent generation of Legacy and Outback products came to market under Mr. Tachimori's leadership as the Corporate Senior Vice President and Chief General Manager of the Subaru Product and Portfolio Planning Division."

5/4 Rally driver Dave Mirra signs autographs May 12th at Dick Hanna Subaru in Vancouver, Wa.. Thursday May 12th at 6:30pm, the day before the Oregon Trail Rally begins at Portland International Raceway, legendary BMX-pro and Subaru Rally Team (SRT) USA driver Dave Mirra will be at Dick Hannah Subaru talking with fans and signing autographs. There is no charge to attend.
> Olympus rally results
Subaru Rally Team USA's David Higgins and Dave Mirra competed this weekend in their respective 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally cars  at the Olympus Rally, round three of the 2011 Rally America National Championship. The Olympus Rally runs along the beautiful shorelines of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula. David Higgins and his co-driver Craig Drew rocketed into the lead in their #75 WRX STI after impressively winning four of the first six stages. Meanwhile teammate Dave Mirra and Marshall Clarke in the #40 WRX STI kept on-pace, holding fast to a fourth-place position throughout the first day.
Sadly, a fatal accident occurred late on day one of the rally involving privateer competitor Matthew Marker of Elk Rapids, MI. Marker’s Co-driver Christopher Gordon of Brooklyn Park, MN, was not seriously injured. Due to the accident, Rally America officials halted the the Olympus Rally at the conclusion of stage six and subsequently cancelled the second day of the National portion of the event. The final results of the rally were consequently based on the leader board after stage six giving Higgins and Mirra 1st and 4th place finish positions, respectively.

5/2 'Tragedy hits Olympus rally. The Olympus Rally, round three of the Rally America National Championship, ended tragically when Matthew Marker of Elk River, MI, was killed when his rally car left the road at high speed and struck a tree on the Smith Creek W stage. Medical personnel responded to the scene quickly, but could not resuscitate Marker. This was the first fatality in North American stage rally competition since 2003. His co-driver, Christopher Gordon of Brooklyn Park, MN, was not seriously injured.
RallyCar Managing Director, J.B. Niday knew Marker well and noted that he “loved the sport and was a unique character from the first day he showed up at the Sno*Drift Rally four years ago” and described him as “a generous, loveable personality”.
The Olympus Rally offers our condolences to Marker’s family.
Competition for the remainder of the day was cancelled and the results at that time where declared final. The team of David Higgins and Craig Drew won the Olympus Rally. Wyatt Knox and Ole Holter won the Max Attack! Two-Wheel Drive Championship Series event. Tom and Don Burress won the Piloti Challenge. Chris and Lori O’Driscoll won the Ray Damitio Regional Rally. The John Nagel Regional Rally was run the following day and was won by Max Riddle and Aaron Neumann.'  the whole article

5/1 the value of all wheel drive. Another car company, Lincoln,  better known for big luxury cruisers, sees the value of all wheel drive.
When one usually thinks of all-wheel-drive, the first brands that pop into mind are Subaru and Audi, both having spent decades building a carefully crafted  image around that core technology. The latest brand that wants to join the AWD fray in a major way is…Lincoln? Although not traditionally associated with the technology, Lincoln claims the drivetrain configuration is comprising an increasingly larger part of its sales mix.
With the discontinuation of the rear-drive-only Town Car, Lincoln notes that all-wheel-drive is now available in all the brand’s vehicles, from the MKZ and MKS sedans, through to the MKX and MKT crossovers, as well as the full-size, body-on-frame Navigator SUV.
In terms of sales mix, the ostensible Town Car replacement MKT is trending at 72% all-wheel-drive, followed by the MKX and Navigator, both at 62%, the MKS at 46%, and the MKZ with 25 percent.
All-wheel-drive is also an enabling technology to allow full optimization of the 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque produced by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 in the MKS and MKT models. That level of power in a front-wheel-drive vehicle would likely result in poor driveability and control characteristics. “We see all-wheel drive as a core technology option for the entire Lincoln line-up, both today and for the future,” C.J. O’Donnell, Group Marketing Manager for Lincoln, said.' the entire article

4/22 Earth Day-

4/16 all about Subarus- Ak writer and all around creative type Geoff Kirsch might dwell on Subarus as much as I do. In one article, he covers Subaru pride, diapers, tough guys in Palin Country who sneer at subie-sissies (take that SP), and honestly points out that there's more to Subaru ownership than not being quite hip enough to drive a Prius. Plus he manages to mention Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Steep, Bill Withers and John Denver and then channel Janis Joplin from her classic album Pearl all while proclaiming his Subaru enhanced virility.  What else? A Volvo death machine, and buying a Subaru instead of an engagement ring... now thats Subaru pride! Read on..

"It’s no secret: guys think a lot about their vehicles. Even guys like me, who take our morning joe with Splenda and fat-free French vanilla Coffeemate. When it comes to manliness, what we’ve got under the hood says a lot about… ahem, what we’ve got under the hood.
I drive a Subaru. And it used to be a sore spot, especially when we lived in the Mat-Su Valley, Palin country (at the time, she was mayor of Wasilla) froggering our tiny imported crossover SUV around an endless stream of dinosauric American-made trucks.
Especially at places like the gravel pit or Spenard Builders Supply, invariably, after watching me struggle to bungee lumber to my ski rack or shovel loose rock straight into the hatchback, some Ford/Chevy dude would amble over.
“What kinda’ rig you runnin’?” he’d ask, and then, answering his own question, “Subaru — my wife drives one of those.”
Clearly, I found this deflating. And I’m no stranger to having my masculinity questioned because of the “rig” I’m “runnin’.”
Throughout high school and college, I drove a Volvo… that I shared with my sister… who painted daisies and peace signs on the dashboard… and “accidentally” got an Indigo Girls tape stuck in the crappy Swedish cassette deck so the only music you could listen to was Swamp Ophelia (when Rites of Passage is clearly the stronger studio effort).
Man, that car was an estro-mobile. No wonder I got pulled over so often — with my hair still long and red, police probably mistook me for a college girl willing to flirt her way out of a ticket. No wonder I frequently wound up in handcuffs. I’d be disappointed, too, if that ginger hottie turned out to be me.
Worse still, the Volvo was rear-wheel drive, with a puny rheumatic engine and factory tires. This made it a death machine, too, especially in a landscape as hilly and icy as Ithaca, N.Y., which, like Juneau, features streets that become staircases that become streets that become staircases again. Suffice to say I was doing Double McTwist 360s all over town, back when Shaun White was wearing Buzz Lightyear training pants.
I hated that Volvo more than techno.
My Subaru, on the other hand, I love. Utilitarian, sturdy, compact but powerful, sort of like Dustin Hoffman in his prime. This makes sense: Meryl Streep is a noted Subaru driver.
Of course, there’s more to Subaru ownership than not being quite hip enough to drive a Prius (for instance, you use disposable diapers, albeit the Seventh Generation brand; you won’t eat McDonald’s, but Wendy’s is your first stop at the airport).
I guess what I’m trying to say about my Subaru is that I own it and I own it, so to speak, and in the process I derive certain self-respect. Let’s call it Subaru Pride.
Yes, I drive a Subaru. And yes, there are two car seats in the back, and princess stickers on the window, and a baby doll hanging out the door. This would embarrass some men. To me, it’s all just an indicator of my virility. Even/especially the glitter-encrusted paper crown I’m sometimes forced to wear.
Granted, Juneau’s an extremely Subaru-tolerant place. Per capita, we’ve got to rank right up there with Boulder, Colo. and Burlington, Vt. I don’t think anyone can compete with Berkeley, Calif. That place is Subariffic.

Anyway, no matter where you live, here are five great reasons to feel Subaru Pride:
• With studs — see, more masculine already — a Subaru can handle the gnarliest winter conditions. And if it gets stuck, it’s only a matter of time before someone drives by in a super-duty truck, looking to try out the winch he got for Christmas.
• Subarus are like the XtraTufs of station wagons, much like Bill Withers is the John Denver of funk.
• A Subaru is not a minivan. In fact, specifically because it seats only five, a Subaru offers the perfect excuse to bail on outings with the in-laws.
• Somehow, podcasts of NPR sound better when listened to inside a Subaru. and Yerba mate tea tastes better.
• Last but not least, a Subaru is forever. Well, not forever, but six years ago, I put a downpayment on one instead of an engagement ring. It still runs like new, even closing in on 100,000 miles, a good 70,000 of which we somehow accrued living in a city where the road ends less than 40 miles out of town.
In my time behind its wheel, more than anything else, my Subaru has taught me this: ultimately, it’s not the kind of rig you’re running. It’s how you run it.

I’d like to close with a song of great social and political import. Goes like this:

“Green Subaru”
(to the tune of “Mercedes Benz” by Janis Joplin)
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a green Subaru?
My friends all drive Outbacks that smell like the zoo
Wore clogs my whole lifetime, instead of real shoes
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a green Subaru.
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me some fair trade coffee?
Shade-grown and organic, certified carbon-free,
And join my non-profit, I’ll make you V.P.
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me some fair trade coffee.
Oh Lord won’t you buy me a yoga retreat?
At an ashram in Thailand would make it complete
I promise to compost and stop eating meat
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a yoga retreat.
Everybody…
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a green Subaru?
My friends all drive Outbacks that smell like the zoo
Wore clogs my whole lifetime, instead of real shoes
Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a green Subaru.
“Slack Tide” runs every other Sunday in Neighbors.
Check out more of Geoff Kirsch’s work at www.geoffkirsch.com.
the orignal article

4/15 April 15th Tax Day-

4/11 Factory orders end for 2011s-
Factory orders are no longer accepted for any 2011 vehicle. This is normal as 2011 model production winds down and starts the shift to 2012,  and also to better manage limited parts and resources after the March 11 earthquake. In late March, some lower volume Outback and Legacy models had been already removed from the order list- manual transmissions, 3.6Rs, uncommon Option Packages.

4/10 earthquake relate factory shutdown means fewer cars and higher prices especially for late model used fleet returns
' The ripple effects of the Japan earthquake are disrupting the auto industry supply chain, and the aftershocks could be evident on car lots this spring.
Popular models could be in short supply, according to industry analysts and dealers. And prices of late-model used economy cars – already in heavy demand because of high gas prices – are starting to spike even further in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami....
“We have the cars now, but in a month or more we may be nearly out,” said Jeff Morrill, owner of Planet Subaru in Hanover. “It could be months before we have the volumes again.”
Subaru said it was resuming production of its Forester SUV, Legacy and Impreza models in Japan on Thursday...
Periodic power outages, shortage of parts and damage to road systems have disrupted the intricate automotive supply chain. The crisis also has exposed a weakness in the acclaimed “just-in-time” supply chain method pioneered by Toyota in the 1990s and subsequently adopted widely throughout the industry...
“The Japanese automakers pioneered it, and it spread to the rest of the industry,” Planet Subaru’s Morrill said. “You can’t design your supply chain to anticipate this kind of event.”...
Japanese models manufactured in the U.S. also have been affected. Subaru reduced shifts at its Lafayette, Ind. plant this week because of a parts shortage....  Prices of year-old Subaru Foresters and Imprezas have risen $1,000 to $2,000 at auto auctions in recent weeks, Morrill said...' read the entire article

About 1,000 workers work at Subaru's SIA factory in Lafayette on the Camry sedan assembly line which will be down for 5 days this month due to parts shortages.

4/5 Finance rates for April announced, NW region.  Forester rate for 60/63 month went from 1.9% to 2.9%, and Legacy 72 month rate went to 2.9%. Top credit required, oac on approval of credit. More details

4/3 Get your Subaru Badge of Ownership...  whether this is your 1st Subaru or 7th, get badges that show how many you've had and what your hobbies are. Details here

 

4/1 rare Subaru early pre-Impreza concept car hatchback, circa 1976. This survivor (barely) has been modified from the original and is now owned by Chris.

3/27 oops ... always tow a Subaru automatic transmission with -all- wheels off the ground; or a manual transmission with -all- wheels either on or off the ground. But don't do it this way...

3/24 change of top leadership at SoA
'... Mr. Yoshio Hasunuma, Chairman, President and CEO of Subaru of America, Inc. will relinquish his position effective April 1, 2011. Mr. Hasunuma will continue in his current role at FHI as Corporate Executive Vice President of the Subaru North American Sales & Marketing Division... In the two years that Mr. Hasunuma has been at SOA, we have seen dramatic increases in our sales and profitability...
Mr. Takeshi Tachimori, a former SOA and Fuji Heavy Industries USA (FUSA) colleague, will assume the role of Chairman, President and CEO of SOA effective April 1, 2011. Mr. Tachimori has enjoyed an impressive career at FHI in key management roles. Many of you may remember when Mr. Tachimori was stationed at SOA in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Our most recent generation of Legacy and Outback products came to market under Mr. Tachimori's leadership as the Corporate Senior Vice President and Chief General Manager of the Subaru Product and Portfolio Planning Division.
As you may know, this regular leadership transition is part of Fuji Heavy Industries' normal business rotation...."

Spring starts today March 20th

3/19 JP Power new car overall vehicle dependability survey -  includes 43,700 original owners of 2008 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. Top car make is Lincoln with 101 problems per 100 cars, the average is 151, Subaru has 157, sandwiched between Volvo and Kia. Here is a brief summary (read the complete JD Power article)
'Overall vehicle dependability has improved from 2010, with automakers succeeding in reducing problem rates in many traditional areas, but experiencing some challenges in overcoming problems with newer technologies and features, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS) released today.
The study, which measures problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year-old (2008 model year) vehicles, includes 202 different problem symptoms across all areas of the vehicle.  Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality....
... The slowdown in improvement is largely attributable to increased rates of problems with electronic features in vehicles, including audio, entertainment and navigation systems and new safety features, such as tire pressure monitoring systems...
The 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 43,700 original owners of 2008 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. The study was fielded between October and December 2010...
Problems per 100 cars by manufacturer: Lincoln 101, Lexus 109, Jaguar 112, Porsche 114, Toyota 122, Acura 123, Buick 125, Mercedes 128, Cadillac 130, Hyundai 132, Honda 139, Ford 140,  Saab 146, Infiniti 151, AVERAGE 151 problems per 100 cars,  Smart 152, Chevy 156, Volvo 156, Subaru 157, Kia 160, Audi 161, BMW 164, Scion 165, Ram 173, Mazda 181, Nissan 183, GMC 184,  Mitsubishi 186, Suzuki 190, VW 191, Chrylser 202, Dodge 206, Land Rover 212, Jeep 214, Mini 221.' read the complete JD Power article

3/18 The Canadian Dollar exchange rate is very strong $1 CAD = $1.0143 USD which make a US Subaru an even better deal. Most dealers will only sell used cars cross border.
3/13- Reset clocks- Spring Forward- set clocks ahead Sunday 2am (or Saturday night)

3/13 your chance to speak up! FTC Roundtables Will Address Consumer Issues in Motor Vehicle Financing and Leasing
'Starting next month, the Federal Trade Commission will host a series of roundtables around the country to gather information on consumers’ experiences when buying or leasing motor vehicles. The roundtables will explore consumer protection issues related to the sale, financing, and leasing of the consumer vehicles consumers most often use – cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
For many consumers, buying or leasing a car is their most expensive financial transaction aside from owning a home. With prices averaging more than $28,000 for a new vehicle and $14,000 for a used vehicle from a dealer, most consumers seek to lease or finance the purchase of a new or used car. Financing obtained at a dealership may provide benefits for many consumers, such as convenience, special manufacturer-sponsored programs, access to a variety of banks and financial entities, or access to credit otherwise unavailable to a buyer.
Dealer-arranged financing, however, can be a complicated, opaque process and could potentially involve unfair or deceptive practices.
The roundtable events will be free and open to the public. The first roundtable will be on April 12 at Wayne State University Law School in Detroit, which is co-hosting the event. FTC staff will identify and invite people with relevant expertise, including representatives from the industry and consumer advocates, to participate as panelists, and may invite others who submit requests in response to the Federal Register notice. Those who want to be panelists at any of the roundtables may e-mail their name and affiliation to MotorVehicleRoundtables1@ftc.gov. Those who wish to submit comments on roundtable topics may file comments at https://ftcpublic.commentworks.com/ftc/motorvehicleroundtables1. Both requests to participate as panelists and comments must be received by March 28 using instructions in the Federal Register notice.
More information, including roundtable topics, will be posted at http://www.ftc.gov. Those who plan to attend a roundtable are encouraged to preregister by e-mailing their name and affiliation to PreregisterMotorVehicleRoundtables1@ftc.gov. (FTC File No. P104811; staff contacts are Katherine Worthman and Carole Reynolds, Division of Financial Practices, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20580, 202-326-3224.)'...  the entire notice

3/8 100th  International Women’s Day

3/8 Consumer Reports April auto issue now available at newstands ... 'Honda and Subaru make the best vehicles overall' ... Every April, Consumer Reports puts out an issue on the quality and repair history of cars.  Subaru gets many favorable mentions, along with the usual top rated cars from Hpnda, Ford, Toyota, etc. Its available online by subscription, or buy the magazine in stores. ConsumerReports.org

3/6 Subaru takes care of employees with onsite medical facility at the SIA factory in Indiana
'A new facility at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) aims to help keep associates and their families healthy. It's been 12 years since the last ground-breaking at SIA, but Wednesday afternoon that all changed. SIA officials and employees grabbed shovels and turned dirt for a new health and wellness center.
The new facility is expected to save SIA employees money when it comes to health care costs for them and their families. Nearly 7,000 SIA associates, retirees and dependents can use the new facility. SIA associate Jim Martin has three kids and said the new center will help save his family money on doctor bills.
"I think it's going to really help me out in particular because right now if my daughter gets sick over here at the daycare center, I have to go and find an appointment somewhere around town at wherever I can get. Now, if she gets sick at daycare, I can just come across the parking lot to the wellness center. That will be a lot more convenient and it's going to be cheaper for us too," said Martin.
All of the basic services a normal doctor's office provides such as primary, urgent care and lab services will be offered at the new facility. Counseling will also be available to employees.
Construction is expected to begin in the next couple of weeks. Plans are in place to open the facility this summer. It will be located on the east end of SIA's property near Interstate 65 in Lafayette right next to the Child Development Center and SIA's Recreation Center.' the article

3/4 In Oregon,  a Subaru full of cats and dogs ...
'If you were taking an innocent stroll recently along Highway 62, you may have been startled by a speeding vehicle emitting what sounded eerily like wailing lamentations from the underworld. But there was no need to dive into the ditch or jump behind a tree.
It was just the Fur Wagon Express making a run from the woods south of Jacksonville to a veterinarian in Eagle Point...
I was the one clinging to the wheel of our silver Subaru wagon filled with all creatures, great and small.
In addition to two humanoids, the vehicle was hauling six yowling cats and two burly dogs woofing at the world flashing past.
My wife had waggishly dubbed it the Fur Wagon. The moniker was appropriate, given the fact we were hauling 200 pounds of canine and more than 60 pounds of cat...
Actually, not all of the fur bearers were in distress. Take Sable, the black cat who adopted us about eight years ago, then sadly suffered a stroke two years ago... Creeping up on cat's feet from behind the driver's seat came an eye-watering stench that let us know one scaredy cat had lost the battle to control his or her intestinal tract.
"Good God! That must be Fitzwilliam!" I yelled as I hung my head out the window to gulp untainted air... Our man Fitz showed up on our deck a few months ago, all 20 pounds of muscle and meow. He was big on eating but not much on socializing... Sullen and withdrawn, he reminded me of Mr. Darcy in that great book "Pride and Prejudice." Jane Austen fans out there will recall that Mr. Darcy's name is Fitzwilliam. But the feline Mr. Darcy had ample reason to be a bit miffed on this day. He was in a cage, about to lose his male-cat-hood. Yes, you could say he had ample reason to go nuts.
Next to him was an equally upset Odysseys, the long-haired stray cat we rescued several years ago.. Then there was Mouse, Evinrude and Miss Chievious, three young adult tabbies...  Taking it all in were mutts Waldo and Harpo, both sitting in the back seat and adding a baritone bark now and then to keep the cats fired up.
The noise was bad enough, but having a rearview mirror filled with the image of Harpo's goofy grin is more than I could take...
But we made it to the vet on time. Turns out not all of the fur bearers needed a shot. Waldo and the Little People were apparently along for the Fur Wagon joy ride. It was surprisingly quiet on the way home. Of course, I would later return to pick up a somewhat dazed Fitzwilliam. Well, most of him, anyway. Yeow. Yet I've been troubled by a recurring nightmare in which I'm in a cage in the Fur Wagon flying down the road bound for the vet's. In the dream, Harpo is driving and grinning back at me in the rearview mirror. He is doing that Elvis lip thing. And he keeps calling me Fitzwilliam.' read the whole article
 

3/1 'Honda and Subaru make the best vehicles overall' ...  Every April, Consumer Reports puts out an issue on the quality and repair history of cars.  Its available now online by subscription, or buy the magazine in stores March 6th or so. ConsumerReports.org

From the LA Times: "Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra and the Chevrolet Avalanche got high marks from Consumer Reports in its annual auto report card.  The influential consumer guide said Honda and Subaru make the best vehicles overall, while Ford posted the largest quality gains among the major automakers. Ford improved in both the road tests of its vehicles and its reliability scores.
Ford has made greater strides than rival American automakers General Motors Co. and Chrysler Group in recent years...
Honda Motor Co., including its Acura division, had the highest overall score, 74, and the best reliability record of any manufacturer, the magazine said.
Subaru was just behind in second place with a score of 73.
Despite a year of big recalls for unintended acceleration, sticking gas pedals and other problems, Toyota still did well in the Consumer Reports tests, finishing in third place with 71 points. The magazine said that the company's Toyota, Lexus and Scion models "remain solid choices overall," although some of the newer vehicles "have slipped in interior fit and finish."
Toyota vehicles also made up three of Consumer Reports' 10 top picks.
General Motors, with 56 points, has also improved its average road-test and reliability scores. Consumer Reports said it liked newer GM models such as the Buick Enclave and LaCrosse and the Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse. But the company was still well down in rankings because of its older models." the LA times article

from the Press Release...
'Scores are calculated based on the five-year owner cost for each vehicle (shown as cost per mile) along with CR's road-test score and the publication's own predicted-reliability. Five-year owner cost estimates factor in depreciation, fuel costs, insurance premiums, interest on financing, maintenance and repairs, and sales tax. Depreciation is by far the largest owner-cost factor.
In all, eight different categories of vehicles were evaluated including small cars, family cars, upscale sedans, luxury sedans, sporty cars, wagons and minivans, small SUVs and midsized SUVs. Within categories models are ranked by value score, above or below the average.
Best Value Small Car: Honda Fit; Worst Value Small Car: Chevrolet Aveo5 1LT
Best Value Family Car:  Toyota Prius IV; Worst Value Family Car:  Chevrolet Impala LT (3.5)
Best Value Upscale Sedan: Acura TSX (4-cyl.); Worst Value Upscale Sedan: Buick Lucerne (V8)
Best Value Luxury Sedan: Hyundai Genesis 4.6; Worst Value Luxury Sedan:  BMW 750Li
Best Value Sporty Car: Mini Cooper (base); Worst Value Sporty Car: Porsche 911 Carrera S
Best Value Wagons/Minivans: Mazda5 Grand Touring; Worst Value Wagons/Minivans: Kia Sedona EX
Best Value Small SUV: Toyota RAV4 (base, 4cyl.); Worst Value Small SUVs: Jeep Liberty Sport
Best Value Midsized SUVs: Hyundai Santa Fe GLS (4cyl.), Worst Value Midsized SUVs: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
the press release

2/21 President's Day...  celebrating  George Washington's birthday, now known as a day of big newspaper ads and sales at stores, the mall, car dealers etc..

2/20  Volvo to drop the V50 station wagon because Americans like bigger crossovers
Volvo built its image in the United States on safety - and big, boxy station wagons. But the Swedish automaker plans to stop importing the only wagon it sells in this country, the V50. American consumers have migrated from wagons to crossovers, said Doug Speck, CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. He did not give a timetable for discontinuing the V50.
Volvo stopped importing the larger V70 station wagon at the end of the 2010 model year and said it would not import the V60 wagon that debuted in Europe last year.
"Over the last decade the traditional station wagon segment has been on a decline," Speck said. "Through that period the crossover segment has grown exponentially. The reality is the crossovers of today are the wagons of yesteryear."
Volvo sold only 1,720 V50s last year, down from a peak of 5,486 in 2005.  Volvo will continue to offer the XC70, which looks like a station wagon but rides higher. But Speck said the XC70 will be marketed as a crossover. Last year, Volvo sold 3,951 XC70s. "We are much more focused on succeeding with the XC range," Speck said. "The V50 decision is consistent with that strategy." the article

2/16 It's Random Acts of Kindness Week, February 13-19, 2010... even small gestures can make a big differenc so do something unexpectedly nice ... tell someone about to buy a car (not a Subaru) to consider a Subaru, let another driver merge on the freeway, hold the door for someone, say thank you, clean up your street, just say hello, help a senior citizen carry their groceries, donate something to those in need or to the animal shelter, don't be a bully even in a small way, bring in the mail for a neighbor, if you have a Subaru help a fellow traveler who doesn't and is stuck in the snow, mostly Smile and mean it because thats pretty uncommon these days!  the Random Acts of Kindness site

2/9 Toyota- DOT and NHTSA find no electronic cause for acceleration issues. They will continue to study pedal placement and  driver behavior, the reliability of electronic controls (all cars have them these days), and may require brake override systems and EDRs (event data recorders, aka black boxes).
' The U.S. Department of Transportation released results from an unprecedented ten-month study of potential electronic causes of unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched the study last spring at the request of Congress, and enlisted NASA engineers with expertise in areas such as computer controlled electronic systems, electromagnetic interference and software integrity to conduct new research into whether electronic systems or electromagnetic interference played a role in incidents of unintended acceleration.
NASA engineers found no electronic flaws in Toyota vehicles capable of producing the large throttle openings required to create dangerous high-speed unintended acceleration incidents. The two mechanical safety defects identified by NHTSA more than a year ago – “sticking” accelerator pedals and a design flaw that enabled accelerator pedals to become trapped by floor mats – remain the only known causes for these kinds of unsafe unintended acceleration incidents. Toyota has recalled nearly 8 million vehicles in the United States for these two defects.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said, “We enlisted the best and brightest engineers to study Toyota’s electronics systems, and the verdict is in. There is no electronic-based cause for unintended high-speed acceleration in Toyotas."...
 * Propose rules, by the end of 2011, to require brake override systems, to standardize operation of keyless ignition systems, and to require the installation of event data recorders (so called 'black box')  in all passenger vehicles;
* Begin broad research on the reliability and security of electronic control systems;
 * Research the placement and design of accelerator and brake pedals, as well as driver usage of pedals, to determine whether design and placement can be improved to reduce pedal misapplication... ' read the entire NHTSA press release,  more including glossary,

2/8 Subaru considers new port facility in Richmond, Northen California. Currently the 2 ports receiving Subarus built in Japan (Impreza, Forester) are Vancouver, Wa. and Baltimore, Md.
'Up to 35,000 Subaru vehicles could soon be moving through Richmond's port, a deal in the works that promises millions in fresh revenue.
Subaru is interested in a five-year contract that could create more than 40 full-time jobs and bring in $1 million annually, according to an e-mail from the port that City Councilman Tom Butt shared. Some improvements would need to be made to get ready for Subaru, costing an estimated $500,000 to $750,000.
Officials are conducting an environmental review of the project. The port of Richmond last year welcomed Honda into its fold, the culmination of four years of negotiations. Honda is moving at least 145,000 cars a year through the port en route to the sales floor, generating at least $85 million in city revenue over 15 years and about 200 jobs'  read the article

2/7 Subaru Owners.. remember to get a Subaru Badge of Ownership for your car- pick icons for gardening, road rally, pets, sports, animals, arts, boating, lgbt etc.
And Subaru should be announcing 2010 Share the Love results and totals soon.

2/7 Great football game... the puppy bowl was cute as puppies always are and I appreciated the kitty bowl- our cat just wouldn't watch it though I pointed it out to her.

2/6 SUPER BOWL SUNDAY - watch the Subaru Puppy Bowl VII on the Animal Planet channel instead of the Super Bowl (or flip between channels) 3pm Sunday
 

-2/6 Northwest Flower and Garden Show, February 23-27, 2011 at the Washington State Convention Center, Seattle.  Subaru is a sponsor.
Subaru loves gardening and so do our owners!  If you plan on attending the show, please stop by the Subaru booth located in the Sky Bridge in the Washington State Convention Center.
Don’t forget to stop by the kiosks to receive your coupon to be redeemed at the Subaru Sky Bridge display for a special gift
Subaru Owners: Show us your Subaru key and receive a special Subaru owners’ gift. while supplies last, 1 per family. the website

2/5 Moving On ... she cares about the color of her car and is resigned that her nice white Subaru will sometimes be dirty.
'I have heard that the best color of paint for a car is white. It is visible on the road and white paint may actually last longer than other paint pigments. Whether or not you believe this, you probably have a favorite color for a car. My last car was red.
Before that I owned a white car. The first car that I owned was blue (my favorite color).
Before you assume a patriotic pattern, please allow me to explain. I purchased these vehicles because they were the best choice available at the time that fit within my budget. Some people purchase a car based on the color, and others purchase a car because of other factors that may be more important in their decision-making process.
I never bought a car new until three years ago. My previous purchases had been limited to those with the least mileage that I could afford. This time I knew exactly what I wanted, and told the dealer to find it for me. I wanted a white Subaru. I was annoyed that someone other than myself drove it first, because it happened to be several hours away, but I bought the car that I wanted instead of the best choice that was available.
Happy me! Now I have a white car, and I commute in it. Due to the fact that my commute is on a long and winding road that leads me to dirt and grime, my car is always dirty. I don’t have much time to spend cleaning my car, because of my long commute.
What to do? I could stop complaining and just make a habit of visiting the nearby car wash once a week on the way home. But I have many excuses. I’m too tired/hungry/cold/busy. I don’t have change or cash with me. I just don’t feel like it. The thing about establishing good habits is that the first step is always the hardest.
I admire clean vehicles when I pass them on the road. I like how my car looks when it is clean. I am embarrassed when I notice how filthy it is (particularly next to a clean car). When I’m feeling particularly disgruntled, I will pull out all the stops: I really shouldn’t waste water. It’s probably going to rain anyway.'  read the article

2/4  I found a Bricklin, Citroen SM, a circus wagon and a ....  all in one place

1/21 very funny very snarky take on the Trader Joes experience
'Once an annual pre-Burning Man stop for cheap vodka, Cabernet, and Trek Mix, Trader Joe's is now a weekly essential- seriously, who can survive without Mandarin orange chicken, chocolate-covered espresso beans, or processed enchiladas? But guess what: While you're intent on stocking up, you're pissing off every other shopper in the store. Here's why:
You don't know how to drive and/or park.
Every Trader Joe's parking lot everywhere is an effed-up jungle from hell. If you don't know how to properly wield your Subaru into a space the size of a kiddy pool, just walk. And once you're done shopping, throw your groceries in the car and drive. Don't sit there and phone your psychic or listen to the end of Fresh Air. It's rude.....' read the whole article.. it goes on

1/19 station wagons, CUVs and SUVs...  all wheel drive, big and small ...
Subaru stopped making station wagons when they dropped the Legacy after the 2007 model and the popular and well priced Outback after the 09 model.
The 2010 Outback morphed into the current hugely successful CUV (crossover utility vehicle) for 2010.  (Should a CUV correctly be called a CUC for Crossover Utility Car?)
What is a station wagon vs a CUV vs a SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)?
A station wagon is a car - its based on a unibody car platform, it sits low to the ground, has a normal seating position, and the body is car-like and streamlined.
A CUV is a car, a station wagon, baased on a unibody car platform, that sits higher off the ground, has higher seating positions, and is designed to look more rugged and bulkier with various bulging fenders and wheel well openings etc.
The original CUVs were actually SUVs- truck-platform based vehicles with on/off 4x4 systems and truck engines. Jeep Cherokee, Ford Bronco and Explorer, Chevy Suburban and Blazer, Toyota Land Cruiser and 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover etc are all SUVs.They got mediocre fuel economy and most had poor handling.
In recent years the truck based SUV has been replaced by the nicer riding, better and safer handling, all wheel drive car based Utility Vehicle. 4X4 systems have been replaced by all wheel drives.
Put an SUV body on a car platform and you have a Crossover - a cross between car and truck.
The first Outback in 1996 straddled the divide - it was a station wagon with ground clearance and a few bulges and all wheel drive instead of on/off 4x4. It was clearly a station wagon but functioned more like an SUV and was available with a 4 cylinder car engine. It was the first such Japanese wagon, and the demand for the CUV was revitalized.
Certainly the first modern CUVs were the AMC Eagles of 1979-1986, they were available in a variety of wagon and coupe models. The term CUV was unknown at the time and they were just called cars. Toyota Camry and Ford Tempo were offered with optional on/off 4X4 in the mid-1980s for a few years.
There are still a few station wagons available for die-hard fans, with 2 wheel drive and all wheel drive. Some like Ford Flex are a bit hard to categorize.
> Station wagons include the Huyndai Elantra Touring, Honda Crosstour, Volvo V50, Mini Countryman, Audi A4 and A6, Acura TSX Sportwagon, Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon, MB E350 4Matic, VW Jetta, Ford Flex
> All Wheel Drive Station Wagons still available include the Crosstour, Countryman S All4, Ford Flex, Cadillac CTS, A4 Avant...
> All Wheel Drive 5 Doors (Subarus new term for small hatchback or wagon) include the Subaru Impreza (MSRP starts at $18720) , Audi A3 Quattro, Nissan Juke, Toyota Matrix, Suzuki SX4 Crossover, Mini Countryman S All4
> CSUV crossover sport utility car. Every manufacturer has a variety of car-based all wheel drive utilities like the Outback (starting at $24220 pzev), Forester (MSRP starts at $21520 pzev), CRV, Rav4, Santa Fe, Escape, Traverse, Highlander, Pilot, Venza etc etc. Ok, CSUV is a better term for Crossover SportUtility Vehicle.
> All Wheel Drive Sedans includes the Subaru Legacy (MSRP starts at $20720) and Impreza (MSRP starts at $18220), Ford Taurus and Fusion,  Lexus IS 350/250, VW CC, Acura TL and TL,  Audi A3-4-6, Volvo S60 and S80, Cadillac CTS

1/18  flying cars more feasible?
'It has been nearly three decades since Doc Brown's DeLorean jetted off into the sunset at the end of "Back to the Future," but 2011 looks to be the year when airborne autos finally become a reality. Here's how some folks are angling for a science fiction windfall.
Fly a car, help a missionary.  The Maverick, a car with a Subaru engine and a collapsible, powered parachute, is now air and street legal. Manufacturer Beyond Roads charges $84,000 for each model; some of that will subsidize Mavericks for missionaries living far afield.
Class in session. The feds recently approved a less stringent "sport pilot" certification that covers flying cars, and aviation schools are hoping for an enrollment bump. Schools charge would-be pilots anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000 to prep them for driving the friendly skies.
Tax dollars at work. The Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is developing the Transformer, a pilot project (no pun intended) for an armored combat vehicle that flies. The Pentagon expects a prototype by 2015, and $8.75 million has been committed so far.
Fly a car, help an MIT grad. Five MIT-educated pilots are poised to deliver the Transition late this year. Their company, Terrafugia, will sell the plane for $200,000 to $250,000, and it says 80 orders are on the books.' the article
1/17 Remember MLK  his life and sacrifice is always a good example and especially now in light of the Arizona assassinations.

1/17 cranky car owner ends up with an irritable car but misses her old Subaru... sort of
Right now, I’m suffering new car irritability. Because, as the saying I just made up goes, a new car is like a second spouse: The equipment’s basically the same but arranged differently.
That’s why I’m irritable: I can’t find anything. I can’t find the fan, the brights, the door locks. I can find the turn signal, but it sings a different song. The water-bottle holder is a couple inches farther back and the darn thing doesn’t have running lights.
Otherwise, it’s an OK little car. I’m not a car person. Some people treat their cars like sculpture, furniture, sports equipment. My car gets me there and brings me home. It must provide good gas mileage, not drain my bank account and park easily. Color is my only particularity. My car will not be white or red or any color that attracts attention....
Normal people get excited about buying a new car. They even like the smell. I just want to get it over with. Perhaps this disinterest results from deprivation: I never owned a car until my third child entered preschool. I loved that first car because it represented freedom. Freedom to shop. Freedom to visit. Freedom from servitude to other mothers on rainy days.
I can hardly remember its make or color. Transportation was all the mattered.
My only semi-glamorous car was a 1972 Olds Cutlass khaki-colored convertible with white top and white leather seats. Man, those were cool wheels. I stuffed it with kids and dogs and sped off to Dairy Queen. “Mom, save that car for me,” my 9-year-old son said. I did. He got his drivers’ license in the ragtop. Then he wrecked it. Before the tow truck removed the mangled mess he painted it with exclamations of love.
After that, it was one practical Toyota, then Subaru, after another — always a wagon or hatchback. I would rather plow through the snow than dazzle at the drive-in.
My last Subaru was purchased under duress, in about 10 minutes. I walked into the showroom, asked for a basic Impreza that wasn’t red or white. “OK, little lady,” the salivating salesman said. “We’ve got a gold one.”
I never saw an uglier car — a cross between a mushroom and a turtle. “I’ll take it.”  I don’t need all-wheel drive and snow tires and winter wipers anymore. So I went online looking for a budget subcompact with great gas mileage.
“I’m easy to please, but I’m a tough cookie when it comes to the deal,” I told the startled-but-extremely-pleasant salesman at the dealership. (Names are withheld to protect us all.) He didn’t get the tough cookie part. He does now.
My new car is a dark gray hatchback with a black interior. It’s cute in an irritable sort of way. I’ll lose it soon in a parking lot because the keyless remote doesn’t beep.
I hunger for that ugly Subaru’s beep. I hunger for its unreadable clock and impossible-to-keep-clean vanilla fabric upholstery and sluggish AC. But it was only a car. Transportation. It was not an ego trip and certainly not a trophy. But, then again, maybe cars do speak: plain, practical, all-weather, economical, no-frills, small. Me.' read the entire article

1/12  Car and Truck of the year awarded at the North American Intl Auto Show (NAIAS). The North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards, went to the Chevrolet Volt and new Ford Explorer. Heres a short overview of the show from autoguide.com

1/8/2011
Subaru grows bigger and more mainstream.. New Coke .. Volvo.. ? a good article by Jamie Kitman at automobilemag.com
'I was dropping off my daughter at a piano lesson the other night, when I pulled into her teacher’s driveway. Aha! I thought. He’s bought a new car; the old Subaru wagon is gone. And what’s this in its place? A Chevy TrailBlazer? In my surprise, I even asked my daughter, who had her earbuds in and her iPod on, “Now, what Subaru buyer in his right mind goes out and buys one of those?” Then I looked closer: the car was not a TrailBlazer but the new Subaru Outback. “Man, it’s gotten large!” I exclaimed. So large, I’d evidently mistaken it for a bulky, truck-based SUV that was canceled a couple years back. Suddenly, I realized what Subaru meant not long ago when it said it was going to meet the market where it lived and “mainstream” the brand; the new Outback is one early example.
Then I remembered how much I hate it when brands mainstream themselves. I like Subarus (I’ve even loved a few), and to be fair, the company is hardly alone in devolving its products for American consumption, mostly by making them bigger (hello, Volkswagen). But the confusing part of Subaru’s decision to bulk up yet again for the American market (its cars have been growing larger for years) is that it came just as the fellas from Ota, Japan, enjoyed some of their greatest success ever in this country, running against all the falling indicators and downward trends to keep sales nearly flat in superstinky 2008 and increase sales in comatose 2009 while expanding market share to record highs.
So, to recap, company finally gets successful and then decides it needs to be even more successful, so it changes the winning formula. New Coke, anyone?
Let it not be forgotten that one of Subaru’s core virtues for decades was sensible size. One of its many key identifiers was that its models looked unique. Back in the day, Subaru ads would even boast about how ugly its cars were. Maybe that would be going a bit far today, but let’s pause to note the striking realignment of message - defiantly unstylish and small to bland and pretty darned big.
Now, surely Subaru’s plans for automotive fatness in 2010 and beyond were hatched before the great recession sent buyers running their way- my theory, at least, is that the firm was among the prime beneficiaries of our troubled economy; many buyers who could still afford fancier cars went looking for something more low-key in which to ride out the storm. With the bottom falling out, at a time of terrible unemployment and financial uncertainty, there was a moment when it became uncool to show up in something fancy, even if you could afford it. Fortunately for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and the other luxury brands, that moment seems to have passed, even if the economy remains a roiling cauldron of scariness.
But the question remains, why does it so often seem as if good is never good enough? What was it that packed Subaru off to find the mainstream, when it might instead have doubled down on the winning left-of-center formula that had, after more than forty years, finally seen it become a full-fledged fixture of the American highway? What was wrong with reasonably compact, dynamic cars that made all kinds of fiscal conservatives—from vegan, crystal-wearing, lesbian Pilates instructors to college professors to thrifty American Legionnaires—feel good about themselves? Was Subaru getting tired of them as customers? Or is it that, like our piano-teaching friend, they’ll just stick around as the company sets off in search of the people who didn’t like Subaru the way it was?
Getting bigger didn’t work for Scion. The Toyota sub-brand quickly grew a rabid following from nothing with a lineup of slow, small, low-power models. Even if it wasn’t exactly the hip youth brigade that Toyota had intended, Scion’s owner body, many in their sunset years, were zealous converts. That is, they were, until Toyota told us the market told them they’d sell more Scions if they gave their humble machines an increase in engine capacity of more than 50 percent along with a 600-pound weight gain and a 4-mpg fuel economy loss. Then it was: whoops, where did all the people go?
A friend recently lamented to me that the Panamera Turbo we were riding in wasn’t true to the Porsche brand. Wrong you are, I said. Because nowadays, big, fat things that weigh two and a half tons but go really fast and handle surprisingly well for their size are the brand. Delightful, lighter-weight confections like the Cayman and the 911 GT3 RS are now the exceptions, not the rule.
Of course, Porsche insisted that it had to build the fatso Cayenne and the Panamera double-wide because that’s what its customers wanted. And it has certainly sold a lot of them, although perhaps this is a good time to note that it was only after formerly single-minded Porsche started chasing the “mainstream” market and growing its capacity exponentially that the legendary firm, which had been hugely profitable and strongly at the helm of its own destiny for more than half a century, almost went broke and then completely lost control of its affairs. (Hello, Volkswagen!) Nice one, right?
Increased turnover is great and all, but if there weren’t so many lard-ass sedans and SUVs for Porsche to be imagineering, maybe the 250-hp, 2.0-liter, 2000-pound 911 that the company’s gifted engineers are undoubtedly capable of designing would be here already.
So, carmakers, do us a favor. Don’t ever say you’re just giving the customer what he wants. Remember, Ford asked the customer what she wanted before giving us the Edsel—the first acknowledged product of intensive automotive market research. Come to think of it, that’s also what Pontiac said when it brought us the Aztek.
Myself, I’d bet my last euro that Ferdinand and Ferry Porsche never came to America in the late 1940s to ask people how they’d like a hunched-up little sports car with a 40-hp air-cooled noisemaker stuck where the trunk ought to be. I’m also pretty sure no customer ever told Subaru to build a car with a farty-sounding flat four, ungainly lines, four-wheel drive, and microbial performance because that’s what 1970s America would want.
The fact is, the customer doesn’t know what he wants, and when he does, he’s probably wrong. Listen to the customer and you’re not much different than the parent who asks his three-year-old what time he’d like to go to bed. Tell us you’re just doing what the banks, the capital markets, and your volume-dependent compensation packages want, and at least we’ll believe you.' read the article
 

2010 calendar year totals: Subaru sells 263,820- a new record!  up 47,168 cars (+ 22%) over the previous record of 216,652 set just last year 2009. Subaru now has 2.3% of the US market. more sales info below

1/2/2011 Most researched cars on Consumer Reports for 2010
New cars: Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, Acura MDX, Ford Fusion, Subaru Outback
Used cars:  Honda Accord,  Honda Civic,  Honda CR-V, Honda Pilot, Subaru Forester
the article with the top 10 results

1.1.11 - a new year..  what will the new year bring ... a look back and ahead
2010 has been a great year for Subaru. Sales started off where 2009 ended (the best year ever) and raced through to the last day of December, picking up speed and new believers all the way. 2009's sales record was triumphantly crushed by November 3rd.
A new year is here and another fresh start, an opportunity for Subaru to outsell the entire previous year by October instead of November this time.
What will the new year bring .. a few thoughts and hopes..

> we'll get an all new Impreza .. will it be the CVT like the sleek concept car shown at the LA Auto Show? Lets hope so. Details to be released at the NY Auto Show
> will the Forester get a CVT this year? Wouldn't that be nice..
> will someone who knows finally give details about the hybrid due in 2012..
> will someone in marketing realize that 198 Outback, 166 Forester, and 144 Legacy model, package, and color combinations is annoying for everyone especially dealers, customers, and factory planners who can't match inventory with demand (6 out of 9 Outbacks have ivory interiors).
> will Subaru's image as the anti status-symbol recover from being the newly discovered choice for people who don't trust Toyota anymore or don't want to pay for Acura, Lexus, BMW etc
> will talk of increased Outback production lead to lemming-like fast production quality issues or will cool minds prevail
> will Subaru forego AWD for a 2wd Subieyota.. sure to lots of rumors on this new sports car due in 2012
> how can Subaru possibly improve on the aggressive and still affordable 2011 WRX or the stunning STI sedan..  can't wait,  want more
> will Subaru advertising continue to be entertaining on a one-note 'love me' theme or will there be something less lovey-dovey
> will Subaru styling really get overweight and mainstream bland chasing the goal of appealing to people who don't need what Subaru was,  ie. all wheel drive, utility, dependable, and a hint of quirky personality. Or is that the old Subaru, are those days gone ...
> will Subaru prices keep creeping up until their core market finds another company with slightly lower prices and a better warranty. Remember years ago as Volvo prices went up Subaru picked up their wagon market and never looked back. A Chinese company is watching. Volvo is now owned by Geely.
> will the Legacy, especially GT, die of boredom searching for buyers against Camry, Accord, Focus. Its under-appreciated and should be a better seller. Personality might help,  Medicority ads didn't  Who else misses the tight handling but too spendy flagship specB?
> will the Tribeca get a much needed do-over or be left to wander in the desert alone and almost forgotten like the Baja, SVX ....

2011 will be another exciting and strong year for Subaru and I'm glad I don't have all the answers because the year will be like slowly unwrapping a Christmas present.

IMHO Highs And Lows in 2010
Highs
#1 WRX and STI upgrades.. totally strong sexy looks, a hot daily driver with performance
#2 Outback and Foresters, a near perfect mix of size, price, features
#3 Only making safe cars and deserving all the good IIHS, NHTSA ratings
#4 Memorable Love ads that make you think of Love Story, Ghost or name your favorite blatently obvious emotionally over-wrought movie
#5 Great resale... incredible resale...  amazing resale - everyone says it, and its true
#6 Constant stream of good press as reviewers and bloggers fall over each other in praise of the Year of the Subaru
#7 a great year..  Subaru is now the 10th top brand in the US up from 19th (subj to final results)..  a huge leap. Congratulations to all.

Lows
#1 ongoing Outback and Forester model and color inventory frustrations, easily fixed but not
#2 Forester with no CVT,  instead we got an all new engine.. great... but why... the answer will become obvious at some point
#3 Still no $15,000 basic entry level Impreza
#5 Legacy  'Mediocrity' ad campaign- it was brave, curious, short lived... it went from huh? to nothing. Thanks for trying, don't stop.
#5 not dealing quickly with the internet tire shudder issue that won't die (didn't anyone follow all those Toyota denials)
#6 Great resale... incredible resale...  amazing resale .. how long can it last

12/31/10 ... this is the end..

12/31 Winners and Losers from AutomobileMag.com
> Biggest  Winners ... Companies...
Subaru. Sticking to your guns never felt so good. Subaru’s been making capable AWD cars and crossovers since before the crossover was a figment of a marketer’s imaginations, and in 2010, it paid off big time. The crossover trend helped propel the company to an all-time annual sales record in 2010.
> Biggest Winners... Cars
Subaru Outback. Many lamented its growth from an Impreza variant to full-blown crossover, but it has done wonders for the company. The Outback is on-track to double its annual sales by the end of December and is the biggest factor in Subaru’s record year.
> Biggest Losers... Cars
Subaru Tribeca. While the Forester and Outback are running away with the sales lead, the Tribeca is mostly taking up space. Sales are off 60 percent from 2009 and not looking to get any better. Subaru needs to make a call on this one, and we doubt it’ll be good.
read the entire article
 
 

top .Subaru news and updates related to the earthquake in Japan, March 11, 2011 .

6/30- earthquake related inventory shortages continue
While the earthquake was mid-March, the effect of the factory closures and part shortages is only now fully impacting dealer inventory. For the past few months, cars already in the system and/or enroute before the earthquake have continued to arrive. Now that those cars have already arrived, dealers are expecting far fewer cars than they need. Supply varies by car line, but overall the selection available will be less, and especially so of more popular models, packages or colors that sell quickly anyway.
When dealers don't have as many new cars to sell, they don't get as many trade-ins. When there aren't as many trade-ins, auction cars tend to sell at higher prices, so this temporary shortage has a ripple effect..

Here is an article "...Fuji Heavy Industries, parent company of Subaru, reported a continued reduction in sales and vehicle production due to supply shortages. Japanese vehicle production in May 2011 was down compared to May 2010 — the eighth consecutive month in which FHI production declined year-over-year. Sales of new FHI vehicles in Japan were likewise down year-over-year for the eight consecutive month..." read the entire article

6/7 Fuji turns to Korea for parts
The deal comes as Japanese and other car makers are increasingly looking at South Korean parts makers which offer cheaper, quality products as opposed to their Japanese rivals struggling with the strong yen and the March 11 earthquake.
Hyundai Mobis, South Korea's biggest automotive parts maker, said it will supply $200 million worth of headlamps to Mitsubishi Motors and $33 million of rear lamps to Subaru, an automobile manufacturing unit of Fuji Heavy Industries, from the second half of this year.  the article

4/27 earthquake production issues will continue - FHI’s domestic (Japanese) production last month (March) was 64.9% lower than in March 2010.
'Extended production delays in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami may cause Toyota to lose its spot as the world’s largest automaker. According to Reuters, the Japanese company is expected to slip to third place in the global auto industry.
Toyota plants in Japan are operating at just 50 percent capacity..  Investors also expect that South Korean companies Kia and Hyundai will stand to gain from the shortage of Toyota vehicles.
Honda said that its production levels in Japan will remain at 50 percent of normal levels until the end of June. The company hopes to resume normal production schedules “before the end of 2011,” ..  Reuters reports that Japanese Honda production is down 62.9 percent, with global Honda output down 19.2 percent year-over-year.  Honda says that U.S. sales won’t be affected as significantly, because almost 80 percent of Honda vehicles sold here are built on American soil. ..
> The only company suffering worse production losses in Japan was Fuji Heavy Industries, which produces Subaru vehicles. According to Reuters, FHI’s domestic production last month was 64.9% lower than in March 2010.' the entire article

3/30 Production slow down means fewer Imprezas and Foresters in the next few months.
Due to the ongoing situation in Japan, it seems that slightly fewer Imprezas and Foresters will be be shipped to dealers in April but a lot less is expected to be shipped to May and June. This is will depend on factory startup.
It seems like the supply is going to drop so if there is a car you want available, now would be a good time to get it.
This could also mean a spike in used Subaru prices as dealers buy used Foresters and Imprezas to replace the missing new inventory.
SIA U.S. built Outback and Legacy are expected to be shipped at a slower but close to normal rate assuming parts are available.

3/29 SIA Outback Legacy and Tribeca production slowed due to parts shortage
'Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. in Lafayette will experience a temporary shortage of a critical Subaru part that it receives by both air and ocean freight from company facilities in Japan....
“We will be reducing our Subaru production hours to the first four hours of each shift on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday...' the article

3/29 2011 Outback and Legacy model production is slowing as the normal 2011 end of model year approaches, and if you wanted to place a new order for a car to be delivered in 6-8 weeks it is no longer accepted on some models.. it varies by model and Option Package but these are lower volume cars like manuals, 6 cylinders, or less popular Option Packages. In the past, the new year Outback and Legacy models (in this case 2012s) have arrived in or by July.

4/15 fewer cars have been made since the March 11 earthquake  There are still plenty of Subarus available, a good selection (especially Outback, Legacy, and Forester) even though Subaru has made 29,000 fewer cars through April 5th.
'Japan's big seven carmakers lost 516,000 units of output as Japan marked the one month anniversary of the devastating March 11 quake.
And the total is climbing with many plants staying offline until later this month and those that have restarted operating at only limited capacity due to parts shortages.
Toyota lost volume of 260,000 units at its 18 domestic plants through to April 8. It has reopened only two of those plants, making three hybrid models, since closing them all after the quake. Toyota aims to bring the rest online, but not until this Monday and then only through to April 27.
Honda follows with forgoing output of roughly 58,000 units at its two Japanese assembly plants through to April 8. It restarted production at both factories on April 11, but at only about half the normal output rate.
Nissan, which has reopened its five domestic plants and has been operating them in fits and starts with limited output, has lost about 55,000 vehicles. Suzuki's toll comes to 45,000 through to March 31. It rises to 59,000 through to April 9, if adding volume lost through half-pace production at the plants it has reopened.
Mazda has seen 43,000 units of output in Japan vanish since the quake, while Subaru took a 29,000 unit hit through April 5. Mitsubishi Motors has lost 26,000 units through to April 10.' read the entire article

4/13 Part shortages mean the assembly line stops.  SIA's Subaru assembly line is scheduled to be down for three days,  April 15, 18, and 25. The Camry line will be stopped April 15, 18, 21 and 25.

4/9  Fewer cars will be available in May, June. Yes, cars are being made but at a lower rate.
For May delivery to dealers, Imprezas and Foresters from Japan will be those made before the earthquake. While production has just resumed in Japan, those won't be for May delivery. Supply for June will also be significantly reduced.
Outback and Legacy (made in Indiana) for May and June will be reduced due to parts supply.

4/6 Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI),  announced today that they will resume car production tomorrow 4/7 after being shut down for most of March.  Models included are the Forester SUV, Legacy and Impreza.  The initial output will be about half the normal rate.

4/2 Outback/Legacy production slowdown at SIA
'As it continues struggling to receive a critical car part from Japan, SIA is making work changes next week for the Subaru associates at its Lafayette plant.  SIA said production of the part has resumed in Japan, which was hit last month by an earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. But the volume of production has not returned to its normal level.
On Monday (4/4) and Friday (4/8) of next week, Subaru production hours will be shifted from eight to four, with a full eight hours of work available for full-time associates and variable workforce personnel.
"The non-production time will be utilized primarily for Total Productive Maintenance projects, 'kaizen' work and training," said a statement from SIA. "All full-time SIA (Subaru) associates will also be given the option of using their available paid time off or taking excused unpaid time off in lieu of remaining for the four hours of non-production work."
SIA will have regular eight-hour Subaru production shifts on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week.
Associates involved with production of the Toyota Camry are not affected by the slowdown.
Subaru production is expected to return to normal on the following week, beginning April 11.
"We expect to receive regular shipments of this particular part by air freight, so we do not anticipate any further production delays due to this part," the SIA statement said. "We will continue to monitor and assess the situation regarding the flow of all other parts that SIA and our suppliers receive from Japan."' the article

4/2 Outback/Legacy production slowdown at SIA
As it continues struggling to receive a critical car part from Japan, SIA is making work changes next week for the Subaru associates at its Lafayette plant... On Monday (4/4) and Friday (4/8) of next week, Subaru production hours will be shifted from eight to four, with a full eight hours of work available for full-time associates and variable workforce personnel...SIA will have regular eight-hour Subaru production shifts on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week...Associates involved with production of the Toyota Camry are not affected by the slowdown. Subaru production is expected to return to normal on the following week 4/11.

4/31 Fuji reportedly extended the production suspension of Subaru passenger vehicles in Japan through April 5th

3/30 Production slow down in Japan  means fewer Imprezas and Foresters in the next few months.
Outback/Legacy supply close to normal though might be slower to arrive at dealers.
Due to the ongoing situation in Japan, it seems that slightly fewer Imprezas and Foresters will be be shipped to dealers in April but a lot less is expected to be shipped to May. This is will depend on factory startup.
It seems like the supply is going to drop so if there is a car you want available, now would be a good time to get it.
This could also mean a spike in used Subaru prices as dealers buy used Foresters and Imprezas to replace the missing new inventory.
SIA U.S. built Outback and Legacy are expected to be shipped at a slower but close to normal rate assuming parts are available.

3/29 Reduced hours and production at SIA
SIA Lafayette will experience a temporary shortage of a critical Subaru part that it receives by both air and ocean freight from company facilities in Japan....
“We will be reducing our Subaru production hours to the first four hours of each shift on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.."

3/28 Fuji announced it has extended the production suspension of all Subaru passenger vehicle except mini-vehicles (not available in nthe US) until Thursday March 3/31. Fuji restarted production of parts for overseas production on Wednesday 3/23 and production of spare parts on Thursday 3/24.

3/18 Japan production still on hold.  '... will extend its production stoppage through March 22 as it continues to evaluate the operational capability of its supplier base'

3/17 Reportedly a load of cars has been enroute from Japan since just before the earthquake

3/16-  Earthquake- Japan update-  shipping facilites are undamaged, and no parking lot full of completed cars destined for the US was ruined as rumored
'As of March 16, FHI has announced it will continue to keep operations in Japan closed until March 20 pending supplier parts assessment and also to conserve electricity for the country. Contrary to some reports, no completed vehicles were damaged as a result of the disaster and only two body shells suffered any damage. Shipping operations in the Tokyo port were also undamaged. Subaru Indiana Automotive has cut overtime in an attempt to preserve parts supply and is to continue regular production as normal at this time.
In terms of relief funds, FHI will make a financial contribution of 50 million yen ($500,000) to the relief and recovery efforts, and FHI employees have personally contributed another 10 million yen ($100,000). FHI has also donated an additional 50 million yen ($500,000) in Robin engine products of generators, lighting units, as well and construction pumps. Subaru of America will provide matching funds for dealer and business affiliate contributions up to $100,000 and double matching for employee contributions through the Subaru of America Foundation. More details on how to contribute will be provided shortly.
As you may imagine, the scale of the disaster means that full assessment of operation will take several more days to complete. We will provide further updates as we learn more."

3/15 SIA production rumors... conflicting reports on the effects of the earthquake on production here in the US.
Update - SIA is open,  and Subaru has issued a statement
"An incorrect report ran today on the Associated Press saying SIA had closed. This is not true and I have corrected it. SIA has cut overtime as a precautionary measure."

Subaru's only US factory, SIA (Subaru Indiana America) in Lafayette, Indiana is where they assemble Outback, Legacy and Tribeca.
Production is continuing according to the Lafayette Journal and Courier, today March 15.
They have slowed or suspended production according to the Associated Press, today March 15.
There are no updates on the SIA website.
> Production continues according to the Lafayette Journal and Courier  "Suaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. officials in Lafayette are keeping an eye on the aftermath of the Japan earthquake and the possibility of a parts shortage or production slowdown.
Tom Easterday, executive vice president of SIA, said Monday that he doesn't anticipate any interruption in production or a parts shortage at the Japanese-owned facility.
"Because SIA operates a lean manufacturing system, we do not have an excess supply of parts in inventory," he said. "However, nearly all of the parts that we receive from Japan are shipped via ocean freight, and they take over a week to arrive at SIA.
"Therefore, if production is resumed at a supplier after only a few days of shutdown, SIA can generally be resupplied via air freight and avoid a disruption in our production schedule."" the article
> Note- this AP article below is incorrect
incorrect
"Two Japanese automakers are halting some production at North American factories to assess availability of parts following Friday's deadline earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
Subaru of America says it has suspended production at its plant in Lafayette, Ind. The plant, Subaru's only North American factory, employs 3,500 workers and built 150,000 vehicles last year, including the Outback and Tribeca wagons and Legacy sedan. A company spokesman doesn't know when production will resume.
Toyota is suspending overtime and production on Saturdays at all of its North American plants to assess the availability of car parts. Toyota is trying to conserve parts after the huge earthquake and tsunami, which is disrupting shipments from Japan to the U.S.
Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have said their North American plants have not been affected." the AP article

3/14- Earthquake statement from Subaru
"As you have no doubt heard, Japan suffered a major natural disaster this past weekend. Our thoughts are naturally with the people of Japan as they recover from this unprecedented event.  Below is a statement from our parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries with their latest assessment of how the situation affects our people and our business.  We will update you as soon as more information is available.
Subaru plants are based in and to the west of Tokyo (rather than the northern region most affected) and so have not suffered serious damage due to this disaster.
All FHI employees are safe and no one was killed during the earthquake and after effects.
However, due to the impact of the disaster on the country, FHI has decided to suspend production at all Subaru plants until earliest Wednesday, March 16th.
For a restart of production after Thursday, March 17, FHI will make a decision considering such factors as electric power supply and availability of parts.
FHI is still confirming the availability of parts supply from suppliers who have suffered damage due to the disaster.
FHI is still assessing the situation at its suppliers, dealers and the possible impact on production and exports to overseas markets. Therefore FHI can make no comment on the total impact as of today.
SIA in Indiana will continue to run as usual this week and the factory is conducting its own parts supply assessment. "

3/11-12 Earthquake ...  Fuji shut down eight of its 10 factories, including all five car and car parts plants in Gunma prefecture, north of Tokyo. Fuji also suspended production at its aircraft and power products factory in Tochigi prefecture. There certainly could be problems getting parts from vendors, and also damaged rail lines and port shipping facilities will affect delivery to the US.
Cars at ports ready to be shipped were damaged.
All Impreza and Forester models are made in Gunma and with the plants closed, factory ordered or incoming cars could be affected.
Legacy, Outback and Tribeca are made in Indiana but a delay with parts, engines, transmission etc,   that come from Japan could create slow-downs here.

> According to Ernie Boch (owner of Subaru of New England distributorship) in New England ""Almost every manufacturer - Toyota, Honda, Mitubishi, Subaru has stopped production because of the quake,'' said Ernie Boch Jr. of Boch Automotive Group. Generally speaking, U.S. consumers get about half their Japanese-branded cars and trucks from Japanese factories, half from plants in the U.S. South and Midwest. Boch said the impact could be most deeply felt with Subarus, an especially popular Japanese brand in New England. He learned that the tsunami apparently damaged thousands of Subarus at a port facility on the eastern coast of Japan.
"There was damage to cars from Fuji Heavy Industries, which is Subaru, but we don't know if they were for the United States, for China, for Europe -- we don't know,'' Boch said. But he noted that Subaru carries extremely low inventories of cars, essentially selling every vehicle before they are finished on the assembly line. "I think for Subaru, if those cars were slated for the U.S. there'll be a serious shortage of Subarus in the United States ... There are no extra Subarus anywhere.''" the article

> '... The massive earthquake and ensuing tsunami in Japan isn't expected to disrupt production immediately at Japanese-owned factories in West Virginia, but the devastation could affect supply chains the plants depend on in the coming weeks, company officials said Friday. ..Putnam County's Diamond Electric plant, which manufactures ignition coils for Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Subaru, has several suppliers in the region hit by the earthquake, said Tatsuo Ikenaga, CEO of Diamond Electric's U.S. operations....' the article
 
 

top Subaru Tribeca news and reviews edited for length, content-

2011 calendar year news (archived news from 2010) 11/5 2012 Tribeca brochures available. 12 Tribeca specs and info 9/16 2012 Forester and Tribecas now available for ordering. Forester prices and specs expected soon- yes its hard to order a car without prices and options. The 2012 Forester now comes with a manual height adjustable passenger seat. This is a first for Subaru.  2012 Tribeca specs 7/14 Tribeca. Recognize the photo below? Its looks like a Tribeca but is the Saab 9.6 clone that never came to market. This prototype dates from when GM owned both a small piece of Subaru and all of Saab, and they planned to market a rebadged Tribeca as a Saab. GM sold their piece of Subaru to Toyota - for a healthy loss- before the 9.6 was ever sold.  For 2 years, 2005-2006, Saab did sell a rebadged Impreza as the 9.2x and a WRX as the 9.2x  Aero. Here's the story of the 9.6 (Tribeca) that almost was. "Here we are, then, with a photo study of the Saab 9-6. The car is now on display at the Saab Museum after spending several years in hiding storage out the back. The Saab 9-6 was a joint project with Subaru, based on their B9 Tribeca SUV. Saab, at the behest of General Motors (who owned 20% of Subaru’s parent company at the time), had already launched the Saab 9-2x based on the Subaru Impreza WRX. This vehicle was supposed to build on that relationship. Even though the 9-2x was loved by those who owned it, the car was lampooned by the press for being a poorly executed mimic of a cult classic. The Saab was actually better equipped than the WRX of the time with several components from Subaru’s performance division (STi) added to the car, but it ended up selling for a lot less in an employee-pricing fire sale back in 2005. Whilst it had nothing to do with the fire sale, GM ended up selling its 20% stake in Subaru later in 2005 and the Saab 9-6 project was cancelled. Prior to this cancellation, Saab had built two prototype vehicles – this five door model now on exhibition at the museum, as well as a three-door version. Many will refer to the 9-6 as the 9-6x, which makes sense as it would have had a 4-wheel drive system on board, which is the usual trigger for the added ‘x’ (9-3x TTiD owners – your objection is noted). I used to call it the 9-6x as well in stories that I wrote about it back in 2005. The museum example, however, is referred to without the ‘x’ in the title so I’m going to stick to that protocol."  more from inside.saab Look familiar? Its a Tribeca rebadged as a Saab. photo, article courtesy inside.saab 5/27 Tribeca review. 'Subaru's Tribeca is everything that a seven-passenger SUV should be and more. I had the opportunity to test the Tribeca in the city -it handles nicely, parks easily, has a spacious and comfortable cockpit and second row, but the third-row seats are hard to access and will likely remain folded for most of their lives... The standard tilt and sliding moonroof is a nice touch and makes the cabin seem even more spacious. But I really like the look and functionality of the dash. I rarely had to look away from the road when adjusting the dual-zone climate control system or the 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, which comes in the upgraded Limited trim. I do wish the steering wheel was telescopic and not just tilt... and I expect express up and down windows and that the liftgate will have power assist. It's darn heavy and hard to close with one hand. On the highway, its 3.6-litre six-cylinder boxer is smooth, powerful and easily had me bolting past semis and motorhomes thanks to its 256 horses. The five-speed transmission was smooth and free of gaps and dead zones. The ride was cushioned but not floaty, and my only complaint is that a little bit of road noise creeps up from the wheels.' read the entire article 5/26 Subaru to build engines at the SIA factory in Lafayette and asks for a tax credit for the investment. This will give the plant more control over production and minimize delays like the situation after the earthquake in Japan this past March. "Officials with Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. plan to ask city officials for tax breaks on $14 million in new engine-building equipment the company will buy. The equipment, expected to be installed later this year, will be used to build engines for the company's 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles, said Rachel Hazaray, associate counsel with SIA... The project is expected to bring 20 to 40 new jobs to the SIA plant off Indiana 38 in Lafayette. The new engine, described as the company's third-generation boxer engine, will be built there at the facility's existing engine plant, Hazaray said. The average salary for workers who will build the engines will be about $50,000, Hazaray said. She said that it's been 20 years since Subaru has built a new engine model. Typically, she said, most of the engines for Subaru vehicles are made in Japan.' read the entire article > Coincidently, late in 2010 Fuji closed its small engine plant, RMI Robin Manufacturing Inc, in Hudson, Wisconsin where they made Subaru V-Twin engines. The plant was owned by Fuji and Polaris Industries, and started in 1995. They made  ATV, golf cart and other small industrial use engines. 5/23 Tribeca rumored to be at the end of the model run. Its possible,  but in my opinion the Tribeca will continue and there will be a 2012 model if for no other reason than a replacement is not yet ready. No doubt Subaru is a working on one, perhaps with Toyota who has a number of suitable vehicles from the Toyota and Lexus luneup. Subaru's only comment on this rumor is that is a rumor. 5/22/11- new March 2011 Synthetic oil is now required recommended on all 2011 models Synthetic oil is now required for optimum engine performance and protection. Conventional oil may be used if synthetic oil is unavailable. Conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed, but it should be changed to synthetic oil at the next oil change. Note- your owners manual might not indicate this depending on the printing date. This change was reportedly made around March 2011. Now all 2011 Subarus use Subaru synthetic oil since the 2011 Forester 2.5Ls, and all turbos ( WRX, STI, Forester XT, Legacy GT) have required it since the start of the model run. All 2011 models use 5w-30 except the Forester X which uses 0w-20 2011 maintenance schedule 5/10 Tribeca rumor - According to the Nikkan Kogyo business daily, and picked up online, Subaru is considering dropping their 7 passenger Tribeca.. The Tribeca is still on its first generation and has been a slow seller. It came out in 2006 model as the B9 Tribeca, a slightly undersized 7 passenger - just not quite enough room in the 3rd row, it was more of a 5+2 - with a underpowered 3.0L 6cylinder that preferred premium gas. The dashboard was the first to use the swooping dual cockpit design. The 3 section front grill designed by Andreas Zapatinas (Alfa-Fiat background) for the Tribeca and Impreza was very controversial, and in 2008 the Tribeca (without the B9)  got a needed makeover that included new grill, roof rack rails, bigger rear windows and outside mirrors, and a much needed engine upgrade to the new 3.6L. Since then there have been no major changes, though the 5 passenger verison was dropped, and a new top end Touring model was added in 2009. Monthly sales hover in the 250 range, and in  2010, there was a total of 2472 sold, down 58% from 2009. Currently 2011 model YTD sales through April were 910, matching 2010 production. The Tribeca is built at the SIA plant in Lafayette and Subaru could use the assmebly line for more of the popular Outbacks. But Subaru buyers who outgrow the 5 passenger Outback have always wanted a 7 passenger and perhaps the Tribeca will be re-envisioned and stretched to include more functional 3rd row rear seating, perhaps with the help of partner Toyota (Highlander?). Newspapers are reporting that Subaru and SIA did not respond to requests to confirm or deny the rumor.  3/20 Tribeca, how child seats fit...  its tight but they fit 'With three rows of seats standard, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca is a crossover for families looking for seating for up to seven people and the automaker’s standard all-wheel drive. The Tribeca’s three-seat second row slides forward and back, but was there enough room for rear-facing child-safety seats? For the Car Seat Check, we use a Cosco rear-facing infant-safety seat, a Graco convertible child-safety seat and Graco high-back booster seat. The front seats are adjusted to a comfortable position for a 6-foot driver and a 5-foot-8 passenger. The child seats are installed in the second row and, if available, third row. The booster seat sits behind the driver’s seat, and the infant seat and convertible seats are installed behind the passenger seat.... The Tribeca has two sets of lower Latch anchors in the second row and none in the third row. The anchors are buried in the seat bight, making them difficult to access. Reclining the seatback helped to expose the anchors somewhat, but the seat cushioning still got in our tester’s way. There are five tether anchors in the Tribeca, with three on the second-row seatbacks and two for the third row along the lip of the cargo floor. All were easy to use. The high-back booster seat fit well in the second row... In the third row, the booster seat (photo above) also fit well and the seat belt buckles were easy to use. However, third-row legroom could be tight... Adjusting the second-row’s reclining seatback helped us to get a good fit for our forward-facing convertible. However, the rear-facing convertible didn’t fit as easily....' read the entire article 2/17 Tribeca reviews ... something good to say and not so good to say, from windingroad.com. John Beltz Snyder, Production Editor: Before the other guys get their shots in, I have to come down on the side of liking this car. Are there other Subarus I would buy first? Duh. Would I buy a different crossover instead of this, were I shopping in the segment? Quite likely. Does that make the Tribeca bad? No. I think what really suckered me into this one is the cabin. I love the swooping arches of the dash. It makes me feel like I’m in Flight Of The Navigator! I am admittedly partial to certain Subarus, and I think that familiarity is responsible for some of my approval, but I think the look of the Tribeca—on the inside—is novel and fresh, nonetheless. On the outside, it’s, well, a bit awkward looking (as any good Subie should be!).... Brandon Turkus, Test Fleet Manager:  I do agree with John about the interior. This is far and away the best cabin Subaru offers, both in terms of quality of materials and general design. It looks futuristic, and almost concept-car like, which is high praise to level on any interior. However, from here, things really kind of go to downhill. When the B9 Tribeca debuted, it was a questionable design to say the least (I happened to think it looked excellent). But at least it stood out. With this Tribeca, it looks like Subaru simply borrowed design elements from other manufacturers...  As for that engine, yes, it is harsh... Finally, the price; at $38,720 (as tested), the Tribeca is creeping dangerously close to the price of a very nicely equipped Mazda CX-9 or Ford Explorer.. Seyth Miersma, Editor-In-Chief: To my mind, Tribeca is Subaru’s least compelling vehicle right now. As Brandon starts to point out, American companies really own the three-row SUV segment right now (at least when talking about mainstream, non-premium offerings), with standouts like the Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, and the new Dodge Durango offering more (space, power, style) for less money. I don’t hate the way that the Tribeca drives; it has the same inherent goodness, with solid feeling controls and confident handling, as most every other Subaru. But the fact of the matter is that it just doesn’t look as butch or pull as hard as some of its beefier American rivals." read the entire article 2/3 Tribeca review... likes and dislikes  'The Subaru Tribeca underwent a major overhaul for 2008 with new styling, a more powerful engine, and retuned suspension, and for 2011 the updates have been kept to a minimum. The five-passenger version of the Tribeca is no longer offered. Once again, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca's sole engine option is a 3.6-liter flat-six engine with 256 horsepower and 247 pounds-feet of torque on tap. Drive is sent to all four wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Performance from the flat-six engine is respectable, but it's no match for competitors like the Ford Edge or Honda Pilot. Fuel economy is neither poor nor especially good for this class, with the Tribeca returning 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway; best of all, it runs on regular unleaded fuel rather than the previous generation's super unleaded requirement. Handling is one of the best attributes of the Tribeca; push hard into a corner and the Tribeca has good body control and better steering than most other vehicles of this type. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca's 8.4 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive may scream off-road prowess, but this mid-size crossover is better suited to the suburban environment. Real off-roading isn't the goal here—just all-weather performance. The Tribeca has a firm but smooth and controlled ride, and an interior that's a step quieter than what we've become accustomed to from Subaru. Tribeca's interior has a futuristic theme with flowing lines that wrap around the driver and front passenger. The design, while unique, does limit front seat roominess, especially around the knees. The exterior of the 2011 Subaru Tribeca is clean, pleasant, and ideal for those who don’t want to be noticed.  The 2011 Subaru Tribeca has standard all-wheel drive and handles well on all sorts of roads and conditions, but its powertrain performance is strictly mid-pack. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is comfortable and refined for those in front, but if you’re thinking of using the third row regularly, be wary. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is one of the safest vehicles in its class.  The Tribeca can get quite pricey for a Subaru, but the top-of-the-line Touring model won't leave you wishing for much else. Whether next to other mid-size crossovers or compared to other family choices, the Tribeca isn't a very green choice because of unimpressive fuel economy. We like- Excellent safety record, Competent handling,  All-wheel drive across the range,  Sliding second-row seats We dislike-  Overly styled dashboard design, No telescopic steering adjustment, Low fun factor,  Tight legroom in front.' The full article 1/23 Tribeca in 2014 - the next version of the Tribeca and Toyota Highlander to be delevloped together? 'Toyota is studying how to more closely converge its products with Subaru, and might share its next-generation Highlander midsize crossover platform with the Tribeca. The two have similar dimensions, notes a source familiar with the tie-in. As always with Subaru, the sticking point is how to share a platform that would use a longitudinally mounted boxer engine, in the case of the Tribeca, with a transverse-mounted engine, as in the Highlander. The platform also will have to accommodate a hybrid version of the Highlander, and it's a good bet the system would be adapted to the pancake-engine Tribeca... Subaru is leading development of the 086A, while the converged crossover (Tribeca) platform looks to be more of a Toyota project. To accommodate both types of engines, the platform could be the same from the A-pillar back, but would need a different floorpan from the firewall forward. Subaru's flat engines require specific solutions for crash standards. As for the crossover/utility vehicles, both the Camry-based Toyota Highlander and the slow-selling Subaru Tribeca are due for replacement in the 2014 model year.' the entire article 1/13 Subarus and tire chains.. Its winter and with snow on the ground the question of tire chains on a Subaru usually comes up. There's little clearance on the inner side of the front tire for chains on a newer Subaru. No matter how tightly chains are installed, when a moving car is steered and the front wheels turn, the tire sidewall rolls a bit, and the chain will not lie tight and flat against the tire and it can easily damage suspension and brake components. If you need better cold weather traction, get 4 winter tires, or 4 studded winter tires for maximum traction. For short distances or when even winter or snow tires aren't enough, consider either Spider Spikes or Quik Trak. These temporary traction devices go over the tire without going on the inner side of it, see your local tire dealer..  more winter car care  1/4/2011 The Tribeca-  another chance by becoming a sibling of the Toyota Highlander? 'Toyota is studying how to more closely converge its products with Subaru, and might share its next-generation Highlander midsize crossover platform with the Tribeca. The two have similar dimensions, notes a source familiar with the tie-in. As always with Subaru, the sticking point is how to share a platform that would use a longitudinally mounted boxer engine, in the case of the Tribeca, with a transverse-mounted engine, as in the Highlander. The platform also will have to accommodate a hybrid version of the Highlander, and it's a good bet the system would be adapted to the pancake-engine Tribeca. Toyota tackles the problem with the upcoming FT-86 rear-wheel-drive sports coupe by going with a Subaru pancake engine -- the STI's 305-horsepower, 290 pound-foot version of the 2.5-liter turbo four, our source says. Earlier reports had the FT-86 launching with less-powerful Subaru engines. Toyota's development costs have ballooned, however, and the FT-86 is now seen as a mid-$20s car rather than a sub-$20,000 car. Subaru's version of the 086A, as the project is known, is still scheduled for 2013 model year introduction and will likely be sold with all-wheel drive only, as part of its differentiation from the Toyota. Subaru is leading development of the 086A, while the converged crossover platform looks to be more of a Toyota project. To accommodate both types of engines, the platform could be the same from the A-pillar back, but would need a different floorpan from the firewall forward. Subaru's flat engines require specific solutions for crash standards. As for the crossover/utility vehicles, both the Camry-based Toyota Highlander and the slow-selling Subaru Tribeca are due for replacement in the 2014 model year.' from Motortrend

top Subaru Outback news and reviews edited for length, content .

2011 calendar year news  (click for archived news from 2010) 12/7 update on the recall on 2012 Outback, Legacy, Impreza  for excessive brake pedal travel. Parts are being shipped and most cars should be ready to go before Christmas. The recall is to inspect and replace brake master cylinders as needed on 2012 Outback and Legacy built 10/17-11/23/11, and 2012 Impreza built through 11/15/11. Cars already delivered to customers will be the  first to get parts by early December,  with parts for most pre-sold cars arriving by mid month, and parts for dealer inventory later in the month but hopefully before Chrsitmas.  Stop Sale- cars already on dealer lots that need the new part cannot be driven or sold until repaired. Expect low inventory at dealers as cars are held back pending repair. This is Recall #WVY-35 (This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them.)   11/27/11  brake master cylinder issue on 2012 Legacy, Outback, and Impreza. Last week Subaru announced a delay shipping Outbacks, Legacys and Imprezas. On the 25th, they confirmed rumors that its due to a brake master cylinder issue, and dealers cannot sell or deliver affected vehicles until they are repaired.  That means cars expected to arrive in November or early December may be pushed back and cars already on lots cannot be sold. Cars already delivered to customers will get the first available parts. This does not involve Forester, WRX/STI or Tribeca.  This recall is campaign code WVY-35.  Subaru is acting quickly- parts are already being shipped and arriving at dealers, and letters will be sent to owners.  In an emergency, the Impreza still has a manual parking/emergency brake, the Legacy/Outback's electric parking brake will function as an emergency brake if gently tapped but be careful.  This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them. Since some cars were already purchased that means they were driven - from the factory, through the shipping and prep process, and then test driven by the customer- so they must stop at least semi-normally. 'SoA received a limited number of reports of intermittent excessive brake pedal travel in 2012 Impreza models built through November 15 as well as 2012 Legacy and Outback models built between October 27 and November 23. While braking capability in these vehicles is maintained, drivers have reported their concerns about greater than normal brake pedal travel"  11/25 Shades of the late Outback station wagon... If you still miss your old Subaru Outback wagon, VW is making a new all wheel drive Passat Alltrack station wagon... but its not going to be sold in the US. And just to add to the lust - and dismay - of some station wagon fans, it will even be available with a diesel. But it isn't coming to the US...  They're introducing it at the Tokyo auto show, the same show as the Subaru BRZ, Toyota FT-86, and Scion FR-S  triplets. "The Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, a new all-wheel-drive edition of the European Passat wagon, will make its global debut in late November at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show — but it won't make the trans-Atlantic trek to North America any time soon. "Because it's based on the European Passat, we have no plans to sell it here," said VW of America spokesman Mark Gillies in a telephone conversation with Inside Line. In the U.S., VW sells a different version of the Passat, one that was designed primarily for the North American market and is assembled in Chattanooga, Tennessee. VW said the Passat Alltrack will go on sale in Europe and other global markets outside the U.S. in early 2012. The Passat Alltrack is fitted with VW's 4Motion system, with ride height raised 1.8 inches. The wagon gets such SUV-like cues as flared wheel arches and side sills, and stainless-steel-look front and rear underbody protection panels. Other exterior features include matte chrome roof rails, window surrounds, grille and exterior mirror casings.  With an electrohydraulic Haldex clutch, power to the rear wheels can be increased as needed. The Passat Alltrack also has an off-road mode with hill descent assist, as well as electronic differential locks. Among the powertrain choices are a 138-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder TDI (turbo diesel ) engine with six-speed manual gearbox and a 168-hp 2.0 TDI (turbo diesel) with six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission"  the whole article 11/4 1996 was the first year for the Outback with the raised roofline and raised ground clearance. Heres a photo page. click for details 10/11 2012 Outback and Legacy brochures arriving at dealers  and they're thinner, 10 pages vs 15 pages for the 2011 brochures which also had a 2 page fold-out. 9/26 2012 Outback check out the new Deep Indigo and Ice Silver colors here 9/13  Subaru Outback lifeguard support cars in Coronado, California click for more 9/12 2012 Outbacks and Legacy are starting to (slowly) arrive at dealers. Call your dealer for incoming selection. Get Outback or Legacy specs 9/11 Subaru announces 3 recalls > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, if it has a moonroof, inspect the application of adhesive along the moonroof track and apply more as needed. > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, inspect the windshield wiper motor's bottom plastic cover and replace it to fix a potential overheating issue > On 2003-2008 Forester, 2002-2007 Impreza except STI, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x, only in DE,  CT,  IA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NH, NJ, OH, PA, RI,  VT, Wa DC, WI, WV. Possible damage to front lower control arm hanger brackets due to road salt corrosion. Inspect the front lower control arms for rust damage and replace or treat with an anti corrosive.  9/2 2012 prices and specs now available on Outback, Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza. 8/12 2012 updates- Orders acepted for Impreza, Outback, Legacy. Colors have been announced and orders are now accepted for 2012 Impreza, Legacy, Outback. Orders on WRX/STI, Forester and Tribeca should be mid-September. No prices announced yet.  Legacy and Outback are expected late September. Impreza late November. See local dealer.  2012 Outback and Legacy models remain the same as 2011. The models are 2.5i manual/CVT, 2.5i Premium manual/CVT, 2.5i Limited CVT, 3.6R 5spd automatic, 3.6R Premium 5 spd automatic, 3.6R Limited 5speed automatic, and Legacy GT Limited manual.  New Alloy Wheel Package available on base Outback and Legacy includes alloy wheels, fog lights, and the All Weather package... this Option Package will be very popular. 8/3 Subaru Outback review "People in the Northwest love their Subaru’s.  They kind of look like us. I know that sounds weird to say about a car. As I write this, I’m looking at a burgundy red outback in my driveway. It looks right at home. The Outback was redesigned last year. Just like most car redesigns, this Outback is bigger and taller than the model it replaced. The styling is typical Subaru... I took my tester on a trip to Camano Island. The first thing that struck me is how I had to do a look-see for the parking brake. It’s one of those electronic jobs that sits on the left side of the dashboard. You pull it to set the brake and push it to release. Maybe it’s my dyslexia, but I kept trying to pull it to release the brake. (note- that is backwards, it is push to set, pull to release. To release you have to have your foot on the brake). I also found myself stomping my left foot near the wheel well of the car thinking it was the old fashion small pedal. The first thing that caught my eye after figuring out the parking brake was the cool back up camera screen imbedded in the rear view mirror. What a brilliant idea. A mirror and camera together! As far as the driving experience, I must say I was pleasantly surprised. The suspension soaks up bumps like a sponge. At lower speeds, the steering is nicely weighted. This people and stuff hauler was actually fun on the twisty roads of Camano Island. The interior is OK. Nothing groundbreaking or hip. I don’t understand the need for the MPG gauge on the dashboard. It doesn’t really tell you much. They should have put an oil pressure gauge in its place. The leather seats look very upscale. The faux wood looks cheesy. My tester came without the navigation system so I can’t tell you if Subaru has improved on its so-so graphics from the past...  The fifth generation Outback is a great bang for the buck. It’s versatile, easy to drive, safe and pretty green for a car of it’s size. I can understand why we in the Northwest have a car-love affair with Subaru’s..." read the entire article 6/18 Subaru to build engines in Lafayette for 2013 Outback and Legacy...  The Lafayette City Council approved Suabru's 7 year tax abatement Monday June 6 saving the company an estimated $314,000. SIA requested the tax abatement on $14-19 million in new engine building equipment to produce engines for the 2013 Legacy, Outback and Tribeca. The engine's assembly will start at the Lafayette plant in the summer of 2012. Subaru engines currently are made in Japan. Tom Easterday, SIA executive vice president, said the new engine that will be produced is described as the company's third-generation boxer engine. He said the engine has better torque at lower revolutions per minute, more power and 10 percent better fuel economy. Engines for .the project is expected to bring 20- 40 new jobs. 6/3 Outback review...  like a Swiss amy knife, the Outback is an multi-tool that gets the job done and the 4 cylinder has plenty of grunt... "Long before taking the keys to our Azurite Blue Pearl 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited (our 2010 Sport/Utility Vehicle of the Year, by the way), we decided to forgo ordering its 3.6R flat-six sibling packing 256 ponies and a traditional five-speed auto. At first, it was a move that had some staffers wishing for more Boxer might. Once we received the Outback, doubters quickly changed their opinions. Entries praising the crossover's 2.5-liter flat-four and its smooth Lineartronic continuously variable transmission poured into our logbook after only a few days in the fleet. "The four-banger has plenty of grunt," wrote associate online editor Kirill Ougarov. With steering-wheel-mounted paddles allowing drivers to select predetermined gear "ratios," digging for extra highway speed or engine braking rpm was as simple as a quick tug on the left paddle. Rated at 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, the engine consistently returned fuel economy in the high 20- to low 30-mpg range, with the computer indicating a 30.8-mpg average during a trip to San Diego and 28.5 mpg over a weekend in Los Angeles. Our average over 28,000 miles was 25.0 mpg - 1 mpg above the EPA's combined estimate. Tank ranges of 350-plus miles were the norm. The mill's major downfall was that it needed to dwell high in the tach range to produce any substantial pull, so "those used to gobs of torque or stirring acceleration at the crack of the gas pedal need to look elsewhere," per executive editor Edward Loh. Senior editor Jonny Lieberman echoed the sentiment and called the powertrain "pokey." In Limited trim, our Outback felt like a rolling Grand Tourer. Replete with a maximum cargo area of 71.3 cubic feet (rear seats folded) and goodies like leather, 440-watt nine-speaker harman/kardon stereo, iPod/USB inputs, heated front seats, and Bluetooth connectivity, the Outback offered plenty from the get-go.  Loaded with $2995 worth of moonroof and navigation package meant the Subaru was one of the most comfortable crossovers in the fleet.  The stout build made for a medium-size vehicle that was fun to toss around.' read the article on motortrend.com 5/26 Subaru to build engines at the SIA factory in Lafayette and asks for a tax credit for the investment. This will give the plant more control over production and minimize delays like the situation after the earthquake in Japan this past March. "Officials with Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. plan to ask city officials for tax breaks on $14 million in new engine-building equipment the company will buy. The equipment, expected to be installed later this year, will be used to build engines for the company's 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles, said Rachel Hazaray, associate counsel with SIA... The project is expected to bring 20 to 40 new jobs to the SIA plant off Indiana 38 in Lafayette. The new engine, described as the company's third-generation boxer engine, will be built there at the facility's existing engine plant, Hazaray said. The average salary for workers who will build the engines will be about $50,000, Hazaray said. She said that it's been 20 years since Subaru has built a new engine model. Typically, she said, most of the engines for Subaru vehicles are made in Japan.' read the entire article > Coincidently, late in 2010 Fuji closed its small engine plant, RMI Robin Manufacturing Inc, in Hudson, Wisconsin where they made Subaru V-Twin engines. The plant was owned by Fuji and Polaris Industries, and started in 1995. They made  ATV, golf cart and other small industrial use engines. 5/25 CVT transmissions- try it, you might like it. Plus it gets better MPGs. Anyway they're coming, like on the 2012 Impreza. Here's what one writer says 'I used to believe that continuously variable transmissions (CVT) were not the way to go. As a serious car guy, I had to feel the kick of a transmission shift to keep a sense as to what was going on under my hood. This is all changed now. Technology continues to march along whether we like it or not and in the case of CVTs, it’s all good. We are seeing a proliferation of these devices for a many reasons – not the least of which is fuel economy. Consider a bicycle: the more gears you have at your disposal, the more efficient the bike and the easier it is on the rider. Now consider that a CVT has an almost infinite number of gears. For the uninitiated, a CVT operates using two variable diameter pulleys or cones as its key components. I’m over-simplifying, but one pulley is connected to the engine while the other pulley is connected to the driving wheels. Between the two is a chain link belt.... Now imagine that these two pulleys can change diameters independent of each other and in (almost) an infinite number of combinations; you can see that this transmission can deliver an amazing number of gear combinations. Now here’s the kicker – perception... Because a CVT has the ability to affect vehicle speed and drive torque (not to be confused with engine torque) independent of the speed of the engine, pulling away from a light sounds and feels different... I had a tough time absorbing this phenomenon. And apparently we were not alone in this perception because the manufacturers have had to program the electronics to make the CVT feel like shifts take place...even though they don’t have to... don’t dismiss the new (2012) Subie for the sake of its CVT. Take it for a drive when it gets here, and also test drive a Nissan Murano. Like the Subie, it uses a CVT...' read the entire article 5/22/11- new March 2011 Synthetic oil is now required recommended on all 2011 models Synthetic oil is now required for optimum engine performance and protection. Conventional oil may be used if synthetic oil is unavailable. Conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed, but it should be changed to synthetic oil at the next oil change. Note- your owners manual might not indicate this depending on the printing date. This change was reportedly made around March 2011. Now all 2011 Subarus use Subaru synthetic oil since the 2011 Forester 2.5Ls, and all turbos ( WRX, STI, Forester XT, Legacy GT) have required it since the start of the model run. All 2011 models use 5w-30 except the Forester X which uses 0w-20 2011 maintenance schedule 4/13 Part shortages mean the assembly line stops.  SIA's Subaru Outback, Legacy and tribeca assembly line is scheduled to be down for three days,  April 15, 18, and 25. The Camry line will be stopped April 15, 18, 21 and 25. 3/29 2011 Outback and Legacy model production is slowing as the normal 2011 end of model year approaches, and if you wanted to place a new order for a car to be delivered in 6-8 weeks it is no longer accepted on some models.. it varies by model and Option Package but these are lower volume cars like manuals, 6 cylinders, or less popular Option Packages. In the past, the new year Outback and Legacy models (in this case 2012s) have arrived in or by July.  3/24 2010 Subaru Outback tease.  Subaru knows there is a small market for a performance Outback. The 05-09 Outback XT and 05-07 Legacy GT wagons were slow sellers but heres what you get if you take a 2010 Outback and a Legacy GT turbo engine  ... one-off Outback for SEMA,  the "Legacy GTk". 'From SEMA to Reality: Subaru Needs to Serve this Mechanical Cocktail in America - NOW.  ..Take one U.S.-spec Subaru Outback chassis, add a dash of JDM-inspired nose, an ounce of custom roof racks, two teaspoons of tinted taillights, and a measure of extended rear spoiler. Bolt in a single mildly tuned U.S.-market Legacy 2.5GT powertrain and a JDM Legacy tS suspension, shake vigorously for six months, and, VOILA!, you have yourself a bona fide Frankenwagon fit for SEMA's Las Vegas Convention Center floor. Easy enough, right? Maybe not... As the story goes, Subaru commissioned Specialized Vehicles Inc. to create a 2009 SEMA show car that would demonstrate the versatility and coolness of sport wagons. Executives quickly trucked an Indiana-built Outback to SVI's headquarters to serve as the project's basis. From the outset, it was going to be much more than an Outback sporting a few aftermarket parts. Company suits ultimately wanted it to be the transporter of choice for a kart-loving family, so SVI ensured it could carry five people, some luggage, and an SCCA Solo kart in its trunk. If that wasn't enough, the car would need to be capable of setting lap times without imploding or inadvertently plowing into a barrier. By now, Subie nuts will have no doubt noticed this Legacy Outback's Japanese domestic-market DNA. SVI replaced the Outback's headlights with black Japanese units for an athletic look. (Memo to Subaru: these lights need to be offered as a U.S. option or catalog part.) SVI then revised the bumpers to mimic those of a JDM Legacy Sport Wagon and installed sleek custom roof rails and a Japanese-spec rear spoiler. If "k" is for kart, then "GT" is for heart. SVI dumped the Outback's naturally aspirated 2.5-liter mill for a turbocharged EJ25-series 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer and married the mill to a six-speed manual gearbox. Both the engine and tranny are from the U.S.-spec 2010 Legacy 2.5GT sedan. A slightly retuned ECU and bespoke free-flowing stainless-steel exhaust help push the pancake engine's output to 300 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, which is a nice boost over the stock 265 horsepower and 258 pound-feet. For the sake of reliability and streetability, no other power parts were added.' read the entire Motor Trend article 3/15 steering wheel shake on 2010/11 Outback and Legacy ... A NYT blogger writes about the front tire shimmy/steering nwheel shake a few 2010/11 Outback and Legacy owners have experienced. Is this going to become another issue that keeps coming up like the leaking head gaskets that have plagued Subaru boxer  engines and frustrated owners for years? "Minimizing vibration over a variety of surfaces and speeds is a fundamental challenge of automotive engineering. According to many owners, Subaru did not devote adequate attention to this task on the automaker’s 2010-11 Outback wagons and Legacy sedans. Drivers on the Subaru Outback Forum, an owners’ bulletin board unaffiliated with Subaru, cite significant vibration in their Outbacks’ steering wheels at highway speeds, typically 60 m.p.h. or more. The owners said they were worried about the condition’s long-term implications, especially when their vehicles fell out of warranty. Some say the vibration is tiny, while others say they can see the steering wheel move. The forum asked owners if they had experienced the problem, and of the 330 who responded, 36 percent said yes. Additionally, about three dozen complaints from Legacy and Outback owners have been filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In 2010, Subaru issued a 22-page technical service bulletin that called for modifications to the engine mount and rear subframe, as well as a new steering wheel. In March, the company added a new steering column to the bulletin, among other new components. That document stands at 30 pages. “The issue was largely dealt with before, but this is an extra step,” Michael McHale, a Subaru spokesman, wrote in an e-mail. Mr. McHale said Subaru had received only a “couple of hundred” complaints out of more than 100,000 Outbacks and Legacies sold and is carrying out repairs under warranty. “We take every complaint seriously,” he said. Mr. McHale described the problem as a “flutter” in the steering wheel, typically occurring from 60 to 65 miles an hour. A confluence of factors “can create a harmonic that causes this flutter,” he added. For any automaker, minimizing vibration is “a complex and a large calculation challenge, but is done regularly nowadays,” said Bernard Challen, the visiting engineering professor at the University of Sussex in Britain, who once was chairman of a Society of Automotive Engineers Noise and Vibration conference. Consumers are more likely to complain about squeaks and rattles than vibration, Mr. Challen added. Beginning in July, Subaru began making changes on the assembly line to fix the vibration condition, Mr. McHale said. Nevertheless, some owners posting on the Outback Forum asserted that their vehicles were built after July and still had the problem. Some people have also complained that the fix performed at the dealership did not solve the problem. Wen Li, an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Wayne State University in Detroit, where he specializes on vibration control, said that steering-column vibrations usually result from unbalanced wheels or tires. But based on the extensiveness of Subaru’s repair bulletin, the Outback’s condition may be unusual, Mr. Li wrote in an e-mail. “It almost sounds like they didn’t have a clear idea of what was the exact cause of the problem,” Mr. Li said." read the article About the tire shimmy issue...  Subaru's growth and successes over the past few years is bringing new owners into the Subaru family and with it perhaps a closer look by journalists, owners, and  reviewers. When Subaru was pretty much popular only in wet or wintery areas, Subaru owners, enamored with their practical and quirky all wheel drive car, would overlook issues. 'Just a Subaru' they would say, 'part of the charm'.  Yes dogs and cats can lie together, blue collars and engineers,  teachers,  baristas, families and ski bums, alternatives and mainstream, rich and poor all found a mutual indentity with Subaru. And if they kept their Subaru long enough, they found that 4 cylinder Subaru head gaskets tend to leak as they age. The rest of the car ages so well that its easy to forgive this one thing. But with increased market share comes increased visibility, and more car reviewers and websites are turning their focus to Subaru.  Things that were once quirks and overlooked become issues. Like the recent tire shimmy issue. If it has a name, its gone too far. What would help? A 100,000 mile powertrain warranty, and addressing issues like the tire shimmy quickly. 3/6 2010 Outback 2.5i Limited long term review from Motor Trend 'Long before taking the keys to our Azurite Blue Pearl 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited (our 2010 Sport/Utility Vehicle of the Year, by the way), we decided to forgo ordering its 3.6R flat-six sibling packing 256 ponies and a traditional five-speed auto. At first, it was a move that had some staffers wishing for more Boxer might. Once we received the Outback, doubters quickly changed their opinions. Entries praising the crossover's 2.5-liter flat-four and its smooth Lineartronic continuously variable transmission poured into our logbook after only a few days in the fleet. "The four-banger has plenty of grunt," wrote associate online editor Kirill Ougarov. With steering-wheel-mounted paddles allowing drivers to select predetermined gear "ratios," digging for extra highway speed or engine braking rpm was as simple as a quick tug on the left paddle.... In Limited trim, our Outback felt like a rolling Grand Tourer... Loaded with $2995 worth of moonroof and navigation package meant the Subaru was one of the most comfortable crossovers in the fleet. The stout build made for a medium-size vehicle that was fun to toss around... Staffers loved taking the Outback on soft roads filled with rocks, ruts, and mildly challenging climbs, where it performed exceptionally well. During a rare downpour in Los Angeles, art director Mike Royer noted that the generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance gave him "all kinds of 'puddle-confidence.' " In reliability, the Outback shined. We hit three maintenance stops at 7500-mile intervals... As usual, staffers did log a few niggles. Most dealt with some aspect of the interior. Radio controls (after one service, for example, radio station presets failed to stick; then there was the indecipherable equalizer function), cheap-looking wood, and cream leather that showed dirt too easily were at the top of the list. Others found the CVT too noisy, the mill uninspiring ("If you're looking for passion, keep walking," said associate online editor Scott Evans), and the exterior styling frumpy and ungainly. Even so, the Subaru Outback proved itself the automotive equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, thanks to its uncanny ability to perform a multitude of tasks nearly anywhere at any time. In just 365 days, the part wagon, part sport/ute, part comfy cruiser successfully exceeded almost all our expectations and earned a sincere place in our collective hearts. And that's a pretty tough task... The 2.5i and CVT provided enough power for every activity I took on... There's something tacky and out of place about the fake, glossy burled wood inserts... They feel unusually artificial.".. Most people couldn't care less about how little power this car has, and it's true that a majority of the time you don't need the V-6 (oops.. H6)  around town. At wide-open throttle, though, the car sounded as though it was saying, "I'm trying!" without actually moving forward too quickly." read the entire article   3/5 They all fit in the new green Outback- a truely extended family.. girlfriend,  husband, plus kid, dog, bikes and stuff 'Occupation: Author, freelance journalist and blogger, JennyOnThePage.com. How might we know you? I’m the author of Open: Love, Sex, and Life in an Open Marriage and sex columnist for FoxNews.com. If you can believe it! What kind of car do you have? 2011 Subaru Outback. Cyprus green. Have you named her? I just got her the beginning of February, but I’m toying with calling her the Green Machine or maybe just Greenie. Sigh. Who am I kidding? None of my cars have ever had names. Subaru is a cliche lesbian ride, but I’ll still ask: Why this car? You never know what we’ll be up to. In the last four years, I’ve taken up all sorts of adventures and this car will be perfect for putting up with all of it. Good gas mileage? Yup. 29 on the highway and 22 in the city. What are the rules of your car? No yelling. No playing “Punch Buggy.” No eating if you’re under 18. And I get to pick the music — always. You have the most modern of modern families. How does this car help? Everyone and everything can pile in: my husband, my girlfriend, my daughter, our dog Walter, the Hula Hoops, the mountain bikes, the climbing equipment. You name it. Fast driver or grandma? I can’t lie. Grandma. Definitely. Who drives more — your hubby, girlfriend or you? So far I’m the only one who drives this one. But most of the time we take his car or her car. They never want me to drive when they’re with me. They say I drive too slowly. Go figure. Best car memory: When I bought it, the guys at Subaru of Plano wanted to take a picture of me with it for some groovy promotion they’re doing where they make you a calendar with a pic of you and your new car. Anyway, we had such a blast doing it. It was during one of those hideous, freezing, snowy days we had, but I insisted they help me onto the top of the car for a picture. And they did. I look like a crazy person in the pic because I’m laughing so hard. Funniest road trip story? Ask me in six months. What’s in your CD/mp3 player right now? Jason Mraz, Katy Perry and Brett Dennen. Stick shift vs. automatic: Automatic. How do you rate this car to previous ones? I have always had Jeeps and I have always loved them. But this car is amazing. I suppose I’m going to need to give it some time. But I think it might beat out all of my previous rides. Did any TV commercials sway you about your purchase? Maybe the one about “You never forget your first Subaru.” But, honestly, it was the gang at the Subaru dealer. I just swung by one afternoon to have a look and it was super low pressure. They wanted me to want the car. And I did! Sexiest thing about your car? Love the moon roof. Everyone looks good in moonlight. What’s the one new feature you already can’t live without? Heated seats. I know it’s not new in general, but it’s new to me. I didn’t have them in the Jeep. Now I do and I love them. Where is one place you would like to drive your car? To Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg, Texas, so we can go climbing and “camp” in the car if the tent freaks out my 11-year-old — or me. So is this an SUV or a car or what? I think they consider it a crossover. It’s a wagon but it looks more like an SUV and it has a ton of space. Besides, I cannot say I drive a station wagon because that reminds me of the white Dodge Aspen my mom drove in the ’70s. Yick. Are you a double space parker now that you have a new car? I so do not want to be that girl. I don’t take up two spaces. But I do park way in the back of a parking lot where there is generally less commotion.' the whole article 1/20 Don't Need All Wheel Drive... Subaru Outback gives its all in the snow; Durango brings up the rear 'The post-Christmas snow descended with militant urgency, wind-blown at 37 mph. By the time it ended, our travel plans were redrawn. The 2011 rear-wheel-drive Dodge Durango Crew sport-utility vehicle, with its 290-horsepower V-6 engine and commodious, comfortable cabin, would remain parked in the driveway here. The 2010 Subaru Outback Limited 2.5i wagon, with its small 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine, and its relatively tight-fit cabin, would be the family's transportation workhorse for the rest of the holiday season. The difference was all-wheel drive. The Outback Limited 2.5i, usually garaged at our Cornwall house, had it. The version of the Durango driven here didn't. Big, rear-wheel-drive sport-utility vehicles are great in places such as Louisiana and Mississippi, where snow remains a foreign concept. But Cornwall, 55 miles north of New York City, located on the western shore of the Hudson River, is Subaru territory. Bragging rights here go to vehicles that can keep moving with agility and confidence in severe winter weather. Subaru, having developed one of the world's best functioning, most reliable, symmetrical all-wheel-drive systems, is leader of that pack. We drove the Durango here from our Northern Virginia homestead because we needed a vehicle with hauling ability. The five-door Durango Crew has lots of that. It can carry 1,300 pounds onboard and haul a trailer weighing 7,400 pounds. There were heated family arguments about the Durango Crew's potentially lousy rear-wheel-drive performance in snow. But in the manner of a politician pushing through a last-minute amendment in homage to rank self-interest, I argued that we'd "be all right" because the Durango was fitted with "all-terrain" tires. It was baloney cooked up to save gas money.  Vehicles with only rear-wheel or front-wheel drive generally use less fuel than those with all-wheel-drive, in which drive power shifts to wheels that grip from wheels that slip; or models with dedicated four-wheel drive, in which drive power flows to all four wheels simultaneously. Putting "all-terrain" or "all-season" tires on rear-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive vehicles is a time-tested marketing scam, employed to sell "peace-of-mind" to residents of traditionally mild climates who the sellers expect/hope will never experience a close dance with ice or snow. Residents of traditionally frigid climates know that rear-drive or front-drive coupled with "all-terrain" or "all-season" tires usually means slippery going, or no going at all. Ample evidence of that truth was on display in several trips to New York City, where public officials apparently mistook the term "blizzard" to mean "non-emergency." Incredibly, many of the streets in the world's greatest financial center were unplowed and untreated. Large city buses were stuck in the snow. Big, rear-wheel-drive delivery trucks were rendered undeliverable. One benighted soul apparently thought the $341,000 price tag of a rear-wheel-drive Bentley Brooklands coupe was a measurement of the car's prowess in snow. All were stuck, as was the rear-wheel-drive Durango Crew sport-utility vehicle frozen in snow and ice at our house here in Cornwall. But the Subaru Outback Limited 2.5i kept going. It did not slip, get stuck or in any other way falter on the unbelievably snow-clogged streets of New York City. Thank you, Subaru. We love this car.'  Warren Brown's article 1/16 Subaru Outback is popular, ask Karen Jarrelle at Subaru of Richmond, Va 'With this week’s inclement weather and winter fully upon us, we at Richmond Drives got to thinking about good vehicles to have in the snow. Subaru sprung to mind, because I know several people who have purchased Outbacks within the last year and have raved about them. The 2011 Outback is a true champ in the snow, with its all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance. To find out more, I spoke with Karen Jarrelle, a product specialist at Subaru of Richmond (Virginia), who filled me in with more details. “The Outback is built to do anything, whether you’re looking to hike in Alaska or ski in the Rockies,” she said. “They’re not going to hydroplane in the rain, and they’re not going to slide in the snow.” And last year the Outback was newly redesigned for more legroom and better styling. “I love Subarus,” Jarelle continued, “and I believe in them, and so do our customers. Nine times out of 10, if you buy one Subaru, you’ll be back for another one. And if you go onto Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.com, Subarus have some of the highest resale value in the country.” The Outback is a tough, durable vehicle, designed for performance and safety. One feature of note is the Boxer engine, which is used in Porsches. Jarrelle went on to note that for the fourth year running the Outback has been named a top safety pick by the IIHS, an independent research group for crash tests and highway safety. “We’re the only manufacturer that can honestly say we’ve earned a top safety pick for every model, which includes the Outback,” she said. Unlike most all-wheel-drive vehicles, the Outback has a symmetrical AWD design, which means the vehicle stays in AWD at all speeds, at all times.... The Outback is a fun car, designed to take you anywhere, so check them out at Subaru of Richmond ... In addition to the additional limited powertrain warranty, you’ll receive free oil changes for life, state inspections for life, a white glove detail every year and more. “The staff here is absolutely exceptional,” said Jarrelle. “Very professional, very knowledgeable. Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance here and we back that up.”  read the entire article 1/16 2011 Outback Mobile Internet WiFi prices reduced. Now $426 installed, $14.95 mo with 1yr contract. More 1/13 Subarus and tire chains.. Its winter and with snow on the ground the question of tire chains on a Subaru usually comes up. There's little clearance on the inner side of the front tire for chains on a newer Subaru. No matter how tightly chains are installed, when a moving car is steered and the front wheels turn, the tire sidewall rolls a bit, and the chain will not lie tight and flat against the tire and it can easily damage suspension and brake components. If you need better cold weather traction, get 4 winter tires, or 4 studded winter tires for maximum traction. For short distances or when even winter or snow tires aren't enough, consider either Spider Spikes or Quik Trak. These temporary traction devices go over the tire without going on the inner side of it, see your local tire dealer..  more winter car care

top- Subaru Legacy news and reviews edited for length, content -

2011 calendar year news (archived news from 2010) 12/29 2011 Legacy GT review. Yes there is a 2012 GT available. ROAD TEST EDITOR JONATHAN WONG... The Legacy 2.5GT is the Subaru that Impreza WRX owners graduate to when they get a little older. Maybe they need a little more room for a family and want something more comfortable, but they don't want to give up all the performance. It's true that this car isn't as hard-edged as the Impreza WRX or STI, but it's not supposed to be. There are some luxury elements mixed into the package, such as the moonroof and leather interior trim, but the faux carbon fiber and aluminum pedal set do a little to keep the performance-vehicle vibe in the cabin. ... There are a couple of things I want to see in the Legacy's future. First, I hope Subaru decides to do a Spec B version with upgraded suspension bits, SI-Drive and a small kick-up in power... ASSOCIATE EDITOR DAVID ARNOUTS ...The Legacy is much better equipped in the interior department (though some of that is because of our older STI tester). There is a more executive-luxury feel throughout, with the faux-carbon-fiber inlays and gadgetry-adorned dash... The styling of the Legacy draws far less attention than that of the STI, which is both good and bad depending on your personal tastes. The former is more subdued, which is nice because it won't attract as much attention from Johnny Law as the latter does. That is, unless you are attempting to set land-speed records. That being said, for those looking for a sedan with all-wheel drive, a nicely equipped interior, a forced-induction powerplant with an intoxicating exhaust tone under acceleration, and a subtle exterior, the Legacy 2.5GT Limited might just be your perfect car. CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEN ROSS: This Subaru wasn't a bad vehicle. The exterior is sporty but more adult-looking than that of our long-term Impreza WRX STI Limited. Where my real disconnect was on the Legacy is the interior. It is an upgrade from the STI, but is it at the $35,000-car level?... The real selling point for this Subaru is the all-wheel drive. An all-wheel-drive sporty sedan for less than $40,000 is enticing to me, as I'm sure it would be for a lot of people north of the Mason Dixon line." the entire article   12/7 update on the recall on 2012 Outback, Legacy, Impreza  for excessive brake pedal travel. Parts are being shipped and most cars should be ready to go before Christmas. The recall is to inspect and replace brake master cylinders as needed on 2012 Outback and Legacy built 10/17-11/23/11, and 2012 Impreza built through 11/15/11. Cars already delivered to customers will be the  first to get parts by early December,  with parts for most pre-sold cars arriving by mid month, and parts for dealer inventory later in the month but hopefully before Chrsitmas.  Stop Sale- cars already on dealer lots that need the new part cannot be driven or sold until repaired. Expect low inventory at dealers as cars are held back pending repair. This is Recall #WVY-35 (This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them.)   11/27/11  brake master cylinder issue on 2012 Legacy, Outback, and Impreza. Last week Subaru announced a delay shipping Outbacks, Legacys and Imprezas. On the 25th, they confirmed rumors that its due to a brake master cylinder issue, and dealers cannot sell or deliver affected vehicles until they are repaired.  That means cars expected to arrive in November or early December may be pushed back and cars already on lots cannot be sold. Cars already delivered to customers will get the first available parts. This does not involve Forester, WRX/STI or Tribeca.  This recall is campaign code WVY-35.  Subaru is acting quickly- parts are already being shipped and arriving at dealers, and letters will be sent to owners.  In an emergency, the Impreza still has a manual parking/emergency brake, the Legacy/Outback's electric parking brake will function as an emergency brake if gently tapped but be careful.  This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them. Since some cars were already purchased that means they were driven - from the factory, through the shipping and prep process, and then test driven by the customer- so they must stop at least semi-normally. 'SoA received a limited number of reports of intermittent excessive brake pedal travel in 2012 Impreza models built through November 15 as well as 2012 Legacy and Outback models built between October 27 and November 23. While braking capability in these vehicles is maintained, drivers have reported their concerns about greater than normal brake pedal travel"  10/11 2012 Outback and Legacy brochures arriving at dealers  and they're thinner, 10 pages vs 15 pages for the 2011 brochures which also had a 2 page fold-out. 9/12 2012 Outbacks and Legacy are starting to (slowly) arrive at dealers. Call your dealer for incoming selection. Get Outback or Legacy specs 9/11 Subaru announces 3 recalls > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, if it has a moonroof, inspect the application of adhesive along the moonroof track and apply more as needed. > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, inspect the windshield wiper motor's bottom plastic cover and replace it to fix a potential overheating issue > On 2003-2008 Forester, 2002-2007 Impreza except STI, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x, only in DE,  CT,  IA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NH, NJ, OH, PA, RI,  VT, Wa DC, WI, WV. Possible damage to front lower control arm hanger brackets due to road salt corrosion. Inspect the front lower control arms for rust damage and replace or treat with an anti corrosive.  9/2 2012 prices and specs now available on Outback, Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza. 8/12 2012 updates- Orders acepted for Impreza, Outback, Legacy. Colors have been announced and orders are now accepted for 2012 Impreza, Legacy, Outback. Orders on WRX/STI, Forester and Tribeca should be mid-September. No prices announced yet.  Legacy and Outback are expected late September. Impreza late November. See local dealer.  2012 Outback and Legacy models remain the same as 2011. The models are 2.5i manual/CVT, 2.5i Premium manual/CVT, 2.5i Limited CVT, 3.6R 5spd automatic, 3.6R Premium 5 spd automatic, 3.6R Limited 5speed automatic, and Legacy GT Limited manual.  New Alloy Wheel Package available on base Outback and Legacy includes alloy wheels, fog lights, and the All Weather package... this Option Package will be very popular. 7/10 Legacy review- it might surpise doubters  "Mid-size sedans have become more popular in recent years. While there are models that everyone seems to buy, it's often worth checking out a less popular one. The Subaru Legacy tends to fly under the radar, but it's actually a nicely-sized four door with lots of attributes, including standard all wheel drive. Prices start at about $20,000, which is pretty much what competitive four doors cost. One of the more impressive things about the Legacy is the interior room, especially considering the overall size of the outside. Rear seat room is surprisingly plentiful. The car's exterior styling won't blow too many people away, but it's elegant enough. Buyers can also get all the features they'd like to make the legacy somewhat luxurious. Power-wise, Subaru marches to its own beat with horizontally opposed engines. Subaru has made a name for itself in the performance arena with scrappy little cars like the Impreza WRX and S TI rally-bred performance cars that have 300-plus horsepower. The sedans in the mid-size segment can all be loaded up with different options and features, but Subaru goes a little differently with the Legacy. Buyers can get it as a GT model with 265 turbocharged horsepower, sports suspension and six-speed manual gear box. Mainstream competitors don't offer that combination. The Legacy GT gets a differently tuned turbo four for more usable power in normal driving. Unfortunately, it takes premium fuel. You can also choose a six cylinder Legacy with automatic, though it's not nearly as much fun as the turbo manual model. Cars like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion and others sell in much greater numbers, but sometimes it's fun to go off the beaten path and drive something a little different." read the article 7/9 2010 Legacy GT review "...Thus far, over 23,000 miles of reliable service, the Legacy has visited the dealer three times, racking up a total maintenance tab of $487.30. Cheap? Not exactly. Our dearly departed long-term 2009 Acura TL SH-AWD, another high-horsepower all-wheel-driver (from a “premium” brand, mind you), amassed a three-visit maintenance tab of $434.92. The Legacy GT’s Achilles heel, I must say, is its transmission. For those not in the know, the GT – the Legacy line’s high-performance iteration – comes exclusively with a 6-speed manual. I’m generally fine with an exclusive transmission, be it a manual, automatic, or dual-clutch, as long as it’s really good. Alas, the Legacy’s is not. Even with the $654 short-throw kit installed, the 6-speed remains notchy, imprecise, and disengaging, the last both literally and figuratively. And those short throws? They’re indeed shorter, but not by much and still too long. Remedy? In my opinion, it’s simple – swap in the 6-speed from the Impreza WRX STI. Yes, I realize the STI’s is an expensive hand-built tranny, but our Legacy costs $34,539. Surely, Subaru can figure out a way to absorb the STI 6M’s cost without upping the GT’s price. Since Subaru has made the GT’s manual a focal point of the car, the transmission ought to be both worthy and laudable. Here’s to hoping. The rest of the car, however, is quite good. Besides some low-end turbo lag, the 2.5-liter boxer has plenty of guts, revs smoothly, and even sounds pretty sweet. The ride is downright cushy, making long trips a breeze. If anything, I wouldn’t mind a modest stiffening of the suspension, to make tackling back roads more fun. Speaking of back roads, the Legacy has no problem hustling through them, but it wallows a bit much when the pavement proves moderately undulating. And I love the cruising range of the GT. Thanks to a 18.5-gallon fuel tank and 25 mpg highway, the Legacy can go 463 miles between fill-ups." read the article from MotorTrend 6/18 Subaru to build engines in Lafayette for 2013 Outback and Legacy...  The Lafayette City Council approved Suabru's 7 year tax abatement Monday June 6 saving the company an estimated $314,000. SIA requested the tax abatement on $14-19 million in new engine building equipment to produce engines for the 2013 Legacy, Outback and Tribeca. The engine's assembly will start at the Lafayette plant in the summer of 2012. Subaru engines currently are made in Japan. Tom Easterday, SIA executive vice president, said the new engine that will be produced is described as the company's third-generation boxer engine. He said the engine has better torque at lower revolutions per minute, more power and 10 percent better fuel economy. Engines for .the project is expected to bring 20- 40 new jobs. 5/26 Subaru to build engines at the SIA factory in Lafayette and asks for a tax credit for the investment. This will give the plant more control over production and minimize delays like the situation after the earthquake in Japan this past March. "Officials with Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. plan to ask city officials for tax breaks on $14 million in new engine-building equipment the company will buy. The equipment, expected to be installed later this year, will be used to build engines for the company's 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles, said Rachel Hazaray, associate counsel with SIA... The project is expected to bring 20 to 40 new jobs to the SIA plant off Indiana 38 in Lafayette. The new engine, described as the company's third-generation boxer engine, will be built there at the facility's existing engine plant, Hazaray said. The average salary for workers who will build the engines will be about $50,000, Hazaray said. She said that it's been 20 years since Subaru has built a new engine model. Typically, she said, most of the engines for Subaru vehicles are made in Japan.' read the entire article > Coincidently, late in 2010 Fuji closed its small engine plant, RMI Robin Manufacturing Inc, in Hudson, Wisconsin where they made Subaru V-Twin engines. The plant was owned by Fuji and Polaris Industries, and started in 1995. They made  ATV, golf cart and other small industrial use engines. 5/25 CVT transmissions- try it, you might like it. Plus it gets better MPGs. Anyway they're coming, like on the 2012 Impreza. Here's what one writer says 'I used to believe that continuously variable transmissions (CVT) were not the way to go. As a serious car guy, I had to feel the kick of a transmission shift to keep a sense as to what was going on under my hood. This is all changed now. Technology continues to march along whether we like it or not and in the case of CVTs, it’s all good. We are seeing a proliferation of these devices for a many reasons – not the least of which is fuel economy. Consider a bicycle: the more gears you have at your disposal, the more efficient the bike and the easier it is on the rider. Now consider that a CVT has an almost infinite number of gears. For the uninitiated, a CVT operates using two variable diameter pulleys or cones as its key components. I’m over-simplifying, but one pulley is connected to the engine while the other pulley is connected to the driving wheels. Between the two is a chain link belt.... Now imagine that these two pulleys can change diameters independent of each other and in (almost) an infinite number of combinations; you can see that this transmission can deliver an amazing number of gear combinations. Now here’s the kicker – perception... Because a CVT has the ability to affect vehicle speed and drive torque (not to be confused with engine torque) independent of the speed of the engine, pulling away from a light sounds and feels different... I had a tough time absorbing this phenomenon. And apparently we were not alone in this perception because the manufacturers have had to program the electronics to make the CVT feel like shifts take place...even though they don’t have to... don’t dismiss the new (2012) Subie for the sake of its CVT. Take it for a drive when it gets here, and also test drive a Nissan Murano. Like the Subie, it uses a CVT...' read the entire article 5/22/11- new March 2011 Synthetic oil is now required recommended on all 2011 models Synthetic oil is now required for optimum engine performance and protection. Conventional oil may be used if synthetic oil is unavailable. Conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed, but it should be changed to synthetic oil at the next oil change. Note- your owners manual might not indicate this depending on the printing date. This change was reportedly made around March 2011. Now all 2011 Subarus use Subaru synthetic oil since the 2011 Forester 2.5Ls, and all turbos ( WRX, STI, Forester XT, Legacy GT) have required it since the start of the model run. All 2011 models use 5w-30 except the Forester X which uses 0w-20 2011 maintenance schedule 4/13 Part shortages mean the assembly line stops.  SIA's Subaru Outback, Legacy and tribeca assembly line is scheduled to be down for three days,  April 15, 18, and 25. The Camry line will be stopped April 15, 18, 21 and 25. 3/29 2011 Outback and Legacy model production is slowing as the normal 2011 end of model year approaches, and if you wanted to place a new order for a car to be delivered in 6-8 weeks it is no longer accepted on some models.. it varies by model and Option Package but these are lower volume cars like manuals, 6 cylinders, or less popular Option Packages. In the past, the new year Outback and Legacy models (in this case 2012s) have arrived in or by July.  3/20 top 30MPG cars under $30,000.. Legacy CVT is mentioned 'After weeks of surging upward, gasoline prices were nearly stalled this week at $3.54 per gallon for regular-grade fuel, according to AAA, the American Automobile Association. But they are expected to rise again and continue beyond 2008 levels to about $4.50 a gallon, says Paul Taylor, chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association.  If fuel costs rise that much, consumers are likely to start shopping for more efficient vehicles. Compared with years past, car makers are generally turning out a wider range of vehicles — not just stripped-down subcompacts. The NADA today released the following top-five list of  vehicles with highway fuel economy of at least 30 mpg, cost less than $30,000 and have many of the comfort and convenience features many drivers expect: 2011 Chevrolet Aveo.. GMC Terrain FWD SLT..  Kia Soul...  Nissan Sentra... Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen .. There are several other well-appointed vehicles that meet the 30 mpg, under $30,000 criteria. Among those I would add to the shopping list are the four-cylinder versions of the Honda Accord, Subaru  Legacy, Volkswagen CC (or Passat) and Ford Fusion...' read the entire article 3/15 steering wheel shake on 2010/11 Outback and Legacy ... A NYT blogger writes about the front tire shimmy/steering nwheel shake a few 2010/11 Outback and Legacy owners have experienced. Is this going to become another issue that keeps coming up like the leaking head gaskets that have plagued Subaru boxer  engines and frustrated owners for years? "Minimizing vibration over a variety of surfaces and speeds is a fundamental challenge of automotive engineering. According to many owners, Subaru did not devote adequate attention to this task on the automaker’s 2010-11 Outback wagons and Legacy sedans. Drivers on the Subaru Outback Forum, an owners’ bulletin board unaffiliated with Subaru, cite significant vibration in their Outbacks’ steering wheels at highway speeds, typically 60 m.p.h. or more. The owners said they were worried about the condition’s long-term implications, especially when their vehicles fell out of warranty. Some say the vibration is tiny, while others say they can see the steering wheel move. The forum asked owners if they had experienced the problem, and of the 330 who responded, 36 percent said yes. Additionally, about three dozen complaints from Legacy and Outback owners have been filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In 2010, Subaru issued a 22-page technical service bulletin that called for modifications to the engine mount and rear subframe, as well as a new steering wheel. In March, the company added a new steering column to the bulletin, among other new components. That document stands at 30 pages. “The issue was largely dealt with before, but this is an extra step,” Michael McHale, a Subaru spokesman, wrote in an e-mail. Mr. McHale said Subaru had received only a “couple of hundred” complaints out of more than 100,000 Outbacks and Legacies sold and is carrying out repairs under warranty. “We take every complaint seriously,” he said. Mr. McHale described the problem as a “flutter” in the steering wheel, typically occurring from 60 to 65 miles an hour. A confluence of factors “can create a harmonic that causes this flutter,” he added. For any automaker, minimizing vibration is “a complex and a large calculation challenge, but is done regularly nowadays,” said Bernard Challen, the visiting engineering professor at the University of Sussex in Britain, who once was chairman of a Society of Automotive Engineers Noise and Vibration conference. Consumers are more likely to complain about squeaks and rattles than vibration, Mr. Challen added. Beginning in July, Subaru began making changes on the assembly line to fix the vibration condition, Mr. McHale said. Nevertheless, some owners posting on the Outback Forum asserted that their vehicles were built after July and still had the problem. Some people have also complained that the fix performed at the dealership did not solve the problem. Wen Li, an associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Wayne State University in Detroit, where he specializes on vibration control, said that steering-column vibrations usually result from unbalanced wheels or tires. But based on the extensiveness of Subaru’s repair bulletin, the Outback’s condition may be unusual, Mr. Li wrote in an e-mail. “It almost sounds like they didn’t have a clear idea of what was the exact cause of the problem,” Mr. Li said." read the article About the tire shimmy issue...  Subaru's growth and successes over the past few years is bringing new owners into the Subaru family and with it perhaps a closer look by journalists, owners, and  reviewers. When Subaru was pretty much popular only in wet or wintery areas, Subaru owners, enamored with their practical and quirky all wheel drive car, would overlook issues. 'Just a Subaru' they would say, 'part of the charm'.  Yes dogs and cats can lie together, blue collars and engineers,  teachers,  baristas, families and ski bums, alternatives and mainstream, rich and poor all found a mutual indentity with Subaru. And if they kept their Subaru long enough, they found that 4 cylinder Subaru head gaskets tend to leak as they age. The rest of the car ages so well that its easy to forgive this one thing. But with increased market share comes increased visibility, and more car reviewers and websites are turning their focus to Subaru.  Things that were once quirks and overlooked become issues. Like the recent tire shimmy issue. If it has a name, its gone too far. What would help? A 100,000 mile powertrain warranty, and addressing issues like the tire shimmy quickly. 3/7 Legacy GT turbo 4 cylinder review-  Testing Subaru’s Legacy 2.5GT Limited has proven frustrating. And expensive. In its initial acceleration runs, our first GT sheared a half-shaft. Once repaired, the car made a second appearance, and a second half-shaft was bifurcated. As another GT arrived, so, too, did the season’s first blizzard, an Arctic apocalypse that would have cowed ?Admiral Peary and easily overwhelmed the Legacy’s 18-inch summer-spec Bridgestones. What luck, huh? The 2.5GT Limited, starting at $32,120, represents the sportiest of Legacy sedans. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter four produces 265 horsepower—95 horses beyond what the base 2.5i can muster, and nine more than the 3.6R’s 3.6-liter flat-six. With half-shafts finally spinning instead of flailing, the 2.5GT tackled 60 mph in an aggressive 5.4 seconds, and the quarter-mile was dispatched in 14.1 seconds at 100 mph. By contrast, the base Legacy, fitted with a CVT, required 8.7 seconds to attain 60 mph. And the flat-six, with standard five-speed automatic, performed the task in 6.4. The 2.5GT Limited comes with a six-speed manual only, and ours was gussied up with a short-throw kit, part of an unnecessary $1154 option pack that includes a boost gauge that looks like a geothermal event bulging up through the dash. Clutch feel is dandy, but the shifter’s gates are resistant and overall effort is high. At step-off, moreover, clutch slipping is sometimes necessary to coax the all-wheel drive’s many cogs, pinwheels, and whirligigs into motion. The GT’s suspension is buttoned down, with body motions conscientiously controlled, and the ride remains settled and supple. The steering is oddly heavy and somewhat leaden at low speeds but sharpens acceptably as digits accrue. Funny that Subaru has spent tens of millions to acquire a legitimate rally heritage, yet this car is fitted with no hand brake. Just north of 2500 rpm, the engine climbs on boost, summoning a butt-wallop that many of us last experienced in grade school. It’s a sudden kick in the pants that reliably illuminates traction-control warnings if the road is damp. Unfortunately, peaky powerplants also have the habit of snapping heads. The 2.5GT is fun, but it’s a car that proves tricky to drive smoothly. Which had us yearning for the refinement and more-than-adequate perform­ance of the 3.6R, which fetches $6400 less than the 2.5GT Limited and thus earns our nomination as the Legacy for discriminating adults.' from caranddriver.com April 2011   3/4 Legacy - "Best affordable AWD sedan: Subaru Legacy Subaru's Legacy is a sleeper. You should see these handsome sedans everywhere in Wisconsin as they all come with all-wheel-drive and the test car, the 3.6R Premium starts at just $25,995 and that includes nearly everything most of us would ever need. It packs 256 horses, a smooth shifting five-speed automatic, traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes and inside there are extremely comfy seats with two-speed heat. There's even a less costly 4-cylinder for just under $20,000, and, yes, it has AWD'  the entire article with other car reviews 1/28 New accessories..  Impreza and Legacy sedan- new rear bumper protector, available on all Legacy and Impreza sedans (though it could work on any model). Sits folded up on the trunk floor, and then you unfold and pull it over the rear bumper to protect the bumper when you might briefly rest something on it while loading cargo etc. 1/13 Subarus and tire chains.. Its winter and with snow on the ground the question of tire chains on a Subaru usually comes up. There's little clearance on the inner side of the front tire for chains on a newer Subaru. No matter how tightly chains are installed, when a moving car is steered and the front wheels turn, the tire sidewall rolls a bit, and the chain will not lie tight and flat against the tire and it can easily damage suspension and brake components. If you need better cold weather traction, get 4 winter tires, or 4 studded winter tires for maximum traction. For short distances or when even winter or snow tires aren't enough, consider either Spider Spikes or Quik Trak. These temporary traction devices go over the tire without going on the inner side of it, see your local tire dealer..  more winter car care

top Subaru Forester news and reviews edited for length, content -

2011 calendar year news (archived news from 2010) 12/16 Forester XT review  'When I test-drove the Subaru Forester earlier this year, I felt like I had found the golden retriever of compact SUVs – a small 'ute that's ready to go wherever you are, enjoys taking you there, and is a true pleasure to be around. No wonder it became my favorite compact sport utility vehicle to date. How could it get any better? Adding power would be a great way to start. And Subaru does exactly that with the XT version of the Forester, which trades the regular vehicle's 2.5-liter, 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine for one of the same size but with a turbocharger attached. The result is a 54-horsepower increase to 224. That added power makes the Forester a feisty friend with a lot more bite. Whereas the regular version performed admirably, it really couldn't be called all that quick. This one is. The first time I sunk my foot into the right pedal to get up to freeway speeds, I found myself exclaiming out loud how much faster the XT version of the Forester feels compared with the naturally aspirated (or non-turbo) model. Expect a 0-60 mph time in the mid-6 second range, a good two or three ticks faster than its lesser brethren. When not rocketing forward, the XT provides a relatively comfortable, quiet ride, just like the other Forester... .. Excellent visibility also carries over in the XT. The Forester is among the best SUVs in this regard. Its boxy shape may not appeal to everyone, but because the designers skipped the swooping rear that's so en vogue now, they permitted much better sight lines, which I'll take any day over aesthetics. Looking forward, however, you will see one significant difference in the XT, and that's the hood bulge. This isn't for aesthetics, though it does look muscular; it lets air feed into the engine compartment and signifies that this version of the Forester is the souped-up one. I dig it. And good news for off-roaders, the XT has slightly more ground clearance, 8.9 inches compared with the other version's still-ample 8.7 inches...." read the entire article 10/14 2012 Foresters arriving at dealers. New height adjustable front passenger seat. 10 page brochure also vailable. 10/12 2012 Foresters expected to start arriving late October. WRX STI expected in late October- early November. 9/19 2012 Forester colors- new Ice Silver Metallic with dark interior replaces both Steel Silver and Spark Silver available 2009-11 9/16 2012 Forester and Tribecas now available for ordering. Forester prices and specs expected soon- yes its hard to order a car without prices and options. The 2012 Forester now comes with a manual height adjustable passenger seat. This is a first for Subaru.  2012 Tribeca specs 9/15  2012 Foresters.  The 2012 get a few changes, otherwise they are the same as 2011. Sorry, there is no CVT and no diesel (I don't think there will ever be a US diesel). On all models, the front passenger seat is now manually height adjustable which is good because the seat was a bit low, and the cargo area carpet been changed to black. A new touch screen Navigation/GPS with HD radio is optional on Limited and Touring models. 9/11 Subaru announces 3 recalls > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, if it has a moonroof, inspect the application of adhesive along the moonroof track and apply more as needed. > On 2011 Outback and Legacy, inspect the windshield wiper motor's bottom plastic cover and replace it to fix a potential overheating issue > On 2003-2008 Forester, 2002-2007 Impreza except STI, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x, only in DE,  CT,  IA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NH, NJ, OH, PA, RI,  VT, Wa DC, WI, WV. Possible damage to front lower control arm hanger brackets due to road salt corrosion. Inspect the front lower control arms for rust damage and replace or treat with an anti corrosive.  8/13 Pipe bomb found in a ... Forester? We know Subaru is a great car and apeals to a wide cross section of buyers but there's a new group of drivers...  After shooting at the cops and robbing a bank, the Dougherty family raced from Georgia to Colorado in an Impreza, while just north of Colorado in Wyoming the police blow up a pipe bomb found in an abandoned Forester.  "Yesterday the city of Laramie experienced quite a scare as a pipe bomb was discovered in an abandoned car. The vehicle was a silver Subaru Forester that had been towed to Miner’s Auto Service and Cowboy Towing. The car was abandoned on July 28th just north of WyColo in the Medicine Bow National Forest." the article "What could be a better ending to a long and busy week of robbing a bank, an attempted shooting of a police officer, leading a nationwide chase and not even having enough time to spend all that money? Well, for the trio of Dougherty siblings, it would have to be getting caught not too long after crashing their getaway vehicle, a Subaru Impreza.The three siblings were wanted after allegedly shooting at a Florida police car and robbing a south Georgia bank. So much for southern hospitality." the article     8/7 Forester review - It’s not the prettiest, it doesn’t have the most bells and whistles, but it’s a good all around crossover. '...Subaru, an automobile manufacturer long known for it’s no frills approach to building a good, safe, low maintenance automobile, personifies the essence of practicality with the 2011 Subaru Forester. It’s not the prettiest, it doesn’t have the most bells and whistles, but it’s a good all around crossover. The 2011 Subaru Forester has the full-time all wheel drive that Subaru’s are known for. Hence the popularity in Northeast and Midwest cities, due to snowy driving conditions, versus other parts of the country. However, hailing from the Southeast and having an opportunity to test drive the Forester in a torrential rain storm, I quickly developed an appreciation for the sure footedness of full-time all wheel drive. While we’re on the subject of handling, the Forester drove well under urban driving conditions. The majority of my driving was on the interstate and city streets. It felt a little light at times, but on a scale of 1 to 10, it gets an 8. The 2011 Subaru Forester is powered by a 170 horsepower, 2.5L opposed DOHC engine. It was more than adequate for maneuvering through the city. This engine is also EPA friendly getting 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. You could readily feel the four-speed automatic transmission going into high gear once you reached highway speeds, increasing the Forrester’s fuel efficiency. The 2011 Subaru Forester’s exterior is very angular with a boxy shape. The Forester is a blue collar crossover that’s ready to head to the Sierra’s for a rock climbing expedition, ready to take on the closest mountain ridge for a camping trip, or your nearest bike trail for a day of mountain biking. Fully equipped with racks on top and a notable 8.7 inches of ground clearance, this crossover more than thinks it can — it knows it can get the job done. The Forester’s interior once again was roomy and functional. The controls are driver friendly and easily discernable. It is also void of the new symbols or indicators that make you ask, “what does that mean?” The 2011 Subaru Forester has a no nonsense basic feel for ease of use. The interior is roomy and feels like an SUV inside. However, I do have to mention how safe I felt in this vehicle. The Forester comes standard equipped with the Subaru Advance Frontal airbag system, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags w/rollover sensor. It is obvious that the engineers at Subaru, adhere to the safety first principle. When you look at the total package at a base cost of $23,000, the 2011 Subaru Forester is not only a steal, but the clear cut, practical choice for the crossover SUV consumer' the article by Al Weems 6/8 Impreza and Forester turbo boost gauge is once again available. Fits 08-11 WRX/STI and 09-11 Forester XT. Red lit. If you could order a new 2011 (you can't), the factory installed list MSRP would be $335. Part list price is $230 plus installation. Part #H501SFG500 3/30 earthquake related- Production slow down means fewer Imprezas and Foresters in the next few months. Due to the ongoing situation in Japan, it seems that slightly fewer Imprezas and Foresters will be be shipped to dealers in April but a lot less is expected to be shipped to May and June. This is will depend on factory startup. It seems like the supply is going to drop so if there is a car you want available, now would be a good time to get it. This could also mean a spike in used Subaru prices as dealers buy used Foresters and Imprezas to replace the missing new inventory. SIA U.S. built Outback and Legacy are expected to be shipped at a slower but close to normal rate assuming parts are available. 3/25 Forester review... all is good except for the TomTom navigation system '... These thoughts mirror my impressions of the latest, third-generation Subaru Forester - a smoother, more efficient wagon. This compact class crossover wagon underwent a makeover two years ago, a redesign that created a longer, taller, wider body that is much more user-friendly. Subaru also increased ground clearance, upgrading the independent suspension with long-travel components for improved ride, plus altered the steering gear to increase feedback and path accuracy. These not so insignificant changes pushed the Forester to the top of the segment in the minds of many critics. Using Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, the functionally superior Forester is a favorite of the folks at Car & Driver magazine as well as other enthusiast publications - no small shakes for a brand that is still considered a peripheral player by many. Giving the Forester a revised chassis improved the car’s ride dynamics in the majority of situations that drivers encounter, while affecting some other dynamics in slightly less positive ways. Body roll on tight turns is higher with the taller body, while the long travel springs and struts create a bounding pogo-effect on winter’s frost-heaved tarmac. Overall, however, the Forester’s ride compliance is commendable in a class where some rivals are still struggling. Any negative perceptions are forgiven with a driving position that is supportive and chair-like vertical. Ingress and egress remains a Subaru strong-suit while visibility is among the best in all crossover wagons and controls fall readily to hand. In Premium trim, the Forester’s heated 10-way power driver’s seat delivered superior comfort (the bottom cushion could be a tad longer) behind a tilt and telescoping steering column that fits into your hands just so. With an oversized panoramic sunroof, the Subaru’s cabin feels very open, airy.Controls are logical and legible except for the aftermarket Tom-Tom navigation system applied to the Subaru’s dash in lieu of the standard stereo system. Combining audio functions with the Tom-Tom unit, I found this system to be very challenging to use. The buttons are infinitesimally small and try to combine too many functions into each minuscule button. The nav screen is also very tiny — literally no larger than a typical cell phone face, while the system’s voice kept asking me to turn around at the next opportunity six days after taking delivery. Sound quality and signal reception — no satellite radio hookup offered — also were disappointing. Take a hard look at this option before committing. Under the whip, the Forester applies all of its 170 horesepower and 170 pound/feet of flat-four torque without protest. The boxer engine sounds a little gravelly at times, but there is no question about the car’s earnest reserve of power. A four-speed automatic is optional, $1,000, while a five-speed manual is standard. Subaru might consider another cog or two in the automatic transmission — many competitors are gravitating toward five- and six-speed transmissions in this class — as fuel economy might also be further maximized. I attained a high of 25.3 mpg over three fill-ups, but my average for the week was a modest 23.8 mpg. EPA mileage estimates are 21/27 mpg. A turbocharged version of this 2.5-liter engine is also available with 226 hp. During my last test of a Forester several years ago, I “lost” the car one night in a crowded shopping center parking lot. There were so many Foresters lined up in each row, I couldn’t remember which one was my ride. I had to resort to the embarrassing remote alarm to find my car. My lapse in attention can be forgiven given the number of Foresters that populate our roads. The number two selling Subaru, after the Outback wagon, the Forester accounts for one-third of all new Subarus sold. I don’t see that statistic changing.' the entire article 3/5 Forester review-  the golden retriever of cars... always happy but not much bark.... The Subaru Forester is a mid level, safe, comfortable, family friendly, capable crossover SUV – with something special. It’s a Subaru.  I know, I know – I sound like a commercial. It helps that I live in the Rocky Mountains where the all-wheel drive (AWD) can be fully exploited. Indeed, I am a fan of Subaru’s excellent AWD systems. In the interest of honesty – I used to own a Subaru Forester. I still miss it. With that said, I got the 2011 Subaru Forester XT testing model as a replacement for the 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman I loved so. .. Sadly, Subaru no longer offers a manual transmission with the turbocharged Forester...  Speaking of entertainment; for some reason, every stereo system I’ve tested in every Forester I’ve driven since 1999 has a ho-hum entertainment system. This top of the line model is no exception. As a poppa with two little ones, knowing how safe and secure these Foresters are is gratifying. Subaru is one of the few automakers that have the highest safety marks for every single model. That’s a comforting thought when driving through a blizzard. The 2011 Subaru Forester only falters from the competition in gas mileage which is mediocre at best... Subaru struck an excellent balance between comfortable yet solid suspension. Power delivery is smooth, easy with very little turbo lag.... Steering feel is not very good, I felt like the steering system was over boosted and was a bit too easy to turn for sporty driving....  The nose dips a bit and there is some body lean, but it’s never alarming and you always feel like you’re in control. Even on some nasty, rutted, muddy, Rocky Mountain trails – the Subaru Forester is hard to foil. With 8.9 inches of ground clearance, I was impressed with its off highway competence. It could go to places where I would never take other crossovers... No joke – I’ve seen more Subarus loaded with kids, dogs, trailers and roof storage pods than any other crossover. There is a huge appreciation for Subarus among rugged folk – for good reason. It feels almost overbuilt for daily tasks – that goes for most of the Subaru fleet. Subaru’s Forester is a good looking machine with excellent proportion throughout... Sure, this is not a car that gets your pulse going – but that’s not the point. It does nearly everything well and is absolutely ideal for the daily commuter who needs the security of AWD. Let me put it this way: every time I’m questioned about which car I recommend a small family new to the Rocky Mountain region – I always begin with “check out the Subaru Forester.” Well done Subaru, you built a Golden Retriever – that’s a good thing.' read the entire article 3/4  2011 Forester, Impreza new Subwoofer/amp now an option starting March 2010. Now available on all Foresters and Imprezas. Fits under driver seat. Has been standard and included on 2011 Forester Touring models. Was available in previous years. 2/24 Forester review ... she says its mostly good, a bit dull, has some some complaints "The 2011 Subaru Forester arrived on my doorstep without much fanfare, looking quite modest and left in much the same way. Put simply: It didn't amaze me, but it did prove itself to be competent and practical in the areas that count. Since I live in Colorado's Boulder County, the areas that count are performance - particularly on rougher roads and in inclement weather - and space for kids, gear, dogs and anything else you happen to ride around with.  This is an outdoorsy, mountain-loving, animal-loving, family-friendly place and the Subaru managed to embrace all of that. For all of its embracing, the 2011 Forester isn't the most stylish or feature-filled car on the road, but interior and exterior panache aren't the Forester's thing. People who drive and want a Subaru don't seem to care about panache, they care about practicality... On the whole, the 2011 Forester looks like a tall, boxy station wagon.... The Forester's boxy look translates into plenty of head- and legroom for passengers while still being a manageable size that's easy to maneuver in.. With ground clearance just under 9 inches, this is a midsize SUV that even small kids can get in and out of independently... The 2011 Forester's interior is sparse and filled with black plastic. It's unexciting. Lack of style aside, the interior gets the job done.. The Forester's lacking any high-tech gizmos or gadgets that you might expect to find in a car from the 2011 model year. While I'd like to complain about this, part of me was relieved that there were no unfamiliar gadgets to figure out.. The cargo space is cavernous and offers a few extra cubbies and shelves to keep things tidy.  The 2011 Forester delivers on safety. It's been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety... " read the article 2/10  a 2012 Forester model we should get .. but won't?  a 2012 Forester S turbo for Australia has upgrades we really should have on US spec Forester XTs ..  the larger turbo with more power like the WRX has (our XT is still 224hp!), with upgraded sport suspension, paddle shifters etc.  "2012 Subaru Forester S-Edition, specifically intended for the Australian market, and comes with 2.5-liter boxer engine turbocharged to produce 259HP (193kW) and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque, range-topping model is the most powerful new ever Subaru Forester sold down. Subaru Forester S-Edition combines the best of the two winning formula Subaru WRX and Subaru Forester. The Subaru Forester S-Edition with paddle-shift 5-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all wheels via Variable Torque Distribution Subaru all-wheel drive system. To improve handling, engineers equipped Subaru Forester S-Edition with sports suspension and 17-inch Subaru Tecnica International (STI) alloys wrapped in 225/55 R17 Yokohama rubber. With plenty of torque available from low down – and kept between 2.800 to 4.800 rpm – the Subaru Forester S-Edition sprints to 100 km / h (62 mph) in just 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 228 km / 142 hour (mph). Subaru Forester S-Edition also comes with a black grill, various chrome accents, silver roof rails and, for a limited period, World Rally Blue color options. In the Subaru Forester S-Edition, sport seats covered with a combination of Alcantara and leather, saddle stitching S-Edition is equipped with blue stitching, sporty instrument panel and special gear to set this model apart. Subaru Forester S-Edition is the base price of AUD $ 50,990 (about U.S. $ 51,301 with the current exchange rate). As reported previously, the revised lineup Forester atmospheric engine benefits from new 2.5-liter, capable of 170HP (127 kW) and 235 Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque..." read the entire article 2/7 safety-  how child car seats fit in a 2011 Forester 'For the Car Seat Check, we use a Cosco rear-facing infant-safety seat, a Graco convertible child-safety seat and Graco high-back booster seat. The front seats are adjusted to a comfortable position for a 6-foot driver and a 5-foot-8 passenger. The child seats are installed in the second row and, if available, third row. The booster seat sits behind the driver’s seat, and the infant seat and convertible seats are installed behind the passenger seat. Here’s how the 2011 Subaru Forester scored in MotherProof.com’s Car Seat Check: Latch system: The Forester has two sets of lower Latch anchors in the outboard seats. The anchors are covered by small leather flaps that can be easily folded back. Once the flaps are moved out of the way, the anchors are easy to see, but they’re somewhat buried in the seat bight, which is where the back and bottom cushions meet. Three tether anchors are under hinged covers in the cargo area’s ceiling. This placement causes problems when the tethers are used because the straps interfere with the driver’s rear visibility. Booster seat: This seat fit well because of the reclining seatback, which allowed us to get a good fit, and removable head restraints. However, the seat belt buckles are floppy and easily fall into wells in the seat cushion. Convertible child-safety seat: Although the reclining seatback helped us get a good fit with the booster seat, we couldn’t duplicate that with our forward-facing convertible. We couldn’t find the right position to make the seatback rest against the car seat’s back. To get the rear-facing convertible to fit in the backseat, we had to move the front passenger seat slightly forward, leaving plenty of legroom for the front passenger.' see the full article with photographs, from Motherproof.com   1/29 Forester- a quick review, mostly about the new 2.5L engine.. 'Soon after the highly revised 2009 Subaru Forester arrived in 2008, it took top honors in our Frugal Five comparison. A few months later, we crowned it our 2009 Sport/Utility of the Year. Last year, however, its luster began to wane. We again compared the Forester against other cute-utes, and it finished dead last. Why? In a nutshell, we were disappointed with its less-than-frugal powertrain, composed of a languid 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter flat-four and archaic four-speed automatic. Fast-forward two years, and a new, naturally aspirated flat-four cylinder motivates our top-tier 2.5X Touring, though it still has a four-speed auto. At 2498 cc (versus the older 2457 cc), the boxer is truer to its 2.5-liter-displacement designation. Bore shrinks and stroke grows, while compression increases to 10.5:1 (from 10.2:1) and an overhead camshaft is added. (Both cams are driven by chains rather than belts.) The result is a 170-horse engine with 174 pound-feet of torque (available at 4100 rpm rather than 4400 rpm) that returns an EPA-rated 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway for automatic and manual gearboxes; up 1 mpg city/highway. Around town, the non-turbo mill offers plenty of smooth pull, yet needs significant spurring to reach highway speeds. Staffers also noted a tinny exhaust note (especially at wide-open throttle), but hardly noticed the extra mid-range grunt, and praised the transmission's shifting smoothness and suspension's comfortable ride. With 4 more pound-feet and 5 pounds shed from its curb weight, straight line performance marginally improves. Hold your right foot down, and you'll see 60 mph tick by in 9.2 seconds (a tenth quicker than the 2010 model)... While we may not adore the new heart matched to its old-school four-speed, the Forester continues to be one of the most useful entry-level 'utes around, boasting a 2400-pound towing capacity, 8.7-inch ground clearance, and modern interior that affords unobstructed visibility and loads of space. During our test, we liked the extended sunroof, HID headlamps, backup camera, and uncomplicated multimedia system.  It is too early to tell if the new engine is enough to elevate the Forester's game to its previous distinguished levels. We'll decide once we compare it to the segment's best. But so far, its character remains the same.' the entire article 1/24 Driving a Forester in Sasketoon snow... did Subaru plan this weather? I'm not sure if I really want to test drive Subarus in Saskatoon any more. It's not the vehicle that is the problem, it's the weather. I took a look at my notes and more than half the time Subaru sends me a test vehicle (this year the new Forester) at the beginning of a winter storm, during a storm or within a day of a storm. In addition, the winter driving session in Quebec City that was the Canadian press introduction was done the same day that Quebec City got a dump of 20 centimetres of snow. That just seems like too much of a coincidence to me. If the truth be told, Subaru is happy to send its vehicles out in adverse weather. They believe their all-wheel-drive system and boxer engines make for the best combination of being able to get out and about in all types of weather. So far, I have to agree with that corporate attitude. I drive in all types of weather, just as everyone else does, except that my test vehicles never go in a garage and rarely get plugged in. Creature comforts in my mid-range Forester consisted of heated cloth seats, a four-speed automatic and satellite radio. After that came a comfortable driver's seat that was power adjustable and had a lumbar adjustment as well. The passenger seat was manually adjustable without the lumbar support. Back seat comfort is pretty good thanks to a split 60/40 folding bench seat that has a seat back that can recline up to about 15 degrees... Headroom is generous due to the high roofline. It may not be the lap of chauffeured luxury, but it is certainly better than trying to perch on a padded parcel shelf that some vehicles have as rear seats. Getting in and out of the front is as easy as you want to make it thanks to large doors that open wide.... Driving around town during the snow fall turned up a pretty effective set of wipers since I was able to keep the front window clear and frost free. Side windows stayed fog free thanks to well placed air vents. I did run the heater at full heat and full fan most of the time because I was on short trips. HVAC controls were not large, but could be easily worked with or without gloves on. Subaru uses rotary dial type controls for air distribution, fan speed and interior temperature (Automatic climate control is available on higher trim level models). The entertainment centre uses smaller touch buttons so I tended to leave the stereo controls alone until I could take my gloves. My little Forester proved to be quite nimble during my sojourns around town. I was able to turn around in the width of most of our streets going through the loose snow with ease. Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires did ease my worries about doing such turns and did make pulling up to an intersection covered in glare ice pretty much a stress-free event. Many people still feel winter tires and rims are too expensive, but in this case four winter tires with TPS sensors installed and ready to go will cost a bit more than your basic deductible from SGI. The Forester started every time on the first or second time the engine turned over. From minus 28 C that is pretty good. Driving Foresters puts a grin on my face mostly because others do not expect it to be such a capable AWD vehicle.' the entire article 1/22 why a Canadian likes his Subaru Forester 'Don’t read this column now. It was written on Jan. 17, Blue Monday, apparently the most depressing day of the year. Do yourself a favour and clip it and read it in June. You’ll be able to enjoy it a lot more then. People get depressed on Jan. 17 because it’s usually cold (and this morning was 20-below, before the wind chill), dark in the morning with snow to shovel, and the bills are just coming in from Christmas. There’s at least another couple of months of snow to go, too. If you’re a driver, this is all compounded by having a filthy car, crusted with road salt and caked with frozen spray, which looks nothing like when it was new under the lights at a car show or inside its brochure. And in the morning on the way into work in this filthy car, you sit there in the dark, listening to the mindless radio noise, constantly braking and stopping for the traffic up ahead that’s doing the exact same thing except those drivers are all idiots. I thought about this today in the driveway while I scraped away at the windshield, chipping off the layer of ice that coated the glass of the Subaru Forester underneath. That was the one bright spot of the day as the car revealed itself: I would be driving a winter wondercar, with permanent, unstoppable four-wheel drive and grippy Bridgestone Blizzaks that bite into the snow underneath. In fact yesterday, crunching down a side street to deliver my son to a friend’s house, I pulled alongside another Forester and its driver wound down the window to grin at me. “Don’t you just love driving a Subaru on a day like this?” he said, then wound the window back up and continued cheerfully through the drifts. Subarus really were made for such days. The Forester doesn’t look like much (except maybe an older, stubby Volvo, which even Volvo doesn’t like any more) but that doesn’t matter because everything else on the road in the winter looks like crap anyway. And you don’t care if you’re driving it, because you’re inside and can’t see it so that’s not your problem. It’s not fancy inside. Utilitarian even, with fields of grey plastic and small, unfriendly buttons. If you’re driving the basic model, as I was, then it’s frustrating that the trip computer will not scroll through options like a normal car but will instead stick steadfastly to showing you the time (you’re late!), the temperature (it’s cold!) and your instant fuel consumption, which is information that’s next to useless. Why not let you know the average fuel consumption for this tank of gas (it should come in at less than 10L/100 km), or the distance till empty? But that’s okay. Subaru drivers like their cars to be straightforward, no nonsense. It’s all about the driving ability, after all — just ask any WRX owner. They’re proud that the car is not as tall and ungainly as an SUV, and that it has symmetrical all-wheel drive with advanced traction control to keep it pointed in the right direction. You can throw it happily down a snow-filled laneway with no surprises. They’re pleased that the lights can just be switched to “on” so they all stay on all the time when the key’s in the ignition, and never, ever have to be thought about again for the life of the car. They don’t even mind that its basic 2.5 L boxer engine makes only 170 hp, and probably consider the turbo version that makes 250 hp to be an unnecessary upgrade. Who needs power when you can have control and better fuel economy? The turbocharger option includes SatNav and some other stuff, and starts at $7,000 above the $26,000 basic price. That kind of savings can buy a couple of high-end bicycles to strap to the roof in the summer, as many typical Forester owners are wont to do. Summer — ahh. Don’t worry, we’re through the hump now and it won’t be too long before the snow melts. And when it does, and the Subaru shows itself through the washed-away grime, you might not even mind that it’s so dull to sit in when it’s stuck in traffic, on the morning commute to work. At least when the congestion clears it will keep going in the direction you want to go, and that’s got to count for something, doesn’t it?'  the article on wheels.ca 1/13 Subarus and tire chains.. Its winter and with snow on the ground the question of tire chains on a Subaru usually comes up. There's little clearance on the inner side of the front tire for chains on a newer Subaru. No matter how tightly chains are installed, when a moving car is steered and the front wheels turn, the tire sidewall rolls a bit, and the chain will not lie tight and flat against the tire and it can easily damage suspension and brake components. If you need better cold weather traction, get 4 winter tires, or 4 studded winter tires for maximum traction. For short distances or when even winter or snow tires aren't enough, consider either Spider Spikes or Quik Trak. These temporary traction devices go over the tire without going on the inner side of it, see your local tire dealer..  more winter car care 1/5/2011  Forester review 'There may be a good selection of affordable compact crossovers on the market, but there's just one that comes with four-wheel drive as standard equipment on all models: the 2011 Subaru Forester. About the same size and shape as its major competitors, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Forester has a roomy interior with seating for up to five people. Unlike a few in this class, though, it does not offer a third row for additional passenger capacity. The Forester also has a long list of standard equipment even at the entry-level price of $20,495 (plus $725 freight) for the 2.5X model with a five-speed manual transmission and $21,695 with a four-speed automatic... The base engine for 2011 is a new 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder, rated at 170 horsepower. That's the same horsepower as last year's base engine, but the torque rating is now 174 foot-pounds, up from 170. The company says the new boxer engine, so named because it is flat and the cylinders are horizontally opposed, “improves on the Forester's already impressive fuel efficiency.”...  There are a few other changes for 2011 as well, after a complete redesign just two years ago. All 201l models have a new grille, along with an upgraded instrument panel with a “softer, textured material for enhanced interior appearance,” Subaru says. Inside, there are bucket seats in front and a three-person bench seat in the rear. The cargo area is huge, with more than 30 cubic feet of space. It can be expanded by folding down the 60/40 split rear seatback.... Safety gear includes electronic stability control, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake assist, tire-pressure monitoring, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer anti-theft system, front seat-mounted side air bags and roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for both rows... Although we had the base engine, our test vehicle had plenty of power, but it did seem to be straining to deliver that power at times, and it gets a bit noisy when it's pushed hard. I would have expected a five- or six-speed automatic transmission in the Forester by now to help improve highway fuel economy. The four-speed is getting to be outdated....' read the entire article

Subaru Impreza news and reviews articles edited for length, content top-

2011 calendar year news (archived news from 2010) 12/30 Crosstrek marketing - The Impreza Bigfoot Crosstrek  sure is getting a lot of press even though its not due here in North America until the fall (but will be available much sooner in many other countries). Since the 2012 Impreza 2.0i has been long anticipated, rumored, leaked, guessed about, talked about, delayed, and finally reviewed approaching repitition, the Impreza Backwood Crosstrek is a new subject for the reviewers and writers- including me. And people like the Alta Crosstrek, this is what some Impreza buyers have been waiting for (also includes me). It should always have been part of the 2012 lineup.. But what is the Stomper Crosstrek, where does it fit in the lineup? This Subaru fan says the 2013 TrailCutter Crosstrek should rightly be viewed as a replacement of the of the 2012 Impreza Sport.  Comparing the 2013  HillClimber  Crosstrek directly to the 2012 Sport or 2011 Outback Sport misses misses the point. The RoadJumper Crosstrek is expected to further build on, to enhance the Sport but should simply replace it. Many shoppers will opt for either the 2.0i models with normal ground clearance or skip over the Sport directly to the high-sitting Rhino Crosstrek. And anyway, does the Impreza really need seven or eight 5 door hatchback models - 2.0i base, Premium, Limited, Sport Premium and Limited, Redwood Crosstrek base, Premium, and Limited?  Maybe Subaru will smartly just add the roof rails to the 2.0i Premium and Limited 5 doors, and drop the Sport Premium and Limiteds altogther.  Now that makes sense. 12/30 Crosstrek review "It’s just a tweaked version of Subaru’s new 2012 Impreza, but whoa. Take a look at the new 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek and you almost forget this is the car could catch repeat Subaru sales from owners of the Impreza Outback Sport five-door hatchback. Even with the 2011 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport’s available two-tone exterior paint, though, it’s a wallflower compared to the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek featured in our gallery below. For better or for worse, the 2013 XV Crosstrek’s front grille has far more attitude than the one on the 2011 Impreza Outback Sport. The front lower fascia has been updated, as well, and is also quite a bit sportier. From the side, the XV Crosstrek reminds us just a bit of an AMC Eagle wagon, yet smaller and more modern. Above those flashy wheels is a visual cue that this Subaru has 8.6 inches of ground clearance. Black cladding is attached to the wheel well bulges..." read the article 12/27 12 Coolest All-Wheel Drive Sleds for the Winter. STI makes the list. from motortrend.com.  Audi A4 Avant: ...the A4 Avant is still capable of a 6.4 second 0-60 time (plenty fast for the snow), allowing you to drive confidently in the snow, and most importantly hauling you and your gifts in comfort and luxury. Audi TT RS  ... making the 340-hp TT RS the perfect sleigh to live out your snow-stage rally dreams. BMW X3 ... earned its keep on this list by virtue of being one of the fastest crossovers we’ve ever tested.. Ferrari FF ...It’s an all-wheel drive Ferrari for god’s sake. The FF isn’t a normal all-wheel drive super car either.. Ford F-150 SVT Raptor ...With front and rear locking differentials, four-wheel drive, a dedicated off-road mode and 411 horsepower on tap from its 6.2-liter V-8, you could do a lot worse in the snow than this all-terrain monster. Land Rover Range Rover Evoque ...one of the most capable crossovers on the marketplace. Mini Cooper S Countryman All4.. a street legal scamp that’s more rally car than SUV, making it a fantastic choice for some late night snow-covered parking lot hoonage. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution  ...drives like a freshly-sharpened skate on the slippery blacktop.. Nissan GT-R ...the GT-R is one of the ultimate winter sleds – superhuman handling, and otherworldly grip.  Nissan Juke ...the Juke’s all-wheel drive system is capable of vectoring the turbo four-banger’s torque not only front to back, but from left to right as well. Combine that with the Juke’s high ground clearance and you’ve got an uber-controllable ride for the winter. Porsche Panamera GTS ...With 430-hp on tap from its 4.8-liter V-8, the Panamera GTS has more than enough power to keep you smiling in the snow, while still keeping you out of trouble. Subaru Impreza WRX STI: A list like this would be remiss without a Subaru, especially this Subbie – the Impreza WRX STI. The Impreza WRX STI cut its teeth on the world rally circuit and as the star of Ken Block’s first two Gymkhana videos. The 305-hp boxer-powered rally rocket’s party piece isn’t its performance credentials, rather it’s the WRX STI’s Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) which allows the driver to adjust where the power goes, how it’s used, ultimately giving the driver even more control (and more reward) for tackling snowy streets." read the entire article 12/13 Crosstrek review... even though its not due here in the US until next fall, Subaru is promoting the Impreza XV Crosstrek now. Its an Impreza that will not be called an Impreza as Subaru attempts to crowd its own market. Notable in this review is the estimated sub $20,000 starting price, and poor fuel economy- only averaging 24mpg. Hopefully that was due to some spirited driving. '... And so it was when we drove the 2013 Subaru XV through the roads and highways of Tuscany. On Day One, we drove the version the U.S. will get in the third quarter of next year. The first thing to hit us: déjà vu. This is the 2012 Impreza hatchback, albeit with cladding above the wheel wells and a a seriously jacked up stance. It will have the same, brand-new 2.0-liter flat-four as the Impreza hatch we tested a few months ago that is just hitting dealer lots. So what's the verdict? The XV can cook an acceptable pot of tomato sauce and cleans up nicely for Sunday mass. She's a nice girl and good company. We should have left it there. We should have called it a test after Day One. We should have simply driven off with the girl we came to meet. Why? Because on day two of our drive, we met the cousin with the better personality, the longer legs, the Sophia Loren cheekbones and the killer personality: the 2.0 liter turbo-diesel with the manual transmission. We drove her through the winding back roads north of Florence amidst the Chianti vineyards, villages and Fiat fix-it shops, but she refuses to come to the States. You see, she will only date Europeans.... The 2.0-liter flat-four (148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque) is the only engine Subaru is copping to bringing Stateside... The engine is mated to a six-speed CVT with paddle-shifters that Subaru calls "Lineartronic." We dipped into manual mode in both the Impreza and XV, and still don't quite get the point. It's not horrible off the line in automatic, but we'd take a manual tray for both cars given the choice. The CVT Impreza hatch hits 25 miles per gallon in the city and 34 on the highway based on U.S. certification, but we got considerably less in real-world conditions when driving the Crosstrek, managing only about 24 mpg in mixed driving..." the whole article 12/11 Impreza review.. not just for bad weather anymore "... THERE are so many Subarus here in northern New Hampshire that people joke about it being the official state car. But the owners don’t joke about their fuel economy, which pretty much stinks. This consumer displeasure has not escaped the attention of Subaru, which concedes that lackluster gas mileage has cost it sales. The company finally addressed the issue when it redesigned the midsize Legacy and Outback for 2010, and it has followed up by greatly improving the mileage of the redesigned 2012 Impreza compact. The new Impreza sedan with an automatic transmission is rated at 36 miles per gallon on the highway, a whopping 38 percent increase from last year’s figure of 26 m.p.g. The city mileage estimate has jumped to 27 m.p.g., from 20 mpg, a leap of 35 percent. The gains also make the Impreza the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive vehicle sold in the United States. Its closest competitor is the 2012 Mini Cooper Countryman S All4 with a 6-speed manual transmission. That Mini is rated at 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway and, in contrast with the easy-to-please Impreza, has a gas snob’s taste for premium fuel... ..Happily for consumers, and for Subaru, the new Impreza offers more than an improved ability to shun gas stations. It blends practicality — particularly with the hatchback — with more entertaining handling. The sedan starts at $18,245 and the hatchback at $18,745. Some states require a cleaner PZEV-rated version (for Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle), which adds $300 to the price.... ..In about 400 miles of travel on Interstate highways and hilly roads through the White Mountains, I never felt the Impreza was seriously underpowered. But neither would I say that its acceleration was brisk..For most people, all-wheel drive isn’t a necessity, so it is easy to see why potential customers were scared away by the previously uncompetitive mileage. But stunning changes to the Impreza have suddenly made its fuel economy a strength and its all-wheel drive a no-fault bonus.. Not just for bad weather anymore." the entire article   12/9 Will the next WRX please stand up..  2013 WRX 2.0L turbo coming 'Subaru has confirmed that the next-generation Subaru WRX, due as a 2013 model, will be powered by a turbocharged version of the new FA direct-injection, 2.0-liter flat-four that debuted in the BRZ sports car. There’s no word from Subaru on what will be under the next STI’s hood, but it’ll almost certainly be a more powerful iteration of the WRX’s 2.0-liter. The current WRX features a 265-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter flat four, and despite the lower displacement, we don’t expect the next car’s output to be any lower. As for the next STI, we already know it will pack at least 300 hp. Both cars will move to a dedicated platform when they are redesigned instead of being modified Imprezas as they have been in the past. Happily, the muscular duo is expected to weigh less than the current models. If you’re wondering whether the turbocharged 2.0-liter will show up in the BRZ or its Scion FR-S twin, you’re not alone. Subaru says it won’t, but we don’t believe them." from Car and Driver 12/8 2012 Imprezas are arriving and dealers are also receiving parts for the recall. Call your local dealer for inventory. There may not be a lot available just yet. 12/7 Impreza orders.  If you ordered a 2012 Impreza that is expected to arrive soon, its still subject to the master cylinder recall. And yet Subaru is sending an email saying  'your new Subaru is currently being processed'  when it might not even have arrived yet and if it is has arrived, is still waiting for the parts just like all the rest. Please continue to be patient, its not the dealers sending the email.  12/7 update on the recall on 2012 Outback, Legacy, Impreza  for excessive brake pedal travel. Parts are being shipped and most cars should be ready to go before Christmas. The recall is to inspect and replace brake master cylinders as needed on 2012 Outback and Legacy built 10/17-11/23/11, and 2012 Impreza built through 11/15/11. Cars already delivered to customers will be the  first to get parts by early December,  with parts for most pre-sold cars arriving by mid month, and parts for dealer inventory later in the month but hopefully before Chrsitmas.  Stop Sale- cars already on dealer lots that need the new part cannot be driven or sold until repaired. Expect low inventory at dealers as cars are held back pending repair. This is Recall #WVY-35 (This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them.) 11/29 2012 Impreza brochures arriving at dealers. Its 10 pages 11/27/11  brake master cylinder issue on 2012 Legacy, Outback, and Impreza. Last week Subaru announced a delay shipping Outbacks, Legacys and Imprezas. On the 25th, they confirmed rumors that its due to a brake master cylinder issue, and dealers cannot sell or deliver affected vehicles until they are repaired.  That means cars expected to arrive in November or early December may be pushed back and cars already on lots cannot be sold. Cars already delivered to customers will get the first available parts. This does not involve Forester, WRX/STI or Tribeca.  This recall is campaign code WVY-35.  Subaru is acting quickly- parts are already being shipped and arriving at dealers, and letters will be sent to owners.  In an emergency, the Impreza still has a manual parking/emergency brake, the Legacy/Outback's electric parking brake will function as an emergency brake if gently tapped but be careful.  This is a off year for Subaru... first the earthquake/tsumani and we couldn't get cars, and now we have them and can't sell them. Since some cars were already purchased that means they were driven - from the factory, through the shipping and prep process, and then test driven by the customer- so they must stop at least semi-normally. 'SoA received a limited number of reports of intermittent excessive brake pedal travel in 2012 Impreza models built through November 15 as well as 2012 Legacy and Outback models built between October 27 and November 23. While braking capability in these vehicles is maintained, drivers have reported their concerns about greater than normal brake pedal travel"  11/22 Its official... previously known as the Impreza Concept XV, the new Impreza with 8.6-inches of ground clearance will be here next fall as the XV Crosstrek, or simply Crosstrek. Will it be a branch off the Impreza family tree or a separate new sapling springing from the roots? It has already been crash tested in Europe coming up with a top 5 star rating - watch the crash video http://www.euroncap.com/Player.aspx?nk=d27e03c4-f2c1-41ba-82bc-7bf904ae50ac) Still to be announced is if it will have the 2.0L or 2.5L here, and at which US car show it will first be shown ... NY, Detroit, or...? 11/18 2012 WRX and STI brochures now at dealers 11/18 Impreza XV to be called the Crosstrek and will be here next summer as a 2013 model, and might have a 2.5L.  'Subaru's Tom Doll confirmed in a presentation slide at this week's 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show that while European models will be called an XV, U.S. versions will get the Crosstrek addition to help further differentiate the vehicle from its Impreza sibling. The new XV Crosstrek will serve as the replacement for the outgoing Outback Sport and will come onto the market as a 2013 model. The vehicle, so far, has only been revealed in European trim, though many of the specifications should remain the same. The only major difference should be engine lineup, with U.S. versions likely to feature more powerful options (2.5L) . The XV Crosstrek may also only come with a Lineartronic CVT...." the whole article 11/17 today on Speed Channel- the 'Battle Cross' pilot "Steel Yard Editon .. pits Subaru driver David Higgins, 2011 Rally America Champion,  against Subaru rally driver X Games star Dave Mirra as they race inside a working steel mill. Replays November 18th and 20th. Check the Speed Channel website   11/16 The very first 2012 Impreza arrives.  While most dealers aren't getting any until maybe late November at the earliest but more realistically mid December, and reportedly some customers who pre-ordered are getting antsy because they aren't even getting delivery dates, there is hope because at least one new Impreza has been delivered. It arrived last week and was sold November 9th at Cascade Subaru in Wenatchee, Wa.  "Last week, Cascade Subaru Autocenter in Wenatchee received the very first 2012 Subaru Impreza - yep, the first one in the nation - and sold it straight-away to a happy driver from Peshastin. “This is a first for our dealership and really an honor,” said Glen Carlson, Cascade’s marketing manager. “All the stars had to align for us to be honored in this fashion - it’s the first of thousands and thousands that will be sold in the coming year.” Carlson said those lined-up stars included Cascade’s sparkling record for customer service, the dealership’s high market penetration (number of Subarus per capita) and the fact that “we found the right car for the right customer - it’s what’s she was looking for.” On Nov. 9, Julie --  of Peshastin got the keys to her new 2012 Impreza 2.0i Premium, the five-door, 36-mpg model with all wheel drive and a very tasteful dark gray paint job. “I came to buy a car, and this is so much more than I expected,” said Julie about the hubbub surrounding the sale — speeches from Subaru reps, the car wrapped with a cover and bow. “I’m amazed that the (Subaru people) put this all together, and we’re the first to get an Impreza. I’m overwhelmed.” read the article   11/13 STI review, from autoweek. They have learned to wave back 'Six months into our year with a long-term 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited sedan, we've discovered that the car still draws attention. During the second quarter, we were challenged to a street race by a teenager in a modified Nissan 350Z (we declined), were pulled over by a police officer who claimed we were speeding (we weren't, and didn't get a ticket) and were cornered in a parking lot by a previous-generation WRX owner who talked our ears off for 15 minutes. Not to mention the countless waves from other Subaru drivers on the road. We haven't decided whether we like all of the attention (particularly from the boys in blue), but we do like the STI's performance chops. “The car positively loves to be driven hard and responds with a level of agility and reaction that makes it a firecracker waiting to explode down the road,” one editor said. And that was when our STI was still wearing a set of Michelin winter tires. After we reinstalled the Dunlop SP Sport 600 summer rubber, praise for its handling prowess magnified. ... While some editors initially were disappointed in Subaru for not finding a little extra power in the 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer four cylinder to go along with the suspension upgrades for 2011, nobody has complained about 305 hp being inadequate... The six-speed manual transmission was another high point of the STI, with one editor proclaiming it “the best-shifting manual gearbox Subaru has done thus far.” ...While the STI is louder inside than most cars, it's not unbearable... The leather sport bucket seats are not only supportive for lateral maneuvers but proved comfortable for extended stints behind the wheel....The stiffened suspension isn't overly jarring, either. “I think Subaru has hit a decent middle ground in providing both manageable ride comfort and respectable stiffness through corners,” one cross-state traveler commented. ...Not surprisingly, the larger rear spoiler and near-$40,000 as-tested price of our STI still raise some eyebrows, but complaints have tapered off drastically compared with during the first quarter. Maybe it's because we finally “get it” and have been indoctrinated into the cult of Subaru enthusiasts. Now, when we receive waves from drivers of other Imprezas on the road, we find ourselves waving back." the entire article 11/10 Impreza XV going to be the Crosstrek? "Earlier this week, SOA applied for US trademarks for XV CROSSTREK and for CROSSTREK. Since SOA, and not FHI, applied for these trademarks, it might be inferred one of these marks will be used for new Subaru XV when it arrives in North America". the NASIOC posting still another level of Impreza 5 doors...  2.0i,  Premium, Limited, Sport Premium, Sport Limited, 2.0i Crosstrek, Crosstrek Premium, Crosstrek Limited, or will the XV/Crosstrek become another line. 11/2 2012 WRXs now arriving, and factory orders accepted. specs, photos new silver interior headlight surround  10/31 Impreza orders... get your orders in by the end of October because Love is Worth Waiting For...  10/27 2012 Impreza orders...  get your orders in by the end of October. Love is Worth Waiting For  10/23 Consumer Reports on the 2012 Impreza 'Subaru has never been afraid to “zig” when the competition “zags.” Many things about Subaru are, well, different. With their “boxer” horizontally-opposed engines, standard all-wheel drive, and lineup of station wagons, they don’t have a history of just copying the competition. This is why it was not such a shock when Subaru first announced their new and improved Impreza with a smaller and less powerful engine, while most manufacturers boast about having more power with each redesign. That’s right. The new Impreza dropped from 170 to 148 hp for 2012. Fortunately, you may never miss those 22 ponies due to other changes that Subaru made. First, while not any smaller, the new car is lighter. Second, and more importantly, the Impreza finally ditched the old four-speed automatic transmission in favor of a CVT. The greater assortment of gear ratios helps both performance and fuel economy. (See our Impreza preview.) Another place where Subaru has bucked current trends is actually making the new car better. Sounds strange, but as we’ve seen lately from Honda and Volkswagen, some new models don’t quite measure up to the outgoing designs in terms of fit and finish or handling. Compared to the 2011 Impreza, the 2012 has a nicer interior with soft-touch padding on the dashboard and doors. And while the new model is roomier and boasts better fuel economy, handling actually feels more responsive than the outgoing model. Plus, the excellent ride has been retained.  As for the turbocharged WRX and WRX STi, they will remain on the older platform for a few more years.  First impressions are positive, but we will have to wait until the Impreza goes on sale in November to purchase one for our test program. I have a feeling that is will be a favorite around our Connecticut test facility when the snow comes! read the article and subscribe to the magazine so they can buy and test more stuff 10/7 2012 Forester and WRX STI prices and specs announced. Foresters get a height adjustable passenger seat.  Few changes for the WRX and STI. Plasma Blue Pearl, previously only on the STI, is now available on all models, headlights have silver interior bezel instead of black, all 4 door trunk trim is now body colored, and STI 4 doors get redesigned 18" alloy wheels. All models get the new optional 6.1" Navigation/GPS. The 2012 WRX and STI are no longer considered part of the new Impreza family since the 2012 Impreza is all different body.  10/5 A 2012 Impreza review that understands the car's intended market  "..a decent driver’s car for the pragmatic, budget enthusiast" "... Through the varied landscape, we got a chance to really familiarize ourselves with the driving dynamics the new car offers when being driven a bit more enthusiastically. One really impressive trait was the very flat cornering of the new car. It has a stiffer chassis, and even features the STI’s pillow ball bushings in the rear, making this thing really feel tucked down onto the road, free of flex and body roll. With always-on all-wheel-drive, it felt very stable and confident under high-speed cornering and back-and-forth slaloming. Grip was great, even where we found small stones scattered across the pavement. The steering still didn’t offer much in the way of feedback, but we had no problem aiming the car precisely where we needed to go, and the weighting felt perfectly natural. We were even confident in the car’s response to dodging the chipmunks that dared dart out in from of us—each critter fared just fine. As we used the Impreza’s wheel-mounted paddle shifters, we realized something rather profound: this CVT didn’t make us want to scream angrily at the Subaru engineers. In manual mode, we found them quite useful in controlling our downhill speeds. In straight-line acceleration, the transmission actually did a good job of imitating actual gear changes, rather than simply failing to feel genuine, smooth, or usable, the way many other CVTs do. When left to its own devices, the CVT offered smooth operation, without the buzziness associated with the transmission/engine combinations of other cars. Instead, we were treated to a nice rising song from the healthy boxer engine. In fact, we would almost be okay with opting for the excellent CVT over the simply decent manual transmission, were we a buyer on the lot. As we made our way toward our destination in New Haven, Connecticut, we mulled it over, and decided that this is a decent driver’s car for the pragmatic, budget enthusiast. While it lacks the passionate feel and robust power of the WRX and STI, we found it to be a perfectly livable car, especially for someone who is concerned with capability and efficiency. Starting at $17,495 for the manual-equipped sedan, it promises to be one of the more adept all-season drivers in the class, as well as perhaps the most confident in handling. The changes to the new model help its case, but the fact of the matter is that the Impreza’s all-wheel drive is what will always give it the competitive edge." the entire article from windingroad.com 10/4 2012 Impreza reviews are out.  It seems car reviewers like and appreciate the new Impreza for their improved room, more comfortable seats, better seating position, fuel economy, and overall quality. A common thread is that the writers don't like the CVT transmission and the 2.0L's power and acceleration, it seems mostly because reviewers tend to like acceleration, power, and crisp shifting automatics. > 'Subaru is a manufacturer near and dear to New England's heart. It's almost as if they were designed solely for this region. As the old joke goes, the Subaru is the state bird of New Hampshire. Fans — mostly New Englanders and anyone in the snow belt — have loved them for their distinctive design and tough all-wheel-drive systems, but in recent years Subaru has begun to homogenize its cars to make them more appealing to the rest of the country. Case in point: The 2012 Subaru Impreza. At its launch to the media in Manhattan last month, company executives said the previous generation model was, to paraphrase, ugly. And like all Subarus, it consumed gas at a horrible rate for a small car.. Subaru let automotive journalists flog the Impreza over 250 miles in three states, including a stop at Camp Hi-Rock in Mount Washington, Mass., which had an impressive, twisty gravel road that just made you want to throw the rear end sideways. Fortunately, the all-wheel-drive and electronic stability control stepped in at the right time...' read the article from boston.com > '... The simple truth is that the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza doesn't really have best-in-class anything – power, fuel economy, cruising range, cargo capacity or even warranty. The major thing that sets the new Impreza apart from its competition is standard all-wheel drive – a Subaru staple (at least, until the rear-wheel-drive BRZ shows up). By equipping the Impreza with all-wheel drive as standard kit, Subaru is hoping to achieve one best-in-class mention: drivability... Let's be honest. Subarus have never really been known for their beauty, and the 2012 Impreza, while an improvement from the previous generation car, isn't going to win any design contests anytime soon. ... still, like we said, this 2012 model is better looking than the car it replaces... The biggest change we noticed about the interior is how spacious it feels from the front seats. A relatively low beltline means you won't have that sunk-in-the-bathtub feeling that's becoming so popular on new cars these days... We only had the chance to drive CVT-equipped Imprezas during our time in New England, and as you'd expect, the transmission doesn't really behave any differently than comparable units from other automakers... No, the Impreza isn't a slug off the line, but there were times on uphill climbs where we really would have appreciated some extra grunt down low.. Lower weight and lower power has improved overall economy, though, and even with all-wheel drive, the Impreza can achieve up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway. That makes it the most efficient all-wheel-drive vehicle on the market.... Yes, we'd like some more power down low, and we're not in love with the CVT, but in terms of suspension refinement, the Subaru is top notch. All-in, the Impreza is a solid steer, and from behind the wheel, it feels more refined than many of its competitors, particularly the Honda Civic and Volkswagen Jetta....' read the article from autoblog > '.. The new Impreza is roomier, more fuel-efficient and ready to take on the midsize sedan market. But its downsized engine makes for a banal ride... Subaru tinkered with just about everything on the Impreza: The body is redesigned, the wheelbase is an inch longer, the interior and trunk are more spacious, and there are new Sport and Limited models, to name just a few changes. But the most obvious change is the new 2.0-liter engine,... Along with the new body’s more aerodynamic design and lighter weight (it’s 165 lbs leaner than the 2011 model) the 2.0-liter engine helps to up the Impreza’s fuel consumption numbers from an unimpressive 20/27 in last year’s model to 25/34, and even higher with the CVT... The new Impreza is an obvious improvement on the inside. The extra room, extra window space and new soft-touch materials make for a driver-friendly cabin. The new CVT claims a 0.3-second increase in 0-to-60-mph time over the old automatic, but the lag in upshifts is distracting and gives the impression of a car that just can’t get its dander up. Unfortunately, the five-speed manual doesn’t feel much different. Some journalists on our test drive from New York City to New Haven, Conn. even preferred the CVT, saying it felt a bit peppier than the manual. That said, the Impreza is a noted improvement over the old model in almost every other way (though we’ll leave beauty to the eyes of the beholder). Favorite Detail: As always, Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system sets it apart. Where the Impreza lacks in inspiration it excels in being a balanced everyday driver. The car handles nicely and corners with confidence. Bottom Line: The Impreza is better for 2012, and the interior definitely stakes a claim as the most comfortable in its class. However, among its competitors, it may come across as being a bit anonymous. The Impreza’s opponents include more responsive and fun cars to drive, but the boosted mpg numbers, safety features and interior could lure many to the new Subaru." read the whole article from Popular Mechanics > '... With off-the-mark fuel economy and iffy styling, the last-gen Impreza found itself behind a couple of curves... Subaru has addressed some basics of the Impreza's fuel economy and interior volume that might have previously led mom and dad into the arms of another automaker who builds empty-nest economy cars. But then, they wouldn't get the all-wheel drive, and you know, you have to have the all-wheel drive. ... It's also canned the old (and by old, I mean 2011 spec) four-speed automatic in favor of a CVT. In case you haven't driven a CVT, and you care anything at all about driving experience, let me warn you: please don't. It's got an elastic feel that's attributable to its variable-ratio belt-and-pulley system that keeps the engine in its most efficient range. Often, despite an honest attempt to introduce a paddle-shift algorithm (in the Premium, Sport and Limited models), it feels like you're connected by bungee cord to an out-of-control coal cart. No, leave the CVT to mom and dad, who will appreciate the significant fuel-economy bump... With two inches of extra rear legroom and eight more cubic feet of cargo volume over the 2011 model (with the seats down), they'll have plenty of space for the accoutrements of suburban living..." read the whole article from Jalopnik > '... The redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza's most compelling attributes are evident before you even start the engine. Take a glance and you'll see more mature styling in both the sedan and four-door hatchback. Get inside and you'll find excellent sightlines, roominess and improved quality. Look at the specifications and you'll see impressive mileage for a car in the compact class — especially for one with Subaru's signature standard all-wheel drive: 27/36 mpg city/highway. If you like what you see so far, driving the Impreza probably won't deter you, but it won't close the deal, either. The 2012 Subaru Impreza undeniably has broader appeal than ever before, but there are still downsides associated with its standard all-wheel drive, not just in terms of price. .. I believe the greatest obstacle facing Impreza shoppers is the car's power. The new, smaller engine is less powerful than the previous generation's power plant. Though the base car has shed 165 pounds and the new automatic transmission manages to shave a few tenths off the 2011 model's zero-to-60-mph time, it remains just under 10 seconds. Major competitors beat that by as much as 3 seconds... .. We at Cars.com haven't warmed to CVTs because of their typical hesitation and the droning they illicit from engines. Like most automatics, CVTs are at their worst when teamed with small engines, so I was wary of this one, which Subaru describes as a more compact version of the one in the Outback and Legacy. Overall, I was relieved. Though the car takes a few seconds to really get going from a standing start, it feels natural enough...  ..A CVT has truly succeeded if the average driver can hop in, drive and never know there's anything different about it. The Impreza isn't quite there, but it's as close as any four-cylinder/CVT combo I've driven, and maybe closer... ... The 2012's windowsills are almost 2.5 inches lower in the front than they were in the 2011 model. The dashboard sits lower, and the driver sits almost an inch higher. Even though the A-pillars emerge from farther out on the hood, they're narrow enough not to obstruct one's vision. The side mirrors are large, and the over-the-shoulder view is good with either body style. ..Shorter drivers will love the low hoodline and generous range of seat-height adjustment. Everyone will appreciate the same from the tilt/telescoping steering wheel... ..To truly excel in the compact-car market, the Impreza needs to convince buyers that the all-wheel drive for which they'll pay a premium has advantages beyond foul-weather traction. While all-wheel drive can provide this advantage in sporty cars, I fear the 2012's body roll and modest power keep it from doing so...' read the whole article from Cars.com 10/3 Impreza reviews are out, the wait is over, the dark period has ended. All the magazines and reviewers that saw and test drove the 2012 Impereza in September and had to keep their comments and reviews under wraps are now free to print and publish. Stay tuned. 9/29  Impreza XV/Outback Sport is coming... a 2013 model in 2012.. '.. MotorAuthority has learned that for 2013, the Subaru XV model unveiled two weeks ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show will come to the States--although not under that name. In discussions last night with Michael McHale, director of corporate communications for Subaru of America, he revealed that the company will add the XV to the Impreza lineup for the 2013 model year. hat will give the Impreza range a more differentiated model with off-road capability, including a higher ride height, unique wheels, and both wheel-arch and rocker-panel cladding available in a contrasting color. For the States, McHale said, it may even have a unique front grille and fascia, though he declined to reveal specifics. He also suggested it would be renamed, since the company's only alphabetic name is on the upcoming BRZ sports car. All of Subaru's sedans, hatchbacks, and sport utilities have model names that are words, and the XV would be likely to conform to that practice. The production version of the Subaru XV to be sold in Asia and Europe was previewed by the Subaru SV Concept unveiled at this year's Shanghai Auto Show. This year's transitional 2012 Subaru Impreza Sport model, on the other hand, is a five-door Impreza hatchback that includes a specification combination of Impreza options. It includes an All-Weather package and 17-inch alloy wheels to a group of other options, including standard roof rails, fog lights, and modified rocker panels. Inside, the seat fabric is unique to the Sport..." the entire article  9/17 2012 Impreza a new 4 page handout with some model information and a comparison to other brands is now available at dealers. 9/16  Impreza XV at the Frankfurt Auto Show.  If the Impreza XV comes to the US with reportedly 8.6" ground clearance,  it will fit into a tight slot between the very similar Impreza 2.0i Sport with 5.9" clearance and the larger Forester with 8.7".  Since the XV and Sport models would be so close in size and features, and appeal to the same buyer, the best scenario would be for the XV to just replace the 2.0i Sport (which is basically just a upgraded trim package of the 2.0i anyway).  That would leave the 2.0i,  XV, Forester, Outback, and Tribeca models to cover all the bases without any duplication. The XV is already scheduled for Ireland, Australia, New Zealand etc and would be a very welcome addition to the North American Impreza line as long as they drop the Sport model so not to confuse buyers by over-crowding the line. > Here is a review of the car shown at Frankfurt. "Subaru today (9/13) unveiled the production ready version of its all-new 2012 XV at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The XV (don’t dare call it an Outback Sport) will be Subaru’s Impreza-based compact crossover and is designed for those who enjoy what Subaru calls, “Urban Adventure.” At first glance, the XV looks like no more than a Day-Glo orange 2012 Impreza hatch with an lift kit bolted on, along with some sweet 18-inch wheels. In reality, the 2012 XV actually features quite a few pieces of trim that distinguish it from the Impreza. While the XV sports the same grille and hawk eye headlights as the Impreza, let your eyes drop a bit lower and you’ll notice that the XV has unique fog light cutouts, a unique (and quite cool looking) lower air intake. Subaru said that it designed the corners of the XV’s front and rear bumpers with special edges to enhance aerodynamics and thus, fuel economy. Like prior XV/Outback Sport models, the 2012 model also wears black-plastic body cladding – although nowhere near the same amount as its predecessors. While the 2012 Subaru XV might have an exterior that’s relatively different from what’s found on the 2012 Impreza, the interior and engine choices are mostly all carryover. The XV has the same interior as the new Impreza, but with a slightly higher seating position to allow passengers easier in and egress in the lifted hatch. Engine offerings are also shared with the Impreza: Europeans will have the choice of a 1.6-liter flat-4, the new 2.0-liter flat-4 and Subaru’s 2.0-liter diesel flat-4. Subaru has yet to confirm if the XV is headed to our shores as the Outback Sport (presently, an Impreza Sport is the closest offering), but if so, expect the 2.0-liter engine to be the sole offering. Transmission choices will be limited to Subaru’s new CVT and a five-speed manual transmission.' the article 9/2 2012 prices and specs now available on Outback, Legacy, Tribeca, Impreza. 8/28 WRX review "Bullyboy” from Raleigh, N.C., already was a loyal owner of a Subaru WRX sedan, but he was looking for something that could better accommodate his recreational gear. So what did he do? He bought a Subaru WRX hatchback, of course. The hatchback is better at hauling Bullboy’s gear, and he likes the improvements to the newer WRX’s mechanics, particularly with the manual transmission. “I debated quite a while about trading in my 2007 WRX TR sedan for a 2011 WRX five-door. The main reason was that I needed interior space for my carbon triathlon bike and snowboards. (I didn't want to strap them to the roof.) After three months, all I have to say is that it was one of the best decisions I have made in quite some time. “The interior: Rear volume is ample/perfect for hauling gear, the design is clean and simple (as it should be in a sports car), road noise is minimal even at highway speeds, front cabin volume is very comfortable such that two larger adults will not feel like they are shoulder to shoulder. “The performance/handling: the five-speed gearing is perfect (in the ‘07 I used to hover between 3rd and 4th doing 45 mph — now I am solidly in 3rd and don’t need 4th until close to 55 mph), the wider stance is a lot more fun in corners and turns, the stock exhaust sounds great and NOT like your grandmother’s Subaru. The WRX moves like a jack rabbit being chased by a pack of wolves ... a calm confidence knowing that it will see tomorrow.  “My only issue with the WRX is the inability to get the All Weather Package and leather seats in the base model trim. These options are only available in the Premium and Limited trims (which also come with a sunroof as standard equipment). I have no use for a sunroof (temps/weather/pollen in the Mid-Atlantic region make them unusable for all but about two months of the year), plus being over 6 feet tall, I find they tend to consume too much head room.” the article   8/24 2011 WRX or STI? They're great cars. There is new inventory coming, check with your local dealer for current selection!  8/19 Seen in Seattle... a 2001 Impreza 2.5 RS. 234,617 miles. click for a few photos   8/17 Subaru WRX makes a Top 100 Greatest Cars list '#55. 2002 Subaru WRX: Before the WRX, Subarus were bought by college professors in Maine. The WRX made Subaru cool. It literally and figuratively turbocharged Subaru's image.' see the entire list 8/15 2012 Impreza model prices announced. No Outback or Legacy prices announced yet. Orders Impreza 2.0, Outback, and Legacy now accepted. WRX/STI, Forester and Tribeca orders should be mid-September. 8/12 2012 updates- Orders acepted for Impreza, Outback, Legacy. Colors have been announced and orders are now accepted for 2012 Impreza, Legacy, Outback. Orders on WRX/STI, Forester and Tribeca should be mid-September. No prices announced yet.  Legacy and Outback are expected late September. Impreza late November. See local dealer.  2012 Outback and Legacy models remain the same as 2011. The models are 2.5i manual/CVT, 2.5i Premium manual/CVT, 2.5i Limited CVT, 3.6R 5spd automatic, 3.6R Premium 5 spd automatic, 3.6R Limited 5speed automatic, and Legacy GT Limited manual.  New Alloy Wheel Package available on base Outback and Legacy includes alloy wheels, fog lights, and the All Weather package... this Option Package will be very popular. 8/9 2012 Impreza XV... next stop Europe at the Frankfurt auto show.. And some form of the XV is coming to the US, maybe as an Impreza Outback Sport replacement or as a separate model. Will it be at the LA Auto Show November 18-27? 'Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today has announced that it will exhibit the all-new "SUBARU XV" (European specifications) as a world premiere at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. The new model will be unveiled at the Subaru press conference, scheduled at 9.30am on September 13th.' the press release 8/9  A 2012 Impreza video from Subaru of Canada. Expect a steady flow of various media from Subaru to maintain interest since the cars are not expected to even start arriving until late November. The official US introduction is February 2012. http://blogs.insideline.com/straightline/2011/08/video-2012-subaru-impreza-explained-to-canadians.html 7/30 Canadian WRX/STI model email. There's an email teaser online about 2012 Canadian model WRX and STI. The email would seem to be real though it might not be correct for US models.  It would seem to confirm there are very few changes for the 12s- and none are needed since they are great cars! A new Navigation system is offered and that would be good.  On colors,  the new ice silver metallic replaces spark silver metallic.Obsidian black has possibly been dropped and replaced by new Deep Cherry Pearl? It would seem other colors remain the same. Since the 12s are expected in late October,  Subaru doesn't normally release details this far in advance. They are good about maintaining a level of 'buzz' though and might have released this teaser email.  > The email presumably from Subaru Canada reads "There's an old adage in life - if it isn't broke, don't fix it. Thats what we have done for 2012 model year WRX/STI. With record breaking sales for WRX and STI and numerous awards in 2010, changes have been kept to a minimum. Highlights: New Pioneer Media System with larger touch screen and full smartphone integration (including Facebook and Twitter for Apple iPhone users) (STI Sport Tech); Headlamp bezel changes from black to silver (regulatory change); Sedan rear silver garnish is now body-colored; Spark silver metallic is replaced by Ice Silver Metallic" 7/24 STI sedan review  "The first thing that commands attention is the car's rear wing. It's as big as the (St. Louis) Arch, fer cryin' out loud. Every time I looked in the rear-view mirror I felt like I was leaving town. And that, by the way, is something you can do in a great big hurry in the 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, a blurry fast pocket-rocket that, for the first time in this Impreza's generation, is available in the sedan body style we drove. It also can be had as a five-door hatchback. In total, Subaru's full line of compact Imprezas offers more flavors than Baskin-Robbins — four-door sedans, five-door hatchbacks, a base 2.5i trim along with a 2.5i Premium model, an Outback Sport wagon, WRX performance iterations and WRX STI high-performance versions. There's a lot to ponder there, but the most expensive, most outrageous and most exhilarating is the STI, with its bulging fenders, ground effects, 18-inch Dunlop performance rubber, single-nostril hood scoop, quad tailpipes and, in sedan guise, that humongous rear wing. It's a sight to behold! But, as the man said, it ain't braggin' if you can do it. WRX STI can do it. This one backs the brag with a 305-hp flat-four turbo that sends 290 lb.-ft. of torque to all four wheels via a six-speed manual — the only transmission offered with STI. That drivetrain launches this over-achiever to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds as that blown engine howls with delight. And it's delighted a lot, constantly rumbling and growling during routine driving, snarling under provocation.At the same time, the speed-rated tires happily send plenty of pavement descriptions to the cabin. The result is a raucous interior that, coupled with a lower ride height and an even stiffer suspension for 2011, may put off the faint-of-heart, but that joyous noise and buckboard ride add to the fun for enthusiasts... WRX also is available in a slightly tamer 265-hp version, but the STI is the choice for the speed obsessed. In this class, only the Mitsubishi Evo can run with it..." the entire article   7/17 WRX- a 2002 WRX modified and pinked-up for breast cancer awareness website Scoobies for Boobies.  . 'Scoobies for Boobies was created in 2008 by a group of like minded - Subaru loving women to promote awareness in the community and to raise money to fund research for a cure. Money raised is donated to the American Cancer Society's (ACS) "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer." check out the Scoobies for Boobies website and contribute. Here are more photos of the WRX   7/8 STI goes through the winter with autoweek. "Winter isn't the ideal time to pick up a new performance car--that is, unless it's a rally-bred all-wheel-drive terror. Our long-term 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI sedan arrived just before the first big storm hit Detroit. To prepare for what turned out to be one of the worst Michigan winters in recent memory, our friends at Michelin provided a set of Pilot Alpin PA3 winter tires for our STI. This was important, as our stock Dunlop SP Sport 600 summer tires would have left us helpless... Subaru's suspension changes for 2011 drew rave reviews from a staff that prefers to forget about the softer, gentler and less than stellar WRX STI that the world was introduced to for the 2008 model year. "I love the new STI. It's tighter and seemingly quicker, and grip is amazing. It should be a fun year," one editor said. Everyone in the office agreed that the STI's hard-core edge has been restored. The reworked suspension didn't compromise ride quality. Most feel that the suspension is firm and the chassis is rock-solid, but the STI offers an acceptable amount of damping and still exhibits some lean through corners. The Brembo brakes also drew praise for their confident stopping muscle. However, all wasn't good with our 2011 WRX STI in the first quarter. Some wished that Subaru would have found a little extra power in the turbocharged boxer four-cylinder to go along with suspension upgrades, instead of the carryover 305 hp. The interior was criticized for numerous creaks and rattles, particularly when it was cold. The price of admission was another sore spot for our STI Limited model, with leather seats, a moonroof, fog lights and BBS wheels. With an as-tested price close to $40,000, there's a long list of alternative vehicles available.  When it came to the large rear spoiler that returned with the sedan for 2011, the office was split--some loved it, and others hated it...  It's safe to say that our 2011 Subaru WRX STI passed winter with flying colors. We'll let you know how it tames spring."  read the article 6/30 STI sets new Mt. Washington "Climb To The Clouds" Hill Climb record Subaru Rally Team USA driver David Higgins broke the long standing Mt. Washington "Climb To The Clouds" Hill Climb record set in 1998.  Piloting his 2011 Subaru WRX STI rally car, Higgins crushed the time set by Frank Sprongl by more than 30-seconds with an official time of 6 minutes and 11.54 seconds.  Higgins also beat the unofficial record time set by Travis Pastrana last year of 6:20.47.  True to its reputation, the mountain yielded poor weather throughout the practice days on Friday and Saturday.  The field of almost 70 competitors, in the four race classes, was kept to the lower half of the course because of intermittent rain showers and fog.  The weather cooperated long enough on Sunday for competitors to get in two timed laps before the course was again engulfed in fog.  "It was a very big challenge because the road was still wet in spots and would turn very slick suddenly. With the clouds the visibility was so low I could hardly see past the hood of my car," explained Higgins. "Our Subaru is setup perfectly for a road like this but I have never raced here before and it was a lot of work to try to learn the course. It's fantastic to have the record at such a prestigious event." Higgins was the last to race in the field of the competitors, which built up anticipation of a new record amongst the fans and enthusiasts in attendance.  On his first attempt Higgins was able to surpass the record by more than 20 seconds.  Higgins bested his record by an additional eight seconds on his second attempt, cementing his place in the record books. Mt. Washington is located in the Presidential range of the White Mountains in New Hampshire, known for its extreme conditions, scientists have been researching and studying weather trends since the 1870's.  The carriage road, now the Mount Washington Auto Road, was erected in 1861 and is the country's oldest man-made attraction.  Spanning a distance of 7.6 miles, the mixed gravel and pavement road winds its way up the mountain lined with trees and at times steep drop-offs.  First run in 1904, the race to the 6,288 ft. summit of the Northeast's tallest peak is one of the greatest motorsports challenges for both man and machine... Subaru of America proudly sponsors the on-going scientific research of the Mt. Washington Observatory.  As the "official car" of Mt. Washington Observatory, Subaru sponsors programs, like the "Subaru Science In The Mountains" series that educate consumers. For the adventurous, Subaru also sponsors the annual "Seek-The-Peak" mountain climb. Considered to be one of the oldest motorsports events in the United States, the Climb to the Clouds was first run in 1904, seven years before the first 500-mile race at the Brickyard in Indianapolis and twelve years prior to the inaugural Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado. The last time the Climb to the Clouds was run was in 2001. Organized by Vermont SportsCar and sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of New Hampshire, the 2011 Mt. Washington Hill Climb  served as one of several  events to help celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Mt. Washington Auto Road as the nation's oldest man-made attraction." the press release 6/29 Impreza- Google street view Impreza spotted in Ohio, nat the Elyria Shopping Center, Monday 6/27. Last seen in NY.. '...The man drove what appeared to be an official Street View car — a painted Subaru with California plates, with a large appendage coming off of the roof, holding what appeared to be camera equipment.... the article and photo 6/28 STI review.. the good, the bad, the bottom line  "If I didn't know better, the Subaru WRX STI might just be the silliest gas hog of a little car there is. It's a cocky, pheromone-swilling show-off, with a hood scoop ready to inhale pigeons, a foot-tall rear wing, and all that booming, ear-splitting braaap from the four exhaust tips. This is a car that acts like a frustrated teenage boy and is priced for a well-paid man in his 30s, albeit a single and slightly nerdy guy who likes a good deal. Because for all its tackiness — and this is after Subaru canceled the gold pimp wheels for 2011 — the man who buys a WRX STI does know better. He's getting a street-legal race car, and all the gut-wrenching performance of a Porsche 911 for half the price... In either sedan or hatchback form, the STI is admirable because it won't please everyone, most certainly not the conservative, Forester-driving set in New England. But like any unfettered child, while the STI's explosive nerves can be annoying to live with, at the right moments, it's an utterly outstanding piece.... the good: Incredible performance hardware, fast and very collected, embarrasses expensive European sedans the bad: Incredibly tacky, poor interior and fuel economy the bottom line: A very raw and capable sports sedan for the few who care about it" read the entire article 6/21 Climb to the Clouds race June 22-26 organized by Vermont Sports Car who is best known as the company behind Subaru's rally cars and the Subaru Rally Team USA. Participants include past race winners, rally drivers including Subaru driver David Higgins, there's a vintage car class... "Located in Pinkham Notch, NH, the Mt. Washington Hillclimb, known as the Climb to the Clouds, was first run in 1904 and is one of America’s oldest motorsports events.  In 2011 the Climb to the Clouds will return after a 10 year hiatus to help celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Mt. Washington Auto Road. The 7.6 mile Mt. Washington Auto Road is one of the ultimate challenges for driver and automobile, the serpentine tarmac and gravel road is lined with trees and dramatic drop-offs as it winds its way to the 6,288 foot summit of the Northeast’s tallest peak... Considered one of the oldest motorsports events in the United States, the Climb to the Clouds was first run in 1904, seven years before the first 500-mile race at the Brickyard in Indianapolis and twelve years prior to the inaugural Pikes Peak Hillclimb in Colorado. The Climb to the Clouds was run sporadically from 1904-1961, then not again until the 1990.. Following the return of the Mt. Washington Hillclimb in 1990 after a 29-year hiatus, the event was run annually as part of the Mt. Washington Auto Road’s summer event schedule until 2001"  visit the Climb to the Clouds website and a list of race winners and times. More about Vemont Sports Car > see results dated 6/30 above 6/16 The WRX spawns a litter of ingenious little FrankenRex racing offspring. From a WRX take the boxer engine (2.5L?) with its compact size and low center of gravity, modify the all wheel drive transmission into a 2wd, take the brakes, suspension, radiator... cut it all up and mix in a short 95" wheelbase  (the 2011 Miata is only 92") with some motivated thinking and create a mid-engine rear wheel drive sports car for Factory Five Racing in Wareham, Ma.. This is Factory Five's 'Project 818', and in conjunction with Grassroots Motorsports magazine, they sponsored a design competition open to the public. The results look impressive and well thought out. Oh, and it has to be produced for under $15000. From Factory Five- "The design goal behind this car is very straightforward, the car must be simple, lightweight, affordable, and easy to build in countries around the world. The emphasis will be on handling and driving fun rather than on the 200 mph exotic or the everyday commuter..." "The main reason the Subaru was chosen was the layout, a longitudinal mid-mounted flat 4 with a transaxle attached gives fantastic balance, low center of gravity and most importantly a very low total vehicle weight. Some guys have questioned our decision to use the WRX parts, asking why we didn't run front wheel drive parts from a Civic or a Focus, etc..  To accomplish our aggressive target build cost, the car needed to be a true single donor.  Using a FWD chassis such as a Civic or Focus would only provide suspension and brakes for one end of the car adding cost.  Other reasons for choosing the Subaru parts is that Subaru is known for making big power reliably, the aftermarket is enormous, and the customer base is strong and passionate...."  "Based on tough Subaru WRX running gear, Factory Five's next car has been in development for almost a year.  With a space frame designed and tested on SolidWorks software, this single donor car will sell for $9,900.  We will use our 15 years of accumulated design and manufacturing skills to deliver a "world car" that can be completed for less than $15,000..."  See all the Project 818 details and the cars on the Factory Five webpage 6/14 Dirt Fish rally school has zoning issues - DirtFish rally school opened late September 2010 in Snoqualmie, just outside Seattle, and has already hosted the Global RallyCross which brought top international drivers to the area and was shown on ESPN. Olympic skateboarder Shaun White spent time learning advanced driving skills. Dirtfish is also for people who want to improve their everyday driving skills. But it is a rally course and some neighbors don't like the noise.  "Dust-covered orange Subarus, some valued at $100,000, rip around the 315-acre rally track at the old Weyerhaeuser mill site outside Snoqualmie, swerving through gravel, dirt and mud. Soon to be annexed to the city, the Old Mill Adventure Park, which is home to the DirtFish Rally School, is a playground for rally-racing enthusiasts. Snoqualmie's mayor thinks the track will bring prosperity to the city, but neighbors say it erodes the peaceful quality of Snoqualmie, population 10,670. The owners of the track say the rally school is quiet and doesn't affect wildlife in the area, two complaints by critics. DirtFish officials also say they want to blend in with and contribute to the community. A year ago, Steve Rimmer, chief executive of Guggenheim Aviation Partners, purchased the mill site for $3.2 million and turned it over to his business partner, Greg Lund, who developed DirtFish, which is used to teach rally racing, a type of fast, all-terrain driving... ... For about 100 years, the track site was used as a lumber mill and some of the buildings - including the one with the brick smokestack - are listed under King County's historic-preservation program. The area was zoned commercial and using it as a driving school was in keeping with the existing zoning, said John Starbard, director of the county's Department of Development and Environmental Services. But in March, the county notified the owner and the city that DirtFish's use of the site was more of a "redevelopment" into an entirely new kind of business than something that should be covered under the existing zoning, which allowed for a driving school. The city and the owners disagreed and the remedy they chose was to annex 600 acres - including the Old Mill Adventure Park - into the city (of Snoqualamie)  as quickly as possible." the entire article The first of the intended-to-be and we-hope--is annual NW Subaru festival scheduled for July 9th at Dirt Fish has been moved to Pacific Raceway in Kent, Wa. 6/12 - Impreza Google street view car spotted in the Albany/ Schenectady, NY area. Yes, is a camera perched high on top of an Impreza hatchback. If they're going to drive around all year in upstate NY they need a Subaru. Photo here 6/10 Subaru puts an STI on the Isle of Man motorcyle track to see what it can do.  'No other motorcycle race is held on such a challenging track as the 37-mile plus Mountain Course with its seemingly never-ending series of bends, bumps, jumps, stone walls, manhole covers and telegraph poles.' > On June 3rd Subaru announced a multi-year sponsorship agreement of the Isle of Man TT Races and will run a U.S. specification Subaru WRX STI on several timed laps of the famous TT motorcycle course.  > June 10, 2011 "Subaru driver Mark Higgins set an all-time fastest lap of averaging 115.356 MPH today on the iconic Isle of Man TT Mountain Course driving a US specification 2011 Subaru WRX STI. The previous record of 100 MPH stood for 21 years. The lap took 19 minutes 37 seconds and the WRX STI hit speeds in excess of 162 MPH...  "This was the most thrilling and frightening thing I have ever done," said Higgins, a Manx native. "It has been my dream to drive this course since I was a little boy and I am just elated that we were able to hit the speeds we did. The Subaru was just rock solid through the mountain section and took an amazing amount of punishment on the course."  On his first practice run of the demanding TT circuit, Higgins averaged 113 MPH on the 37-mile course. The WRX STI was a production US spec car running a standard 305 HP turbocharged boxer engine. Some safety modifications were made. The Subaru was equipped with a Lifeline fire suppression system, Hockley Motorsports roll cage, motordrive competition seats, Mintex brake pads (but stock calipers and rotors), and an open exhaust to warn spectators of the on-coming car. The speed limiter was turned off to allow a higher maximum speed; springs and dampers were changed to accommodate the numerous high-speed jumps on the circuit, sending the WRX STI almost four feet off the ground. The car ran on street legal Pirelli P Zero Trofeo tires. Subaru is the official car partner of the Isle of Man TT Races." read the press release,  Check out the the Isle of Man TT  homepage, Subaru sponsor page 6/8 Impreza and Forester turbo boost gauge is once again available. Fits 08-11 WRX/STI and 09-11 Forester XT. Red lit. If you could order a new 2011 (you can't), the factory installed list MSRP would be $335. Part list price is $230 plus installation. Part #H501SFG500 6/6 rally in Idaho June 18/19- The next round of the United States Rally Championship will be the 5th annual Idaho Rally June 18th and 19th in the Boise area. This year’s event title sponsor is Larry Miller Subaru of Boise. Rally interest is growing in the area as other new sponsors jump on board for the drive through Idaho. Steered by the newly formed Idaho Rally Group the Idaho Rally is reaching for new levels of driver and rider excitement. Rally organizer, Dick Rockrohr brings years of driving and racing experience into the leadership.  “This years event will be geared for the participant, I know they will be going very fast on these great roads!” said Mr. Rockrohr. the article 6/2 STI review  - car-tainment (bluetooth, usbs, wifi, hard drives) is getting important to car buyers but how the car drives makes one reviewer almost forget what it looks like.. "Imagine a Subie with tats, body piercings and an attitude to match... One of the speakers at last week’s “Connectivity and the Car” roundtable at MIT horrified me. Research shows, he said, that onboard apps  - all that Playstation stuff - are now the fourth most important consideration in our choice of which car to buy. Silly me. All this time I’ve been writing about the motor and suspension, the steering and brakes and how well you can toss the thing into a corner, or how many bags of trash it’ll haul. Instead, you want to know how rapidly the voice-recognition algorithms can convert “Y’all find me a Chuck E. Cheese, hear?” into turn-by-turn directions. To try to get over this, I had to spend a week in an electric blue Subaru WRX—the nasty 305 horsepower high-boost-turbo STI model. Where I live, every third car is a Subie, so no one looks—unless it’s one of these things. And if the color doesn’t grab your attention, or the fat tires, bulging fenders and front lip, or the hood scoop evidently meant for sucking up marine plankton and the colossal basket-handle spoiler on the back, then the racket from these four big-bore exhaust pipes will. Just revving it in the driveway was enough to bring my wife outside to shout, “Did the muffler fall off?” Nope. This is what you get if you tick the box for Subaru’s Excitement Option and then hand them about $35,000: A raucous demon that will claw its way to 60 mph in well under five seconds, shotgunning gravel from all four wheels while trying to slam into the rev limiter before you can pull the gearbox from first to second. Subaru Tecnica International, or STI, is the company’s skunkworks, the no-doubt-grinning maniacs who build race cars for the World Rally Championship and other politically incorrect uses of petroleum products.  This machine began life as an ordinary Impreza sedan; now it’s a hooligan express with go-kart reflexes and a hair-trigger temper. It’s even got some of those electronics people now seem to crave, namely Bluetooth-enabled, hands-free phone and audio. And Satnav. Some cupholders. OK, that’s cool. My favorite electronics, though, are the switches on the center console that let us flip from Sport to Sport Sharp—with a notch inbetween that’s mysteriously labeled “Intelligent”—and from normal to mud-slinging traction via a lockable center differential. Like steroids, these convert the STI from merely mean to outright psychotic, and trigger the sort of behavior that brings out the villagers with their pitchforks. Lacking a racetrack on which to thrash the motor and shred the tires, most owners will have to hunt up dirt roads or pray for snow (or relocate to Finland) to really enjoy what Subaru hath wrought. Recent generations of this car were accused of going soft. The 2011 STI, however, is abrupt, aggressive, noisy, challenging, functional-ugly and rides like a wheelbarrow. I love it. Oh, I just now noticed it’s got four doors, too." the article 5/30 safety- IIHS finds more small cars scoring well. The Impreza is a Top Safety Pick. To determine crashworthiness — how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash — the Institute rates vehicles good, acceptable, marginal, or poor based on performance in high-speed front and side crash tests, a rollover test, plus evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. To earn Top Safety Pick for 2011 a vehicle must have good ratings in all four Institute tests. In addition, the winning vehicles must include electronic stability control. "..The list of cars with the best fuel economy now includes those with the highest crash test ratings in their class, too," says David Zuby, the Institute's chief research officer. "At a time of high gasoline prices, consumers have never had a bigger selection of small cars that earn Top Safety Pick." The 2011 Subaru Impreza sedan and wagon (except WRXs) is a Top Safety Pick. All 2011 Subarus - the Outback Legacy, Forester and Tribeca- are a Top Safety Pick except the WRX. Other small cars to get the Top Safety Pick nod are the  Chevrolet Cruze and Volt, 2012 Ford Focus, Honda Civic 2012 4-door, Honda Civic 2011 4-door (except Si) with optional ESC, Hyundai Elantra sedan built after 3/2011, Kia Forte sedan, Kia Soul, Lexus CT 200h, Mazda 3 built after 12/2010 sedan/hatchback, Mini Cooper Countryman, Mitsubishi Lancer sedan (except 4-wheel drive), Nissan Cube, Nissan Juke,  Nissan Leaf, Scion and xB, Subaru Impreza (except WRX) sedan/wagon, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius built after 12/2010, Volkswagen Golf and GTI 4-doors. Chweck out the full list of  IIHS Top Safety Picks 5/22/11- new March 2011 Synthetic oil is now required recommended on all 2011 models Synthetic oil is now required for optimum engine performance and protection. Conventional oil may be used if synthetic oil is unavailable. Conventional oil may be used if replenishment is needed, but it should be changed to synthetic oil at the next oil change. Note- your owners manual might not indicate this depending on the printing date. This change was reportedly made around March 2011. Now all 2011 Subarus use Subaru synthetic oil since the 2011 Forester 2.5Ls, and all turbos ( WRX, STI, Forester XT, Legacy GT) have required it since the start of the model run. All 2011 models use 5w-30 except the Forester X which uses 0w-20 2011 maintenance schedule 5/18 rally results from Oregon Trail Rally results 'Subaru Driver David Higgins Wins Oregon Trail Rally, Vaults into Rally America Championship Lead Subaru Rally Team USA’s David Higgins, at the wheel of his BFGoodrich Tires-shod 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, won convincingly at the Oregon Trail Rally, round four of the 2011 Rally America Championship. Higgins and his co-driver Craig Drew won the event with a gap of nearly three and a half minutes ahead of his closest rival after a dominating performance on the event’s technical and rain drenched roads.  The victory in Oregon is Higgins’ second win in a row in the Rally America National Championship and the points haul has vaulted him into the lead of the driver standings with just two events remaining. Higgins’ Subaru teammate Dave Mirra went off the road and rolled his Subaru on Leg Two while sitting in 3rd overall; both he and co-driver Marshall Clarke were unharmed in the incident. The 2011 Oregon Trail Rally began with a set of mixed surface stages held at the Portland International Raceway in front of thousands of fans before moving to the scenic farmlands in and around The Dalles and Dufur area for days two and three. The event began with dry and dusty roads but heavy rains and thunderstorms moved into the area during day two which made conditions extremely challenging for competitors....' read the whole article and watch the http://www.rallybuzz.com/oregon-trail-rally-2011-video 4/30 Subaru has big hopes for the 2012 Impreza.  'According to Ward's Auto, Subaru brass are expecting the 2012 Impreza to sell around 60,000 units a year, or half again as many as the car's current 40,000-unit total. Subaru executive vice president of North America Tom Doll says the car fills gaps in the company's lineup that prevented it from being as competitive as it could have been. Subaru claims the new Impreza will return 36 miles per gallon on the highway, a figure that would put the car on the top of the all wheel drive pile for fuel economy. The gas mileage figures come courtesy of a new for 2012 2.0liter boxer four cylinder reigning in 148 horsepower. The upcoming Impreza will also be lighter than the outgoing model, making fuel-sipping a little easier. With all the new tweaks, Subaru is hoping Impreza sales can push the brand's overall total from 264,000 vehicles last year to closer to 300,000. That's a heady goal to be sure, but the company is confident enough in the new car's appeal to make a bold prediction.' from autoblog.com 4/29 Rally in the NW... 'The Rally America National Championship makes its next stop in Ocean Shores, WA for round three, the Olympus Rally. Teams from around the world (and from around the region) will be making the trek to the Washington coast to compete. Come out early to Convention Center in Ocean Shores on Saturday, April 30, and Sunday, May 1, and meet the teams and see the cars close up. Then head out to spectator areas near Brooklyn on Saturday (April 30) and near Taholah on Sunday (May 1) and watch the action. Or, head to the service areas and watch mechanics repair and service the cars (high speed driving on gravel roads can be rough on cars) in South Bend on Saturday (April 30) and Taholah (May 1).  Times and exact locations can be found in the Spectator Guide at  olympusrally.com' After you watch a rally if you too want to race and play in the dirt, check out local Seattle rally school DirtFish.com 4/25  2012 Impreza 2.0is. Subaru's little car grows,  the engine shrinks, the new CVT gets 36mpg The new Impreza 4 door and 5 door was shown to the public for the first time at the NY Auto Show last Wednesday April 20th Available as a 4 door sedan or a 5 door hatchback,  the models are 2.0i, 2.0i Premium, 2.0i Limited, and the 5 doors are also available as 2.0i Sport Premium and 2.0i Sport Limited.  Completely redesigned,  this new Impreza rides on a 0.9" longer wheelbase (104.1" vs 103.2"), and has about 30% more interior room which is where it really counts. Bigger inside but not outside is very good. The windshield is more angled ('A' pillar moved 7.9" forward),  and the front doors are 5" larger. Visibility improved and seating positions are higher...  the top of the doors is now 2.4" lower than previous models, the front seats are raised .67",  the rear seat raised .79", and the new dashboard is flatter. The result is that you sit higher which is both more comfortable and allows greater visibility.  The front door sill stepover has been lowered by 0.8".  Rear seat legroom is almost 2" more.. This car should be easy to get in and out of. With a new 148hp 2.0L 4 cylinder boxer engine matched with a CVT automatic,  fuel economy is EPA rated at 27/36mpg - a nice jump over previous models - especially for highway driving - and at the top end of All-Wheel-Drive offerings. The Impreza CVT is a revised smaller and quieter version than used on the 10/11 Legacy/Outback and will have paddle shifters on 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited models but not apparently on the 2.0i models. More on that as available. As for manuals shifters, a 5 speed manual (not a 6 speed), will be offered, EPA rated at a respectable and also much improved 25/34. With safety in mind, the new models get a driver's knee airbag - a first for Subaru - and a revised  drivers front airbag that spreads thin and wide first which is good for drivers that sit close to the steering wheel. Plus all steering wheels will now telescope as well as tilt, so taller drivers will really like that.  And outside mirrors are 23% larger. And a new electric power steering system draws less power from the engine than a belt driven power steering pump.  The only other Subaru that used an electric power steering was the wedge-shaped  XT6 in the 1980s.  The 2012 WRX and STIs are expected to be very similar to the current 2011s, perhaps with a few minor changes, but nothing has been announced yet. The larger interior, better seating position, larger doors and the other new features and safety upgrades of the new Imprezas will be appreciated.  But its the high MPG that is sure to please current Subaru owners who have waited, sometimes not so patiently, for Subaru to lead the way with an efficient all wheel drive. And the 2012 Impreza is designed to draw new buyers in for a first look at a Subaru. Subaru's goal is to increase sales  in the warmer, drier regions where all wheel drive isn't important and sales have always been low.  27/36 MPG is not hybrid or diesel fuel economy range but its a big improvement over the current models. The 148hp is down from 175hp in previous years but bigger engines don't get the fuel economy.  Due this summer, expect a ongoing trickle of information and details as the Subaru PR machine gets to work. the all new 2012 Impreza 4 and 5 door is due this summer. Bigger inside, 27/36 MPG 4/20 Unveiled- the first look at the 2012 Impreza 2.0is. Subaru's little car grows,  the engine shrinks, the CVT gets 36mpg The new Impreza 4 door and 5 door was shown to the public for the first time at the NY Auto Show today though press had face time with the car a few weeks ago. You can get a 4 door sedan or a 5 door hatchback. The models are 2.0i, 2.0i Premium, 2.0i Limited, and 5 doors are also available as 2.0i Sport Premium and 2.0i Sport Limited. 4/20 2012 Impreza-  See the 2012 Impreza today, live unveiling on Subaru's site http://www.subaru.com/auto-show/index.html.. In the meantime see the 2012 concept photos 4/17 2011 WRX/STI review...  "Lost in the flashier news of the resurgence of Ford, General Motors and Chrysler -- and the fast-rising profile of Hyundai and Kia -- is the story of Subaru, the small Japanese company which has long marched to a different drummer. About 10 years ago, Subaru began to narrow its focus, and abandoned any desire to become Honda, Toyota or Nissan. Company executives took aim at a target market -- customers who value utility and reliability over all else -- and pulled the trigger. Bullseye When almost all other manufacturers were struggling to stay afloat a few years ago, Subaru continued to post modest gains, and some months was the only mainstream manufacturer to do so. And Subaru quality kept improving. In the April issue of Consumer Reports, the magazine's annual car issue, editors graded the automakers: Honda scored highest with an overall score of 74, but Subaru was second with 73. While Subaru built its reputation largely on conservative, practical vehicles, the company has an endearing wild side. The Impreza WRX and WRX STi can compete with most any smaller high-performance car on the market, and actually do race in off-road rally series. They are favorites with younger drivers, something proven by the test car, a 2011 Impreza WRX, which drew more than its share of under-25 attention...  Last year, the WRX just looked like a hot-rodded Impreza, but this year, it gets the STi's two-inch-wider body, flared fenders, bigger tires and wheels and a lot more attitude. The WRX starts at $25,495, which is $7,500 less than the base STi... ..No automatic is available, except in the base Impreza models... Fuel mileage, at 19mpg city, 25 mpg highway isn't great, but given the performance, acceptable. Handling is superb -- the STi's handling is a bit better because of a stiffer suspension, but the ride is stiffer, too. The WRX strikes a near-ideal balance. Inside, all the luxury features were there, though I'd pass on the mediocre $2,000 nav system... It is for me, and then some. With its new look, the WRX is one of my favorite cars, especially at that $25,495 base price level. The ride and handling is what sells me, and I'd pass on the Limited's $5,500 or so add-ons, and I'd be just as happy.' by SCSmith3@Tribune.com. read the entire article 4/14 Forbes magazine fastest cars under $30,000. Subaru WRX is #2 on the budget zoomlist...  'Think you've got to spend big if you want a fast car? Think again. We asked Edmunds to compile date on all 2011 models that might have a chance of competing with a blistering zero-to-60 MPH time. The 10 fastest cars that cost $30,000 or less made our list. #1 with the fastest 0-60 time is the Ford Mustang GT, 6spd manual, 0-60 4.8 seconds, $29,145 #2 with the 2nd fastest 0-60 time is the Subaru WRX, 5 spd manual, 0-60 5.2 seconds, $25,495 #3 Ford Mustang coupe (V6), 6spd manual, 0-60 5.6 seconds, $22,145 #4 Mitsubishi Ralliart, 6 spd manual, 0-60 5.8 seconds, $27,695  #5 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 R-spec coupe, 6spd manual, 0-60 5.9 seconds, $26,750  #6 Honda Accord EX-L coupe, 3.5L 6 spd manual trans, 0-60 6,3 seconds, $29,730  #7 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 6 spd manual trans, 0-60 6.4 seconds, $23700 #8 Mazda Mazda6 Grand Touring 6spd automatic, 0-60 6.4 seconds, $29,320  #9 Kia Optima SX, 6spd automatic, 0-60 6.5 seconds, $25,995 #10 Huyndai Sonata SE, 6spd automatic, 0-60 6.6 seconds, $24,345 the full article 4/12 NHTSA looks into Impreza control arm issue. The office of defects investigation has received seven complaints alleging failure of either the left or roight front lower control arn due to excessive corrosion. Two of the the complainants alleged the failure ocurred at speeds of 50mph or greater, Additionally, two of the complainants also alleged a loss of vehicle control..   link to NHTSA 4/9 2012 Impreza spy photos from CarandDriver.com click here Sort of looks like an updated version of 2005-2009 Legacy sedan.  But its the wagon and new Outback Sport model that I want to see 13 days and counting down to the NY Auto Show April 22. 4/8 Impreza- heres a photo of new optional 10" Kicker powered subwoofer speaker available on all 2011 Imprezas,  shown in a 5 door with retractable cargo cover removed. Also fits in the trunk of a 4 door model- see below. If you like music and want factory installed upgrades, this sound good. Not available with the underseat subwoofer/amp, and a cargo tray won't lie flat unless you snip to fit. More Photos? Check out my 2011 WRX, STI or  2.5i  information pages 3/30 earthquake related- Production slow down means fewer Imprezas and Foresters in the next few months. Due to the ongoing situation in Japan, it seems that slightly fewer Imprezas and Foresters will be be shipped to dealers in April but a lot less is expected to be shipped to May and June. This is will depend on factory startup. It seems like the supply is going to drop so if there is a car you want available, now would be a good time to get it. This could also mean a spike in used Subaru prices as dealers buy used Foresters and Imprezas to replace the missing new inventory. SIA U.S. built Outback and Legacy are expected to be shipped at a slower but close to normal rate assuming parts are available. 3/31 an uncommon Impreza Sport Grill option.  The optional Sport Grill is a mesh grill with chrome center bar, available on Imprezas. Spotted on a silver 2010 WRX 5 door outside a bookstore and cafe in New Mexico. 3/27 Impreza- the new optional 10" powered Subwoofer speaker by Kicker is now showing up on cars. Shown on sedan - it goes in the trunk. Available on all Impreza models. Fits in the cargo area of the 5 door hatchback with its own enclosure.  It definitely puts out some sound- if you like base this is good. Not available with cargo nets, cargo tray, or the underseat subwoofer.  More Photos? Check out my 2011  WRX, STI or  2.5i  information pages